Springfield Kiwanis Disband

Hugh Keffer chalked up the end of Springfield’s Kiwanis as a symptom of a changing world.

The group, like many of its kind across the nation, had seen its numbers steadily dwindle in recent years. The Kiwanis, like the Rotary and Lions Clubs, were established as a service organization in the early half of the 20th century. For prominent members of small communities, the clubs were also social and networking opportunities.

Former Springfield Mayor Keffer said that by the 21st century, even small communities have become more globally minded, and other pastimes have lured adults from those social groups.

“Now, parents, instead of being interested in civic groups, get involved with sports groups,” Keffer said.

Keffer, a member of Springfield’s Lions Club, said that the groups struggle to attract new members when they are seen as old fashioned. He also noted groups like the United Way offer charitable givers and volunteers opportunities that are global in scope.

Members of the Springfield Kiwanis informed Keffer the club was disbanding after 71 years of service to the township late last year.

“They told me they were going out of business and wanted to do something good for the town,” Keffer said.

They donated their reserve fund of $4,000 to build up at the corner of Mountain and Wabeno Aves. The noted the last gasp of the charitable organization with a proclamation.