Kiwanis Club of Picton celebrates 85th anniversary

The oldest service club in Prince Edward County, The Kiwanis Club of Picton, celebrated its 85th anniversary with 96 community and club members gathered at the Elk’s Lodge June 8 for a social evening.

During two years of of the COVID-19 pandemic curtailment of activities and fundraising efforts, club members continued meeting virtually and to contribute meaningfully to its County projects – including a successful Apricot Ribbon campaign to honour healthcare workers, in partnership with the Rotary and Kinsmen clubs. Members also recently supported a Picton Rotary fundraiser for medical supplies for the Ukraine through Health Partners International.

Formed originally in 1927, the club served the citizens of Prince Edward County until 1943, when during the Second World War, it had to surrender its charter as many members went off to serve Canada during the war.

In 1953, under the leadership of Chris Lockyer, the club was resurrected and serves the County to this day. Members continue to assist County youth through the club’s support of 851 Air Cadet Squadron, the ROC, County Kids Read, and PECI yearly scholarships, among others.

Email pictonkiwanisclub@gmail.com for more information on the club and membership, or visit its Facebook page.

President Dennis Margueratt presented Recreation Outreach Centre (ROC) Executive Director Darlene Thompson with $600 in memory of Dr Michael Smith, a former chair and vice-chair of the ROC board, who died recently.