In September 1959, a small group of business leaders from Carson City, including several club past presidents formed the Carson City Kiwanis Club. The Club began its tradition of leadership in community service from its inception, including the contribution of hands-on service and monetary donations to charitable organizations serving children, youth, the elderly, and the disabled.

Kiwanis is a world-wide service club organization whose primary emphasis is young children. Kiwanis "saves children" through its international Iodine Deficiency Disorder (IDD) prevention program, through various district programs, and through the many activities of local clubs in their own communities.