The club welcomed two new members, Craig Lutes and Elizabeth Jannusch, to kick off Monday's meeting.
Trevor Seibring introduced Craig, who grew up locally, attended the University of Illinois, and has worked in education and the nonprofit sector. He currently serves as the Executive Director of the Parklands Foundation.
Sonya Weber introduced Elizabeth, who was recommended by former Kiwanian Sam Guillory to represent The Baby Fold, where she serves as the Corporate & Foundation Engagement Officer.
Kevin McConnell led the induction, sharing Kiwanis’ mission of improving the world one child and one community at a time. We look forward to getting to know and serve alongside you both!
Program - Laura Ewan - Rivian
Lacey Caughron introduced Laura Ewan, Lead Employee Communications & Experience Partner at Rivian. A Bloomington-Normal native, Laura joined Rivian in 2020 when the Normal plant had approximately 350 employees. Today, the facility spans more than 4 million square feet and employs thousands of people.
Laura shared an overview of Rivian’s vehicle production in Normal, including the R1T, R1S, Amazon commercial vans, and the new R2. She also discussed the company’s continued growth and its role in developing the local workforce through partnerships with Illinois State University, the University of Illinois, Heartland Community College, and area high schools.
Laura highlighted Rivian’s community involvement through volunteer efforts, event support, and partnerships with local organizations. Examples include the Earth Month 5K, which drew more than 800 participants and raised over $13,000, Family & Friends Day, Fall Fest, and the upcoming Holidazzler. Rivian also has a five year partnership with YouthBuild, providing weekday meals to support its participants.
MEETING LOCATION & DAY UPDATE
Beginning in January 2027, regular meetings will move to Second Presbyterian Church in Downtown Bloomington and take place on the first and third Wednesdays of each month.
The club will continue its quarterly Kiwanis on the Move meetings at alternative locations.
November 16th and December 2026 meetings will remain at Eastland Suites. Kiwanis on the Move will be at Bloomington Public Library on 11/9.
Announcements
Membership - Paula:
Current Base members and anyone wishing to change tiers should complete the membership selection formbythis Monday November 9 or select in person at the meeting. See Sonya’s 10/9/26 email and the membership tier table for details.
Members are encouraged to show their name tags to greeters during check-in to help with attendance tracking and welcoming members!
Kiwanis Caring:
Gail Dobbins received the club’s card and shared that it brightened her day. She has moved to a rehabilitation facility and is working toward recovery. Members are encouraged to continue keeping Gail in their thoughts and prayers.
Sponsorship Committee
The committee met last week and will present its plan to the board before sharing more with the club about the upcoming sponsorship season.
Pontiac Kiwanis Trivia Night
The Pontiac Kiwanis Club is hosting a trivia night on Friday, November 13, at 6 p.m. The cost is $20 per person, with proceeds benefiting its Service Leadership Programs. Members are encouraged to attend and support a fellow Kiwanis club. Register and reach out to Sonya Weber if you are interested!
SERVICE OPPORTUNITY
Salvation Army Bell Ringing:
Bob Starcovich reminds members that you can sign up for bell-ringing shifts through the Salvation Army volunteer website. Please indicate Bloomington Kiwanis when registering to give credit to our club. Group sign-ups are no longer available, so each member must register individually.
