Meet Our Members
Brandon White
Meet Brandon White, a passionate Kiwanian whose commitment to community service is rooted deeply in family tradition. With both his grandfather and mother active in their hometown Kiwanis Club in Indiana, Brandon grew up with the belief that we should always "leave things better than when you found it." So, when he moved to Washington, D.C. ten years ago, joining Kiwanis was a natural choice—a way to build connections and contribute meaningfully to his new home.
Brandon is especially driven by Kiwanis’ mission to support children. “We don’t get to choose the circumstances we’re born into,” he shares, “but as a community, we can ensure every kid has the opportunity to reach their potential, pursue their dreams, and grow up with safety and support.” He’s passionate about working alongside organizations that serve families experiencing homelessness, help students access educational opportunities, and provide youth with healthy, empowering outlets. His goal? To be a force multiplier—linking Kiwanis volunteers, funding, and networks with mission-aligned partners across D.C.
Beyond Kiwanis, Brandon has volunteered his time weekly with Everybody Wins D.C., where he has built one-on-one connections with elementary school students over lunch, reading together, playing games, and engaging in heartfelt conversations. “It was so rewarding,” he reflects, “to learn about their interests and watch them grow over time.”
When he’s not serving the community, Brandon’s adventurous spirit shines through. One of his boldest bucket list goals? Earning his skydiving license. Though temporarily on hold since becoming a husband and father, the thrill of stepping out of a plane door still calls to him. And when it comes to favorite childhood stories, The Lady with the Alligator Purse still brings a smile.
Brandon’s energy, empathy, and commitment to lifting others up make him a valued member of the Kiwanis Club of Washington, D.C. We’re grateful to have him in our circle—and even more grateful for the impact he continues to make.
Robert Lyons
Meet Robert Lyons, a devoted public servant and lifelong volunteer who found his home with the Kiwanis Club of Washington, D.C., after a year-long search for a truly engaged and service-driven community. “Service has always been a part of my identity,” Robert shares. When he relocated to the District, he was looking for more than a social group—he wanted a space where active community engagement wasn’t just an aspiration but a way of life. He found that in Kiwanis.
For Robert, the Kiwanis International motto, "Serving the Children of the World," is more than words—it’s a personal mission. As the son of two public educators and a public servant himself, he brings both heart and vision to everything he does. “Children are the future,” he says, “and our work has a generational ripple effect. The kindness we show now can still be making an impact tens—if not hundreds—of years from today.”
Robert’s commitment to service began early. Before joining Kiwanis, he founded and led both Interact and Rotaract Clubs through Rotary International, fully embracing their motto, "Service Above Self." That same philosophy continues to guide him, shaping both his community work and his broader sense of purpose.
When it comes to family and adventure, Robert has already checked off two bucket list items that most people only dream about. Alongside his family, he visited all 50 U.S. states before graduating high school and made it to every Major League Baseball stadium by the end of college. These cross-country road trips—filled with sightseeing, bonding, and classic family chaos—are some of his most treasured memories.
A fan of trains since childhood, Robert still carries with him the spirit of The Little Engine That Could. The story’s enduring message of perseverance and positivity has stayed with him. “I think I can, I think I can,” the Little Engine repeats—an early affirmation that continues to fuel Robert’s outlook on service and life.
With a mindset rooted in optimism, legacy-building, and selfless leadership, Robert is a pillar of the Kiwanis DC community. We’re proud to celebrate his journey, his impact, and the kindness he spreads—one act of service at a time.
Erin Deutschman
Say hello to Erin Deutschman, a passionate volunteer and book lover whose journey with Kiwanis began with a personal recommendation—and a desire to give back locally. Erin was searching for meaningful service opportunities in the D.C. area when she heard great things from her brother about his experience with Kiwanis back home in Michigan. After attending a few meetings and service projects, she found something special in the Kiwanis Club of Washington, D.C.: a welcoming community rooted in purpose and collective action.
Erin is especially passionate about literacy and access to books. Outside of Kiwanis, she dedicates her time to the Friends of the Arlington Library, helping with their bi-annual book sale fundraisers. “I love giving back to efforts that connect people with the books they need,” she shares. Her work not only supports access to literature but also fuels programs that encourage a love for reading across the community.
Her volunteer spirit doesn’t stop there. Erin also lends her creativity to The Arlington Players, a local community theatre group, where she helps with costume construction. Whether it’s stitching up stage magic or stacking books for a good cause, she’s always ready to pitch in with hands-on support and a warm heart.
One of her favorite recent adventures? Last year, Erin checked off two major bucket list items in one unforgettable trip: seeing her favorite artist, MIKA, live in concert and visiting England for the first time. “It was so special,” she says. “MIKA is such a strong live performer, and it was even more meaningful to see him in a country I’d never been to before.”
A self-proclaimed lifelong reader, Erin fondly remembers the American Girl books from her childhood, with Samantha being her favorite. “Those books helped connect me to history by telling stories from the perspective of someone my age,” she recalls. It’s no wonder that literacy remains a cornerstone of her service and storytelling spirit.
With a thoughtful presence and a deep commitment to building community through service, Erin brings energy, empathy, and joy to everything she touches. We’re proud to spotlight her as a vital part of our Kiwanis family.
Dr. Zach Lowe
Meet Zach Lowe, a lifelong learner, passionate educator, and steadfast advocate for youth empowerment. Zach's journey with the Kiwanis family began during his college years as a member of Circle K International at the University of Akron. Although his early career in rural South Carolina made it difficult for him to stay connected with a local Kiwanis club due to scheduling conflicts, he never lost his Kiwanis spirit. That flame was reignited when he moved to the D.C. area three years ago, and thanks to a timely invitation from fellow Akron alum and friend, Natalie, Zach found his way back into service through the Kiwanis Club of Washington, D.C.
Zach’s heart is firmly rooted in supporting youth as they grow into tomorrow’s leaders. He believes in fostering opportunities through holistic care, encompassing nutrition, mental health, literacy, and civic engagement. “Our youth need us,” he says, “to lend a helping hand and be an example of what their future selves might become.” His vision for impact is expansive, yet grounded in empathy and a deep commitment to mentorship and advocacy.
Beyond Kiwanis, Zach has dedicated his time and talents to a variety of causes, serving with organizations and initiatives such as Habitat for Humanity, cultural commissions, and local Boards of Elections. His service is marked by versatility and a sincere dedication to civic life.
One of Zach’s most significant personal accomplishments? Earning his Ph.D. this past year—an achievement that capped off over a decade of academic work. “Happy to finally be ‘done’ with college after 11 or so years,” he says with a well-earned sense of relief and pride. This milestone reflects not only his academic discipline but also his belief in the power of education to transform lives.
While reading for fun wasn’t always his favorite pastime growing up, Zach still has a soft spot for Clifford the Big Red Dog, a childhood classic that left a vivid impression. That spark of imagination from Clifford’s larger-than-life adventures mirrors Zach’s own path—committed to dreaming big, thinking forward, and making a meaningful impact.
We’re proud to count Dr. Zach Lowe among our members and inspired by his journey, leadership, and the example he sets for future changemakers.