There are many volunteer organizations in Sullivan County that make a tremendous difference in their community. In fact, there’s too many organizations and individuals to list at once, but occasionally someone or something specific is worthy of special recognition. 

Local Kiwanis organizations have a long history of dedicating their time and efforts to worthwhile causes and giving back to those in need.

As reported in the Democrat on Friday, the Callicoon Kiwanis Club marked a significant milestone with more than $500,000 in donations over the past 76 years. Some 40 Kiwanians from Callicoon, Monticello, Chester, Middletown and Minisink Valley joined to celebrate at the Villa Roma Resort and Conference Center last Monday. 

The money raised by Callicoon Kiwanis has helped their community in innumerable ways, from supporting youth sports programs, educational programs, food drives, scholarship funds and more.  This past year Callicoon Kiwanis helped launch the beautification of downtown Callicoon through a Sullivan Renaissance Grant, proving that their efforts continue to march on after more than three quarters of a century. 

Callicoon is not alone in their hard work.  The  Kiwanis Club of Monticello recently held their 76th Annual Installation of Officers. 

It’s been a busy year for the Monticello Kiwanis Club too. They’ve funded lunches for healthcare workers and scholarships for high school seniors. They also assisted children with the transition into foster care through the support of the “Sweet Dreams Project,” distributed books to second graders and various joint projects with Woodridge Kiwanis Club, Aktion Club and Key Club providing cards and gifts to veterans and individuals at Nursing Homes and for children and adults served by United Way and Federation for the Homeless. 

These are just a few examples of the many ways in which local volunteers continue to impress us with their dedication to improving the place we all live. We can’t wait to see what they accomplish next.