Officials from the state leadership of Kiwanis International were in Great Bend this past week to help with a local membership drive. They accompanied local club members as they called on prospective members and then attended the weekly club meeting Wednesday.

Kansas District Governor Duane Oestmann from Arkansas City reminded everyone of the importance of adding new members to help with the club’s service projects that benefit children. They include hosting the annual Easter egg hunt, Halloween costume drive and Halloween parade, and sponsoring scholarships. The Great Bend Kiwanis will also host the Barton County Spelling Bee, set for 10 a.m. Saturday, Feb. 26, at the Great Bend High School Commons Area.

“More hands are needed to help more kids,” Oestmann said.

Past Governor/Kansas Membership Coordinator Rick Dickman from Colby praised the local club for a brochure members developed that lists more of the things the Great Bend Kiwanis Club is involved in.

“This is such a good networking tool,” he said, adding he planned to show it to other Kiwanis Clubs. Dickman also encouraged members who contacted prospective members this past week to follow up.

Past Governor Jo Schwartz from Abilene assisted with creating a calling list. She also spoke to the club Wednesday.

Anyone interested in joining the Great Bend Kiwanis and serving children in the community is invited to attend a meeting at noon Wednesday at Walnut Bowl, 3101 Washington. For more information contact Barb Esfeld at 785-483-1384 or email barb.esfeld6566@gmail.com.