Every year we gather for one of the most exciting service events to celebrate a successful year of Key Club service, leadership, and collaboration – the District Education Conference (DECON). Every district has a different name for their DECON, but
This year, we’re switching it up for more time to celebrate, more fun, and more service. Are you ready to hear about some of the exciting events we have planned for your this year?
1. Professional Speakers & Workshop Presenters
This year we’ve pulled out all the stops to bring you some of the best speakers and presenters for our Keynote Address and Workshops. On Thursday night, you’ll get the chance to hear from Disability Rights Activist, Patrice Jetter, who recently starred in a documentary detailing the difficulties disabled persons face when it comes to their health benefits and the consequence of losing them if they get married. Patrice is not only a wonderful role model, but her message of inclusivity and representation aligns with the values of Key Club so well.
In addition to our fabulous Keynote, we have presenters coming from Key Club International and some other professional organizations like the NJ Devils’ Youth Foundation, Erika’s Lighthouse, and more!
2. Electing District Officers
It’s time to let your voice be heard and exercise your right to vote by choosing your new district leadership for the 2025-2026 service year! Throughout the weekend, you will have the chance to meet with candidates running for district office, hear speeches, ask questions during caucusing, and ultimately vote on who you would like your new leaders to be. If you’re interested in running for district office, you can learn more by accessing the Executive Officer Elections packet here.
3. Take Part in Meaningful Service Projects
DECON is the perfect time for us to come together as a community and take part in service projects that can positively impact the community. This year, we’ll be working with the Town of Asbury Park to conduct a park cleanup. We also have tons of seashells we’ll be decorating to give to local community members that need positive, uplifting messages. Key Club knows how to make the community a little better whether it’s a simple smile, or beautification of our local parks!
4. Celebrate Your Club in Style
Did your club take part in a meaningful project this year that deserves recognition? Did you design a killer newsletter that you want to show off? Make sure you check out our contests and awards to make sure you enter your club for everything and anything you’re eligible for!
Some awards are pre-judged prior to convention, but there’s still contests you can enter the moment you arrive. The oratory, impromptu essay, and talent contests all take place at convention. Talent auditions will be held during the day on Friday and the finalists will perform Friday evening during the Recognition Session.
Wayne Gretzky said it best, “You miss 100% of the shots you don’t take” so make sure you enter for your shot to win big!
Speaking of BIG celebrations, Thursday Night Club social will be our biggest and best yet! We’ll have an ice cream truck, photobooth, and more to look forward to!
5. Explore the Shore with New Friends
One of the most exciting parts of this year’s convention is our new location at the Berkeley Oceanfront Hotel in Asbury Park! This historic hotel is also celebrating their 100th birthday. Some of the biggest celebrities have stayed here including Bruce Springsteen (a.k.a. “The Boss”), and more!
Along with the hotel’s rich history, it’s close proximity to the Asbury Park Boardwalk (literally right across the street) is also something to get excited about! Use your free time (with your advisor’s permission) to explore the beach or take a 10 minute walk to Cookman Avenue to explore delicious local eats, thrift stores, plant shops, and more. There’s so much excitement in Asbury Park and you’ll get a front row to experience it this year.
There's Still Time to Register!
Registration closes officially on March 17th at midnight. Make sure you join us for what will be one of the biggest and best conventions we’ve had in a while!
Clubs and individual Kiwanis guests and family members are welcome to attend using the links below.