History

The Kiwanis Club of San Diego was chartered in 1920, the first in San Diego County.  The club is one of the largest Kiwanis Clubs in San Diego and Imperial Counties.  The club is also known as the ‘Downtown Kiwanis,’ but has members from throughout the region.

The Kiwanis Club of San Diego represents a diverse spectrum of business, government, military, and community leaders providing services to youth and the community.

The Kiwanis Club of San Diego has a proud history.  These major programs mark that history and are often referred to by club members:

Laurels for Leaders

Laurels for Leaders is governed by a board of directors consisting of members of the Kiwanis Club of San Diego, school officials, public and private leaders of the community. The program was established to recognize and honor the high leadership accomplishment of the student body presidents of San Diego County high schools. The program culminates in an annual luncheon at which the student leaders are presented certificates of recognition, a distinguished speaker brings them a message on patriotism and leadership and in 2003 eighty-one students were given a cash gift of $500. The luncheon is held in February around the birthdays of George Washington and Abraham Lincoln. This time was selected to relate the event to these great presidents and to recall their service to their country and their patriotic devotion.