Kiwanis , the scholarship helps pay for my books ,” he said .

Scholarship Committee Chair Mary Lou Conragan said , “ After Juan receives his renewal check each semester , he sends a nice thank you note . Not everyone does that .”

In 2015 , Juan ’ s mother became an American citizen , and in 2016 , so did Juan .

One of the most rewarding moments that Wittman and Eulo have experienced is at the Kiwanis Special Games , an event with one thousand youth participants held at West Valley College . “ These kids have severe disabilities ,” Eulo said . “ They can ’ t qualify for Special Olympics . They participate in games adjusted for their age and ability , assisted by their chaperones , and the volunteers .”

“ It was one of the best days of my life .” Wittman added , “ The whole Kiwanis Division participates — clubs from all over the Bay Area . All the

kids get ribbons — they smile from earto-ear .”

“ One of the things we sponsor is Key Club at Sobrato and Live Oak high schools ,” said Conragan . “ Key Club teaches service to the community and builds leadership within the group . You see these kids grow from being shy and withdrawn in the beginning to becoming confident young adults as seniors .”

The benefits of giving are well documented — the givers benefit too .

“ One of the principle fundraisers we put on ,” said Wittman . “ Is the Cioppino and Pasta Fest .” The 17th Annual Cioppino and Pasta Feast Fundraiser will be held on Saturday , October 13 , held at the Morgan Hill Buddhist Community Center at 16450 Murphy

Avenue in Morgan Hill . Social hour begins at 5:30 pm and dinner is from 6-8 pm . All proceeds go towards youth scholarships for students like Juan . The Cioppino and Pasta Feast typically sells out . Purchase tickets at morganhillkiwanis . org or call 408 659-0350 .

Eulo said , “ I joined Kiwanis because I really liked the fellowship and that they were hands on . When you see people doing good work , it becomes contagious .” The benefits of giving are well documented — the givers benefit too . Volunteering can actually help you live longer . It reduces stress , creates more happiness , staves off disease , and provides a sense of purpose and satisfaction . The Morgan Hill Kiwanis are lifesavers for their community , and for themselves .

The Morgan Hill Kiwanis meet every Tuesday , 7 pm , at Mama Mia ’ s , 275 E Dunne Avenue , Morgan Hill . Newcomers and guests are always welcome .

Morgan Hill City Council

District B FPPC # 1406697

Vote for Ken ’ s Proven Business and Financial Experience

�Increased Fire and Police Safety �Water and Sewer Improvements �Timely Road Maintenance �Eliminate Deficit Spending

VISIT WWW . MURRAYFORCOUNCIL . ORG

GILROY • MORGAN HILL • SAN MARTIN OCTOBER / NOVEMBER 2018 gmhtoday . com

89