Change creates opportunities, and the change in Kiwanis administrative years creates many opportunities for us within the Capital District. These opportunities include continuing proven services, improving existing programs and creating new initiatives that meet newly-identified needs. As Kiwanians we each have the responsibility to respond to these opportunities.

During this past 2006-07 administrative year, Vickie and I have had the opportunity to travel the Capital District. We have met many Kiwanians and have gained a greater insight into the needs of our District. Those needs include membership growth, new club building, expansion of Service Leadership Programs, improved community service and improved promotion of Kiwanis. During the 2007-08 administrative year these needs will receive our priority attention. These priorities compliment the strategic plan of Kiwanis International and are established to support local clubs. There are many opportunities for clubs to join in these efforts. Clubs are encouraged to work with Lt. Governors to identify opportunities to build new clubs, develop club growth plans, plan to build new Key Clubs, K-Kids or Builders Clubs, and visit existing Service Leadership Clubs.

These efforts will mean little, however, if Kiwanis Clubs fail to assume the responsibility of acting on the opportunities for community service. Each club needs to review existing projects to be certain they meet the needs of the community. Within each community new opportunities for service exist. Are there community needs in areas such as children reading services, childhood obesity, dementia care, senior programs or childhood mentoring? These and other new programs may provide new visibility for Kiwanis. The opportunities are endless. Be certain that your Kiwanis programs are relevant to the needs of your community.

As we begin to pursue the opportunities of 2007-08 we need to recognize and thank Immediate Past Gov. Bob Cressy and the 2006-07 leadership team for building on the successes of the past to ensure the continued growth and success of the Capital District.

The opportunities ahead for 2007-08 are exciting, and with the help of each Kiwanian there is great fun to be enjoyed and accomplishments to be achieved.