Past Events
What began in 2022 as An Evening with Kiwanis for Kids has grown into one of Akron’s most inspiring community traditions. Now known as Rise & Shine with Kiwanis for Kids, this annual breakfast fundraiser brings together local leaders, educators, families, and supporters to celebrate youth service and leadership—and to raise vital funds for programs that help young people thrive.
Hosted by the Kiwanis Club of Akron, the event honors outstanding students, educators, and community advocates while funding grants that strengthen youth leadership clubs and community organizations across Summit County. Each year, attendees gather in the spirit of the Kiwanis mission: “Building Leaders One Child at a Time.
2025 Rise & Shine with Kiwanis for Kids
The 2025 breakfast fundraiser united community members for an uplifting morning of fellowship and shared purpose.
Honorees included Sheri Bevan Walsh, Chad Nash, and Troy Weiss for their commitment to service and leadership.
Grants awarded to Steve Wise Boys and Girls Club, Akron Area YMCA, Embracing Futures, and the Tallmadge Challenge League to further
their efforts supporting local children and families.
2024 Rise & Shine with Kiwanis for Kids
Held at The Well CDC, the 2024 event celebrated educators, students, and community partners making a difference across the Akron area.
Honorees included Robyn Cutler of Girls on the Run, Debra Foulk of Akron Public Schools, and Girls on the Run teams from Hyre, Hatton, and Windermere.
Grants awarded to South Street Ministries, Big Brothers Big Sisters, Family Promise of Summit County, The Well CDC, and Akron Metropolitan Housing Authority extended the reach of local youth programs and family services
2023 Rise & Shine with Kiwanis for Kids
The 2023 gathering at The Well CDC highlighted the dedication of Akron’s educators and students who embody the Kiwanis values of leadership and service.
Honorees included Ilene Shapiro, Tammy Brady, and the Class of 2023 Construction and Building Technology students from Garfield and Ellet High Schools.
Funds raised expanded youth leadership programs and provided new community grants supporting educational growth and opportunity
2022 An Evening with Kiwanis for Kids
The inaugural Evening with Kiwanis for Kids set the foundation for what would become a cherished community tradition.
Hosted at the John S. Knight Center, the event featured dinner, entertainment, and a live auction supporting local youth initiatives.
Honorees included the LeBron James Family Foundation, David James, and Samantha Blatt of Tallmadge Public Schools.
The night’s success launched an ongoing celebration of collaboration, leadership, and hope for Akron’s youth.
Why should you support Rise & Shine with Kiwanis for Kids?
Proceeds will be used to maintain and grow young leadership in Greater Akron
Enhanced service leadership guidance and programming will be made available to Greater Akron middle school children
High school students can take advantage of continued service leadership programs
Our primary goal is to grow and maintain service leadership programs (Builders Clubs) for each public and private middle school in the Greater Akron area. A Builders Club—the largest service organization for middle school students ages 11 to 15—is designed to provide members with opportunities to perform service, build character, and develop leadership. The club is student led, operates under school regulations, and draws its members from the student body. When started at a young age, the service club experience prepares its members to become the most engaged members of their communities—now and in the future.
We know the transition from grade school to middle school can be tough for any adolescent boy or girl. Common challenges children face include dealing with social pressures, making new friends, communicating with teachers, confronting bullies, becoming a positive contributor, bouncing back from failure and disappointments, and learning about the world. With your help, our middle school-aged children will have access to programming and resources that will help them transition into confident young adults.