By Natalie Covher

The Kiwanis Club of Natchitoches met for its planning meeting Thursday, Nov. 17 at the NSU Recreation Complex. Carey Etheredge led the pledge and Ron Brown led the prayer. Members enjoyed a Thanksgiving style lunch while listening to NSU sophomore Cody Nelson talk about Community Renewal International. CRI started in Shreveport in 1994 with the mission to help transform the city into a safe, connected and caring community.

“Major crime is down over 45 percent in the five ‘Friendship House’ target areas of Shreveport,” said Nelson. “After seeing what CRI has done for Shreveport I want to bring it Natchitoches. You can become a Haven House neighborhood block leader and join the ‘We Care’ Renewal Team. People from all walks of life are connecting, discovering new meaning and purpose, and working together for a better community through CRI and you can too.”

After listening to Nelson members broke off into groups to work on club image, impact, investment and inspiration.