What a wonderful way to begin a new Kiwanis year, celebrating 25 years of Hooksett Kiwanis. Thank you to everyone who joined in the celebration, and a special thanks to NEBDK leadership and members from the Manchester, Concord, Nashua, Laconia, Claremont, and Florida clubs who came to support us. Your presence truly reflected the strength and friendship within our Kiwanis family.
As a newer Kiwanian, I’m honored and excited to serve as your president. One of my goals this year is to help share what Kiwanis is all about, not only here in Hooksett but throughout our communities. There are so many people with the heart to serve who may not yet know about the difference Kiwanis makes for children and families.
“Kiwanis is a global organization of volunteers dedicated to improving the world one child and one community at a time.”
This mission is the foundation of all we do and a reminder that every project, event, and act of service begins with one purpose: to help children and strengthen our communities.
A heartfelt “Thank-you!” goes to Amy for her leadership and dedication this past year as President and for continuing to offer her support as Immediate Past President. Your steady guidance and encouragement are deeply appreciated. I’d also like to Thank Tim Sweeney for his commitment and years of service to our club. His dedication has been essential to our success and the positive impact we continue to make in the community.
Looking ahead, I would like to bring back the Community Leaders Event, possibly combining it with an SLP Expo to raise awareness for Kiwanis and our incredible Service Leadership Programs. This would be a wonderful opportunity to showcase the impact of our youth programs and strengthen community connections. Please consider assisting on the planning committee.
We currently have an opening for President-Elect. If you’re interested in learning more about this role, please reach out to me or any member of the Board. It’s a great opportunity to grow in leadership and help shape the future of our club.
Thank you for bringing your passion and purpose to Kiwanis. Each act of service, big or small, builds a legacy of kindness and community that will last for generations.
Keep an eye out for upcoming newsletters in December, February, June, and September for updates, club highlights, and opportunities to get involved.
Wishing you a great day in service and friendship,
Carrie Hyde President, Hooksett Kiwanis
Not A Kiwanian??
Interested in Joining Hooksett Kiwanis? If you’re looking for a way to give back to the community while connecting with fun, active, and like-minded people, Kiwanis is the place for you!
In this newsletter, you’ll find just a few examples of the many projects and service activities we’re involved in throughout the year. We’d love to have you join us and be part of the difference we’re making in Hooksett. Learn more and get started: https://k16021.site.kiwanis.org/join-kiwanis.
Committee Opportunities…
Join us in supporting our club! Several committee positions have openings, or feel free to join any other committee that interests you…
Community Service Fundraising and Audit Special Events (5K, Winter Carnival, Golf Tournament) Literacy, Youth Leadership, Membership, PR
Contact President Carrie Hyde: [email protected], if you’re interested in chairing or joining a committee.
Club News & Upcoming Events
5K Trail Race & Kids Fun Run Success!
Our annual 5K Trail Race & Kids Fun Run saw a fantastic turnout of runners of all ages, both returning and first-time runners, under perfect sunny skies. Thanks to everyone’s support, $5,300 was raised for the Foundation.
Image by Doris Manning
Hooksett Food Pantry – How You Can Help
The Hooksett Kiwanis Community Food Pantry provides essential support for local families in need. You can participate by donating food, volunteering, or contributing funds—every contribution strengthens our community. For the months of November/December, you can donate any Thanksgiving/Christmas related food items (stuffing, boxed potatoes, cranberry sauce, etc.). For the month of January: canned soup is always welcomed. Check out the information below for all the ways to help…
Salvation Army Bell Ringing — Fast Approaching
Spread holiday cheer by joining our annual bell ringing for the Salvation Army. Watch for sign-up details from this year’s Bell Ringing coordinator, Donna Pelletier ([email protected]).
Upcoming Calendar Highlights
Event
Date & Time
Location
Hooksett School Board Meeting
Nov. 18, 2025, 6–7 PM
David R. Cawley Middle School, Hooksett, NH
Fourth Annual Light Up the Village
Dec. 6, 2025, 4–8 PM
Historic Downtown Hooksett
Holiday Dinner & Auction
Dec. 10, 2025
The Derryfield Restaurant, Manchester, NH
Winter Carnival
Jan. 24, 2026
Memorial School, 5 Memorial Drive, Hooksett
30th Annual Golf Tournament
July 23, 2026
Stonebridge Country Club, Goffstown
Special Reminders:
Kiwanis will present a $50,000 donation to the Hooksett School Board at their Nov. 18 meeting—members are encouraged to attend for photos and support. We encourage members to attend and be part of this special moment. It’s a wonderful opportunity to show what Kiwanis membership is all about and to help highlight the positive impact we have in our community.
Join the festive Light Up the Village event for food, music, and community! Volunteers needed for additional help this year. Last year, we sponsored and decorated a tree. This year, we’re looking for a few Kiwanians to help even more with this festive, community-building event.
Save the date for our annual Holiday Dinner & Auction; dinner is $40 per person (pre-paid), guests welcome. Contact Sue Willey ([email protected]) to donate auction items and/or to volunteer. Join us for an evening of good food, great company, and festive fun on Wednesday, December 10, 2025 at The Derryfield Restaurant, Manchester, NH. Enjoy a buffet dinner followed by our annual auction benefiting the Club account, a perfect chance to finish your holiday shopping.
Mark your calendar for the upcoming 2026 Winter Carnival and Golf Tournament!
Community Impact
Kids’ Kloset
In September, 19 families and 34 children visited the Kids’ Kloset. A total of 287 fall and winter clothing items, along with new sneakers, socks, and underwear, were distributed, and the community generously donated 407 clothing items. We are grateful for the many local volunteers who help keep the Kids Kloset running smoothly. In addition, a $2,000 grant from the Hooksett Salvation Army was received to support clothing, socks, and underwear needs. Thank you for your continued generosity and support! There is always room for more volunteers. Kiwanians, reach out to find out how you can help.
November meetings: bring new socks to help keep children warm.
Volunteers always needed—reach out if you’d like to help.
Library Partnership
As part of our 25th Anniversary celebrations, Kiwanis made a $15,000 donation to support improvements in the Children’s Room at the Hooksett Library. We thank the library team for their dedication to enriching the minds of our community!
Pictured from left: Tim Sweeney, Carrie Hyde, Oliver Mack, Heather Rainier, Lori Liadis, Amy Merrow, Mark Glisson
Additional Initiatives
Scouting for Food in November (not a Kiwanis event): join in & help neighbors in need! For more information, contact: [email protected] or 802-359-7251. Although this is not a Kiwanis-sponsored event, join in the fun if available). Your generosity makes a real difference in our community. Thank you for helping neighbors and children in need!
Kiwanis knows that reading isn’t just about the library; it’s an integral part of life. To that end, Kiwanians Tim and Rachel Sweeney and Oliver Mack, representing the Kiwanis Community Service Committee, installed a reading nook for children at The Zoo Health Club in Hooksett. Kiddos can enjoy books while their parents get fit. Now thatis a well-rounded fitness program. Just look at those happy faces!
25th Anniversary Celebration — Recap
Hooksett Kiwanis celebrated the kick-off to the new year with Installation of Officers, while at the same time starting the yearlong celebration of their 25th Year Anniversary. The event was held at the Derryfield Country Club in Manchester. At the event there were over 75 people attending, including club members, Kiwanis Members from six other clubs as well as Town and School officials.
25th Anniversary Celebration & Gala
25th Anniversary Committee Chair (Bob Willey) discussed the three major initiatives that will commemorate the anniversary…
The 25th Anniversary Celebration combined with the installation of Officers for the 2025-26 year.
15 Month Calendar: We collaborated with the Historical Society and the Library to produce this calendar which has received rave reviews and is available for sale in 6 businesses in Town; Osborne, NE Tap House, Barrett Insurance, Merrimack County Savings Bank, Library and Robie’s. You can find out more information about the Calendar, including ordering online: https://k16021.site.kiwanis.org/25th-anniversary-calendars-for-2026.
Pavilion for Peters Brook Park – We’ve been collaborating with the Town and HYAA to construct a pavilion at Peters Brook Park. This pavilion will provide families attending soccer games shelter from the sun and a comfortable place to sit and enjoy food purchased from the concession stand or brought by themselves. Additionally, we have tentative plans to host a barbecue when the pavilion is completed in Spring 2026. The Town Council has thus far accepted $30,000 as a donation for materials for the pavilion. Kiwanis has budgeted up to an additional $20,000 for labor costs and unanticipated costs due to potential design changes as deemed necessary.
Donation summary commemorating the anniversary:
Children’s Room Library Improvements: $15,000
Conservation Commission/Heads Pond Access to All: $20,000
Peters Brook Pavilion: $50,000
School Student Needs: $50,000
Total Giving: $135,000
Fred Bishop, a founding club member, shared the club’s history and its status as the largest startup club in New England, boasting over 60 members. He then introduced Charter President Frank Kotowski, who recounted the club’s inaugural fundraiser, the Pigeon Race, which successfully raised $10,000. Outgoing Club President Amy Merrow, accompanied by Tim Sullivan, highlighted the numerous projects Kiwanis has undertaken or collaborated on with other organizations in the town to enhance the community’s well-being.
These projects include the development of Heads Pond Trail, the establishment of a Food Pantry, the creation of Kids’ Kloset, the organization of the Winter Carnival, the beautification of Hooksett Day, and the participation in National Night Out. The evening concluded with a message from New Hooksett Kiwanis President Carrie Hyde, outlining the club’s plans for the 2025-2026 fiscal year. Those who couldn’t attend were missed. Our photo album of the event can be viewed here: https://kiwanis1975.smugmug.com/History/25th-Anniversary-Gala/i-cPZFGnk.
Together, we’ll keep that spirit alive, helping children, supporting families, and strengthening our communities. —Story by Bob Willey
Member Spotlights
Student Leadership Programs (SLP)
Kiwanis sponsors several youth leadership clubs:
Key Clubs (High School): Manchester Central, Pinkerton, Trinity
Builders Clubs (Middle School): Hooksett Cawley, Manchester Hillside
Contact a board member if you are interested in mentoring future leaders.
SLP Meeting Dates (Held at Memorial School):
November 5, 5:30–7:30 PM
Wednesday, December 17, 5:30 PM
January 14, 2026, 5:30–7:30 PM
SLP Updates:
New School Advisor: Andrea Rodriguez joins Memorial School K-Kids.
Central Key Club: Volunteered at local Pumpkin Patch, assisted with clothing closets and food pantry, organized school books, and supported community events.
Trinity Key Club: Participated in Socktober, collecting socks for those in need.
While our SLP clubs have only recently begun meeting, there’s already plenty of activity and enthusiasm to share!
Memorial School K-Kids
We’re excited to welcome Andrea Rodriguez as our new School advisor. Andrea has been approved and attended the first SLP meeting at Memorial School on October 7 with her son.
Central Key Club
Central students have been incredibly active this month! Highlights include (2 pictures included):
Assisting with the Great Pumpkin Patch at a local church~ unloading pumpkins, setting up, helping during the event, and assisting with cleanup.
Volunteering to move and organize English department books.
Helping at two local clothing closets in Manchester and maintaining their own Catie’s Closet in the school.
Restocking their food pantry and supporting the Ward 1 event.
Assisting parents during Open House and helping custodians on National Custodian Day.
Looking ahead to November, students plan to continue supporting the clothing closets and food pantry, finish organizing the English department books, and help at a water stop at Stark Park for a local run.
Trinity Key Club
Trinity students participated in Socktober, collecting socks for people and families in need. Their efforts have inspired others to join in this meaningful project, a great example of how service spreads! We can’t wait to hear how many toes will be warmer this winter!
Get Involved!
Do you have a passion for helping the student leaders of tomorrow? We’re looking for Kiwanis members who enjoy working with youth to assist our school advisors and support our Student Leadership Programs. If you’re interested in making a difference and mentoring future leaders, please reach out to a board member to learn more.
Social & District Activities
HKC Social Gatherings: Join members at New England’s Tap House Grille (1292 Hooksett Rd) for informal get-togethers. Bring pantry donations for each meeting:
Nov. 12: Thanksgiving items
Jan. 21: Canned soup
Mar. 18: Canned fruit
NEBDK District Retreat in North Conway: Informal convention weekend featuring training classes and socializing. Details at North Conway Grand Hotel’s site.
Did you know?
We’re part of the New England & Bermuda District of Kiwanis, which is part of Kiwanis International. Our district has about 140 clubs and 4,300 members. Across the globe, Kiwanis International spans 85 countries and territories with over 14,000 clubs and 600,000 members! If you’re not already, make sure to check out your copy of “Welcome to The Yankiwanian!” to stay connected.
Message from our District Governor
Happy November! I hope everyone had a safe and happy Halloween!
It was a busy October with Amanda and I attending installations and celebrations! It’s always wonderful to see a new slate of officers taking the reigns of a club and beginning their year with new ideas and a commitment to their clubs and community. I hope your Kiwanis year has begun with great fanfare and a renewed feeling of Kiwanis spirit!
As we head into the holiday season, I hope you will all remember that food insecurity is one of the top issues facing our communities.
Every community has neighbors who quietly struggle to put food on the table. Food insecurity isn’t always visible—it can affect working families, seniors on fixed incomes, and especially children who rely on school meals for their daily nutrition. For organizations like Kiwanis, whose mission centers on serving the children and families of our communities, supporting local food pantries is a natural and deeply meaningful way to make a difference.
Food pantries are the backbone of the local response to hunger. They provide not just nourishment, but hope and stability. Yet, these organizations often depend on community partnerships to meet increasing demand. Kiwanis clubs, with our strong volunteer spirit and deep local connections, are perfectly positioned to lend a helping hand.
Here are a few ways our Kiwanis clubs could take action against food insecurity in our communities:
Organize a “Fill the Truck” Food Drive
Partner with local grocery stores, schools, or community centers to host a large-scale food collection event. Members could park a Kiwanis-branded truck or trailer in a visible location and encourage residents to “fill the truck” with non-perishable items. Adding a friendly competition—such as between local schools or businesses—can generate excitement and multiply donations.
Sponsor a Weekend Backpack Program
Many children rely on school meals during the week but go hungry on weekends. A Kiwanis club could work with schools and the local pantry to create backpack programs that send students home with easy to prepare meals every Friday. This project not only feeds children but also strengthens relationships between the club, schools, and families.
Volunteer and Support Pantry Operations
Beyond collecting food, Kiwanis members can donate their time. Clubs can set up a regular volunteer schedule to help sort, stock, and distribute food. They could also assist with logistics—like delivering supplies to homebound residents—or provide financial support to help pantries purchase fresh produce and essential items that aren’t always donated.
When a Kiwanis club steps up to support its local food pantry, it does more than fill shelves—it fills hearts. Each can of soup, each bag of rice, and each hour spent volunteering reflects the Kiwanis spirit of service and compassion. By working together, we can ensure that no one in our community goes hungry.
Yours in Kiwanis, Adam Wright, NEBD District Governor
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Last Updated: November 3, 2025 by mglisson
Newsletter | October – December 2025
President’s Message
What a wonderful way to begin a new Kiwanis year, celebrating 25 years of Hooksett Kiwanis. Thank you to everyone who joined in the celebration, and a special thanks to NEBDK leadership and members from the Manchester, Concord, Nashua, Laconia, Claremont, and Florida clubs who came to support us. Your presence truly reflected the strength and friendship within our Kiwanis family.
As a newer Kiwanian, I’m honored and excited to serve as your president. One of my goals this year is to help share what Kiwanis is all about, not only here in Hooksett but throughout our communities. There are so many people with the heart to serve who may not yet know about the difference Kiwanis makes for children and families.
This mission is the foundation of all we do and a reminder that every project, event, and act of service begins with one purpose: to help children and strengthen our communities.
A heartfelt “Thank-you!” goes to Amy for her leadership and dedication this past year as President and for continuing to offer her support as Immediate Past President. Your steady guidance and encouragement are deeply appreciated. I’d also like to Thank Tim Sweeney for his commitment and years of service to our club. His dedication has been essential to our success and the positive impact we continue to make in the community.
Looking ahead, I would like to bring back the Community Leaders Event, possibly combining it with an SLP Expo to raise awareness for Kiwanis and our incredible Service Leadership Programs. This would be a wonderful opportunity to showcase the impact of our youth programs and strengthen community connections. Please consider assisting on the planning committee.
We currently have an opening for President-Elect. If you’re interested in learning more about this role, please reach out to me or any member of the Board. It’s a great opportunity to grow in leadership and help shape the future of our club.
Thank you for bringing your passion and purpose to Kiwanis. Each act of service, big or small, builds a legacy of kindness and community that will last for generations.
Keep an eye out for upcoming newsletters in December, February, June, and September for updates, club highlights, and opportunities to get involved.
Wishing you a great day in service and friendship,
Carrie Hyde
President, Hooksett Kiwanis
Not A Kiwanian??
In this newsletter, you’ll find just a few examples of the many projects and service activities we’re involved in throughout the year. We’d love to have you join us and be part of the difference we’re making in Hooksett. Learn more and get started: https://k16021.site.kiwanis.org/join-kiwanis.
Committee Opportunities…
Join us in supporting our club! Several committee positions have openings, or feel free to join any other committee that interests you…
Community Service
Fundraising and Audit
Special Events (5K, Winter Carnival, Golf Tournament)
Literacy, Youth Leadership, Membership, PR
Contact President Carrie Hyde: [email protected], if you’re interested in chairing or joining a committee.
Club News & Upcoming Events
5K Trail Race & Kids Fun Run Success!
Our annual 5K Trail Race & Kids Fun Run saw a fantastic turnout of runners of all ages, both returning and first-time runners, under perfect sunny skies. Thanks to everyone’s support, $5,300 was raised for the Foundation.
Hooksett Food Pantry – How You Can Help
The Hooksett Kiwanis Community Food Pantry provides essential support for local families in need. You can participate by donating food, volunteering, or contributing funds—every contribution strengthens our community. For the months of November/December, you can donate any Thanksgiving/Christmas related food items (stuffing, boxed potatoes, cranberry sauce, etc.). For the month of January: canned soup is always welcomed. Check out the information below for all the ways to help…
Salvation Army Bell Ringing — Fast Approaching
Spread holiday cheer by joining our annual bell ringing for the Salvation Army. Watch for sign-up details from this year’s Bell Ringing coordinator, Donna Pelletier ([email protected]).
Upcoming Calendar Highlights
Special Reminders:
Community Impact
Kids’ Kloset
In September, 19 families and 34 children visited the Kids’ Kloset. A total of 287 fall and winter clothing items, along with new sneakers, socks, and underwear, were distributed, and the community generously donated 407 clothing items. We are grateful for the many local volunteers who help keep the Kids Kloset running smoothly. In addition, a $2,000 grant from the Hooksett Salvation Army was received to support clothing, socks, and underwear needs. Thank you for your continued generosity and support! There is always room for more volunteers. Kiwanians, reach out to find out how you can help.
Library Partnership
Additional Initiatives
25th Anniversary Celebration — Recap
Hooksett Kiwanis celebrated the kick-off to the new year with Installation of Officers, while at the same time starting the yearlong celebration of their 25th Year Anniversary. The event was held at the Derryfield Country Club in Manchester. At the event there were over 75 people attending, including club members, Kiwanis Members from six other clubs as well as Town and School officials.
25th Anniversary Committee Chair (Bob Willey) discussed the three major initiatives that will commemorate the anniversary…
Fred Bishop, a founding club member, shared the club’s history and its status as the largest startup club in New England, boasting over 60 members. He then introduced Charter President Frank Kotowski, who recounted the club’s inaugural fundraiser, the Pigeon Race, which successfully raised $10,000. Outgoing Club President Amy Merrow, accompanied by Tim Sullivan, highlighted the numerous projects Kiwanis has undertaken or collaborated on with other organizations in the town to enhance the community’s well-being.
These projects include the development of Heads Pond Trail, the establishment of a Food Pantry, the creation of Kids’ Kloset, the organization of the Winter Carnival, the beautification of Hooksett Day, and the participation in National Night Out. The evening concluded with a message from New Hooksett Kiwanis President Carrie Hyde, outlining the club’s plans for the 2025-2026 fiscal year. Those who couldn’t attend were missed. Our photo album of the event can be viewed here: https://kiwanis1975.smugmug.com/History/25th-Anniversary-Gala/i-cPZFGnk.
Together, we’ll keep that spirit alive, helping children, supporting families, and strengthening our communities. —Story by Bob Willey
Member Spotlights
Student Leadership Programs (SLP)
Kiwanis sponsors several youth leadership clubs:
SLP Meeting Dates (Held at Memorial School):
SLP Updates:
While our SLP clubs have only recently begun meeting, there’s already plenty of activity and enthusiasm to share!
Memorial School K-Kids
We’re excited to welcome Andrea Rodriguez as our new School advisor. Andrea has been approved and attended the first SLP meeting at Memorial School on October 7 with her son.
Central Key Club
Central students have been incredibly active this month! Highlights include (2 pictures included):
Trinity Key Club
Trinity students participated in Socktober, collecting socks for people and families in need. Their efforts have inspired others to join in this meaningful project, a great example of how service spreads! We can’t wait to hear how many toes will be warmer this winter!
Get Involved!
Do you have a passion for helping the student leaders of tomorrow? We’re looking for Kiwanis members who enjoy working with youth to assist our school advisors and support our Student Leadership Programs. If you’re interested in making a difference and mentoring future leaders, please reach out to a board member to learn more.
Social & District Activities
Did you know?
Message from our District Governor
It was a busy October with Amanda and I attending installations and celebrations! It’s always wonderful to see a new slate of officers taking the reigns of a club and beginning their year with new ideas and a commitment to their clubs and community. I hope your Kiwanis year has begun with great fanfare and a renewed feeling of Kiwanis spirit!
As we head into the holiday season, I hope you will all remember that food insecurity is one of the top issues facing our communities.
Every community has neighbors who quietly struggle to put food on the table. Food insecurity isn’t always visible—it can affect working families, seniors on fixed incomes, and especially children who rely on school meals for their daily nutrition. For organizations like Kiwanis, whose mission centers on serving the children and families of our communities, supporting local food pantries is a natural and deeply meaningful way to make a difference.
Food pantries are the backbone of the local response to hunger. They provide not just nourishment, but hope and stability. Yet, these organizations often depend on community partnerships to meet increasing demand. Kiwanis clubs, with our strong volunteer spirit and deep local connections, are perfectly positioned to lend a helping hand.
Here are a few ways our Kiwanis clubs could take action against food insecurity in our communities:
Organize a “Fill the Truck” Food Drive
Partner with local grocery stores, schools, or community centers to host a large-scale food collection event. Members could park a Kiwanis-branded truck or trailer in a visible location and encourage residents to “fill the truck” with non-perishable items. Adding a friendly competition—such as between local schools or businesses—can generate excitement and multiply donations.
Sponsor a Weekend Backpack Program
Many children rely on school meals during the week but go hungry on weekends. A Kiwanis club could work with schools and the local pantry to create backpack programs that send students home with easy to prepare meals every Friday. This project not only feeds children but also strengthens relationships between the club, schools, and families.
Volunteer and Support Pantry Operations
Beyond collecting food, Kiwanis members can donate their time. Clubs can set up a regular volunteer schedule to help sort, stock, and distribute food. They could also assist with logistics—like delivering supplies to homebound residents—or provide financial support to help pantries purchase fresh produce and essential items that aren’t always donated.
When a Kiwanis club steps up to support its local food pantry, it does more than fill shelves—it fills hearts. Each can of soup, each bag of rice, and each hour spent volunteering reflects the Kiwanis spirit of service and compassion. By working together, we can ensure that no one in our community goes hungry.
Yours in Kiwanis,
Adam Wright, NEBD District Governor
Stay Connected
If you have questions or want to share what inspires you, email us or reach out to any board member.
Serving the children of the world—Together, we serve to change lives and build stronger communities.
Category: Newsletters Tags: 2025, 25th Anniversary Celebration, Adam Wright, December, November, October, SLPs, student leadership program, Yankiwanian
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