The Yonkers Kiwanis Club sponsors three service leadership programs: the K-Kids at Paideia School 24, the Key Club at Saunders High School, and the Aktion Club at SAIL at Ferncliff Manor. Our club advisors mentor and guide the members of these clubs while members take an active role in selecting club leaders, choosing service projects, and making decisions related to club activities. Service projects include fundraisers, clothing drives, sock drives, and food drives, and more. Our goal is to help today’s youth become tomorrow’s leaders through service to others.
Service Projects:
Teacher of the Year Awards
The Teacher of the Year has been our signature project since 1954. The Yonkers Kiwanis Club, in cooperation with the Yonkers Board of Education and the Mayor’s office, formally acknowledges three teachers (elementary, middle, and high school levels) who demonstrate excellence in their profession, actively contribute to the school community and participate in activities that promote student growth and development.
The Herman B. Fine Scholarship
The Herman B. Fine scholarship is in honor of a former member and past president of the club, who made a considerable donation to the club to start the awarding of scholarships in 1978. Eligible high school seniors attending a public school in Yonkers must demonstrate scholastic achievement. merit, need, and community service. The recipient of the scholarship is awarded $1,000.
The Dorothy Burke Literacy Project
When Kiwanis member Dorothy Burke retired in 2002 as a second-grade teacher at Paideia School 24, she wanted to give back to the students. Dottie helped our club raise funds to purchase and donate summer reading books for the second graders. Resource books were also given to the classroom teachers. This program continues today but after Dottie’s passing in 2021, this valuable and longtime project was renamed “The Dorothy Burke Literacy Project” in her honor.
The SMILE Program – SAIL at Ferncliff Manor – PBIS
The School for Adaptive and Integrative Learning (SAIL) at Ferncliff Manor is a private residential school for children with developmental disabilities in Yonkers, NY. The school’s signature Positive Behavior Interventions and Supports program (PBIS) functions on the pillars of its SMILE ideals (Show Respect-Model Behavior-Recognize your Integrity-Learn Safely and Expect Greatness. Throughout the year, students earn credits to spend at the SMILE store, which is stocked yearly by select donations from Yonkers Kiwanis Club.
Club Events:
Mark your calendars for Saturday, May 11th! Join us for the best breakfast in town as you support us in raising critical funds to deliver our community programs and increase our club’s impact!
– Admission Tickets – $15.00 per person, full breakfast buffet!
We look forward to spending the morning together with our guests. What a great treat for mom just before Mother’s Day!
– To RSVP, please contact: [email protected] or call (914) 841-0456.
– Corporate sponsorships are available.
– We will enroll any new page followers (after 3/20) and people who share our event posts in an event day raffle, no ticket purchase necessary!
We are proud to present our Aktion Club’s Winter 2024 Backpack Fundraiser.
Our club raised critical funds to enhance campers summer experiences at Kamp Kiwanis. Thank you to our dedicated club!
#YonkersAktionClub
Happy Birthday to Us!
We proudly celebrate our 94th year on our charter date, November 11, 2023. Our club looks forward to celebrating with a banner year of service and fellowship. Join us in improving our communities, one child sat a time. For more information, please contact [email protected].
Interested in becoming a member?
If you would like to become a member of our club, please use this link to download an application form. Thank you.
The Yonkers Kiwanis Club Joins Team Kiwanis! Bronx-Westchester South Division for the Walk to End Alzheimer’s
October 1, 2023
The Yonkers Kiwanis Club participated in the Walk to End Alzheimer’s today with Team Kiwanis! Bronx-Westchester South Division at the Westchester Community College Campus. Our team raised $1,174 for Alzheimer’s care, support, and research.
Last Meeting of the Administrative Year – Recognition Dinner
Board Members: Dr. D’Ugo, R. Vasami, and E. AndersonR. Vasami and P. SaichJ. Bartunek and R. VasamiK. Ennis and R. VasamiM. A. O’Donnell and R. Vasami
September 20, 2023
The Yonkers Kiwanis Club celebrated the end of the administrative year at Mamma Assunta Ristorante in Tuckahoe, New York. President Ralph Vasami thanked all members of the club for a successful year. After sharing highlights of the year, he also acknowledged the following individuals for their contributions:
Kathy Ennis – Chairperson of the Smile Store at SAIL at Ferncliff Manor Committee
Mary Anne O’Donnell – Chairperson of the Dorothy Burke Literacy Project
Judy Bartunek – Chairperson of the Teacher of the Year Award
Pat Saich – Chairperson of the Membership Committee
Erin Anderson – Treasurer, Chairperson of the Flapjack Fundraiser Committee, Club Advisor for the Aktion Club
Dr. Ida D’Ugo – Secretary
Join Us as We Celebrate the Best Breakfast in Town!
Aktion Club Book Drive
September 13, 2023
The Yonkers Kiwanis Aktion Club will be hosting a book drive to help support the Little Free Libraries in their communities.
Please bring gently used books to our dinner meeting on September 20 at Mamma Assunta Ristorante in Tuckahoe, New York. All books are welcome. We thank you for your donations that will help promote literacy.
Please join our division on Sunday, October 1, for the Alzheimer’s Walk with our banner passing lunch immediately following at the Cabin Restaurant in White Plains. The walk is also in need of 4 to 6 volunteers to staff the “Kid’s Zone”. Volunteers should arrive around 10:30 a.m. and will be chaperoning the area, face painting, bracelet making, etc. This is a great opportunity for SLP members. The Alzheimer’s Walk has been a tradition in our division for many year. Let’s make this happen!
There are two ways for division members to participate in this event:
Option 1: Participate in the walk
Option 2: Volunteer at the Kids’ Zone
Please RSVP to our Lt. Governor by September 22, 2023.
Installation Ceremony for the Aktion Club
The Yonkers Kiwanis Club held an installation ceremony for the six new members of its Aktion Club on August 16, 2023, at SAIL at Ferncliff Manor. The event was facilitated by Erin Anderson, Treasurer, supported by Ralph Vasami, President.
The Yonkers Aktion Club was chartered on May 9, 2023, and is sponsored by the Yonkers Kiwanis Club. The Yonkers Aktion Club is the first Aktion Club in the Bronx Westchester South Division. It is a membership club with a mission to provide service to the community. Also, Aktion Clubs are the only service club for adults with disabilities with more than 12,000 club members worldwide. The club’s goals are to deliver four service projects during the 2023 – 2024 administrative year.
Join us in supporting our Aktion Club in this endeavor!
Summer Reading Buddies
July 5 to August 10, 2023
Dr. Ida D’Ugo, our Club Secretary, volunteered for the Family Service Society of Yonkers’ Summer Reading Buddies program. This program pairs volunteers with young students to help them improve their reading literacy and comprehension to alleviate the “Summer Slide”.
July 9, 2023
The first BWS Divisional Yankees Game against the Chicago Cubs was held today. Even though the Yankees lost, club members who attended had a great time! For those members and guests who could not attend this game, come join the fun at another BWS Divisional Yankees Game against the Milwaukee Brewers on Sunday, September 10. Please refer to the flyer for additional details.
Scholarship Celebration Dinner
Herman B. Fine Scholarship Recipient – Samuel RoqueLynn Tishman Scholarship Recipient – Nirel Ayertey
June 22, 2023
The members of the Yonkers Kiwanis Club along with the members of the East Yonkers Kiwanis Club honored their scholarship recipients at a combined celebration dinner representing the importance of education held at Mamma Assunta Ristorante in Tuckahoe, New York. For the Yonkers Kiwanis Club, Denise McKinney, Chair of the Scholarship Committee, introduced Samuel Roque and his mother, Sima Narvaez, and awarded him the Herman B. Fine $1,000 scholarship assisted by Ralph Vasami, President. For the East Yonkers Kiwanis Club, Nancy Shaw, President and Lt. Governor-Elect, introduced Nirel Ayertey and awarded her the Lynn Tishman $1,000 scholarship assisted by Ron Volino, Past Lt. Governor, and Marcy Gattucci-Lentine, Club Advisor.
Congratulations and best wishes for our honorees!
Teacher of the Year Honorees
R. Vasami, J. Ford, L. Spagna, R. RitiR. Vasami, J. Ford, M. Corrigan-Connell, R. Riti
June 15, 2023
The Yonkers Kiwanis Club, in cooperation with the Yonkers Board of Education and the Mayor of the City of Yonkers, formally acknowledges teachers who demonstrate excellence in their profession, actively contribute to the school community, and participate in activities that promote student growth and development.
The recipients of the Teacher of the Year award for the 2022 – 2023 academic year are the following:
Elementary School Teacher:Lauren Spagna, Grade 5, Las Hermans Mirabel Community School
High School Teacher:Jessica Lynn Ford, Science Grades 9 – 12, Barack Obama School for Social Justice
Congratulations to our honorees!
K-Kids Club Beautification Project
June 14, 2023
The Paideia School 24 K-Kids Club along with their Club Advisor, Bryan Boyd, worked with Pre-Kindergarten and Kindergarten students on a Beautification Project for their school.
Teacher of the Year Dinner
Join us as we celebrate our honorees on June 15!
Club Members, please bring your checks or payments on the evening of the event. Thank you.
Crohn’s & Colitis Foundation – Take Steps Walk
June 4, 2023
The Connecticut/Westchester Chapter of the Crohn’s & Colitis Foundation hosted its “Take Steps” event at Manhattanville College on Sunday, June 4, 2023. Every step taken and every dollar raised helps to promote awareness, fund research for cures, and support all those who are afflicted by these diseases. The Yonkers Kiwanis Club raised $300 for this cause.
K-Kids Club Butterfly Project
May 18, 2023
The Paideia School 24 K-Kids Club along with their Club Advisor, Bryan Boyd, worked with Pre-Kindergarten and Kindergarten students to teach them about the life cycle and metamorphosis of butterflies.
May 13, 2023
The best way to start a day is with a good breakfast with friends and family. This was definitely evident at our Flapjack Fundraiser held today at Applebee’s Bar and Grill on 2 Executive Blvd., Yonkers, New York. Thank you to all who attended and made this event a great success!
Governor’s Visit on April 30, 2023
The Yonkers Kiwanis Club joined other Kiwanis Clubs in the Bronx Westchester South Division for the Governor’s Visit at JC Fogarty’s in Bronxville, New York. During this luncheon, Governor Joel Harris acknowledged Legion of Honor Recipients and Legion of Merit Recipients from the various clubs. In addition, new members were inducted into the Hartsdale and Mount Vernon Kiwanis Clubs. Governor Harris also shared information related to his project on Crohn’s and Colitis through the Crohn’s & Colitis Foundation. His wife, First Lady Helene Harris, presented information on her literacy project and how to support it by putting up a Free Little Library, supplying books for a library, and reading to others.
Lt. Governor Ashley WolfeGov. Harris presenting Legion of Honor Certificate to T. DeJulioGov. Harris with Yonkers Kiwanis Executive Board
Spring Flapjack is this Saturday, and we are excited to celebrate at the “Best Breakfast in Town”!
Event Information
Saturday, May 13
9:00 am to 11:00 am
Applebee’s Yonkers
2 Executive Blvd., Yonkers, NY
For RSVP’s or questions, contact Erin Anderson at (914) 841-0456
J. Jabick Crohn’s & Colitis Foundation with Yonkers Kiwanis Club MembersInduction of New Members – R. VasamiIntroduction of New Members – P. Saich
April 27, 2023
The Yonkers Kiwanis Club dinner meeting was a busy one. Beth Jabick, Manager, Fundraising & Volunteer Engagement from the Connecticut/Westchester of the Crohn’s & Colitis Foundation, facilitated an informative and engaging presentation on the Foundation. We learned much about these diseases, the Foundation’s focus areas, and the work it is doing to research cures and improve the quality of life of people who are affected by these diseases. The title of the walk, “Take Steps”, captures the essence of the Foundation’s goal – taking steps to find a cure.
The presentation was followed by the induction of our new members by Ralph Vasami, President; and Patricia Saich, Membership Committee Chair: D. Herrera, O. Herrera, and L. Huntt, Jr. We welcome our new members to the Yonkers Kiwanis Club family!
Guest Speaker – Crohn’s & Colitis Foundation
Beth Jabick, Manager, Fundraising & Volunteer Experience from the Connecticut/Westchester Chapter of the Crohn’s & Colitis Foundation, will be sharing information about the Foundation’s areas of focus during our dinner meeting on April 27 at Mamma Assunta Ristorante in Tuckahoe, New York. Join us to learn more about what the Foundation does to seek cures and improve the quality of life of those afflicted with these diseases. For more information, contact us at [email protected].
Join us for breakfast with family and friends!
N. Shaw, President – East Yonkers Kiwanis ClubR. Vasami, President and I. D’Ugo, Secretary – Yonkers Kiwanis ClubF. Chavez, President and A. Chavez, Secretary (left) – Riverdale Kiwanis ClubI. D’Ugo, Secretary and E. Anderson, Treasurer
March 18, 2023
The Yonkers Kiwanis Club joined the celebration of Irish heritage as we marched in the Yonkers St. Patrick’s Day for the first time this year with members from the East Yonkers Kiwanis Club and Riverdale Kiwanis Club. Approximately 30,000 people lined Mclean Avenue to watch the parade.
James Landy. Guest SpeakerClub Members and GuestsRalph Vasami, Club President
Club Members
March 9, 2023
The Yonkers Kiwanis Club held its “St. Patrick’s Day” dinner at Mamma Assunta’s Ristorante in Tuckahoe, New York. Our guest speaker was Mr. James Landy, Executive Chairman of Hudson Valley Holding Company and Hudson Valley Bank. In addition, he holds many other positions including Chairman of the Hudson Valley National Foundation, Chairman of the Board of Trustees at St. Joseph’s Medical Center, Chairman of the Board of Stewards of the Friendly Sons of St. Patrick in Westchester County, Chairman of the New York Bankers Association, and Director of both the Sacred Heart Housing Corp. and St. Joseph’s Housing Corp. Needless to say, Mr. Landy is a very active member of our community.
Mr. Landy shared the rich history of the parade as well as interesting facts about the history of Yonkers. Our club will be reliving part of this history as we march in the Yonkers’ St. Patrick’s Day Parade on Saturday, March 18, at 1:00 pm.
Paideia School 24 K-Kids Club Sock Drive Drop Off
March 7, 2023
The Paideia School 24 K-Kids Club members and advisor, Bryan Boyd, dropped off socks from their Sock Drive to the YWCA located at 87 South Broadway in Yonkers, New York. The K-Kids Club worked with the My Brother’s Keeper Program to collect socks for men, women, and children in homeless shelters. Socks are one of the most needed items for people living in poverty. Great job Paideia School 24 K-Kids Club members and Mr. Boyd!
Lt. Gov. Ashley Wolfe with Club MembersWomen in Kiwanis Celebration Brunch
February 26, 2023
The Bronx Westchester South Division of Kiwanis International held its inaugural “Women in Kiwanis Celebration Brunch” at the Wicked Wolf Restaurant in Tuckahoe, New York. This event celebrated the contributions of women members in improving communities for children. Kiwanis International was founded in 1915, and women were invited to join in1987. Women in Kiwanis continue to make strides in assuming leadership roles thus becoming role models for other women. Celebrate International Women’s day on Wednesday, March 8, by using the hashtag #EmbraceEquity.
February 25, 2023
Club Members and Guests
The Yonkers Kiwanis Club held its first “Koffee with Kiwanis” event at the Grinton Will Library in Yonkers, New York. Visitors had the opportunity to learn more about our club and how we improve our community, one child at a time, while enjoying a cup of coffee with club members.
Key Club Presidents and President VasamiInduction of New Member – P. Greco by President Vasami and J. Bartunek
A. Vazquez with her children and J. Bartunek and J. Greco
February 16, 2023
The Yonkers Kiwanis Club dinner meeting was a busy one with a special program on service. Guest speakers included Key Club Presidents, Isabel-Aldani Diaz from Saunders High School and Moni from Yonkers Middle High School, and Andrea Vazquez founder of Feed the Need. The Key Club Presidents spoke about their completed service projects (i.e., food drives, clothing drives, collection of medical supplies for Ukraine, Blood Drives, and much more) and those in the planning stages. Ms. Vazquez shared information on her organization that prepares bagged lunches and care packages for the homeless with help from Yonkers Public School students. These lunches and care packages are distributed in Getty Square in Yonkers.
Nominations are being accepted until March 1, 2023. Please use this link for additional information.
If you are tired of the wintery weather and dream about being on a tropical island, or just want to escape from crowded areas; the dinner meeting held on January 18 was the place to be. The Yonkers Kiwanis Club hosted a program on Antigua and Barbuda sponsored by the Antigua & Barbuda Tourism Authority-USA for its members and guests. Marilyn Pires, Business Development Manager NE, presented many interesting facts on these islands related to its 366 public beaches, watersports, land activities, traditional cuisines, and hotel accommodations. This paradise offers something for everyone!
Club Officers and Guest Speaker Marilyn PiresPresident Vasami introducing the Program
December 11, 2022
It definitely is the season to be jolly! Members of the Yonkers Kiwanis Club prepared and delivered holiday greeting cards to the residents at Sunrise at Crestwood, a senior living community offering assisted living and personalized memory care. This is one of our club’s annual service projects.
December 8, 2022
Members of the Yonkers Kiwanis Club purchased and donated items for the “SMILE STORE” at Ferncliff Manor’s School for Adaptive and Integrated Learning (SAIL). This is an annual service project for the Club.
December 6, 2022
Our club welcomed the holiday season at a dinner held at Mamma Assunta Ristorante in Tuckahoe, New York. In addition to celebrating with fellow members and friends, our newest members were officially inducted by President Ralph J. Vasami: S. Demirdjian, M. Gattucci-Lentine, and K. Yurczak. President Vasami also presented Mr. Steve Topilnycky, Coordinator for Toys for Tots Westchester, with toys donated by our club.
Induction of New MembersToy Donation to Mr. TopilnyckyClub Members and Guests
On behalf of our club members, we would like to wish you a Happy Thanksgiving!
November 19, 2022
Never underestimate the power of a good breakfast with friends and family. This was definitely evident at our Flapjack Fundraiser held today at Applebee’s Bar and Grill on 2 Executive Blvd., Yonkers, New York. Thank you to all who attended and made this event a great success!
The Saunders High School Key Club is holding a “Share the Warmth” Clothing Drive through December 23. Help support the Saunders High School Key Club keep the members of their community warm this winter.
November 18, 2022
The K-Kids have started a Safety Patrol Program at Paideia School 24. Thanks to the AAA School Safety Patrol Program who donated all supplies needed to get started.
On behalf of our club members, we would like to say “Happy Veterans Day” and thank you for your service.
November 10, 2022
The Kiwanis Family Divisional Dinner was held at Angelina’s Restaurant in Tuckahoe to honor the members and advisors of the Service Leadership Programs sponsored by the Kiwanis Clubs in the Bronx Westchester South Division. The Service Leadership Programs are for all ages and promote community engagement, service, leadership, and global citizenship. Kiwanis members who are veterans were also honored at this dinner for their years of service to our country. The event was hosted by Fordham University.
Lt. Governor Ashley Wolfe welcomes guestsPresident Ralph Vasami is recognized for his service to his country.
Send a Tribute! Is there someone you’d like to do something nice for? Purchase a few raffle basket tickets for them. Let us know who you’d like to do this for and the Club will reach out to let them know. For more details, please contact: [email protected].
October 27, 2022
The Yonkers Kiwanis Club celebrated the installation of its new officers for the 2022 – 2023 administrative year: Ralph J. Vasami, President; Ida M. D’Ugo, Ed.D., Secretary, and Erin Anderson, Treasurer. Many fellow Kiwanians and esteemed guests attended this event. During the installation dinner meeting at Mamma Assunta Ristorante in Tuckahoe, Ralph Vasami was also presented with the Kiwanis Pediatric Trauma Center (KPTC) Fellow Award by Joe Corace, President, KPTC.
Presdient R. Vasami presented with KPTC Fellow Diamond Award by President of KPTC J. Corace and former Lt. Gov. T. DeJulio.R. Vasami pinned by former Lt. Gov. T. DeJulio.Lt. Gov. A. Wolfe acknowledges former President J. Bartunek.
The Saunders High School Key Club is holding its annual Thanksgiving Food Drive through November 21. Help support the Saunders High School Key Club feed the hungry in their school community by donating canned goods and other side dishes for their service project.
The My Brother’s Keeper Program and K-Kids Club at Paideia School 24 is holding a Sock Drive until November 30. Help support the My Brother’s Keeper Program and K-Kids Club at Paideia School 24 with their Sock Drive to help men, women, and children in homeless shelters keep warm this winter.
October 24, 2022
Nor rain nor the cold temperatures kept Team Kiwanis from participating in the Walk to End Alzheimer’s on October 2, 2022. To date, Team Kiwanis has raised $1,495.44. Donations will be accepted for this cause until December 31, 2022. Thank you to all who have contributed to make a difference!
Ida D’Ugo, Secretary, is waiting for team members at the starting line.
June 2, 2022
66th Annual Teachers of the Year Honorees
The Yonkers Kiwanis Club, in cooperation with the Yonkers Board of Education, formally acknowledges teachers who demonstrate excellence in their profession, actively contribute to the school community, and participate in activities that promote student growth and development.
The recipients of the Teacher of the Year award for the 2021 – 2022 academic year are the following:
The Yonkers Kiwanis Club collected new and gently used coats and jackets to help keep Veterans warm this winter. Viviana DeCohen, Director of the Mount Vernon Veterans Agency, accepted the donations from Kiwanis members John & Judy Bartunek. This project is ongoing.
October 18, 2020
Yonkers Kiwanis presented the Kamp Kiwanis “Honor An Essential Worker” Award to Empress Ambulance ServicesMichael Minerva and his staff of EMS workers were thanked for their service and dedication during the ongoing Pandemic. Click HERE to read the article
October 6, 2020
The Yonkers Kiwanis Club purchased items for the “Coats for Kids” program at ANDRUS Children’s Center. The donation was accepted by Talaya Johnson-Murphy.
Thank you to Beverley Linton and Rocco Riti for assisting with the shopping. It warms our hearts to be able to bring warmth to those in need this winter. Read Article HERE
July 20, 2020
Members of our club wrote and delivered friendly greeting cards to the residents of the Sunrise Assisted Living Facility on Crisfield St.
Thank you to Mary Anne O’Donnell for her help with this project.
July 16, 2020
Photo Credit: Dottie Burke
We gave out books to the children receiving “Grab & Go” meals. Tom Flammia was at Scholastic Academy School 18 while Olivia King, Wendy Hollander and Judy Bartunek were located at Martin Luther King, Jr. School. There were many masked smiles and gratitude from the parents and children.
Photo Credit: Dottie Burke
June 21, 2020
Photo Credit: Dottie Burke
Breakfast is served!!! We treated the Ferncliff Manor staff to a Dunkin Donuts breakfast. A “sweet” way to say Thank You for their dedication and service to the children during these difficult times.
Yonkers
Yonkers, New York
Chartered: November 11, 1929
Officers:
President – Ralph J. Vasami – [email protected]
Secretary – Erin Anderson – [email protected]
Treasurer – Sandy Demirdjian – satanek.demirdfian@mynycb
Meetings:
4th Wednesday at 6:15 PM at Mamma Assunta Ristorante
20 Columbus Avenue, Tuckahoe, NY 10707
Follow us on FACEBOOK and LINKEDIN.
Service Leadership Programs:
The Yonkers Kiwanis Club sponsors three service leadership programs: the K-Kids at Paideia School 24, the Key Club at Saunders High School, and the Aktion Club at SAIL at Ferncliff Manor. Our club advisors mentor and guide the members of these clubs while members take an active role in selecting club leaders, choosing service projects, and making decisions related to club activities. Service projects include fundraisers, clothing drives, sock drives, and food drives, and more. Our goal is to help today’s youth become tomorrow’s leaders through service to others.
Service Projects:
Teacher of the Year Awards
The Teacher of the Year has been our signature project since 1954. The Yonkers Kiwanis Club, in cooperation with the Yonkers Board of Education and the Mayor’s office, formally acknowledges three teachers (elementary, middle, and high school levels) who demonstrate excellence in their profession, actively contribute to the school community and participate in activities that promote student growth and development.
The Herman B. Fine Scholarship
The Herman B. Fine scholarship is in honor of a former member and past president of the club, who made a considerable donation to the club to start the awarding of scholarships in 1978. Eligible high school seniors attending a public school in Yonkers must demonstrate scholastic achievement. merit, need, and community service. The recipient of the scholarship is awarded $1,000.
The Dorothy Burke Literacy Project
When Kiwanis member Dorothy Burke retired in 2002 as a second-grade teacher at Paideia School 24, she wanted to give back to the students. Dottie helped our club raise funds to purchase and donate summer reading books for the second graders. Resource books were also given to the classroom teachers. This program continues today but after Dottie’s passing in 2021, this valuable and longtime project was renamed “The Dorothy Burke Literacy Project” in her honor.
The SMILE Program – SAIL at Ferncliff Manor – PBIS
The School for Adaptive and Integrative Learning (SAIL) at Ferncliff Manor is a private residential school for children with developmental disabilities in Yonkers, NY. The school’s signature Positive Behavior Interventions and Supports program (PBIS) functions on the pillars of its SMILE ideals (Show Respect-Model Behavior-Recognize your Integrity-Learn Safely and Expect Greatness. Throughout the year, students earn credits to spend at the SMILE store, which is stocked yearly by select donations from Yonkers Kiwanis Club.
Club Events:
Mark your calendars for Saturday, May 11th! Join us for the best breakfast in town as you support us in raising critical funds to deliver our community programs and increase our club’s impact!
– Admission Tickets – $15.00 per person, full breakfast buffet!
– Basket & 50/50 Raffle Tickets – 3/$5.00, 7/$10.00, 15/$20.00
– Reduced memberships for potential new members
We look forward to spending the morning together with our guests. What a great treat for mom just before Mother’s Day!
– To RSVP, please contact: [email protected] or call (914) 841-0456.
– Corporate sponsorships are available.
– We will enroll any new page followers (after 3/20) and people who share our event posts in an event day raffle, no ticket purchase necessary!
We are proud to present our Aktion Club’s Winter 2024 Backpack Fundraiser.
Our club raised critical funds to enhance campers summer experiences at Kamp Kiwanis. Thank you to our dedicated club!
#YonkersAktionClub
Happy Birthday to Us!
Interested in becoming a member?
If you would like to become a member of our club, please use this link to download an application form. Thank you.
The Yonkers Kiwanis Club Joins Team Kiwanis! Bronx-Westchester South Division for the Walk to End Alzheimer’s
October 1, 2023
The Yonkers Kiwanis Club participated in the Walk to End Alzheimer’s today with Team Kiwanis! Bronx-Westchester South Division at the Westchester Community College Campus. Our team raised $1,174 for Alzheimer’s care, support, and research.
Last Meeting of the Administrative Year – Recognition Dinner
September 20, 2023
The Yonkers Kiwanis Club celebrated the end of the administrative year at Mamma Assunta Ristorante in Tuckahoe, New York. President Ralph Vasami thanked all members of the club for a successful year. After sharing highlights of the year, he also acknowledged the following individuals for their contributions:
Join Us as We Celebrate the Best Breakfast in Town!
Aktion Club Book Drive
September 13, 2023
The Yonkers Kiwanis Aktion Club will be hosting a book drive to help support the Little Free Libraries in their communities.
Please bring gently used books to our dinner meeting on September 20 at Mamma Assunta Ristorante in Tuckahoe, New York. All books are welcome. We thank you for your donations that will help promote literacy.
Please join our division on Sunday, October 1, for the Alzheimer’s Walk with our banner passing lunch immediately following at the Cabin Restaurant in White Plains. The walk is also in need of 4 to 6 volunteers to staff the “Kid’s Zone”. Volunteers should arrive around 10:30 a.m. and will be chaperoning the area, face painting, bracelet making, etc. This is a great opportunity for SLP members. The Alzheimer’s Walk has been a tradition in our division for many year. Let’s make this happen!
There are two ways for division members to participate in this event:
Please RSVP to our Lt. Governor by September 22, 2023.
Installation Ceremony for the Aktion Club
The Yonkers Kiwanis Club held an installation ceremony for the six new members of its Aktion Club on August 16, 2023, at SAIL at Ferncliff Manor. The event was facilitated by Erin Anderson, Treasurer, supported by Ralph Vasami, President.
The Yonkers Aktion Club was chartered on May 9, 2023, and is sponsored by the Yonkers Kiwanis Club. The Yonkers Aktion Club is the first Aktion Club in the Bronx Westchester South Division. It is a membership club with a mission to provide service to the community. Also, Aktion Clubs are the only service club for adults with disabilities with more than 12,000 club members worldwide. The club’s goals are to deliver four service projects during the 2023 – 2024 administrative year.
Join us in supporting our Aktion Club in this endeavor!
Summer Reading Buddies
July 5 to August 10, 2023
Dr. Ida D’Ugo, our Club Secretary, volunteered for the Family Service Society of Yonkers’ Summer Reading Buddies program. This program pairs volunteers with young students to help them improve their reading literacy and comprehension to alleviate the “Summer Slide”.
July 9, 2023
The first BWS Divisional Yankees Game against the Chicago Cubs was held today. Even though the Yankees lost, club members who attended had a great time! For those members and guests who could not attend this game, come join the fun at another BWS Divisional Yankees Game against the Milwaukee Brewers on Sunday, September 10. Please refer to the flyer for additional details.
Scholarship Celebration Dinner
June 22, 2023
The members of the Yonkers Kiwanis Club along with the members of the East Yonkers Kiwanis Club honored their scholarship recipients at a combined celebration dinner representing the importance of education held at Mamma Assunta Ristorante in Tuckahoe, New York. For the Yonkers Kiwanis Club, Denise McKinney, Chair of the Scholarship Committee, introduced Samuel Roque and his mother, Sima Narvaez, and awarded him the Herman B. Fine $1,000 scholarship assisted by Ralph Vasami, President. For the East Yonkers Kiwanis Club, Nancy Shaw, President and Lt. Governor-Elect, introduced Nirel Ayertey and awarded her the Lynn Tishman $1,000 scholarship assisted by Ron Volino, Past Lt. Governor, and Marcy Gattucci-Lentine, Club Advisor.
Congratulations and best wishes for our honorees!
Teacher of the Year Honorees
June 15, 2023
The Yonkers Kiwanis Club, in cooperation with the Yonkers Board of Education and the Mayor of the City of Yonkers, formally acknowledges teachers who demonstrate excellence in their profession, actively contribute to the school community, and participate in activities that promote student growth and development.
The recipients of the Teacher of the Year award for the 2022 – 2023 academic year are the following:
Congratulations to our honorees!
K-Kids Club Beautification Project
June 14, 2023
The Paideia School 24 K-Kids Club along with their Club Advisor, Bryan Boyd, worked with Pre-Kindergarten and Kindergarten students on a Beautification Project for their school.
Teacher of the Year Dinner
Join us as we celebrate our honorees on June 15!
Club Members, please bring your checks or payments on the evening of the event. Thank you.
Crohn’s & Colitis Foundation – Take Steps Walk
June 4, 2023
The Connecticut/Westchester Chapter of the Crohn’s & Colitis Foundation hosted its “Take Steps” event at Manhattanville College on Sunday, June 4, 2023. Every step taken and every dollar raised helps to promote awareness, fund research for cures, and support all those who are afflicted by these diseases. The Yonkers Kiwanis Club raised $300 for this cause.
K-Kids Club Butterfly Project
May 18, 2023
The Paideia School 24 K-Kids Club along with their Club Advisor, Bryan Boyd, worked with Pre-Kindergarten and Kindergarten students to teach them about the life cycle and metamorphosis of butterflies.
May 13, 2023
The best way to start a day is with a good breakfast with friends and family. This was definitely evident at our Flapjack Fundraiser held today at Applebee’s Bar and Grill on 2 Executive Blvd., Yonkers, New York. Thank you to all who attended and made this event a great success!
Governor’s Visit on April 30, 2023
The Yonkers Kiwanis Club joined other Kiwanis Clubs in the Bronx Westchester South Division for the Governor’s Visit at JC Fogarty’s in Bronxville, New York. During this luncheon, Governor Joel Harris acknowledged Legion of Honor Recipients and Legion of Merit Recipients from the various clubs. In addition, new members were inducted into the Hartsdale and Mount Vernon Kiwanis Clubs. Governor Harris also shared information related to his project on Crohn’s and Colitis through the Crohn’s & Colitis Foundation. His wife, First Lady Helene Harris, presented information on her literacy project and how to support it by putting up a Free Little Library, supplying books for a library, and reading to others.
Spring Flapjack is this Saturday, and we are excited to celebrate at the “Best Breakfast in Town”!
Event Information
R. Vasami
P. Saich
April 27, 2023
The Yonkers Kiwanis Club dinner meeting was a busy one. Beth Jabick, Manager, Fundraising & Volunteer Engagement from the Connecticut/Westchester of the Crohn’s & Colitis Foundation, facilitated an informative and engaging presentation on the Foundation. We learned much about these diseases, the Foundation’s focus areas, and the work it is doing to research cures and improve the quality of life of people who are affected by these diseases. The title of the walk, “Take Steps”, captures the essence of the Foundation’s goal – taking steps to find a cure.
The presentation was followed by the induction of our new members by Ralph Vasami, President; and Patricia Saich, Membership Committee Chair: D. Herrera, O. Herrera, and L. Huntt, Jr. We welcome our new members to the Yonkers Kiwanis Club family!
Guest Speaker – Crohn’s & Colitis Foundation
Beth Jabick, Manager, Fundraising & Volunteer Experience from the Connecticut/Westchester Chapter of the Crohn’s & Colitis Foundation, will be sharing information about the Foundation’s areas of focus during our dinner meeting on April 27 at Mamma Assunta Ristorante in Tuckahoe, New York. Join us to learn more about what the Foundation does to seek cures and improve the quality of life of those afflicted with these diseases. For more information, contact us at [email protected].
March 18, 2023
The Yonkers Kiwanis Club joined the celebration of Irish heritage as we marched in the Yonkers St. Patrick’s Day for the first time this year with members from the East Yonkers Kiwanis Club and Riverdale Kiwanis Club. Approximately 30,000 people lined Mclean Avenue to watch the parade.
Club Members
March 9, 2023
The Yonkers Kiwanis Club held its “St. Patrick’s Day” dinner at Mamma Assunta’s Ristorante in Tuckahoe, New York. Our guest speaker was Mr. James Landy, Executive Chairman of Hudson Valley Holding Company and Hudson Valley Bank. In addition, he holds many other positions including Chairman of the Hudson Valley National Foundation, Chairman of the Board of Trustees at St. Joseph’s Medical Center, Chairman of the Board of Stewards of the Friendly Sons of St. Patrick in Westchester County, Chairman of the New York Bankers Association, and Director of both the Sacred Heart Housing Corp. and St. Joseph’s Housing Corp. Needless to say, Mr. Landy is a very active member of our community.
Mr. Landy shared the rich history of the parade as well as interesting facts about the history of Yonkers. Our club will be reliving part of this history as we march in the Yonkers’ St. Patrick’s Day Parade on Saturday, March 18, at 1:00 pm.
March 7, 2023
The Paideia School 24 K-Kids Club members and advisor, Bryan Boyd, dropped off socks from their Sock Drive to the YWCA located at 87 South Broadway in Yonkers, New York. The K-Kids Club worked with the My Brother’s Keeper Program to collect socks for men, women, and children in homeless shelters. Socks are one of the most needed items for people living in poverty. Great job Paideia School 24 K-Kids Club members and Mr. Boyd!
February 26, 2023
The Bronx Westchester South Division of Kiwanis International held its inaugural “Women in Kiwanis Celebration Brunch” at the Wicked Wolf Restaurant in Tuckahoe, New York. This event celebrated the contributions of women members in improving communities for children. Kiwanis International was founded in 1915, and women were invited to join in1987. Women in Kiwanis continue to make strides in assuming leadership roles thus becoming role models for other women. Celebrate International Women’s day on Wednesday, March 8, by using the hashtag #EmbraceEquity.
February 25, 2023
The Yonkers Kiwanis Club held its first “Koffee with Kiwanis” event at the Grinton Will Library in Yonkers, New York. Visitors had the opportunity to learn more about our club and how we improve our community, one child at a time, while enjoying a cup of coffee with club members.
February 16, 2023
The Yonkers Kiwanis Club dinner meeting was a busy one with a special program on service. Guest speakers included Key Club Presidents, Isabel-Aldani Diaz from Saunders High School and Moni from Yonkers Middle High School, and Andrea Vazquez founder of Feed the Need. The Key Club Presidents spoke about their completed service projects (i.e., food drives, clothing drives, collection of medical supplies for Ukraine, Blood Drives, and much more) and those in the planning stages. Ms. Vazquez shared information on her organization that prepares bagged lunches and care packages for the homeless with help from Yonkers Public School students. These lunches and care packages are distributed in Getty Square in Yonkers.
If you are tired of the wintery weather and dream about being on a tropical island, or just want to escape from crowded areas; the dinner meeting held on January 18 was the place to be. The Yonkers Kiwanis Club hosted a program on Antigua and Barbuda sponsored by the Antigua & Barbuda Tourism Authority-USA for its members and guests. Marilyn Pires, Business Development Manager NE, presented many interesting facts on these islands related to its 366 public beaches, watersports, land activities, traditional cuisines, and hotel accommodations. This paradise offers something for everyone!
December 11, 2022
It definitely is the season to be jolly! Members of the Yonkers Kiwanis Club prepared and delivered holiday greeting cards to the residents at Sunrise at Crestwood, a senior living community offering assisted living and personalized memory care. This is one of our club’s annual service projects.
December 8, 2022
Members of the Yonkers Kiwanis Club purchased and donated items for the “SMILE STORE” at Ferncliff Manor’s School for Adaptive and Integrated Learning (SAIL). This is an annual service project for the Club.
December 6, 2022
Our club welcomed the holiday season at a dinner held at Mamma Assunta Ristorante in Tuckahoe, New York. In addition to celebrating with fellow members and friends, our newest members were officially inducted by President Ralph J. Vasami: S. Demirdjian, M. Gattucci-Lentine, and K. Yurczak. President Vasami also presented Mr. Steve Topilnycky, Coordinator for Toys for Tots Westchester, with toys donated by our club.
November 19, 2022
Never underestimate the power of a good breakfast with friends and family. This was definitely evident at our Flapjack Fundraiser held today at Applebee’s Bar and Grill on 2 Executive Blvd., Yonkers, New York. Thank you to all who attended and made this event a great success!
The Saunders High School Key Club is holding a “Share the Warmth” Clothing Drive through December 23. Help support the Saunders High School Key Club keep the members of their community warm this winter.
November 18, 2022
The K-Kids have started a Safety Patrol Program at Paideia School 24. Thanks to the AAA School Safety Patrol Program who donated all supplies needed to get started.
November 10, 2022
The Kiwanis Family Divisional Dinner was held at Angelina’s Restaurant in Tuckahoe to honor the members and advisors of the Service Leadership Programs sponsored by the Kiwanis Clubs in the Bronx Westchester South Division. The Service Leadership Programs are for all ages and promote community engagement, service, leadership, and global citizenship. Kiwanis members who are veterans were also honored at this dinner for their years of service to our country. The event was hosted by Fordham University.
Send a Tribute!
Is there someone you’d like to do something nice for? Purchase a few raffle basket tickets for them. Let us know who you’d like to do this for and the Club will reach out to let them know. For more details, please contact: [email protected].
October 27, 2022
The Yonkers Kiwanis Club celebrated the installation of its new officers for the 2022 – 2023 administrative year: Ralph J. Vasami, President; Ida M. D’Ugo, Ed.D., Secretary, and Erin Anderson, Treasurer. Many fellow Kiwanians and esteemed guests attended this event. During the installation dinner meeting at Mamma Assunta Ristorante in Tuckahoe, Ralph Vasami was also presented with the Kiwanis Pediatric Trauma Center (KPTC) Fellow Award by Joe Corace, President, KPTC.
The Saunders High School Key Club is holding its annual Thanksgiving Food Drive through November 21. Help support the Saunders High School Key Club feed the hungry in their school community by donating canned goods and other side dishes for their service project.
The My Brother’s Keeper Program and K-Kids Club at Paideia School 24 is holding a Sock Drive until November 30. Help support the My Brother’s Keeper Program and K-Kids Club at Paideia School 24 with their Sock Drive to help men, women, and children in homeless shelters keep warm this winter.
October 24, 2022
Nor rain nor the cold temperatures kept Team Kiwanis from participating in the Walk to End Alzheimer’s on October 2, 2022. To date, Team Kiwanis has raised $1,495.44. Donations will be accepted for this cause until December 31, 2022. Thank you to all who have contributed to make a difference!
June 2, 2022
66th Annual Teachers of the Year Honorees
The Yonkers Kiwanis Club, in cooperation with the Yonkers Board of Education, formally acknowledges teachers who demonstrate excellence in their profession, actively contribute to the school community, and participate in activities that promote student growth and development.
The recipients of the Teacher of the Year award for the 2021 – 2022 academic year are the following:
Elementary School: Dawn Marie Soliman, School 23
Middle School: Sunitha Howard, School 5
High School: Theresa Smith, Lincoln High School.
Congratulations to our honorees!
December 17, 2020
The Yonkers Kiwanis Club collected new and gently used coats and jackets to help keep Veterans warm this winter. Viviana DeCohen, Director of the Mount Vernon Veterans Agency, accepted the donations from Kiwanis members John & Judy Bartunek. This project is ongoing.
October 18, 2020
Yonkers Kiwanis presented the Kamp Kiwanis
“Honor An Essential Worker” Award to
Empress Ambulance ServicesMichael Minerva and his staff of EMS workers were thanked for their service and dedication during the ongoing Pandemic.
Click HERE to read the article
October 6, 2020
The Yonkers Kiwanis Club purchased items for the “Coats for Kids” program at ANDRUS Children’s Center. The donation was accepted by Talaya Johnson-Murphy.
Thank you to Beverley Linton and Rocco Riti for assisting with the shopping. It warms our hearts to be able to bring warmth to those in need this winter. Read Article HERE
July 20, 2020
July 16, 2020
We gave out books to the children receiving “Grab & Go” meals. Tom Flammia was at Scholastic Academy School 18 while Olivia King, Wendy Hollander and Judy Bartunek were located at Martin Luther King, Jr. School. There were many masked smiles and gratitude from the parents and children.
June 21, 2020
Breakfast is served!!! We treated the Ferncliff Manor staff to a Dunkin Donuts breakfast. A “sweet” way to say Thank You for their dedication and service to the children during these difficult times.
Upcoming Events
Happy Anniversary THROGGS NECK
BWS Governor's Visit
Westchester Village Memorial Breakfast
Hartsdale Annual Meeting
East Yonkers Nurse Appreciation Dinner
Horsd’oeuvres – 6:00 P.M.
Dinner& Awards Ceremony – 7:00 P.M.
$75.per person
Please RSVP to Annette Volino at
[email protected] or (914) 704-0583
Make check payable to East Yonkers Kiwanis and mail to:
Annette Volino, 385 Kimball Ave., Yonkers, NY 10704 or Venmo @EastYonkersKiwanis.
Happy Anniversary RIVERDALE
Happy Anniversary Joseph Michael Wuest MORRIS PARK
Yonkers Teacher of the Year
Happy Anniversary EAST YONKERS
East Yonkers Scholarship Dinner
Happy Anniversary BRONX SHORE
Happy Anniversary Fordham University
Happy Anniversary MOUNT VERNON
Happy Anniversary YONKERS
Happy Anniversary HARTSDALE
Happy Anniversary WESTCHESTER VILLAGE
Happy Anniversary THROGGS NECK