Kiwanis conducts community analysis

Local human service providers meet with Kiwanis Clubs to discuss community needs and solutions. (submitted photo)

Oskaloosa, Iowa – Two local Kiwanis Clubs are working together to identify ways they can be of greater service to the Oskaloosa area. Kiwanis is an international organization dedicated to improving the lives of children, and local chapters have been fulfilling this mission since 1921. Every year, thousands of dollars are raised and then reinvested in the community through programs that promote literacy, health and wellness, fine arts, recreation and leadership development.

Last week, representatives of local organizations that provide human services were invited to a roundtable discussion to help Kiwanis leaders better understand unmet or developing needs to which the clubs may be able to respond.

“Conducting a community analysis will help our clubs be more effective in our service efforts,” said Keith Miller, a district Kiwanis leader and local club member. “By hearing from people who are in the front lines of providing critical services, we now have a much better understanding of local needs.”

A committee of Kiwanians will now review the discussion that took place and create a plan of action to start addressing needs. The clubs will also continue the dialogue with service providers, giving them updates on the results and asking for input into the plans being developed.