Editor's Message

Reading truly is fundamental

When I was a child, I loved to read. Books had the power to transport me back in time, take me to a new country, chart new waters, and meet interesting people. My favorite place to read was in a very tall tree overlooking our home. From this vantage point, I could observe the activities of our family and our neighbors down below, while exploring the limits of my young imagination through the powerful medium of reading. That rich exposure to books at an early age was a priceless gift that continues to pay dividends for me as a husband, father, grandfather, and Kiwanis leader.

Kiwanis has a long history of involvement in supporting literacy, distributing books, reading to children, and advocating for an educational head start for children under the age of 5. This issue of Kiwanis magazine highlights some of those efforts, and the people who lead the way. If it is true that leaders are also readers, I am sure you will enjoy these stories of Kiwanis members making a difference through literacy.

Our leadership interview series, which so far has featured writer, author, and teacher Meg Wheatley (October) and National Football League Super Bowl Champion coach Tony Dungy (December), returns with an inspiring conversation with a leader from the faith community. Crawford Loritts Jr. has spent his entire life building and developing men and women of character, integrity, and faith. An accomplished speaker, teacher, pastor, and author, Loritts offers a glimpse into what it takes to lead in a world that is struggling to find leaders to solve the challenges of this generation and the next.

In these pages you also will find information on the 2007-08 International Convention to be held in Orlando, June 26-29. Eight thousand Kiwanians and guests from all over the world are expected to join us for a magical time of education, fellowship, fun, and, of course, food. Don’t miss this chance to be a part of this annual renewal of the Kiwanis spirit!

Your wonderful response to our December 2007 issue, which highlighted the amazing efforts of our Kiwanis members who serve children and adults with disabilities, was very encouraging. I trust you will find hope and inspiration tucked into this issue as well.

Enjoy your reading.