Unless the Summerland Kiwanis Club receives a boost in its membership, the service club may be forced to fold.
John Tamblyn, past president of the club, said there are around 12 members at present, but not all are able to attend Tuesday lunch meetings at the same time.
At a meeting last month, only four attended.
Over the years, the membership has been aging and declining, Tamblyn said. He has observed membership numbers shrinking over the last 15 to 20 years.
One factor in the membership decline has to do with changing demographics.
“The baby boomers don’t seem to be involved,” he said.
The Summerland Kiwanis Club had its origins in 1949 when 36 members formed the club. At its peak, more than 40 would attend the meetings.
“It was a going concern in the community,” he added.
Tamblyn said there are some positive changes happening to the club as some younger members have joined.
In fall, Bruce Chernesky will take over the role of club president.
Kiwanis clubs will focus their efforts on the Kiwanis Children’s Cancer Program and Tamblyn hopes the focus on cancer efforts will draw additional membership to the club.
If the club does not begin to see some new members, Tamblyn said it cannot continue much longer.
“We’ve agonized over what’s happening,” he said.