Announcement: The application period for the 2026 the Vocational and Occupational Learning in Technology program (VOLT) scholarship grant cycle will open on March 2, 2026.
Application Deadline: April 30, 2026
Please read the Guidelines before beginning your application:
On Saturday, December 20, the Kiwanis Club of Rolling Hills Estates proudly hosted its annual Children’s Christmas Party at the Volunteers of America facility in Harbor City.
The event brought holiday joy to 50 underserved children and their families, selected from local elementary schools, and provided them with a memorable and uplifting experience.
The celebration began with a creative arts-and-crafts session where children enthusiastically made personalized Christmas ornaments. Volunteers from the Peninsula High School Key Club guided the children through the crafts, provided by club member Joan Davidson, helping to spark creativity and holiday cheer.
Two new and popular features were added to this year’s program. A candy booth allowed each child to choose a bag of their favorite treats, while a game booth gave children the chance to spin a prize wheel and win a toy or book of their choice. Both additions were met with great excitement and smiles.
Following the craft activities, the children enjoyed a festive meal featuring pizza and fried chicken. The room buzzed with anticipation as everyone awaited the highlight of the day, Santa’s arrival. The formal program kicked off with a lively clown show, complete with balloon animals that delighted the children.
The magical moment arrived with the sound of bells and a joyful “Ho, ho, ho!” as Santa Claus entered the room. Playing Santa was club secretary Steve Makshanoff, who, dressed in the iconic red suit, brought warmth, laughter, and holiday magic. Santa distributed thoughtfully selected gifts to each child, lighting up the room with smiles and excitement.
This was more than a simple gift-giving event. In a meaningful twist, Santa asked each child what they planned to do in return for their gift, reinforcing the message that the presents represented kindness, responsibility, and the importance of giving back or paying it forward.
Adding to the fun, the festivities were briefly interrupted when the Grinch, played by club president Patrick Stednitz, attempted to steal the children’s gifts, only to be chased away by Santa, much to the children’s delight.
The Kiwanis Club of Rolling Hills Estates Children’s Christmas Party was a heartwarming reminder of the true spirit of the season. Through thoughtful activities, joyful surprises, and meaningful interactions, the event created lasting memories for the children and everyone who helped make the day special.
Eight students were recognized and received certificates of completion, presented by the Kiwanis, Palos Verdes on the Net and Los Angeles County.
The program is the joint effort of the Kiwanis Club of Rolling Hills Estates, Palos Verdes on the Net and the Boys and Girls Club of Los Angeles Harbor.
Special guests in attendance included Los Angeles County 4th District Supervisor Janice Hahn, and Scott Houston, Treasurer and Board Member of the West Basin Water District. Pete Settelmayer, CEO of the Boys and Girls Club of the Los Angeles Harbor, was also present to show his support.
The program began with opening remarks by Kiwanis Club President Steve Makshanoff, followed by Susan Brooks, Scholarship Chairperson.
The VOLT program introduced students to the basics of Computer-Aided Design (CAD) and hands-on training with 3D printers. As a demonstration of their new skills, each student designed and produced a project that was proudly displayed during the luncheon.
(Photos by Erica Meng, PVNet)
Awards Table
Certificates
Steve Makshanoff
Susan Brooks
Janice Hahn
Pete Settelmayer
Shelley Rygg PVNET
Crystal Miramontes B&G Club
Herb Stark VOLT Program Director
Students receiving the certificates of completion were as follows:
(Presenters Janice Hahn, Susan Brooks & Steve Makshanoff)
The focus of the program is learning the basics of Computer-Aided Design (CAD), used in engineering and 3D printing. In the VOLT program the students will learn to design and print 3D models using advanced printers. Upon completion of the program the students will receive a Certificate demonstrating successful completion of the course. By bridging education and employment, VOLT provides students with a direct path to careers in high-tech manufacturing.
The class, which is open to 12th grade high school students, will be held locally at the Advanced Technology Education & Research Center in Rolling Hills Estates starting on June 16, 2025. Enrollment ends on May 21th. Those interested in the program need to fill out the attached application 2025 VOLT Application.
For more information on the program visit the YouTube channel at https://youtu.be/mcYOxbF4BVc.
On Saturday, December 14th, the Kiwanis Club hosted their annual Children’s Christmas Party at the Volunteers of America facility in Harbor City. The event brought holiday joy to forty underserved children from local elementary schools, providing them with a memorable and uplifting experience.
The festivities began with a creative session where the children enthusiastically crafted personalized Christmas ornaments. Joan Davidson, a dedicated Kiwanis member, guided the activity and took a moment to emphasize a heartwarming lesson. She explained that the ornaments were not just for the children to keep but also a token of appreciation to give back in celebration of the joy and gifts they were about to receive. Members of the Kiwanis Club, alongside energetic high school students from the Key Club, supported the children throughout the activity, ensuring it was both meaningful and enjoyable.
Following the crafting session, the children were treated to a festive meal featuring a delightful spread of pizza and fried chicken. The room buzzed with excitement as the young participants enjoyed their feast, eagerly awaiting the highlight of the day: Santa’s grand entrance.
The joyous moment arrived with the sound of bells and a resounding “Ho, ho, ho!” as Santa Claus entered the room. The children’s faces lit up with wonder and excitement as Santa distributed carefully chosen gifts tailored to bring smiles to each child. Playing the role of Santa was none other than Steve Makshanoff, president of the Kiwanis Club of Rolling Hills Estates. Donning the iconic red suit, Santa Steve brought warmth, cheer, and laughter, making the occasion even more magical.
This was not just a simple gift-giving event. In a thoughtful twist, Santa Steve engaged each child, asking them what they planned to do in return for their gift. The message was clear: the gifts symbolized more than holiday generosity—they were a reward, encouraging the children to reflect on how they could give back or pay the kindness forward.
The Kiwanis Club’s Children’s Christmas Party was a beautiful reminder of the holiday spirit, fostering joy, gratitude, and community. Through thoughtful activities and meaningful interactions, the event created cherished memories for the children and everyone involved.
Check back after the new year for 2025 scholarship applications.