Reading is Fundamental

Thanks to generous support from the Kiwanis Club Foundation of Banner Elk, every elementary student in Avery County receives a free book to build their personal library. A special hardcover book is given to all 5th graders as they prepare for middle school—something they can cherish and pass down. With a wide selection offered each year, there’s a book to match every interest and inspire a lifelong love of reading

Avery County High School Key Club

Building Tomorrow’s Leaders Today

Building Tomorrow’s Leaders Today

With support from the Kiwanis Club Foundation of Banner Elk, Avery High School Key Club students traveled to California for the annual Key Club International Convention—an unforgettable opportunity to grow as leaders. Through service projects, volunteer work, and national networking, these students are learning to lead with purpose, stand up for what’s right, and make a lasting impact in their community and beyond.

Growing Minds at Riverside Elementary

When Riverside Elementary faced declining enrollment, school leaders knew it was time for a fresh approach. The solution? A hands-on garden program where students could learn to grow their own food, gain valuable life skills, and combat the fear of food insecurity felt during the pandemic. With help from the Kiwanis Club Foundation of Banner Elk and community partners, the vision became reality. Together, they built planter boxes, launched 4-H programs, provided tools and supplies, and added a greenhouse and benches to create a space for both learning and beauty. Today, the garden continues to grow—not just plants, but confident, curious students prepared to thrive.

Partnering for Impact

With the gracious support of our partners, the Kiwanis Club of Banner Elk Foundation has contributed nearly $100,000 over the past three years to projects and programs that directly benefit children in our community. These efforts wouldn’t be possible without the collaboration and generosity of organizations that share our mission to make a lasting difference.

Our Partners:

Volunteer

When you volunteer with the Kiwanis Club of Banner Elk, you can be assured that your time and effort go directly toward making a difference for young people in Avery County. We are a volunteer-led organization committed to serving our local youth through hands-on projects, events, and programs that truly matter.

Donate

When you give to the Kiwanis Club of Banner Elk Foundation, every dollar goes directly to supporting the youth of Avery County. Our all-volunteer team is deeply committed to ensuring that all donations are used responsibly and make a meaningful impact in the lives of local children.