Island Park Kiwanis pancake breakfast raises funds for scholarships

The Kiwanis Club of Island Park hosted its annual pancake breakfast at Francis X. Hegarty Elementary School, drawing families, students and community members together for a morning of food and fundraising in support of local charitable programs.

The April 18 breakfast was served by students from the LOMS Builders Club, the middle school-level Kiwanis program, who greeted guests, took orders, served meals and helped clean up throughout the event. The student volunteers remain a central part of what makes the tradition meaningful each year.

Funds raised from the breakfast will support the club’s community initiatives, including scholarships for graduating Island Park students and Kamp Kiwanis programs.

Island Park Kiwanis President Karen Davis said the event has deep roots in the community, stretching back decades.

“The Island Park pancake breakfast is a tradition — at least 50 years, maybe more,” she said. “It’s a signature fundraising event for Kiwanis clubs everywhere, but for us, it really supports Kamp Kiwanis and the scholarships.”

Davis said the breakfast typically raises between $4,000 and $5,000 annually, with strong support from local sponsors and businesses. Among then, Oceanside IHOP once again donated pancake batter and syrup, continuing a long-standing contribution to the event. Several other local businesses also provided raffle prizes, basket items and sponsorships.

This year’s breakfast featured 35 raffle baskets, assembled over several months by Kiwanis members who began planning the event as early as February.

“We start thinking about it well before spring,” Davis said. “Once February hits, we’re in pancake mode. If we see something on sale that would make a good raffle item, we pick it up and set it aside.”

The event, which had previously been held at the Firemen’s Exempt Hall, moved to the elementary school after the pandemic. This change has allowed for greater community participation and a more family-centered atmosphere.

She noted the event now regularly brings together attendees across generations, from infants to grandparents, as well as teachers and students who are able to interact outside the classroom setting. Members of the Builders Club also serve many of their own family members during the breakfast, adding a personal touch to the volunteer experience.

With about 25 active Kiwanis members, Davis said nearly all participate in the annual breakfast, supported by school custodians, student volunteers and community partners.

“It really brings everyone together,” she said. “That’s what makes it special every year.”