69th Annual Laurels for Leaders Pre-Ceremony Luncheon & Awards Ceremony
Wednesday, March 11, 2026
* New Location * Four Points by Sheraton, 8110 Aero Dr, San Diego, CA 92123
Laurels for Leaders is Kiwanis San Diego’s signature annual event honoring ASB Presidents from high schools across San Diego County for their leadership, service, and impact on their school communities.
The day begins with a student-only leadership workshop that equips ASB Presidents with practical tools and encouragement. Students then join Laurels Society members for a pre-ceremony luncheon, followed by an awards ceremony featuring our Kiwanis scholarship recipient, Community Service Challenge winner, and a special honor roll call recognizing each ASB President.
There are several ways for Kiwanis members and community partners to get involved:
Attend the pre-ceremony luncheon and awards ceremony by joining the Laurels Society for $500
Can’t attend? Donations of any amount are warmly welcomed and directly support the program
Interested in deeper impact? We welcome corporate sponsors to help keep this important program sustainable for years to come
Every form of participation helps ensure student leaders across San Diego County feel recognized, encouraged, and inspired to continue leading with purpose.
More info at LaurelsforLeaders.org
Volunteer Opportunity UPLIFT's Money Tales Sessions
Kiwanis-sponsored UPLIFT Money Tales sessions are officially launching, and we’re excited to invite Kiwanis San Diego members to help support this meaningful financial-literacy program for local students.
Where: Sherman Elementary School: 301 22nd St, San Diego, CA 92102 *Ample street parking near entrance When: Tuesday, March 17, 2026, 9a-3:30 *It’s St. Patrick’s Day, so volunteers can have some fun with their attire and wear green!
Money Tales Financial Literacy, 6 Session Times:
Lunch Break
Kiwanians will assist with setting up the room, supporting students during the read-along, helping answer student questions alongside Miss Faith, and guiding students as they select their take-home books with Kiwanis labels. Volunteers will also help distribute Kiwanis-branded “go bags,” which include books and parent handouts featuring Kiwanis logo and contact information.
This is a wonderful hands-on opportunity to engage with students and make a lasting impact through literacy and learning.
Volunteer Opportunity
Support Student Music Education with the Symphony!
Date: Wednesday, March 18th Volunteer Arrival Time: 9:00 AM Performance Times: 10:30 AM & 12:00 PM
The Kiwanis Club of San Diego is seeking 5 enthusiastic volunteers to assist with Elementary School Concert check-in at The Rady Shell at Jacobs Park.
This is a wonderful opportunity to welcome local students, support arts education, and represent Kiwanis in the community!
Assist with student and school group check-in
Help direct groups to their designated areas
Provide a friendly Kiwanis welcome to students and teachers
The check-in process will take place twice—once for the 10:30 AM performance and again for the 12:00 PM performance.
After the 12:00 PM check-in is complete, volunteers are invited to stay and enjoy the concert, which will conclude around 12:45 PM.
This is a meaningful way to support young learners and celebrate the power of music in our community.
Interested in volunteering? Sign up today and help us make a difference—one note at a time!
Volunteer Opportunity Kiwanis One Day
Date: Saturday, March 21, 2026 Time: 8:30 am – 11:30 am Location: Forester Creek 8665 Argent Street, Santee, CA 92071 Please park anywhere on Argent Street or Prospect Avenue. Do not park in the brewery parking lot.
Once a year, Kiwanis Clubs around the world come together for Kiwanis One Day, a special day dedicated to hands-on community service. Locally, Division 21 will unite Kiwanis members with their sponsored youth clubs—Builders Clubs, Key Clubs, and Circle K Clubs—for a morning of service and teamwork.
This year, adults and students will work side by side on service projects at Forester Creek within Mission Trails Regional Park, helping support and preserve one of San Diego’s treasured natural space. Projects may include park beautification, cleanup, and other conservation efforts.
Please arrive at 8:45 am to allow time for parking and check-in.
Long pants are required. Long sleeves are highly recommended.
Wear clothes that can get a little dirty.
Closed-toe shoes are required — no sandals, Toms, or flats. Please wear sturdy tennis or hiking shoes.
Bring sun protection such as a hat and sunscreen.
Bring a reusable water bottle filled with water to help reduce single-use plastics.
All tools and supplies will be provided.
Community service hours can be verified if needed.
No pets are allowed at this event for safety reasons.
There are no restroom facilities at this location — please plan accordingly.
Light rain will not cancel the event.
Specific project assignments and any required permission slips will be shared in early March.
Join us for a meaningful morning of service, collaboration, and community impact as we live out the Kiwanis mission—serving the children of the world, one day at a time.
Volunteer Opportunity Salvation Army Backyard BBQ & Resource Fair
Date: Saturday, March 28, 2026 Time: 11 am - 2 pm (shifts TBD) Location: 825 7th Ave. San Diego, CA 92101 (In the backyard courtyard)
The Kiwanis Club of San Diego is partnering with the Salvation Army Centre City Corps to support their monthly Family BBQ and Resource Fair, a community-focused event serving individuals and families in downtown San Diego.
This event provides free food, fellowship, music, and access to helpful resources for the community. Volunteers are needed in a variety of roles, including food service, setup and breakdown, welcoming guests, and general support throughout the event. Kiwanis volunteers play an important role in creating a safe, welcoming, and joyful environment for all attendees.
Exact roles and shifts will be determined as the event gets closer.
Parking Information: For the safety of families attending the event, there is no parking available on campus during the BBQ. There is a paid parking lot adjacent to the site, as well as street parking nearby.
Additional Information: The Centre City Corps regularly serves hundreds of meals at these events and continues to grow thanks to the support of dedicated volunteers, community partners, and local organizations. Each BBQ features food, fellowship, music, and a welcoming atmosphere for all.
Volunteer Opportunity Boys to Men ~ 30th Anniversary Gala
Date: Saturday, April 11, 2026 Time: 4 pm - 9 pm (shifts TBD) Location: Catamaran Resort Hotel
The Kiwanis Club of San Diego is proud to support Boys to Men Mentoring at their Rooted in Resiliency 30th Anniversary Gala — a milestone celebration honoring three decades of community impact and mentorship. This elegant evening benefits Boys to Men’s vital work empowering young men through mentoring, emotional support, and community connection across San Diego County.
The gala features waterfront views, inspired cuisine, live music, and an opportunity to celebrate the mentors, supporters, and community members who have helped shape this powerful organization’s mission.
Volunteer Roles Kiwanis volunteers are needed to support a variety of roles including:
Guest greeting & check-in
Event setup & breakdown
Assisting attendees throughout the evening
Supporting gala logistics and volunteer coordination
This is a great opportunity to give back, engage with community partners, and support mentoring that transforms lives.
Join us for an afternoon of celebration and inspiration as we honor our incredible partners and highlight the meaningful work being done in our community!
Wednesday, April 22
4:30-6:00 PM
The Westgate Hotel1055 2nd Avenue, San Diego, CA 92101
Heavy appetizers & refreshments to be provided
Parking Options: Valet Parking $10 | Street parking, several private garages nearby | ... or Take the Trolley! Civic Center Stop ~1 min walk
Westgate Hotel Parking information
Bring a friend or family member and be uplifted hearing about the amazing efforts our San Diego Kiwanis Club Foundation achieves through supporting these amazing organizations!
2025-2026 Partners
San Diego Symphony Orchestra Association STAR/PAL
Volunteer Opportunity I Love A Clean SD: Creek to Bay Cleanup
Date: Saturday, April 25, 2026 Time: Typically morning (exact site time TBD; many sites run ~9:00 AM – 12:00 PM) Location: Cleanup site TBD
Join the Kiwanis Club of San Diego and I Love A Clean San Diego for Creek to Bay, the largest Earth Week cleanup in San Diego County! Volunteers of all ages are invited to help remove litter and debris from local creeks, beaches, parks, and neighborhoods to protect our waterways and wildlife.
This family-friendly, countywide event engages thousands of volunteers at 100+ cleanup sites from inland communities to the coast. All supplies are provided at cleanup sites, and you can volunteer individually or as part of a group — like your Kiwanis team!
Closed-toed shoes
Sun protection (hat/sunscreen)
Water bottle
(Optional) reusable gloves or personal cleanup tools
Improve local waterways and ecosystems
Support community service and environmental stewardship
Great opportunity to connect with club members and other volunteers
Volunteer Opportunity Salvation Army Backyard BBQ (Family Carnival)
Date: Saturday, April 25, 2026 Time: 11 am - 2 pm (shifts TBD) Location: 825 7th Ave. San Diego, CA 92101 (In the backyard courtyard)
The Kiwanis Club of San Diego is partnering with the Salvation Army Centre City Corps to support their monthly Family BBQ, a community-focused event serving individuals and families in downtown San Diego. This month is Carnival themed!
Kiwanis Trivia Social
Date: Sunday, April 26 Time: 2:30 - 5:00 p.m. Location: Timestead by Modern Times (the old Local spot) 1065 Fourth Ave, San Diego, CA 92101
Put your thinking caps on and join us for a lively afternoon of Kiwanis fellowship and friendly competition as we bring back our beloved trivia — live and in person. Hosted by one of our longtime members and favorite trivia hosts, Karina, this social is sure to spark laughter, teamwork, and a few “I knew that!” moments.
Come connect with fellow Kiwanians, meet new friends, and invite family and guests to experience the fun. Whether you’re a trivia pro or just along for the camaraderie, there’s a seat for you at the table.
Transportation & Parking: Free street parking is available on Sundays, and the Civic Center and 5th Avenue trolley stops are just a short walk away.
We hope you’ll join us for this fun Kiwanis afternoon downtown!
Join our Club and perform extraordinary things in your community!
Kiwanis Club of San Diego is a 501(c)4 non-profit organization.
9619 Chesapeake Dr. Suite 200, San Diego, CA 92123
