It’s all about kids for John and Elaine Stone.

Their own four kids are grown and have children of their own. But the Stones’ interests extend way beyond their family.

Mrs. Stone worked with the Douglas County School System for 15 years, in office work and as a substitute teacher.

John Stone was Douglas County High School’s principal, then worked in the central office, and then as a juvenile investigator with the Douglas County Sheriff’s Office.

He also has been a Kiwanis Club volunteer for 30 years. And for the eight years since her retirement, Mrs. Stone has joined him.

“The reason John and I both joined Kiwanis is because it’s working with the kids,” she said.

The Kiwanis Club of Douglas County supports Boy Scouts, the Boys and Girls Club and the Special Olympics. It raises funds at an annual triathlon for swimmers, bicyclists and runners.

“We also sponsor Key Clubs in Chapel Hill, Lithia Springs and Douglas County high schools and Harvester Christian Academy, which are basically a junior version of the Kiwanis Club,” Mrs. Stone said. “They have little projects they work at, which might be going to the nursing home, assisting with an elementary school. They have to do projects to apply for a scholarship, and be good academically. One scholarship is given per Key Club.”

The northwest Georgia division, which both John and Elaine have served as lieutenant governor, puts on an art and talent show in Carrollton every year, which also gives scholarships.

He was twice president of the Douglas County club, and she is currently its secretary. She also makes an annual club scrapbook and Special Olympics scrapbook.

The club meets every week to hear from local projects like S.H.A.R.E. House and A Gift of Love to decide whether to add them to the recipient list.

“We enjoy working with the kids,” she said. “There is so much that needs to be done to make sure that they are pointed in the right direction, that they receive the best they can for the situation they’re in, whether disabilities or learning problems. Everybody deserves a chance. People are so busy they don’t spend the time they need to. Charitable organizaitons’ memberships are going down, and it takes some time and effort to help the kids.”