What a meaningful morning with the Kiwanis Club of Anna! 🍳

Our young professionals were warmly welcomed for breakfast this week, and from the moment we walked in, it was clear how much heart this group pours into Union County. A big thank-you to everyone who worked so hard to cook for us!

We are so grateful to Kiwanis President Robert DuBois, Treasurer Chris Boyd, Hunter Boyd, Gene Hammer, Kim Dillon, and Austin Walker for sharing their time, their stories, and their wisdom with our team. A special shout-out to Cindy Hammer, who isn’t an “official” member but gives so much of her time and energy to their events — and who made the delicious sausage gravy that won over even a few self-proclaimed non-biscuits-and-gravy fans!

Our future leaders learned how Kiwanis members raise funds through events like their barbecues — often working day and night to make them happen — and then give every penny back to the community. That support reaches organizations like Beta Club, FFA, and local sports teams, and it has quietly been lifting up young people in Union County long before many of them even knew who Kiwanis was.

A few takeaways our team carried out the door:

💡 Not everything you do has to benefit you. Some of the most rewarding work is done purely out of care for others.
💡 Get involved — on a school board, in the PTA, in a civic club. Being part of something bigger brings fulfillment and builds lasting connections.
💡 You will get knocked down. How you respond shows who you are.
💡 And from Chris Boyd’s inspiring words: once you know what you want, fight for it and don’t stop until you get it.

Several of our young entrepreneurs said this visit left them feeling appreciated, motivated, and inspired to become more involved and more impactful in our community. One even called it one of their favorite experiences of the year so far.

We’re so grateful to have the Kiwanis Club of Anna as investors in the Union County CEO program. Thank you for believing in our young leaders and for showing them, by example, what selfless service looks like. Our community is stronger because of you! 💙

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