Hello Rotary Family!
As we transition back into the rhythm of the school year, it is hard to believe how fast summer flew by! A new school year brings renewed energy to our family of Rotary, especially for our vibrant Interact clubs. Our Interact student leaders are launching their local service projects, selecting a district-wide initiative, and preparing for Interaction, their one-day Interact District Conference. Please join me in supporting these inspiring young leaders as they kick off another impactful year.
I recently returned from the Zone 30–31 Institute in New Orleans alongside 12 dedicated Rotarians from our district. It was an extraordinary gathering, and I came away energized and inspired by the stories shared by past and incoming Rotary International Presidents, as well as the dynamic idea exchanges throughout the week. Our district was well represented, with members facilitating engaging breakout sessions, serving as sergeants-at-arms, and learning alongside fellow leaders. I always return from these zone events full of fresh ideas that I cannot wait to bring home to our district!
September is Rotary’s Basic Literacy and Education Month, a focus that feels particularly fitting as students return to the classroom. It is also a poignant time for reflection as we mourn the passing of country icon and humanitarian Dolly Parton. Millions of children have entered school far better prepared to succeed because of her vision and dedication through the Imagination Library. That is true, lasting impact—and an effort so many of our own clubs proudly champion through local Imagination Library partnerships. As we finish out September, I encourage each club to reflect on how you are creating lasting impact within literacy and education. If your club already has an active project in this area, make sure to tell your story and share your impact with your community and our district!
Looking ahead as fall sets in, it is time to start planning for World Polio Day on October 24. Has your club decided how you will honor the day? If you haven't hosted a PolioPlus fundraiser in recent years, this is a wonderful time to try something new. Whether it’s a Pints for Polio, Pours for Polio, Putts for Polio, or an entirely unique idea, please share your plans with us so we can help promote your event district-wide! We also have a few exciting district-level plans in development—stay tuned for details soon!
Finally, a heartfelt thank you to all the clubs that have welcomed me for official visits over the past few weeks. Hearing your stories and seeing your passion in action is the highlight of my term. If I am not on your club’s calendar yet, please reach out so we can get a date scheduled.
Thank you for everything you do to create positive change in our communities and around the world!
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