100 Years of Service Above Self: Garrettsville-Hiram Rotary Marks a Century of Community Impact
In a small community, a small club can still accomplish great things—and the members of the Garrettsville-Hiram Rotary Club have proven that for a full century.
Founded on June 11, 1926, the club began when local business leaders gathered at a hotel in Garrettsville that is no longer standing. In those early years, community leaders often supported projects by simply writing checks. Over time, however, the club has evolved into a truly active, hands-on service organization dedicated to making a difference in the lives of others.
Today, the club proudly lives its mission as “an inclusive, action-oriented service organization.” Guided by the Rotary motto “Service Above Self,” members focus on strengthening the community, building friendships, and having fun along the way.
One of the club’s most beloved traditions is its annual Reverse Raffle, now in its 42nd year. Held each fall, the event has become the club’s signature fundraiser and brings together local businesses and community members for an evening of fellowship and generosity. The event features sponsorships from local businesses, raffle baskets, great food, and a lively atmosphere that reflects the strong community spirit of Garrettsville and Hiram.
Over the years, the club has also hosted golf outings and other events to support special projects and community initiatives.
In just the past two years, the Garrettsville-Hiram Rotary Club has supported a wide range of local efforts. Members helped Hope Town Recovery with technology needs and the creation of a relaxation area, placed benches in a garden at the Renaissance Family Center, and partnered with the Garrettsville People Tree to shop for children during the Christmas season.
The club also invests in youth and education. Rotarians provide dictionaries each year to third-grade students in Garrettsville and Windham, offer scholarships to students at JAG and Windham High School, and even hosted a chess class at the Renaissance Family Center.
Other recent initiatives include hosting a community Lunch and Learn focused on the food crisis, completing an accessible walking trail next to the Garrettsville Library, and working with local first responders to launch the Lock Box for Our Neighbors program, designed to help emergency responders access homes safely when needed.
While the club may be modest in size, its impact reaches throughout the community.
As members celebrate 100 years of service, they remain committed to continuing Rotary’s tradition of service, fellowship, and community leadership.
Learn More:
🌐https://garrettsvillehiramrotary.com
📬 P.O. Box 184, Garrettsville, OH 44231
📱 Facebook: Garrettsville-Hiram Rotary Club
Email Club President Trish Danku-Carlson at pmgp1229@gmail.com
Photos: Benches at RFC, Bike Stands, Christmas Shopping, GH Evening of Information, Memorial Walkway Paving, Reverse Raffle, Walking Trail Family
