The newest service club in East County celebrated its official beginning on Saturday as one of the leaders who helped put the group together let members know just what they should be looking for: Kiwanis moments.

“A Kiwanis moment is when your ‘K’ goes from your collar to your heart,” Rocci Barsotti, past Lt. Gov. of Kiwanis International Division 26 said, referring to the lapel pin all club members wear.

Heart, and a willingness to advance the Kiwanis goal of Helping the Children of the World, is an abundant commodity in Oakley. The club completed its first service project – putting together emergency care packages for families suddenly dealing with a family member in the hospital – before the club was even official. In fact, the 70 people at the Bridge Marina Yacht Club dinner (catered by Mike’s Beef ’N’ Brew) were so impressed by what they saw that three people stepped forward to join the club at the event. The club also enjoys backup for key leadership positions, something seldom seen even in mature clubs.

“It doesn’t get any better than that,” said Barsotti.

Accepting the new club gavel from Division 26 Gov. Roy Talley was President Jim Frazier, the city’s vice mayor. The clubs activities would include helping to create an all-abilities playground on the grounds of the now-defunct YMCA. Frazier plans for the club to raise money to provide instructional materials for local teachers, support the health facility La Clinica, and partner with the Friends of Oakley – of which he is also a member – to expand the Christmas Basket Program.

“We’re going to be an inspiration for our community,” Frazier promised.

In addition to Frazier, the night’s celebration included the installation of the rest of the club’s officers and board of directors. They include President Elect Josie Monaghan; Vice President Angeline Romero; Secretary Janet Frazier; Assistant Secretary T.J. Bradley; and Treasurer Robin Ziegler. Directors include Valerie Castaldi, Casey Harvey, Aaron Meadows, Shelly Ontis, Martha Parsons, Kevin Romick, Michael Seadeek and Carrie Seadeek.

The Kiwais Club of Oakley meets at Round Table Pizza, 2190 Main St., from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. every Monday. For more information on the club or to receive its newsletter, call Josie Monaghan at 925-642-7537.