On May 29, the Monrovia Kiwanis Club recognized the achievements of six outstanding Monrovia High School seniors by awarding each a $1,000 scholarship during a ceremony held at Fred’s Monrovia. The event highlighted the club’s enduring commitment to education and community service in the San Gabriel Valley.
The Monrovia Kiwanis Club is part of Kiwanis International, a global service organization dedicated to improving the lives of children and families. Locally, the club sponsors youth leadership programs, community service projects, and annual scholarships to support students pursuing higher education. This year’s scholarship selection process was particularly competitive, with about 1,200 applications reviewed by the Kiwanis scholarship committee. Finalists completed interviews to share their accomplishments and goals before recipients were chosen.
Celebrating Students and Community
The ceremony was held at Fred’s Monrovia, a vintage toy and pop culture museum and showroom located at 930 South Myrtle Avenue. Fred’s has become a unique gathering space that combines nostalgia with community engagement. The showroom features an extensive collection of collectibles from the 1960s through the 1990s, including Star Wars figures, G.I. Joe toys, and other memorabilia that bring generations together.
Fred’s Monrovia often hosts events and private tours to share its collection with the public. Its colorful displays and vintage pieces provided a memorable backdrop as scholarship recipients were honored among family, educators, and Kiwanis members.
Dr. Geoffrey Zamarripa, Assistant Superintendent of Educational Services, contributed significantly to the scholarship effort, helping coordinate the application and interview process.
Kiwanis Club’s Impact in Monrovia
The Monrovia Kiwanis Club has been active in the community for decades, supporting projects such as literacy programs, holiday food drives, and youth leadership training. The club meets regularly to plan service initiatives and collaborate with local leaders and nonprofits. Membership is open to adults who wish to volunteer, contribute resources, and make a difference in Monrovia and neighboring cities.
For families interested in learning more about Kiwanis scholarships or joining the club, Ms. Prado can be reached at 714-553-3218. Additional information about the Monrovia Kiwanis Club’s programs and meetings is available on the Kiwanis International website.
Fred’s Monrovia also welcomes visitors who want to experience its collection. The museum is open to the public on select days and offers private tours by appointment. More details can be found at fredsmonrovia.com.
Events like the scholarship awards ceremony demonstrate how local partnerships can celebrate student success and build a stronger community. With the support of organizations such as the Monrovia Kiwanis Club and venues like Fred’s Monrovia, the city continues to foster education, connection, and civic pride.
