The Westlake-Bay Village Rotary Club recently demonstrated the true spirit of community service with their heartwarming Epiphany Day project. On January 6, 2025, members of the club, along with volunteers from St. Paul Lutheran Church and School, brought smiles to hundreds of families in the neighborhoods surrounding the Redeemer Hunger & Crisis Center on Cleveland's West 30th Street.
The Gift of Giving
The project, which began in late December 2024, involved the preparation of 300 gift boxes for children of the center's clients. These boxes were thoughtfully packed with a variety of items, including:
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The packing event, held at St. Paul Lutheran Church and School in Westlake, brought together volunteers ranging from 8 to 80 years old, all working together to create these special gifts.
A Day of Joy and Celebration
On Epiphany Day, Rotarian Jeff Appel and church members donned golden crowns and colorful capes, embodying the Wise Men as they distributed the gifts to grateful families. Despite the bitter cold, the warmth of community spirit shone brightly as volunteers helped load carts, wagons, and cars with these precious presents.
Community Collaboration
This successful service project was made possible through the collaborative efforts of Westlake-Bay Village Rotary Club members, St. Paul Lutheran Church and School, St. Paul Generosity and Service Board, and community volunteers and donors.
The project exemplifies Rotary's commitment to service above self and demonstrates the power of community partnerships in positively impacting people's lives.
Impact and Reflection
The Epiphany Day service project provided material support to families in need and spread a message of hope and love. This Westlake-Bay Village Rotary Club initiative is an inspiring example of how local service organizations can make a significant difference in their communities. It embodies the Rotary spirit of bringing together business and professional leaders to provide humanitarian service and advance goodwill and peace worldwide.
As we reflect on this successful project, we are reminded of the power of kindness and the impact a group of dedicated individuals can have when they come together for a common cause.