The Kiwanis Club of Bowling Green, Kentucky, was chartered in 1923. Today it continues as a thriving center of community service with over 100 members. Weekly luncheon meetings are held at noon each Wednesday visit bgkiwanis.org to become a part of our thriving, civil leadership group. The Kiwanis Club has two large fundraisers every year: the Truist All-American Soap Box Derby in May and the Thunderfest in July. Additionally, the Kiwanis Club uses all proceeds from the events to benefit local charities focused on children, keeping with the Kiwanis mission statement “Young Children: Priority One.” With the gracious help from the community, both events raise over $75,000 each year.
The primary goal of Soap Box Derby is to provide young people an opportunity to spend time with caring adults as they build their race cars. And to teach lessons about sportsmanship and self-confidence and provide kids the thrill of competing in a race with a soap box car they built themselves.
INTERNATIONAL SOAP BOX DERBY
Mission Statement
The Soap Box Derby® is an international nonprofit organization whose mission is to build knowledge and character, and to create meaningful experiences through collaboration and fair and honest competition.
Core Vaules and Drivers
• Youth Education and Leadership Development
• Family Engagement and Enrichment
• Honesty, Integrity and Perseverance
• Innovation and Entrepreneurship
• Teamwork and Collaboration
• Mentoring
• Volunteerism
• Commitment to Community
The Derby is the official sanctioning body of Soap Box Derby racing and has exclusive licensing partnerships with more than 100 racing districts throughout world. These racing districts conduct sanctioned Soap Box Derby races throughout the year and qualify champs for the annual FirstEnergy All-American Soap Box Derby® World Championship race at the world famous Derby Downs Track in Akron, Ohio.
The Derby's Education Program is a fast-growing component of the organization and includes a STEM-Based Curriculum, the Gravity Racing Challenge® STEM Team Competition and a Mini Soap Box Derby program.
The Derby also operates the world famous Derby Downs Track in Akron, Ohio where events are held throughout the racing season.
The Board of Directors oversees the operation of the Derby, and the day-to-day activities are handled by the Headquarters staff in Akron.
