Ravenna Rotary: Nearly a Century of Service and Connection
The Rotary Club of Ravenna was founded on October 27, 1925, with support from our sponsor club, Kent Rotary. Since then, we’ve been proud to serve our community through leadership, service, and fellowship.
One of our standout moments in Rotary history came in 1952–1953, when Ravenna member Dr. Charles L. Naylor, DO, served as District Governor.
Our early investments were humble—just $80 reinvested into the community in 1948, and our first scholarship in 1964 was under $200. But we’ve come a long way. Since 1992, Ravenna Rotary has awarded over $350,000 in scholarships to local students pursuing their dreams.
What Sets Us Apart? The People.
Today, our club is a dynamic mix of community leaders, professionals, and friends who are passionate about making Ravenna a better place. When President Paul asked, “What sets us apart from other clubs?” the answer was unanimous: “The people.”
Our members are deeply involved and genuinely care. One member shared, “When I see this kind of investment, it encourages me and makes me want to be more involved myself.” Another added, “We’re small, but mighty!”
We also stand out by meeting at midday during the week—a rhythm that works well for our active members.
We meet on Mondays at Noon at UH Portage Medical Center 6847 N. Chestnut St. Ravenna, OH.
Fundraising That Brings People Together
Over the years, we’ve hosted events like the Mum Sale, Ravenna Balloon A-Fair, and Harvest Breakfast. Today, our biggest and most successful fundraiser is the Spring Reverse Raffle. It’s a fun, high-energy evening filled with auction baskets, 50/50 drawings, second-chance prizes, and great food. As one member put it: “Donations, people, food, camaraderie, and lots of fun!”
Supporting Students and Serving the Community
Our newest initiative, launched this month, is the Rotary Honor Student of the Month. In partnership with the staff of Ravenna High School, we recognize one senior each month at our club meeting. Students receive a certificate, a flash drive, a $50 gift card, and an Honor Cord to wear with their graduation regalia. Both the student and our Ravenna Rotary are acknowledged at commencement—a proud moment for all involved.
We also dedicate one meeting each month to Service Day, where we serve the noontime meal at the Center of Hope and the evening meal at the Shepherd’s House shelter. Our club continues to support the annual 4-Way Test Speech Contest and our annual Student Scholarship Program.
Investing in Ravenna
Our recent service projects and donations have supported:
- The Dictionary Project
- Reed Memorial Library Children’s Department
- Family & Children’s Services
- Center of Hope
- Kent Social Services
- Ravenna Community Choir
- Ravenna Schools Baseball Field
- The Salvation Army (Bell Ringing & Summer Book Outreach)
- United Way of Portage County
A New Home and a Fresh Start Online
We’ve recently moved our meeting location to United Health (UH) Portage Medical Center, giving us a fresh connection to another key community resource. The cafeteria and café offer flexible meal options and a chance to interact with a wide range of people from the community.
We’re also in the process of rebuilding our website and Facebook presence to improve our presence in and beyond the community.
Ravenna Rotary Contact Information:
President Paul Knickerbocker
paul.knickerbocker@use.salvationarmy.org
513-340-1991
We meet at Noon on Monday at UH Portage Medical Center 6847 N. Chestnut St. Ravenna, OH
Mailing Address: PO Box 9, Ravenna, Ohio 44266
Photos: The top photo is our first Rotary Student of the Month, Ravenna High School Senior Giana McKendry with high school counselor Arasin Hughes and Paul.
The second is of speaker Amy Young, who is head of Reed Memorial Library in Ravenna, who spoke to our club about library funding. From left are Paul, member Anne Marie Noble, Amy Young, member Lajoyce Harris and member Heather Rainone.
