A special event over the holiday season put a smile on our faces that no Happy Meal could produce.

Just before the frentetic finale of the holiday season, the Kiwanis of Bainbridge gathered at the McDonald’s on High School Road for a “McTakeover” of the fast food restaurant.

The cause? One that fit well with the mission of the service organization.

Kiwanians and their supporters jammed the restaurant for a special benefit to raise money for Special Olympics of Bainbridge.

Jim Snook, the president of the Kiwanis of Bainbridge, noted that the money raised is being used to buy new uniforms and equipment for the kids.

Despite a busy night on the island the night of the fundraiser — there were civic meetings galore, plus a basketball double-header at the high school — Kiwanis was able to hit its goal for the special event.

Snook said the organization raised enough money to buy 44 new uniforms for our island athletes, and when the regional basketball tournament is held on Feb. 3, the Special Olympics players from Bainbridge will all step out onto the court in their new uniforms.

The work of the Kiwanis continues all year round, of course, and Snook said their next big event will come on Super Bowl Sunday.

Those who would like to help out can learn more at the Kiwanis’ breakfast meetings, held every Wednesday at 7 a.m. at Wing Point Country Club.