This Kiwanis weekly meeting recap captures a morning filled with service, celebration, and meaningful conversation. From birthday wishes and happy dollars to an inspiring spotlight on the STEPS Drop-In Center, the meeting reminded us why community involvement matters. Not only did we reconnect with one another, but we also learned about a program that is quietly transforming lives in McKean County.
🎉 Celebrations & Happy Dollars
We kicked things off the Kiwanis way — with fellowship.
We celebrated a 67th birthday (happy birthday again!) and shared a few “happy dollars.” One highlight came from a member who enjoyed a whirlwind family visit — complete with a ski day at Holiday Valley and some bonus tax prep courtesy of a finance-major son-in-law. (That’s a productive weekend.)
There was also appreciation for simply being together — and even our guest speaker kicked things off with a cheerful contribution to the cause.
Spotlight Speaker: Maggie Travis & the STEPS Drop-In Center
This week’s featured speaker was Maggie Travis, STEPS Drop-In Coordinator at the Guidance Center. She has served in this role for approximately 11 years, aside from a short break in between. However, as she shared, the work kept calling her back.
Since returning, she describes it as her favorite job. That passion was clear.
So, what exactly is STEPS?
STEPS is a consumer-run drop-in program for adults 18 and older who have or have had a mental health diagnosis. More importantly, it provides a safe, accepting environment where members can build social skills, develop confidence, and find community.
In addition, members actively shape the center’s direction. Each month, a group meeting allows participants to voice concerns, suggest activities, and offer feedback. Because of this structure, members are not just attendees — they are contributors.
What Is STEPS?
STEPS is a consumer-run drop-in center for adults (18+) who have or have had a mental health diagnosis. Its mission is simple but powerful:
To provide a safe, accepting atmosphere where individuals can enjoy social and recreational activities — while having an active voice in the center’s operations.
It’s not just a place to pass time. It’s a place to build skills, confidence, and connection.
Meals, Skills, and Dignity
One of the most practical programs STEPS offers is a weekly meal for just 75 cents. While that price alone is remarkable, the real value lies in how the meals are prepared. Members cook together under supervision, which helps them build real-life skills in a supportive environment.
If someone cannot afford the meal, they still have options. For example, volunteer work earns meal tickets. Clean-center days, committee service, and other responsibilities allow members to contribute meaningfully. As a result, participation is encouraged without creating barriers.
Beyond that, STEPS uses a creative incentive system. Volunteer hours convert into “casino bucks.” Then, at the end of the year, members participate in a casino-themed event. Ultimately, those earnings can be used during a holiday auction, helping supplement Christmas gifts.
The STEPS Choir
Another highlight of the program is the STEPS Choir. Not only does it provide an outlet for creativity, but it also builds confidence in a very public way. Many of us have seen the choir perform locally, including at community events and Kiwanis Kapers.
Meanwhile, the center also offers a wellness room equipped with fitness equipment and even virtual reality experiences. Because traditional gym memberships can be costly, this provides accessible wellness opportunities for members who might otherwise go without.
Taken together, these offerings create something more than a drop-in center. They create belonging.
Wellness & Growth
Beyond social activities, STEPS offers:
- A wellness center with treadmill, weights, and VR experiences
- Activity, meal, and newsletter committees
- Monthly open meetings where members can voice ideas and concerns
- Public discussion events on the first Friday of each month
It’s structured. It’s inclusive. And it’s built on dignity.
The program currently serves about 20–25 members regularly, but there are over 700 individuals who have participated over the years — many of whom have moved on successfully and still stay in touch from across the country.
That says something.
A Leader Who Walks the Walk
Maggie also shared something deeply personal: she lives with bipolar disorder herself.
That lived experience gives her credibility and compassion that can’t be taught. She understands the discrimination, the struggle, and the courage it takes to show up.
When she retires, she hopes to stay involved — even volunteering to keep the choir going. She’s also offered to train her replacement to ensure continuity and culture remain intact.
That’s legacy thinking.
Looking Ahead: Literacy Initiatives
Next week, we’ll hear from Nancy about two literacy-focused efforts:
- Read Across Pennsylvania
- A “One Book” initiative featuring The Great Cookie Kerfuffle — with hopes of providing a copy to each Head Start child.
Because what pairs better with chocolate chip cookies than reading together?
50/50 & Closing Thoughts
Jerry claimed the 50/50 again (two weeks in a row — suspiciously lucky). Unfortunately it was the 6 of Diamonds. There are 9 cards remaining.
The thought of the day:
“Never look down on anybody unless you’re helping them up.”
What a great thought from Paula Vecellio
We closed in prayer and the Pledge of Allegiance, grateful for another week of connection, service, and forward momentum.
Final Reflection
Meetings like this remind us that service isn’t abstract.
It’s meals prepared together.
It’s someone learning to lead a committee.
It’s a choir finding its voice.
It’s dignity restored in quiet, consistent ways.
And it’s organizations like STEPS — working every day, often unseen — that strengthen the very fabric of our community.
See you next week. And if you’re not already a member we would love to have you, learn more about becoming a member today.