ROCHELLE — More than three years ago the Kiwanis Golden K pledged to do their part to help eliminate a centuries-old preventable disease that primarily affects third-world countries.
Recently the members rejoiced in achieving their goal of raising $45,000 within five years all in an effort to combat maternal and neonatal tetanus (MNT).
The local organization joined thousands of other Kiwanis and UNICEF members to raise the $110 million needed to provide immunizations, syringes, and skilled staff to get the life-saving vaccine to people in need.

The Kiwanis Golden K is in the Illinois-Eastern Iowa District — a district ranked fifth worldwide as of Dec. 31, 2017, with $3.8 million raised. Golden K president Tom McDermott expressed gratitude for the hard work and determination the members have done to fulfill their pledge.
“We completed our goal early, which makes us so proud,” McDermott said. “The members got behind it, they were serious about it, and accomplished the goal. As president I am proud of the whole group.”
MNT is caused when tetanus spores, which are found in soil, come into contact with open cuts during childbirth. So far 44 countries have eliminated MNT, with 15 more countries in Africa, the Middle East, and Asian Pacific to go.
The disease is highly preventable with just three doses of a 60-cent immunization that will protect mothers who then pass the immunity to their future babies.
The Kiwanis Golden K holds several fundraisers including Pancake Day, Chili Day, and Peanut Day. The organization currently has 60 members and meets every Thursday morning for breakfast at the Hickory Grove Conference Center. Anyone 18 or older can join, and they are always looking for new members.
Through their fundraisers, the Rochelle Kiwanis Golden K sponsors and supports Circle K College Level club, the Rochelle Township High School Key Club, a Builders Club at Rochelle Middle School and at Creston School, and K Kids. The group also donates to 20 other youth organizations in the area.