This month, my message is a little more personal than usual. As many of you know, my Rotary journey began over 40 years ago, thanks to my dad. He brought me to my first Rotary meeting, and together we worked on service projects, served meals, and fundraised tirelessly. He taught me early on the profound value of helping others.
Last week, we lost my dad at the age of 91.
In 2009, we began attending meetings regularly, and on January 6, 2010, I was inducted into the Warwick Valley Rotary Club by none other than my dad. With his encouragement, I joined the club's board and later served my first term as club president in 2014-2015, a role in which I had the honor of him installing me. Over the years, he continually motivated me to stay involved—not just at the club level, but to explore opportunities to serve at the district level.
When I became an Assistant Governor, my dad was always there to offer advice. When I considered stepping forward as a candidate for District Governor, he was wholeheartedly supportive. During the 2 ½ years of preparation for this role, he was my sounding board, the person I turned to when I needed to think things through. Having him join us on last year’s District Conference Cruise and be present for my installation as District Governor is a memory I will treasure forever.
His was a life well-lived, one that truly embodied Rotary’s motto, Service Above Self. As I reflect on his life, I’m overwhelmed with gratitude for his decision to introduce me to this incredible organization.
As we take a moment to remember the Rotarians we’ve lost this year, let us honor their legacies by living out Service Above Self. Even the smallest acts of kindness can create ripples of change in the lives of others. Over the past few days, I’ve learned even more about the quiet, impactful ways my dad touched lives—whether by simply listening, offering thoughtful advice, or helping without any fanfare.
Let us take inspiration from those who came before us and continue to touch lives and make a difference, no matter how big or small.
Together, we can honor their memory by carrying their spirit of service forward.
DG Leo
As you know, Rotary is built on the values of service, leadership, and fellowship. Volunteering at the district level offers a powerful way to enhance your leadership skills while helping guide and support clubs within our district. It’s an experience that not only benefits you but also has a profound impact on the community of Rotarians as a whole.
To get more involved please fill out this quick form and Beau or someone from the District will reach out to you with more information.
https://forms.gle/Q98XFgBiV4a2
Here’s how volunteering with the district can help you grow:
1. Develop Your Leadership Skills: Serving at the district level provides you with opportunities to take on meaningful leadership roles. Whether it's coordinating events, leading initiatives, or working with other clubs, you'll gain valuable experience that sharpens your skills and prepares you for even more significant leadership responsibilities within Rotary.
2. Expand Your Network: By working closely with fellow Rotarians from across the district, you'll form lasting connections with people who share your commitment to service and community. This expanded network offers the chance for collaboration, learning, and growth both personally and professionally.
3. Make a Larger Impact: Volunteering at the district level allows you to help shape and implement larger initiatives that reach beyond individual clubs. Your efforts can amplify the impact of Rotary’s work, from supporting district-wide projects to guiding the growth of new clubs and fostering stronger partnerships.
4. Help Fellow Rotarians Thrive: By volunteering at the district level, you'll play a key role in supporting your fellow Rotarians. From mentoring new members to providing resources and guidance to clubs, you’ll be helping others succeed, creating a stronger, more unified Rotary community.
5. Grow Personally and Professionally: The district leadership roles provide an enriching environment for personal development. You’ll strengthen your project management, communication, and team-building skills while deepening your understanding of Rotary’s mission and values.
If you’re looking to challenge yourself, make a difference, and help fellow Rotarians thrive, we encourage you to consider volunteering with the district. Your involvement will not only support the district’s goals but also contribute to the growth and success of Rotary as a whole.
Thank you for your dedication to Rotary, and we look forward to the possibility of working alongside you to make an even greater impact.
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