Newsletter | January – March 2026

President’s Message

Dear Fellow Kiwanis Members,

As we welcome 2026 and move through the heart of winter, warm wishes go out for a happy, healthy, and safe New Year for you and your families. The snow and icy roads may slow us down, but they also remind us of the warmth, care, and community we share as Kiwanians.

This year, members are encouraged to share the story of Kiwanis with friends, neighbors, and family. Kiwanis is more than a local club; it is an international organization dedicated to improving the lives of children and communities around the world, and every project, volunteer hour, and smile creates ripples far beyond our immediate circle.

By talking about Kiwanis and inviting others to see the work we do, we are not just promoting our club—we are spreading the message of service and the impact we can make together. When we share our stories and celebrate our events, we never know whose life might be inspired, whose hand might be lifted, or whose heart might be changed by learning about the difference Kiwanis makes.

As we look ahead to this year’s events, projects, and celebrations—including our 25th Anniversary, our community-sponsored organizations, and our Student Leadership Programs (SLPs)—remember that in all the ways we serve, each of us carries a spark of Kiwanis’ mission that can light the way for others. When we share that spark, it becomes a light that reaches far beyond Hooksett, all the way across the world.

Stay warm, stay safe, and continue to serve, inspire, and share the joy of Kiwanis in every corner of your life. With gratitude for each of you and the dedication you bring, together we will make this year meaningful, memorable, and impactful for our town and for children and communities everywhere.

With gratitude and excitement for the year ahead,
Carrie Hyde, President, Hooksett Kiwanis

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Recent Highlights & Successes

Christmas Dinner & Auction Recap

The annual Kiwanis Christmas Dinner and Auction was held at the Derryfield Country Club, 625 Mammoth Road in Manchester, and offered an evening full of fellowship, generosity, and holiday spirit. Members and guests enjoyed a delicious buffet dinner followed by the much-anticipated auction.

Thanks to the tremendous support of members and the community, the auction raised nearly $3,700, with all proceeds benefiting the Club account to support service initiatives throughout the year. A heartfelt thank you goes to everyone who donated items and to the many interclub attendees whose participation added to the energy and camaraderie of the event.

Light Up the Village

Hooksett Kiwanis proudly participated in Light Up the Village by hosting a free Sugar Cookie Decorating Station for children inside the American Legion. The club provided 200 classic sugar cookies and 100 gluten-free cookies for kids to decorate and enjoy.

This festive community event was a wonderful way to spread holiday cheer and connect with local families. It also offered a great opportunity to meet new people who may be interested in joining our club, and visitors enjoyed seeing the Hooksett Kiwanis tree decorated and on display at the Festival of Trees in Town Hall.

Salvation Army Bell Ringing

Thank you to all Kiwanians and volunteers who braved the cold to support Salvation Army bell ringing this season. Together, volunteers contributed nearly 100 hours of service at Walmart from Black Friday through four Saturdays, making this a meaningful and visible way to give back.

With this consistent timeframe each year, bell ringing has become a cherished service tradition for the club. Looking ahead, the goal is to reach 100+ volunteer hours next year and continue offering warmth of spirit to those in need.

SLP Service Project at Hackett Hill

On December 17, 2025, the Kiwanis Community Service Committee organized a special project in partnership with SLP clubs for the Hackett Hill Healthcare Center. SLP students assembled small winter crafts and decorated holiday cards for approximately 72 residents, while members worked together to assemble gift bags.

Thanks to the Community Services Team, led by Oliver Mack, more than 70 Christmas gift bags were delivered to Hackett Hill. As one resident expressed, “Santa came early when Kiwanis delivered Christmas gift bags,” making the season brighter for everyone involved.

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Upcoming Meetings & Events

For full details and updates, please visit the club calendar: https://k16021.site.kiwanis.org/calendar/

January 2026

February 2026

March 2026

Looking ahead:

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Special Reminders & Opportunities

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Member Milestones

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Student Leadership Programs (SLP)

Members are encouraged to join the monthly SLP dinner meetings to learn more about the great work students are doing in the community. January, February, and March meetings include guest speakers, service projects, and a March Madness–themed evening, making these gatherings both engaging and inspiring.

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Not a Kiwanian?

If you are interested in making a difference in the lives of children and the Hooksett community, we invite you to join us at an upcoming meeting or event to see our work firsthand.

Committee Opportunities

There are many ways for members to get involved through committees, including open chair roles and one-time volunteer opportunities. Members are encouraged to reach out to committee leaders to learn how they can share their time and talents.