At the 1924 Kiwanis International convention, Kiwanis delegates adopted six Objectives, which have remained unchanged for 85 years. From time to time, a member will suggest that one of the objectives is no longer relevant or the wording needs updated. Each time, the delegates have soundly rejected any attempts to alter any portion of this foundational document. Over the years, the members have been clear that they believe these principles to be timeless; not subject to change or alteration.

The following are the six objectives of Kiwanis “which serve as the guiding principles of our organization and offer each of us a framework within which to fulfill the obligations we have in our daily lives”:

1. To give primacy to the human and spiritual, rather than the material values of life
2. To encourage the daily living of the Golden Rule in all human relationships
3. To promote the adoption and the application of higher social, business, and professional standards
4. To develop, by precept and example, a more intelligent, aggressive, and serviceable citizenship
5. To provide, through Kiwanis clubs, a practical means to form enduring friendships, to render altruistic service, and to build better communities
6. To cooperate in creating and maintaining that sound public opinion and high idealism which make possible the increase of righteousness, justice, patriotism, and goodwill.