The Kiwanis Club of Carmichael has awarded its 2025 Impact Grants. Courtesy photo

CARMICHAEL, CA (MPG) - The Kiwanis Club of Carmichael has awarded its 2025 Impact Grants to three outstanding projects supporting youth, education and community engagement in the greater Carmichael area, the organization recently announced.

Nearly 30 nonprofit organizations applied for funding in this year’s competitive cycle. While there were many very worthy requests, Kiwanis representatives said, awards for this year went to the Aerospace Museum of California, Will Rogers Middle School and Arden Middle School as their projects stood out for their impact to children, sustainability, and creativity.   .

Eligible projects were required to serve at least one of several priority groups, including children, working adults in need of support, schools and teachers, senior programs, recreation and environmental initiatives, and programs that promote health, well-being and career exploration.

The Aerospace Museum of California was selected for a $7,500 grant for developing an interactive exhibit called the Mobile Drone Zone. This exhibit will allow youngsters to fly a drone in a specially designed cage and learn about the dynamics of flight. The exhibit will be housed at the museum and can be moved to schools’ sites and special events. 

“This portable drone cage is more than equipment.  It is a gateway to opportunity,” said Karen Jones, the museum’s vice president of advancement. “By bringing advanced STEM experiences to students and neighborhoods, this exhibit will expand access to emerging technology across our region.”

Will Rogers Middle School was awarded a $5,000 grant to establish an on-campus College and Career Center. The center will provide students and families with information, resources and workshops to help them explore future educational paths and professions.

“We are thrilled with this Kiwanis grant,” Will Rogers Middle School Principal Vanessa Adolphson said. “It will allow us to create a new space for students to explore colleges, career pathways and their future goals. We can’t wait to see our Mustangs dream big and plan for their future.”

Arden Middle School received a $2,500 grant to continue its School-Wide Novel program, an initiative that unites students, teachers and families around reading a selected book together. The project aims to build excitement for reading and strengthen community through a shared learning experience.

“The project creates a learning community with a shared experience,” said Maryn Morano-Moore, Arden Middle School English department chair. “The Kiwanis Club of Carmichael is wonderful in helping us continue this engagement and learning.”

Kiwanis Club of Carmichael will continue to offer the Impact Grants Program for 2026 and will announce the application period after the first of the year.  Kiwanis Club of Carmichael is a 100% volunteer organization and all monies raised from its various fundraisers are returned to the community to help children, families and the quality of life in Carmichael and the surrounding community.