Kiwanis Terrific Kids Program

The Kiwanis Club of Orillia's Terrific Kids program celebrates students who demonstrate outstanding character, kindness, perseverance, and a love of learning. More than an awards program, Terrific Kids is an investment in children, recognizing the positive qualities that help build strong schools and stronger communities.

Launched during the 2001–2002 school year at Regent Park Public School, the program was inspired by Kiwanian John Mayo, who had previously helped lead a similar initiative while a member of the Kiwanis Club of Cambridge. Working with Regent Park Principal Paul Bertholet and librarian Gail Foreman, the Kiwanis Club of Orillia adapted the concept with two simple but meaningful goals: to recognize students for their positive contributions and to strengthen school libraries by donating books in each recipient's honour.

The first Terrific Kids awards were presented in June 2002, marking the beginning of a program that has continued to grow for more than two decades. Thanks to the dedication of many Kiwanis volunteers and program chairs over the years, Terrific Kids has expanded from a single school to 15 local elementary schools, recognizing hundreds of students annually.

Each year, teachers and school staff work together to select students who exemplify qualities such as good citizenship, respect, kindness, perseverance, responsibility, and enthusiasm for learning. Rather than focusing solely on academic achievement, the program celebrates the character traits that help children become caring classmates, engaged learners, and future community leaders.

Every Terrific Kid receives a specially selected book that is added to their school's library with a commemorative bookplate recognizing their achievement. This creates a lasting legacy—students are honoured not only on the day of the award ceremony but for years to come, while future students continue to benefit from an ever-growing collection of library resources.

One of the highlights of the school year is the annual Terrific Kids ceremonies held each June. Kiwanis members are proud to attend these celebrations alongside students, families, teachers, and school staff as they recognize the remarkable accomplishments of local children. Today, the program honours approximately 250 students each year, making it one of the Kiwanis Club of Orillia's longest-running and most impactful youth recognition initiatives.

The Terrific Kids program reflects the very heart of Kiwanis: serving children, supporting education, and strengthening our community. By celebrating kindness, character, and a passion for learning, the program reminds every child that their actions matter and that being a good citizen is something worth celebrating.

Bring Terrific Kids to Your School

Is your school interested in recognizing students for their kindness, character, perseverance, and love of learning?

The Kiwanis Club of Orillia is always excited to explore opportunities to expand the Terrific Kids program to additional schools in our community. If your elementary school is not currently participating and would like to learn more about how the program works, we would love to hear from you.

Together, we can celebrate the everyday achievements of students, inspire positive character, and create lasting memories—one Terrific Kid at a time.

To learn more or express your school's interest, please contact the Kiwanis Club of Orillia using the form below.

Contact

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Email

kiwaniscluborillia@gmail.com

© Kiwanis Club of Orillia, established in 1924, boasting a track record of strong community service with a special focus on children.

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