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We All Have A Rotary Story . . .
In a previous Minutarian, I asked members of our district to consider three questions What is Rotary? Why Did You Join? and Why Did You Stay? and then send me their answers. People across our district took the time to comment on their connection to Rotary. Some answers were short and to the point while others were more expansive. Real people. Real thoughts and feelings. Here are a few . . .
“. . . Rotary is a melting pot of people who come together to network and serve their community through building relationships with one another and through acts of service. Initially, I joined Rotary as a representative for our school. And, through the friendships and relationships built at our meetings and events over time, it became something I wanted to be a part of outside of my responsibilities to our school.”
“. . . I stayed because I could serve alongside fellow members in giving of my time and talent to help grow our club and serve the community. Our club's focus on youth programs brought everyone together in one heart and goal!”
Jannette Hevia, Debary-Deltona-Orange City
“. . . Rotary is an international group of people doing good for their community and helping to stop polio everywhere in the world.”
“. . . I needed people in my life to socialize with, and to help children have a meaningful Christmas.”
Laura Biddle, Flagler Beach
“. . . When I first joined Rotary, I was attracted by the opportunity to network with other professionals and contribute to my community. However, over the years, my reasons for staying have deepened and evolved. Rotary has proven to be an exceptional platform for engaging in meaningful volunteer and charitable activities, both locally and globally. It is the combination of local impact and global reach that makes Rotary the best use of my time and resources.”
“. . . The Four-Way Test's principles of truth, fairness, goodwill, and benefit have shaped my Rotary journey, guiding our actions and fostering a culture of integrity and empathy. Through Rotary, I have discovered the true essence of service above self, and it has enriched my life in ways I never imagined. The friendships I have formed and the positive impact we have made in our community continue to inspire and motivate me to uphold the values of Rotary in all aspects of my life.”
Will Burke, Palm Valley
“. . . Rotaract is an organization that goes out and builds friendships and connections with the people in your community. It gives you a change to both help others and grow yourself as a person.”
“. . . I joined Rotaract because I was referred by my family after moving here. I stayed because of the friends and projects I’ve made along the way.”
Zach Bleam, First Coast Rotaract
“. . . I joined Rotary eight years ago because it is a diverse group of professionals that make a difference. I like the structure of Rotary. No matter which club you are a member of the vision is consistent.”
“. . . I stayed because Rotary is family. It helps me expand my professional skills. I have made great contact with people with similar beliefs about giving back to our community as me. Rotary has helped me stay focused on the four-way test by holding my business and personal life to it. I’ve enjoyed mentoring young Rotaract folks for 4 years. I enjoyed my involvement with RYE pre-pandemic. I am now President Nominee for 2026-2027, and I’m looking forward to it.”
“. . . I love that Rotary is worldwide. I’ve attended five international conferences and have made and stayed in contact with many Rotarians this way. Rotary has provided an enjoyable way to achieve my goals. Success is imminent!”
Donna Guzzo, Ponte Vedra Beach
Every member of Rotary has a “what-how-why” answer to tell and I find every one of them interesting. So, what’s your story?
As always, check out the latest on our district website and a couple special items below.
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