KIWANIS CLUB OF LOMA LINDA VALLEY

The beautiful Loma Linda Valley, nestled in the foothills south of the City of San Bernardino, California is a thriving community, whose driving force is health care, “making man whole.”  Formerly the business of Loma Linda was citrus fruit production, mainly oranges. The groves at one time extended from the hills down to the Santa Ana River. Over the years, the citrus industry has given way to that of health care, and this proud residential and working community hosts three hospitals , Loma Linda Community, the Veterans Hospital and the state-of-the-art, academic  Loma Linda Medical Center. Since caring for people is such a great part of what Loma Linda is all about, it followed that many of its citizens would be looking for ways to serve others by donating personal time and resources to enhance the lives of those in need.

 Previously there had been two Kiwanis Clubs in Loma Linda, one daytime (noon) and one evening.  For a number of reasons, the clubs failed to thrive and eventually disbanded, leaving a void that demanded filling.  When interest in a Loma Linda Kiwanis chapter once more evolved, prospective members enlisted and obtained the sponsorship of the Yucaipa Valley Club and on 21 March 2001, in the presence of the District Governor, Robert Melonuk  presided at the incorporation of the nascent Loma Linda Valley Club of Kiwanis International.  In order to nurture and guide the fledgling club, several members of the Yucaipa Valley Club such as Bob Erikson, who headed the organizing committee, became members of the Loma Linda Valley Club as well.  The first president of the Loma Linda Club was Kurt Meyer, who ably served in that capacity for 18 months, slowly building an organization that has blossomed into the club that exists today.  He was succeeded by John Turner who continued the growth and prosperity of the club.  Dr. Leonard Sigdestad, the next president, succeeded in almost doubling membership, and under his leadership a newsletter and website were established.  Committees were established and the first service projects, a Key Club and the Victoria School project were initiated.  The new club president is Manny Aranda, a  long-time community service activist who is dedicated to the Kiwanis goals and objectives. 

 In keeping with the goals of Kiwanis to “serve the children,” the current club has supported activities at the Loma Linda Childrens Hospital, the local Ronald Mc Donald House, Victoria School, and the PAL Charter Academy.