You may know Kiwanis, Rotary, Lions or Optimist from a school award, a scholarship, a fundraiser or a community celebration. Joining one can also be a way to meet neighbors and find a regular place to volunteer.

For Union County residents, there are options in Monroe, Indian Trail, Waxhaw, Weddington, Unionville and surrounding communities. Nearby Matthews clubs may also be worth a look. The best starting point is a cause you care about—and a group whose schedule fits your life.

Interested in helping children and students?

Kiwanis Club of Monroe focuses on children throughout Union County. Its Terrific Kids program recognizes students in UCPS elementary schools and Union Academy, and the club also supports scholarships and holiday giving. Explore Monroe Kiwanis.

Kiwanis Club of Matthews describes projects including school clothes for children, student recognition and mentoring young volunteers through Key Clubs. It publishes both lunch meetings and a monthly evening gathering, giving prospective members more than one way to connect. Explore Matthews Kiwanis.

Weddington Optimist Club is another option for people who want to support young people. Its programs include student recognition, scholarships and youth service opportunities. Ask the club for its next meeting date: its website currently gives conflicting weekdays. Explore Weddington Optimist.

Looking for a range of community projects?

Rotary offers several local starting points, including Monroe, Monroe-Union Breakfast, Union West in Indian Trail, Waxhaw-Weddington and Marshville, along with Matthews. Rotary District 7680 lists the area’s clubs.

Each club has its own projects and personality. For example, Monroe-Union Breakfast Rotary highlights education, scholarships and an inclusive playground at Tonawanda Park. Matthews Rotary describes support for local organizations, recognition of community service and international projects. Monroe-Union Breakfast projects, Matthews Rotary membership and service.

Meeting options include breakfast and lunch, while Waxhaw-Weddington Rotary also publishes an evening option. Contact the club to find out which upcoming meeting is best for a first visit. Waxhaw-Weddington Rotary.

Drawn to vision services and neighborhood service?

Waxhaw Lions publishes information about vision screenings and work addressing hunger and other community needs. Unionville Lions describes vision-related assistance, youth programs and community activities. Waxhaw Lions, Unionville Lions.

There are additional Lions leads to explore. Indian Trail, Wingate, Marshville and Matthews publish club pages, and the North Carolina district directory lists Greater Monroe. Some listings may need updating, so contact the club before making plans. Indian Trail, Wingate, Marshville, Matthews, district directory.

Phil’s List helps connect Union County neighbors with resources, community information and ways to get involved. If you represent a local service club, please share current meeting details and volunteer opportunities through our contact page.