When community organizations come together around a shared mission, their impact can extend far beyond what either could accomplish alone. That spirit of collaboration is at the heart of the partnership between Spectrum360 and the Kiwanis Club of Caldwell-West Essex.

Both organizations are rooted in service. Kiwanis, a global volunteer organization, focuses on improving the lives of children and strengthening communities through leadership, service, and local partnerships. 

The connection between the two organizations began through Spectrum360 Senior Director of Development, Kerry Guzman. Through her work at Spectrum360 and living in Caldwell with her family, Guzman developed relationships within the local Kiwanis community, opening the door for collaboration between the two organizations.

Over time, that connection grew into a meaningful partnership grounded in both service and philanthropy.

Since 2020, the Kiwanis Club of Caldwell-West Essex has contributed thousands to support Spectrum360’s mission. Beginning in 2022, the club became a consistent supporter of the Walk for a Lifetime as a Mile Marker Sponsor. This year, Kiwanis deepened its commitment by increasing its Walk sponsorship to a Bronze Sponsor.

For Kiwanis, however, community partnerships extend beyond financial contributions. Service is central to the organization’s mission, and members seek opportunities to actively support the causes they care about.

Anthony Thomas, president of the Kiwanis Club of Caldwell-West Essex, has experienced the impact of that service firsthand.

Thomas joined the club four years ago and became president in October 2025. With the club celebrating more than a century of community involvement, he sees his leadership role as an opportunity to help sustain and grow its legacy of service.

His connection to Spectrum360 actually began before he became involved with Kiwanis. Through his work with JetBlue, which encourages employees to volunteer in their communities, Thomas discovered Spectrum360 while searching for local volunteer opportunities.

His first experience was volunteering at the Walk for a Lifetime in Verona Park nearly a decade ago. That experience sparked a lasting connection. Over the years, he has continued volunteering at Spectrum360 events, including the Walk, the annual gala, and the organization’s golf outing. “The main takeaway for me [as a volunteer] is seeing the joy that it brings to these families and kids and young adults,” Thomas shares. “Just being there for them makes a difference.”

Eventually, his personal involvement helped strengthen the relationship between Spectrum360 and the Kiwanis Club.

Today, Kiwanis members regularly support Spectrum360 events, volunteering their time and connecting directly with families and individuals served by the organization. Opportunities like A Walk for a Lifetime allow members to see the impact of their support while building relationships within the community.

Looking ahead, the partnership may continue to expand. The Kiwanis Club has expressed interest in exploring the creation of an Aktion Club in collaboration with Spectrum360. Aktion Clubs are service organizations designed specifically for adults with disabilities, providing opportunities for leadership, community involvement, and meaningful connection.

For Thomas, partnerships like this highlight the power of community organizations working together. “You might think it’s only an hour or two, but when people come together to help, it makes a big difference.”

Even small acts of service can make a meaningful difference. Volunteers help nonprofit organizations extend their reach, support families, and create experiences that strengthen the community as a whole.

As Spectrum360 prepares for the Walk for a Lifetime on May 31 at Verona Park, the organization welcomes the community to join partners like the Kiwanis Club of Caldwell-West Essex in supporting children and adults with autism and related disabilities. Community members interested in service and connection are encouraged to learn more about joining the Kiwanis Club by visiting their site.

Whether by walking, volunteering, or donating, every participant helps make a lasting impact. Join A Walk for a Lifetime by visiting walk.spectrum360.org.