More than 8,800 members from the New York District of Kiwanis International have joined together during the 2006-07 Kiwanis year to take part in statewide scouting projects. Local Kiwanis Clubs throughout New York State, are getting involved in mentoring young people through handicapped and traditional scouting programs.

Under the leadership of Kiwanis Governor Joseph L. Corace, the Kiwanis clubs have been asked to share their support with scouting programs. "It is important to provide quality youth programs and help form strong leaders," noted Governor Joe.

The Levittown Kiwanis Club hosted Rachal Lachow, a Cadette Girl Scout from Troop 3059 from Levittown, at its August 23 meeting. Rachal began her Scout career in kindergarten. Through scouting, Rachal became aware of a shelter in the Hempstead area that cared for women who had recently been released from jail or health-care facilities and were trying to get a new start so they could provide a better life for their children. Rachal and her fellow Scouts have prepared "I Care" packages for distribution to these women. The packages consist of personal care items such as toothbrushes, shampoo, soap and combs. At holiday times, the troop put together between 50 and 75 of these care packages.

As a Junior Girl Scout Rachal earned her Bronze Award by collecting supplies for stray cats and dogs, collecting more than 100 pounds of food, 100 handmade blankets, toys and money for additional supplies for the strays. Rachal still volunteers at PetSmart where she helps care for stray kittens and cats and continues to supply donated items.

As a Cadette Girl Scout, Rachal is preparing to begin working toward her Silver Award. In order to earn this award she would like to expand the project that she has already begun with the Women's Shelter. She would like to be able to prepare care packages for 500-1,000 women and their families.

Anyone who would like to assist Rachal with her care package goal can drop supplies off at a Levittown Kiwanis meeting. The meetings are held 6:30 p.m. on Thursday nights at La Focaccia Restaurant, 70 East Village Green, Levittown. Suggested donations include hairbrushes, combs, toothpaste and toothbrushes, mouthwash, deodorant, shampoo, conditioner, perfume, nail files, nail polish and lip balm. Please help the Levittown Kiwanis Club help Rachal reach her goal.

Youngsters involved in scouting receive a valuable experience which enhances self-confidence, motivation and self-esteem. The Scouts learn character development, career education and to formulate positive personal values. Kiwanis International is a thriving organization of service-minded men and women who respond to the unique needs of their communities and address worldwide issues by "Serving the Children of the World." Kiwanis volunteers are dedicated to changing the world one child and one community at a time.

For more information about the Scouting Project and Kiwanis, please contact: Levittown Kiwanis President-elect Susie Trenkle at: 516-804-8906. Web: www.kiwanis-ny.org.

Over 8,800 members from the New York District of Kiwanis International have joined together this year to take part in a statewide "Everyday Hero" Project. Local Kiwanis Clubs throughout New York state, in coordination with the Kiwanis family-sponsored youth are out to find deserving individuals and recognize their contributions to our communities.

Under the leadership of Kiwanis Governor Joseph L. Corace, local Kiwanis clubs have been asked to identify acts of service that go beyond the ordinary or expected with little regard for attention or receiving back by individuals.

Marie Emeric, Mary Modica, Kyle Ray, Beth Dalton and Steve Haller have been chosen as "Everyday Heroes," by the Kiwanis Club of Levittown.

They will receive their award on Sept. 6, at La Focaccia Restaurant (70 East Village Green) at 6:30 p.m. The Everyday Hero is being given this award for the service they have done within the community. Marie Emeric is with the Levittown School District, Mary Modica is with the Island Trees School District, Kyle Ray is a college sophomore who organized a band showcase to help a handicapped child in the community, Steve Haller is a 25+ year member of Kiwanis and Beth Dalton is a member of the Levittown Chamber of Commerce. Each of these community members has gone above and beyond what is expected of them.

Anyone who is interested in showing their support of these Everyday Heroes is invited to attend the dinner meeting at LaFocaccia.

The Levittown Kiwanis Club is a very active part of our local community. Levittown Kiwanis hosts food drives, sends underprivileged children to camp, gives scholarships, sponsors community events and more. If you are interested in learning more about this philanthropic organization and the good works the club does come to a meeting. Guests are welcome to attend. Levittown Kiwanis meets every Thursday night at 6:30 p.m. at La Focaccia Restaurant, 70 East Village Green, Levittown, NY 11756. Telephone: 796-4461. **PLEASE NOTE: Levittown Kiwanis will not be meeting Aug. 30 but will resume its regular meeting schedule on Sept. 6. Look for the Kiwanis Korner in the Levittown Tribune every week.