Kiwanis Club (Johnson City, Tenn.)

Biography

The organization of the Johnson City Kiwanis Club was the result of an initial meeting held on February 5, 1920 by six men who expressed interest in forming a local civic club. By February 18 the number of interested men had increased to twelve. These twelve met in the office of Joe A. Summers, a Johnson City realtor, and discussed with George A. Selig, Kiwanis field representative from Knoxville, the prospect of forming a Kiwanis club in Johnson City. By February 20 seventy-five men had been enlisted to join the new Kiwanis Club. On May 14, 1920, when its charter was presented to the Johnson City Kiwanis Club, membership had increased to eighty-eight. Members elected as their first slate of officers were: Joe A. Summers, president; W. J. Exum, vice-president; W. B. Miller, treasurer; and Jamison Jonnard, secretary.

Since its founding the Kiwanis Club has sponsored and contributed to many civic activities, programs, charities and organizations. Among the charities Kiwanis has contributed to and worked for are the Salvation Army's Christmas fund and Community Chest-sponsored charities. Kiwanis has set up a science scholarship given annually for a qualified local high school student, has sponsored a local science fair, and has donated money for the building of a park and recreation center in Johnson City. Kiwanis also supports local athletic and music groups and events. Some of the more well-known Kiwanis events include its pancake breakfasts and pizza dinners.

Found in 3 Collections and/or Records: