Serving the Portage Lakes community since 1951

Rose Remembrance Day

Portage Lakes Kiwanis Rose Remembrance Day is a cherished annual fundraiser held on the first Saturday of October in Akron, Ohio. Established in 1952, this event involves the sale and delivery of long-stemmed red roses throughout Summit County, with proceeds supporting local community initiatives.

 

🌹 What It Represents

While the term “remembrance” may suggest a memorial, in this context, it symbolizes community unity and support. Each rose purchased contributes to funding programs such as educational scholarships, youth activities, and the club’s notable Santa Delivery tradition, which brings holiday joy to local children.

 

🌹 Who Can You Send Kiwanis Roses To?

You can send Kiwanis roses to anyone you want — a family member, coworker, old neighbor, teacher, mentor, or anyone else who has made a difference in your life, in select zip codes in Summit County, OH.

In this fast-paced world, it’s easy to lose touch or forget to express appreciation.
Rose Remembrance Day is a heartfelt way to reconnect and show someone they’re remembered and valued—whether it’s a simple thank you, a warm memory, or just a gesture to brighten their day.

 

📅 Event Details

  • Date: First Saturday in October (e.g., October 4, 2025)
  • Location: Portage Lakes Kiwanis Civic Center, 725 Portage Lakes Drive, Akron, OH
  • Rose Price: $25 per dozen, delivered within most of Summit County
  • Order Period: Rose office typically opens in late September, with orders accepted online starting late August, by phone, or in person at the Civic Center
  • Contact: (330) 644-8967 or al@plkiwanis.org or plkiwanis.org

🤝 Community Impact

The funds raised from Rose Remembrance Day are instrumental in supporting various community programs, including:

  • Kiwanis Civic Center: Provides a place for non-profit organizations, youth civic organizations, community groups and many others a place to meet and organize at no charge.
  • Santa Delivery: Ensuring that children in the Portage Lakes area receive gifts during the holiday season.
  • Educational Scholarships: Providing financial assistance to local students pursuing higher education.
  • Youth Activities: Funding events and programs that engage and benefit young people in the community.

🌹 Community Involvement in Rose Day Delivery

Portage Lakes Kiwanis Rose Remembrance Day isn’t just about selling roses—it’s about bringing the whole community together to make a difference.

Local schools, churches, social groups, and volunteer organizations often partner with Kiwanis to assist in selling and delivering roses across the area.

By helping with deliveries:
✅ They support Kiwanis in raising funds for scholarships, youth programs, and holiday events like Santa Delivery.
✅ They teach students and young people about service, teamwork, and community pride.
✅ They give everyone—from church groups to scout troops—a way to give back locally and see the impact of their efforts firsthand.