CEO and co-founder James Gutner shared that the organization empowers men to thrive through community, education, and resources. James emphasized the importance of Dad being present for a stable family, as 39% of kids do not live with a father figure in their household. This leads to more poverty, school dropouts, more drug use, etc.
Notably, James informed us that he had been a member of the Key Club at Benton Harbor High School, which had a significant impact on his life. Ron Lyness, our former Kiwanis member, was a mentor to many of the kids in the BH Key Club.
Posted: September 19, 2025 by kiwanisjay
Present Pillars
CEO and co-founder James Gutner shared that the organization empowers men to thrive through community, education, and resources. James emphasized the importance of Dad being present for a stable family, as 39% of kids do not live with a father figure in their household. This leads to more poverty, school dropouts, more drug use, etc.
Notably, James informed us that he had been a member of the Key Club at Benton Harbor High School, which had a significant impact on his life. Ron Lyness, our former Kiwanis member, was a mentor to many of the kids in the BH Key Club.
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Kiwanis Club of St. Joseph Benton Harbor
What is Kiwanis? We are an eclectic mix of ages, genders, occupations, backgrounds, and interests. We are all passionate about making our community and the world a better place for children so they can thrive.
The Legion of Honor award is given to members who have dedicated at least 25 years of service to the mission of Kiwanis - improving the world one child and one community at a time. Help us recognize these outstanding individuals who have given their time, energy, and hearts to caring for kids!
25 yrs - Dave Miller, Ken Wojcik, Bruce Molineaux
30 yrs - Bob Clark
35 yrs - Gary Sisson, Chris Quattrin, Tom Nelson
40 yrs - Mike Ryan, Jay Wojcik
45 yrs - Bill Hanley, Roy Dost, Dave Brown
50 yrs - Bob Cheek, Jon Sauer
55 yrs - Harvey Johnson
60 yrs - Ken McKeown
This group represents more than 660 years of service to Kiwanis!!! ... See MoreSee Less
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We had a great time celebrating one whole year of the all-abilities Kaleidoscope Playground! 🛝 Popsicles handed out by Kiwanians and balloon creations by Michigan Twist Co. 🎈added to the FUN 🤩! #kiwaniscaresforkids ... See MoreSee Less
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Congrats to our Kiwanis St. Joseph Foundation scholarship winners! We enjoyed celebrating these young leaders and all of their accomplishments. Such bright futures ahead! #KiwanisCares #scholarships #improvetheworldtogether ... See MoreSee Less
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