The Kiwanis Club of Alameda held a celebratory luncheon on May 17 for the seven Alameda eighth graders that received the 2023 Hope of America award. Alameda Kiwanis recognizes young leadership in each eighth-grade classroom. Nominated by their teachers, these students demonstrated kindness towards others, peer inclusion, character in daily interactions and positive influence in their school.

“They are truly the hope of our country, in a time of great division,” said Patricia Bowen, Alameda Kiwanis Publicity Chair. “They are the peace-makers and the calm spirits among our Alameda youth.”

Alameda Mayor Marilyn Ezzy Ashcraft, and the Alameda Kiwanis President, Henry Ching, presided over the ceremony, bestowing mayoral certificates and Kiwanis commemorative plaques to each student. This year’s awardees are Anabelle Holmes (St. Philip Neri), Sahara Rose Koeberl (Bay Farm), Samuel Phu (Bay Farm), Carmen Warming (Bay Farm), Kevin Ganbaatar (Wood MS), Sophia de la Pena (Encinal Jr Jets), and Virginia Harvey (St Joseph Elementary).

“We congratulate the teachers of these students and commend their efforts in guiding our students into productive years in high school and beyond,” said Bowen.

The news comes just after Kiwanis Alameda celebrated its 100th birthday. On May 3, the Kiwanis Club of Alameda celebrated its centennial of service to children, youth and the community at large, with a sell-out crowd of 100 dinner guests. Held in the Elks Lodge ballroom, there were several activities including a musical performance by Alameda Adaptive Arts and featured speakers.

Bert West, president of Kiwanis International, gave the keynote speech. Seventeen past presidents/current members were honored, as well as the longest-tenured Kiwanian, David Denyven (70 years of continuous service).