Otter Risers Kiwanis

10/24/2026

Otter Riser Kiwanis members and Key Club members volunteered at the YMCA’s Halloween Carnival tonight. We had a few members grandchildren and friends join in as well. What a fun volunteer event. Want to learn more about Otter Risers Kiwanis? Visit our website at www.Otterriserskiwanis.org

10/22/2026

Learning more about the Alternative Learning Center, ALC, from Carey Johnson, Director, and Ethan, English teacher, at this week’s Otter Risers was eye-opening. Like most in our community, only a couple of our members were familiar with this incredible program.

ALC is a ‘school of choice’ that serves as a safety net for 9th - 12th graders. It offers individualized instruction in an environment that elevates students, allows them to complete high school with their class and really provides a community of care that empowers the students. One student shared that “the teachers really care about me”. Elevating students and teaching them is a passion that is clearly evident as Carey and Ethan shared their stories. Carey shared that working with the ALC students is her “favorite job!!!” Kristen Tuel, recently retired ALC lead, was mentioned for her efforts in the development of the program and facility. Nice to see the tight network of faculty that keeps their mission’s North Star focused on student trust, respect and potential. Because, they care!!

Want to learn more about the ALC? Reach out to Carey.

Good stuff!!

Dale

10/21/2026

Convention news! Amelia Rose Earhart will be our guest speaker during preconvention positional training in Dallas, Texas, U.S.

Named after the 20th century aviation pioneer, Earhart is the first person to pilot a single-engine Pilatus PC-12 on a journey around the world.

Plan to join us prior to the 2027 Kiwanis International Convention in June for positional leadership training — and for Earhart’s inspirational address about staying agile among the storms in your path.

Learn more: https://bit.ly/3W0yic7

10/15/2026

Great way to start a morning! Join the Otter Risers any Wednesday morning to learn, laugh and plan. Our efforts to help the youth are rooted in a strong understanding of community.
At this week’s meeting Scott Brantner, Historical Society, educated more than 30 Kiwanians! Scott is incredibly knowledgeable and passionate about history!
Kate Bjorge, Kiwanis Otter Riser President, led our march to serve in an energetic and fun way, reminding us why this is called ‘the fun club’.

Bee good!
Dale

09/23/2026

Otter Risers Kiwanis is thrilled to welcome Erik Olson as a new member to our club. Erik works as the Aquatics Director at YMCA of the Northern Sky. Welcome to the FUN club!

08/26/2026

Otto and Asher, 211 W Lincoln Ave downtown Fergus Falls, hosted the Otter Risers’ weekly morning meeting. Ashley and Dave shared a story about the formation of this incredible non-profit, community-driven grocery store. With a focus on local commodities and a drive to reduce hunger, poverty and waste in our region, they provide quality foods with an open-market feel. “Learning what we used to know” about food quality, seasonal eating, canning, and other topics will be 2027 additions as the store is remodeled and the basement is opened. Regenerative agriculture and soil health is a common thread that weaves though the 20 plus farmers that are signed up to make this storefront possible. Speaking of storefront, on the other end of the building is home to Emily’s Coquette Patisserie, an exquisite French pastries shop.

Otto & Asher, another Fergus Falls gem.

Dale

08/24/2026

A team of Otter Risers greeted and guided parking efforts at last nights Simon and Garfunkel concert - AC4TA’s grand finale for their summer series at the iconic Kirkbride. What a blast!

08/22/2026

There are still two days to vote! Take some time this morning and share some love for Otter Risers Kiwanis.

The nomination phase kicks off the competition, giving you the power to nominate the businesses or individuals you believe are the most deserving of the "Best of the Best" title. Select a category below to nominate a business or individual.

08/20/2026

This week’s Otter Riser guest presenter, Megan Ramirez, Affordable Housing Coordinator at West Central, shared a story about their West Central Community Land Trust (WCCLT). Established in 2021, operates on a unique affordable housing platform that provides an affordable housing option that can carry thru to future generations. Essentially, a home is constructed under the leadership of a licensed carpenter and a talented work crew from the Department of Corrections. The home is built on land owned by the Community Land Trust. Home purchase includes a lot lease. Homes may transfer through to the next generation or sold. The Sale process includes a fair capital improvement reimbursement plan and bypasses the traditional sales process. All said, this affordable home process can help families get into a home of their own and at the same time build wealth and strengthen neighborhoods.

Impressive program!

Sharon, Red Cross volunteer, let us know about upcoming blood drives. Check out the Red Cross website for ways to ‘Give Life’.

Dale

08/12/2026

The Kiwanis family mourns 2011-12 Kiwanis International President Alan Penn, who passed away August 5.

Read more about Penn’s life and accomplishments: https://www.kiwanis.org/kiwanis-mourns-2011-12-president-alan-penn/