Difficulty maintaining membership is a “visible crisis” according to the President of Kiwanis International.

Dr. John Button, from Ridgetown, strongly delivered that message to Seaway Kiwanians at the Sarnia Golf and Curling Club Tuesday.

Button says two years ago 26,000 new members were inducted, but 34,000 left the club.

Button says change is needed because they’re not alone, many service clubs around the world have been troubled by the issue.

Sarnia’s Seaway Kiwanis club currently has about 30 members.

The organization is the driving force behind the Children’s Animal Farm, train and BMX track at Canatara Park and also supports initiatives like Christmas and Easter on the Farm with money raised through TV Bingo.

During his visit, Button was also presented a $2,500 cheque from the Seaway Kiwanis Club toward “The Eliminate Project.”

The joint venture, between Kiwanis International and UNICEF, is working to eliminate maternal and neonatal tetanus.