The Noon Kiwanis Club has wrapped up another successful school year with its K-Kids and Builders clubs.

The youth leadership clubs are geared toward 4-5 graders (K-Kids) and 6-8 graders (Builders).

Approximately 40 students participated in the clubs and their activities this school year, partnering with leaders from the adult Kiwanis club.

“We are so proud of our kids and all the hard work they did this year,” said Marcia Hoenle, who is the official advisor to the clubs.

The students totaled more than 380 community services hours this year, working on a variety of projects to serve the community and others.

Students also assisted the Noon Kiwanis Club at several of its fundraising events, such as helping at art festivals with food and beverage services.

“We always get comments from citizens on how much they appreciate seeing the kids helping us out at these events,” Hoenle said.

These “junior Kiwanis” programs help young club members develop important social and emotional skills that promote meaningful connections with self and others.

Club members learn to be mindful servant leaders who pause and welcome each new experience with non-judgment and acceptance.

Club President Matt Jefferson said Hoenle and her husband, Bernie, have done a tremendous job in leading the young clubs the past few years.

Jefferson and a few other Kiwanians assist the Hoenles at most club activities.

“We appreciate all the hard work they put into this and working with the kids like they do,” Jefferson said.

The students elected their own club leaders and they participated in a variety of service projects throughout the school year.

“Our hope is that these students grow up to be servant-minded and become leaders in their professional lives and with charitable causes,” Marcia Hoenle added.

The Noon Kiwanis Club is active year-round with various service projects along with some well-known fundraisers such as its food booth at the major arts festivals, the Super Bowl Pancake Breakfast and offering food items at Halloween in the Hills.

Some of its well-known service projects include coordinating the local blood drives, Breakfast with Santa, Adopt-A-Street, serving meals at Ronald McDonald House, Terrific Kids, Make a Difference Day, etc.

The club meets the first and third Thursday of each month at 12 noon.

Guests and visiting Kiwanians are always welcome at club meetings, which are held at the second floor dining area at Fountain View Village.

Information: fhkiwanis.org.