Kiwanis celebrates 50 years in Red Oak

The Kiwanis Club of Red Oak marked a major milestone on Wednesday, May 14, celebrating 50 years of service, fellowship, and community commitment with a heartwarming anniversary program was held at The FiveOne8 in downtown Red Oak.
Hosted by current club president Bryant Blay, the evening was filled with reflection, recognition, and gratitude for the organization’s remarkable journey since its charter in 1975.
“It’s hard to believe that 50 years ago, our club was founded with a commitment to serving the community, and what an incredible journey it has been,” said Blay.
With community members, club leaders, and visiting dignitaries in attendance—including District Governor John Boltz, Regional Trustee Linda Placzek, and Lt. Governor Rick Finch—the celebration honored both the history and the ongoing mission of Kiwanis to “serve the children of the world.” Other leadership members of the Red Oak Kiwanis are Past President Kim Truka, Vice President Roger Vial, Secretary Beth Vial, and Treasurer Allan Olson.
Today, there are over 14,000 Kiwanis clubs in 80 countries around the world, with more than 400,000 members. Kiwanis clubs are united by a common mission of making a lasting impact in their communities.
“As we celebrate our 50th anniversary here in Red Oak, we are proud to be part of this global movement,” commented Blay. “As members of the Kiwanis Club of Red Oak, we are part of something much larger than ourselves—working alongside clubs around the world to improve the lives of children and families everywhere.”
One of the evening’s most touching moments came with the recognition of Wayne Donohue, a founding member and steadfast Kiwanian for all 50 years.
“Wayne has contributed in countless ways over the years, helping to shape the club’s direction and providing leadership to so many projects. His dedication to Kiwanis and his passion for helping others are an inspiration to all of us,” Blay stated. We are incredibly grateful for all Wayne has done for Kiwanis and for the community. We’re proud to have him as a member of the Red Oak Kiwanis Club, and we look forward to many more years of friendship and service.”
Donohue was honored with a 50-Year Achievement Award and shared memories of the club’s beginnings and evolution, drawing applause and admiration from the crowd.
From its modest start—where a $5 dinner launched the Red Oak chapter—the club has grown into a cornerstone of the community. Over the past decade alone, the club has invested over $100,000 in local initiatives, including scholarships, youth programs, support for schools, and essential services. Notably, it has provided bike helmets to every third grader in Red Oak for the past 26 years.
The event also highlighted beloved local traditions such as the Kiwanis Duck Race, the K-Dog fundraiser (featuring their famous quarter-pound hot dogs), and contributions to events like Trick or Treat on the Trail and the Mummy and Son night. These activities not only fundraise but also bring the community together in fun and meaningful ways.
As the night concluded, Blay invited guests to consider joining the Kiwanis mission, emphasizing that the club is always open to new members passionate about making a difference.
“The impact of Kiwanis is not just measured in dollars, but in lives touched, smiles created, and the spirit of service we pass forward,” said Blay.
With cake, camaraderie, and reflections on a half-century of service, the Kiwanis Club of Red Oak’s golden anniversary proved not only a celebration of the past—but a launch pad for the next 50 years.