Club of Robson Ranch
Supports Interfaith Ministries 07-05-2024
Keri Caruthers, Executive Director of Interfaith Ministries presented Barbara Leurig with a wooden plaque recognizing the Kiwanis Club for its continuing support of Interfaith Ministries. The club recently provided a donation to Interfaith. Club members also bring hygiene products for delivery to Interfaith Ministries for their clients.
As the primary resource for short-term emergency assistance in Northern Denton County, IFM serves over 486 households and 3,000 people a year. IFM’s goal is to help individuals maintain financial stability and prevent homelessness. They are supported by several area faith-based organizations, individual donors, contracts, grant funding, and special events.
Please see their website, www.ifmdenton.org, for more information about this very important organization in our community.
Kiwanis Club of Robson Ranch Hears Update from Big Brothers Big Sisters 06-07-2024
Barbara Leurig, President, welcomed Taffy Olszewski, Community Engagement Manager, Big Brothers Big Sisters Lone Star. Taffy presented an engaging overview of Big Brothers Big Sisters.
Big Brothers Big Sisters of America (BBBSA) was founded 125 years ago to prevent youth from entering the juvenile justice system. Our area is part of BBBS Lone Star, the largest affiliate agency of BBBSA. In 2023, BBBS Lone Star made 1,784 new matches and served 4,926 youth.
Big Brothers Big Sisters (BBBS) works to clear the path to a child's brightest possible future by matching them with a caring, adult mentor in a one-to-one friendship. BBBS provides children (aka Littles) with volunteer adult mentors (aka Bigs) who serve as a consistent presence in their Little's lives.
The children in the programs face adversity at a higher rate than the average young person in America. 86% are from low- or moderate-income families, 25% have a parent incarcerated or on probation or parole, and 84% are from non-two-parent homes. They face poverty and bullying and are impacted by incarceration and substance abuse at higher rates than their peers.
For kids involved with BBBS – 97% improved self-confidence, 92% less likely to get in trouble, and 86% performed better in school. There are great outcomes for kids involved with BBBS - 98% enrolled, enlisted, or are employed.
Taffy asked the members to reflect on their early lives and who might have been a mentor who helped them successfully develop toward adulthood. It’s these success stories that make BBBS so vital to our society. There is a huge need for mentors (Bigs) for the programs. Mentors are matched with a child one-to-one. The matching process is designed to find the best ways to use the Bigs' experience to help the child. The application process for Bigs is comprehensive. There are currently 20 kids on the waiting list in our area.
The ways our community can volunteer are divided into three areas, each suited to an individual’s time and commitment level.
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Community-Based
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Meet 2-4 times per month in person at the child’s home or other activity location - free/low-cost activities - 1-year commitment
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Site Based
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Meet weekly during school hours at the school - partnerships with local school districts such as Argyle and Northwest - 2 semester commitment
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Mentor 2.0
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College/career focus - chat weekly online - monthly in-person event
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For more information, please see their website at - bbbstx.org
Kiwanis Club of Robson Ranch Hears About Boy Scouts 05/03/2024
The Kiwanis Club of Robson Ranch enjoyed a presentation from Helen Kendall, District Director for the Boy Scouts, Longhorn Scouting Council, Frontier Trails District.
Helen provided an overview of the Boy Scouts. She pointed out common ground between our Kiwanis mission and that of the Boy Scouts, which is to prepare youth and address their needs to improve their lives.
She highlighted the components of “Boy Scouts,” which include Cub Scouts, Boy Scouts, Venturing, Exploring, and Sea Scouts, and how each functions.
Helen provided many statistics about the Longhorn Council and the 12 districts located in North Texas, primarily west of Fort Worth and up to Gainesville. Over 8,000 youth are currently involved, and over 4,500 adult volunteers support the youth activities.
There are several ways members can volunteer. Members could volunteer to work on the District Committee on activities such as Eagle Scout Boards and others. Being a merit badge counselor is also a good way to use our life experiences to help scouts with their projects.
Helen encouraged members to support the scouts in their local fundraising activities and Eagle Scout fundraisers. Members can also participate in fundraising functions and a general giving program.
Kiwanis Club of Robson Ranch Craft Bazaar 04/28/2024
The Kiwanis Club of Robson Ranch had their Craft Bazaar on Saturday, April 27th, at the Robson Ranch The Club was thrilled by the response from the Robson community by attending to support the vendors and the Kiwanis Club.
This Kiwanis fundraiser provides donations to organizations that support the kids and families in Denton County.
Kiwanis Club of Robson Ranch Supports the Community Clothes Closet 04/19/2024
The Kiwanis Club of Robson Ranch recently provided a donation to the Community Clothes Closet in Justin, TX. Kiwanis Club President presented the check to Linda Smith.
Linda and her husband founded the CCC in 2012 as a Christian-based charitable outreach that provides free clothing to our communities. CCC coordinates with local agencies, churches, elderly service providers, and community groups to identify families needing assistance.
Community Clothes Closet is an all-volunteer charitable organization that relies on volunteers and the generous financial support of organizations, businesses, and individuals in our communities. Donations of time, money, and clothing are greatly appreciated.
The center has grown to support 91 counties in the area with free clothes for those needing help. Clients are asked to have appointments to come shop to help coordinate the large number of people coming to the center. On a typical shopping day, up to 3,000 clothing items are provided to clients.
Please see the Community Clothes Closet website at -
Kiwanis Club Supports Refuge for Women 04/19/2024
The members welcomed Christine Mann, Executive Director, for her presentation about Refuge for Women. Refuge for Women is the nation’s largest non-profit, faith-based organization that provides a continuum of care for women aged 18 and older who have escaped human trafficking or sexual exploitation.
The North Texas site is one of six locations across the US. Refuge for Women offers up to 2 years of safe housing, at no charge to the resident, with 24-hour-a-day staffing. The program is designed with an evidence-based curriculum, and staff is trained to help resident recognize their goals in life, assist them in reaching those goals, and facilitate healing.
Christine offered some alarming statistics about sex trafficking. A new victim is added every 30 seconds to this crime, which is the most underreported crime in the US. She reviewed the most used locations where victims are solicited.
Christine provided insight into how victims are initially groomed and the follow-on steps of creating dependency, controlling the victim, and then the constant threat of violence if the victim attempts to leave the trafficker. This process leads to years of trauma that requires a program such as Refuge for Women to assist the victims in recovering their lives.
Please see the Refuge for Women North Texas website at –
https://refugeforwomen.org/north-texas/
Our Daily Bread Speaker at the Kiwanis Club of Robson Ranch 04/09/2024
Trish Brooks, Development Director, gave the Robson Ranch Club a comprehensive overview of Our Daily Bread in Denton.
Since opening just over a year ago, the Denton Community Shelter on Loop 288 has become the only 24/7 low-barrier shelter for the county and all of North Texas. Our Daily Bread clocked 44,365 volunteer hours last year, though more volunteers are always needed in several different areas.
According to Trish, Our Daily Bread served over 238,913 meals last year, and more than 2,271 individual guests were received in the year. The center provides 3 meals a day to guests.
The day shelter operates from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m., and the emergency shelter is open from 4 p.m. to 8 a.m. year-round. A transitional shelter space is also offered for employed people.
During inclement weather, there are 133 emergency shelter beds and 172 total emergency beds. On average, 155 guests seek shelter overnight.
The Kiwanis Club of Robson Ranch has 19 members who have begun volunteering at Our Daily Bread as a team effort.
Please see their website for information about their needs from the community –https://www.ourdailybreaddenton.org/
Kiwanis Members Participate in Read Across America Day 03/26/2024
Susan and Jim Galbraith joined many Kiwanians nationwide to read to students at local elementary schools during Read Across America Day.
Jim and Susan had fun while reading to America's future leaders. Every year, in March, classrooms, libraries, and communities across the United States celebrate Read Across America and the importance of reading.
This annual event, organized by the National Education Association (NEA), aims to promote literacy and encourage a love for reading, especially among young children.
Kiwanis Club of Robson Ranch Members Volunteer at Our Daily Bread in Denton, TX. 03/25/2024
Since opening just over a year ago, the Denton Community Shelter on Loop 288 has become the only 24/7 low-barrier shelter for the county and all of North Texas.
The Kiwanis Club of Robson Ranch has 19 members who have begun volunteering at Our Daily Bread as a team effort. Our Daily Bread depends on volunteers from the community to staff the many functions involved in providing these essential services.
Our Daily Bread also clocked 44,375 volunteer hours last year, though more volunteers are always needed in several different areas.
According to the shelter, Our Daily Bread, together with Monsignor King Outreach Center, serves an average of 600 guests monthly and more than 2,500 individual guests in a year.
The day shelter operates from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m., and the emergency shelter is open from 4 p.m. to 8 a.m. year-round. A transitional shelter space is also offered for employed people.
During inclement weather, there are 133 emergency shelter beds and 172 total emergency beds. On average, 155 guests seek shelter overnight.
Kiwanis Club of Robson Ranch Hears Updates from Town of Northlake Mayor 03-18-2024
At the recent Kiwanis Club meeting, the members were treated with a comprehensive update from David Rettig, Mayor of the Town of Northlake. David reviewed how the Town of Northlake has been aggressive in getting funding for upcoming major roadway work that is so vital to the growth of the region. He provided details of each of the major projects.
The Town of Northlake is very focused on attracting commercial projects, which is a major factor in keeping the local Northlake taxes one of the lowest in the state for residents. The population growth over the next few decades will require not only improved roadways but also numerous schools, grocery stores, and other vital support services in our area.
Our members appreciated David’s update on all the happenings near Robson Ranch and his work at Northlake. The link below provides more information about the Northlake Comprehensive Plan for 2045.
Kiwanis Club of Robson Ranch "Women in Kiwanis" Award 03-16-2024
At the recent Kiwanis Club of Robson Ranch meeting, Jim Smith, TX-OK Lieutenant Governor Division 8, presented Barbara Leurig with an award recognizing “Women in Kiwanis.” The program was established to raise the awareness of women working to make their community a better place through their Kiwanis Club. “Women in Kiwanis” is a major part of the Texas-Oklahoma District Governor’s programs for 2024.
As a long-term Kiwanis member and current club President, Barbara has served in leadership roles multiple times. Her volunteering and leadership spirit continues to inspire our members.
The Kiwanis Club members and our community appreciate Barbara’s dedication and spirit as she contributes so much to making the world a better place for kids.
Kiwanis Club of Robson Ranch Meeting Speaker - Camino de Santiago 02-16-2024
At our Kiwanis Club meeting on February 16, we were reminded of the diversity of our community at Robson Ranch. Speakers, Lonnie Gisi and Kathy Bailey shared their experiences walking 500 miles on the ancient path, from Saint Jean Pied de Port, France, to Santiago de Compostela, Spain.
We learned the rich history associated with the Camino de Santiago, how these ladies approached their journeys, and the lessons they brought home.
Kiwanis Club of Robson Ranch February 2nd Meeting Speaker 02-05-2024
The Kiwanis Club heard an inspiring message from Suzann Woodard, Director of Development at the Children’s Advocacy Center for North Texas.
Suzann presented a comprehensive review of the structure and operation of the Children’s Advocacy Center. The Children’s Advocacy Center for North Texas is a state-mandated organization that coordinates the investigation of child abuse. They work with a team of experts that include forensic interviewers and family advocates, law enforcement, the Department of Family Services, and prosecutors in a collaborative, child-centered effort.
Suzann reviewed the steps in the reporting and investigative process. She also discussed how the follow-up healing process works for abused children.
Please see their website at – cacnorthtexas.org
Kiwanis Club Members Deliver Christmas Food and Gifts 12/22/2023
Joanne and Vern Smith with Roy Meyer delivered Christmas food and gifts to the residents at Cumberland Youth and Family Services.
The Club members purchased two gifts for all the kids. One gift was a toy and the other was an article of clothing. These are often the only gifts some of the kids receive at Christmas.
The Cumberland staff and residents appreciate all the support!
The Kiwanis Club had another Successful Year of Salvation Army
Bell-ringing. 12/18/2023
The Kiwanis Club members rang Christmas Bells again for the Salvation Army. This is an annual event, and thanks to Jerry Waynant for coordinating this again!
Each year, members join in ringing the bells with spirit, attention-getting outfits, music, live trumpet music, and mostly a genuine "Merry Christmas" greeting to all the shoppers.
Sadie, Roy’s dog, was a hit this year as kids and adults enjoyed her appreciation of their attention and pats.
Kiwanis members and neighbors Ringing Bells for two weeks at Christmas saves the Salvation Army over $1,000 in salaries to hire bell ringers for the two weeks.
Below is a message from Bridget McIntosh, Volunteer Specialist-Denton & Collin County. December 2023 -
"Thank you so much for much, Jerry, for organizing bell ringers for us again this year! The Kiwanians sharing their precious gift of time and Christmas spirit is very much appreciated and we are truly grateful. Your partnership with the Salvation Army is helping our friends and neighbors who are in need. The Robson Ranch Kiwanians have truly embraced our motto this year: "Love Beyond Christmas."
Kiwanis Club Members Enjoy Christmas Social - 12/15/2023
Members and guests of the Kiwanis Club Robson Ranch enjoyed a festive Christmas social at the Robson Ranch Grill. Members were able to share holiday plans and review the past year of very successful events for the club.
The club was treated to Christmas music during a buffet dinner. After dinner, there were drawings for a gingerbread house and a basket of holiday snacks. A fun game of Christmas-themed trivia questions followed with numerous winners of prizes.
The club members treasure this fellowship as we embark on the holiday season.
Kiwanis Club Highlights “Women in Kiwanis” for 2024 - 12/14/2023
The Kiwanis Club of Robson Ranch announces “Women in Kiwanis”, a program to raise the awareness of women working to make their community a better place through their Kiwanis Club. “Women in Kiwanis” is a major part of the Texas-Oklahoma District Governor’s programs for 2024.
At the recent Christmas social, the club honored Susan Galbraith, recognizing her steadfast work in Kiwanis to support the Kids of the World. Susan received a beautiful award and a contribution made in her name to the Texas Oklahoma Foundation which provides scholarships to students to attend leadership training.
As a Kiwanis member for over 20 years, Susan has served in leadership.
At the recent Kiwanis Club meeting members welcomed Lori Williams as the guest speaker. - 12/06/2023
Lori Williams of Lori Williams Senior Services LLC is a free senior living advisement service. While offering many senior services, Lori focused the presentation on senior living and housing options. Lori gave a very informative review of the various options available according to the health and mobility needs of individuals. She reviewed the progressive options –
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Senior apartment 55+
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Independent Living
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Continued Care Retirement Community
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Home Care/Home Health
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Assisted Living
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Memory Care
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Residential Care Home
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Skilled Nursing
Lori provided some general budget costs for each of the options and discussed some ways to pay for these costs.
The club members appreciated the updates on these important options. See her website at –
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Kiwanis Club of Robson Ranch delivers Food to Cumberland Youth and Family for Thanksgiving - 11/28/2023
Joann and Vern Smith with Roy Meyer shopped for and delivered food for the families in residence. Roy also has a list for Christmas gifts for the kids. Christmas food will be delivered.
