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Community Highlights

Welcome to the Kiwanis Club of Santa Ana News page, your hub for updates, stories, and highlights from our club’s service in the community. Here, you’ll find announcements about upcoming events, recaps of our recent projects, member spotlights, and inspiring moments that reflect the heart of our mission.

Check back often to stay informed on the impact we’re making together.

Remembering Steve Cate

The Kiwanis Club of Santa Ana mourns the passing of Steve Cate, a devoted Kiwanian and longtime champion for the children of our community.

Steve served as President of the Kiwanis Club of Santa Ana from 1998–1999 and was a driving force behind the Strike Gold for Kids Fundraiser at the Santa Ana Zoo. He was also well known for his dedication to supporting Club initiatives, including securing donations from local merchants for the Club’s pancake breakfasts—always ensuring our efforts had a meaningful impact.

Steve passed away on January 6, 2026, following an 18-month illness. His commitment to Kiwanis and service to the children of Santa Ana spanned many years and left a lasting legacy.

“Kiwanis was a highlight of Steve’s life, and Wednesday meetings were a highlight of his week,” shared his wife, Catherine. “He firmly believed in the Club’s mission and deeply admired his fellow Kiwanians who were dedicated to the Club and its activities.

Steve is survived by his wife, Catherine. At this time, details regarding a memorial service are not yet known, and updates will be shared as they become available.

We extend our deepest condolences to Catherine, Steve’s family, and all who had the privilege of serving alongside him. He will be remembered with gratitude, respect, and appreciation for his unwavering service.

2025 Strike Gold for Kids Awardees:
Making a Difference

We are proud to celebrate 2025's outstanding Kiwanis Club of Santa Ana award honorees, each of whom embodies service, leadership, and a deep commitment to uplifting youth in our community.

Our Heart of Gold Award recipient, Jerry Almendarez, is recognized for his decades of dedication to expanding educational opportunities and strengthening connections between schools and families throughout Santa Ana.

The Golden Rule Award honors Daniel Kim, whose work through the Dragon Kim Foundation empowers high school students to become compassionate leaders through meaningful service projects. His dedication to inspiring young people to strengthen their communities truly reflects the spirit of the Golden Rule.

Rounding out our honorees, the Catalyst for Change Award was presented to the Anaheim Ducks Foundation, whose efforts to expand youth sports access—bringing free hockey programs, equipment, and opportunities to local schools—continue to break barriers and open doors for students across our region.

Together, these honorees represent the very best of our community, and we are grateful for the profound impact they make on the lives of young people.