INSIDE THIS ISSUE:
August 2025
2025-2026: Unite For Good.
Welcome to a new Rotary Year, a New Rotary International President, new District Leadership, and a new RI Message to inspire us for the months ahead!
Unite for Good. The message for year 2025-2026 seems simple enough. What does this message mean for District 7680?
Unite – To come together for a common purpose or action. To join in fellowship, in agreement. To act as a single unit. It is the opposite of being divided.
Good – That which is right. That can be relied upon. Kind. Benevolent. That is for the betterment of someone or something.
As Rotarians, Unite for Good is part of our culture; it is our reason for being. The single act of a Rotary meeting is Uniting for Good. Health and Happiness, CART buckets, Polio Plus updates, local service projects, community speakers, laughter and fellowship. Over a Rotary year, we participate in District Grants, Global Grants, Disaster Relief, Mental Health Initiatives, Youth Exchanges, Rotaract, Interact. We visit Senior Living Centers, read to school students, donate educational supplies, and provide shoes to Title 1 school children. We pack lunches, serve meals, sort meal kits, and stock food pantries. We plant trees, remove disaster debris, improve non-profit facilities, clean up waterways and highways. We travel internationally to provide clean water, polio vaccines, repair cleft palates and children’s hearts. We host fundraising golf tournaments, music festivals, galas, and cooking events.
With all this, what else can we do?!
We can be better! We can look for opportunities to improve. We can collaborate with more intent. We can cooperate with our neighbors and with other service organizations for greater impact. We can share our project challenges, successes, and outcomes. We can support projects hosted by other clubs. We can ask other service organizations to assist with our projects, while we, in turn, assist with theirs.
If the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation can collaborate with Rotary International, certainly we can follow suit locally.
I challenge you and your club to find reasons to collaborate. Do it for the increased impact. Do it to minimize overlapping efforts. Do it to get to know your neighbor and to fellowship with others.
You will soon hear about a new Global Grant Project, drafted by our District, with global partners, with the goal of providing Disaster Relief to Small Businesses impacted by Hurricane Helene in Western NC. Personally, I am extremely excited about this effort. We have seen the devastation in the Western NC area and assisted with relief efforts that focus on shelter, clothing, water, and food. In fact, food insecurity is still real, and we continue to assist with District grant efforts. Now, almost a year later, we turn to the Economic Recovery that is so needed in the area. The Global Grant, A Promise Kept, will target the needs of small businesses that desire to reopen. Rebuilding the local economy is critical. Enabling small businesses to successfully open will bring back local jobs and start the flow of wages into the hands of employees and their families.
Unite for Good. The RI theme and message for 2025-2026. I encourage each of you to continue Rotary’s Good works, and to focus on Uniting for more impactful outcomes.
DG Donna Moffett
Submitted by PDG Kevin Kendrick, Dilworth Rotary
Farewell to PDG Jim and Patsy Stump!
Members of the Charlotte Dilworth Club and many other clubs, recently gathered at Mac’s Speed Shop in Charlotte to bid a fond farewell to PDG Jim Stump and wife, Patsy.
Jim was a member of the Dilworth Club beginning in 1985 and served the District as Governor during 1996-1997. Jim oversaw the creation of the Mecklenburg South Rotary Club and served as a mentor and role model for virtually every new member of the Club. He was a huge advocate for our Care and Comfort Committee and checked in on members frequently just to see how they were doing. Patsy was a regular presence at our Club events and always helped out on special occasions.
Jim and Patsy have moved back to Roanoke, VA to be closer to family and of course, to be nearer to the railroads of that area!
We wish them every thing good and positive, just because Jim was always good and positive with all he did for us.
A Promise Kept – Economic Recovery in Western North Carolina
As many of you know, western North Carolina, including parts of District 7680 and many parts of District 7670, were impacted severely by Hurricane Helene in late September 2024. Helene was the deadliest to strike mainland United States since Katrina in 2005. The hurricane caused catastrophic flooding in western NC, primarily from high winds and flooding. The Appalachian Mountain range area, including areas like Swannanoa, Spruce Pine, Chimney Rock and Montreat were especially impacted. The 107 deaths attributed to NC as a result of Helene represented the highest in history.
The immediate response to the disaster was facilitated by numerous volunteers and non-profits such as Samaritan’s Purse. One of those groups was an organization called Operation Helo, a loose coalition of primarily individuals who were pilots. When initial observers viewed the terrain in western NC, they quickly realized that conditions were too risky for small planes and they quickly determined that the most expeditious means of providing assistance would be to ferry in food and supplies by helicopter. Staff at Operation Helo called this Phase I of their support operation and altogether, would marshal some 200 volunteer pilots to bring in over two million pounds of supplies in over 100 missions.
Operation Helo became 501c3 on 10/2/24. After the initial missions were completed, they conducted community needs assessments in conjunction with local fire departments and emergency management officials and determined there was a need for housing for many of the victims of Helene. The weather was becoming cooler, and many people were sleeping in tents or cars. In Phase II, Operation Helo staff provided pop-up campers to 220 individuals using funds designated for western NC. They are in the process of signing over the titles to those campers to the occupants as a means of providing them with assets the owners may be able to convert for funds needed for other matters.
Operation Helo has concentrated much of their current effort in Yancey and Mitchell Counties. They are coordinating with multiple agencies in each county to determine need. The focus of their current efforts is to identify individuals and small businesses that have damage to their structures. Damage can be minor or major, but they are assessing what can be done in concert with local officials. Since FEMA has largely dried up and insurance won’t cover much of what has been lost, homeowners and small business owners have been left to fend for themselves.
Rotary learned of Operation Helo from Preston Hagman, a Rotarian in the Lake Norman/Huntersville Club who as a pilot, has volunteered there since the beginning of the disaster response. Since that time, Rotary District leaders have met with Operation Helo staff to determine how we might be able to work collaboratively. After several discussions and a helicopter view over much of the area that has been impacted, we decided to pursue a Global Grant (GG).
Our GG will focus on assisting small businesses to recover. Helping these businesses become operational will help in employing members of the community and contribute to communities becoming viable and sustainable again. The areas in Yancey and Mitchell Counties rely heavily on tourism as does much of western NC and so helping these small businesses to become viable again, represents an investment in their communities.
Operation Helo has great credibility in the area and has already established a list of businesses which could benefit from assistance. Since Operation Helo does not simply write checks, but instead, procures supplies and equipment necessary for these repairs, the risk of inappropriate use of funds is minimized.
Operation Helo has prioritized business needs based on the following criteria:
- Total or near-total loss of both business and home.
- Businesses that support multiple local jobs or are the only providers of essential goods and services in the area.
- Owners who have exhausted other resources and have simply hit a wall.
- Businesses that are vital to our local economy, culture, and tourism — restaurants, farms, artisans, and small retailers that keep these mountain communities alive.
- And finally: business owners who are standing there saying, “I’m ready. I just need help to cross that finish line.”
Rotary will participate not just as funders, but as true partners in the rebuild:
- Volunteer Days: Rotarians can come help with light repair work, painting, installs, shelving, landscaping — helping owners feel the community physically show up for them.
- Professional Mentorship: Many Rotarians have expertise in business, finance, marketing, and operations — skills these business owners need right now as they rebuild.
- Business Networking & Visibility: Rotarians can help promote grand re-openings, organize “shop local” events, and encourage community support to get these businesses thriving again.
- Encouragement & Presence: Just knowing Rotary cares enough to show up, check in, and walk beside these business owners makes a world of difference to people who’ve felt forgotten for so long.
We were extremely fortunate to procure the assistance of Kim Brattain and her media company in documenting the ongoing need in western NC. The video that Kim produced is called “Blindsided”. We would welcome an opportunity to speak with your Club about supporting this Global Grant further!
Calling All Rotarians! Rotary Friendship Exchange is Back!
Rotary Friendship Exchange is an international exchange program for Rotary members and friends that allows participants to take turns hosting one another in their homes and clubs.
We have a great opportunity for a Rotary Friendship Exchange with District 3220, which serves both Sri Lanka and the Maldives. This is in combination with a Chicago District. They will be hosting for a week and asked if we could host for a week.
The incoming exchange District 7680 will host May 23 through 29, 2026 and the team could come to the district conference in Asheville and leave then to Chicago. Are you interested in hosting contact Ineke Wilson.
The outgoing exchange to Sri Lanka is 10 days in total, from January 11 to 21, 2026. More details to follow.
Are you interested in traveling, contact Ineke Wilson, Friendship Exchange Chair at 704-905-5002 or for.ineke@gmail.com
We have an opportunity to visit Kazakhstan. This is District 2430, the same district when we visited Turkey 4 years ago, but Kazakhstan is part of that district. More details to follow.
And there is an exchange planned with the Philippines for 2026. More details to follow.
Rotary Friendship Exchange
What is Rotary Friendship Exchange?
- Friendship Exchange is an international exchange program for Rotary members and friends that allows participants to take turns hosting one another in their homes and clubs.
- Friendship Exchange participants travel as individuals, couples, families, or groups, and may include Rotary members and nonmembers.
What are the benefits?
- Broaden international understanding
- Explore a specific profession or job in a different context
- Build enduring friendships
- Establish a foundation for peace and service
- Gain opportunities for active project involvement and support
- Learn about a region’s people, food, languages, customs, and history
- Find partners for global grants
When was the last and when is the next Friendship Exchange?
- In 2016 a team of 4 couples from India visited us and attended our District Conference in April.
- In 2017 a team with 6 members visited India and attended their District Conference in February.
- In 2022 a team of 5 members visited Turkey and attended their District Project in September.
- In 2022 a team of 7 members visited us and attended our District Foundation Banquet in November.
- In 2026 a team of 6 members will visit Sri Lanka in January.
- In 2026 a team of 12 members will visit us and attend our District Conference in May.
How much does it cost to go on a Friendship Exchange?
- You pay for your airplane ticket to the country.
- You usually stay in Rotarian’s homes. So, the lodging and home meals are usually covered.
- In some countries, living space is small, and hosts may not be able to accommodate more than 1 guest or no guests. It would then be necessary to stay at a nearby hotel.
- You are responsible for restaurant and all other out-of-home expenses.
Need more information…………call or email me.
Ineke Wilson, Rotary Friendship Exchange Chair
704-905-5002
Submitted by Marcia Scheideman
District Learning Facilitator
Unite for Good—this isn’t just a theme, it’s our rallying cry. As Rotarians, we believe in the power of community, collaboration, and bold action. Together, we truly can change the world. But meaningful change doesn’t happen by chance—it starts with a clear vision and a plan to make it real.
For new club presidents, that can feel like a big responsibility. But here’s one powerful way to start strong…
District 7680 has fully embraced Rotary International’s Club Visioning Initiative—a dynamic process that helps clubs define where they want to be in three years and lays out a clear, actionable path to get there. Under the guidance of PDG Kevin Kendrick, our District Leadership Team took the lead by participating in a visioning session last spring—and now the energy is spreading.
Following a strong call to action at District Conference, the Matthews Rotary Club took the next step. They hosted their own Club Visioning event on August 26, 2025. It was more than just a planning session—it was a moment when club members had the opportunity to dream big, engage deeply, and shape a stronger, more vibrant future for their club.
Curious about how Visioning could help your club grow and thrive?
• Contact Marcia Scheideman (mscheideman.ms@gmail.com)—I’d be happy to answer any questions.
• Want a front-row seat before committing? Let me know and we can provide Club presidents with the opportunity to experience the process in action. Charlotte South Dilworth/Queen City Impact Club has a visioning event scheduled for November 15, 2025.
Ready to schedule a Visioning event for your club?
• Let’s make it happen—just reach out and we’ll find the right time for you.
This is a truly exciting time for Rotary. Let’s keep the momentum going—and Unite for Good as we build thriving, future-ready clubs together.
CELEBRATING RLI ALUMNI
Submitted by:
Linda Sussman, Linda.b.sussman@gmail.com
Mid-Atlantic Rotary Leadership Institute (RLI), Reporter
The Rotary Leadership Institute (RLI) launched the RLI Alumni program with a celebration of approximately 70 Alumni at the Mid-Atlantic RLI Summer Meeting July 11-12 in North Carolina. An awesome resource for new, as well as more experienced Rotarians, RLI provides a variety of learning opportunities – now with the additional benefit of becoming an Alumni after completing the first training course!
As explained by Laurie Reuben, RLI courses are open to all Rotarians – whether or not they are an officer or are considering an official role in their Club or District. “One of the benefits of being a Rotarian is that you have access to leadership training – the beauty is that it is provided in the context of your Rotary experience, which makes it instantly applicable.” Laurie, who recently began serving as the RLI District Chair (District 7620) explained that she “came late to the RLI training program”. A member of Rotary for 15 years, she was president of her club in 2015-16 and continues as an active Rotarian in her current club in Columbia, Maryland. She completed her RLI training last year, as she became increasingly involved in District-level activities, and she is now taking RLI graduate courses.
There are over 3,000 alumni in the Mid-Atlantic region. Through the training – and now through RLI Alumni events – there are many opportunities for people to connect with people from other clubs. “You might have, for example, Rotarians from different parts of the region who find that they share similar interests, such as peace, health or farming, and then they continue to exchange information and ideas following the training.” As Laurie explained, “What I found at the summer meeting is that this is a highly passionate group of people who are engaged. They want to know how they can make the biggest impact in helping people to understand that RLI is for everybody…”
What does it mean to be an RLI Alumni? Alums are asked to actively promote future RLI classes – attending them, bringing others along with them, and talking about RLI at club meetings. “We want to make sure that people know that RLI exists and not only for those who are planning to be an officer.” RLI is for those who want to take a deeper dive into what Rotary is and how they can connect with their own clubs and with the other layers that make up Rotary.
The Alumni celebration was held at the summer meeting along with other events, including RLI I-III training, and Graduate, and New Faculty courses. In the future, RLI Alumni will continue to be represented at joint gatherings of clubs and districts. For example, at the Joint District Conference on October 3-5 (Districts 7620 and 7610), you can learn more about the alumni group at the RLI Table at the House of Friendship. Going forward, Alumni will be celebrated at both summer and winter Mid-Atlantic RLI meetings, with the next time being at the Winter Meeting in January, 2026.
“We have a lot of leadership skills in Rotary through the RLI alums. We want to make sure we are highlighting those skills and learning from our RLI alums…that their expertise is welcome and appreciated as we navigate leadership issues.”
Information about the Mid-Atlantic RLI and upcoming training dates are available here.
Leaders Building Leadership in RLI
Submitted by Linda Sussman, Mid-Atlantic RLI, Reporter
Rotarians want to be involved. We can help people do that successfully…Like planning anything, if you go into it without the skills, you are in trouble. But we can give them those skill sets through leadership training…and that is what RLI does.
Jack Cohen has been honing his leadership skills for over 26 years in Rotary and for as long– or longer –in his work and in the broader community. A founding member of Rotary Club of Cranberry Township Sunrise in Butler County, PA, he served as president and held other offices over the last 20+ years, including as District Governor in 2022/23. At work, Jack has been executive director and then president of Butler County Tourism & Convention Bureau (BCTCB). His civic leadership extends to serving on a variety of local Boards, and he was recruited to be a member of the transition team for the current Governor of PA.
Jack’s District 7280 recently joined Mid-Atlantic RLI. After driving to the RLI Summer Sessions in North Carolina for a weekend of training in July, he is now certified to train others in the leadership skills that he has spent the last decades refining.
“When I went to the North Carolina RLI training, it was really about leadership and Rotary being a part of it. I thought that was exactly how we should teach it. You talk about leadership and then add to that the things we do in Rotary, and it really makes a difference.”
What excites Jack about teaching RLI classes? “If you have a goal, such as feeding the hungry, and you accomplish that goal and then teach someone else to do those things, it is a reward for you – knowing you share skills for others to be able to make change. Making change is everything.”
Jack especially looks forward to teaching in-person. …”You are building relationships as part of this training. There are people you make contact with who will be there if you have a question or want to run things by them. Relationships bring opportunities to build things through Rotary.”
Leadership skills learned in RLI trainings are invaluable – not only for working within Rotary – “You can also use apply these leadership skills in your everyday life with your family, your neighbors, your work, and your community.”
Jack will bring a vast amount of leadership experience to his new role as RLI trainer with the Mid-Atlantic RLI!
Information about the Mid-Atlantic RLI and upcoming training dates are available here.
For Club Learning Facilitators – It’s More Than Just Orientation
Submitted by Marcia Scheideman, District 7680 Learning Facilitator
As a Club Learning Facilitator, you get to spark meaningful conversations and help fellow Rotarians and Rotaractors grow as leaders—both in Rotary and beyond. You don’t need to be a teacher or a polished speaker. If you’re passionate about learning, love Rotary, and enjoy helping others succeed, this is your chance to make a real impact.
Let’s Take Club Learning to the Next Level!
Being a Club Learning Facilitator is more than just helping new members get oriented—it’s about creating opportunities for everyone in your club to grow, connect, and thrive.
Rotary International sees the role like this:
- Welcoming and orienting new members as they join Rotary
- Encouraging club leaders to take part in district learning events
- Teaming up with your district learning committee to map out a learning strategy
- Offering hands-on, skill-building experiences for members
- Partnering with your club board to make sure learning stays a priority
Some of you have been doing this work for years, thank you! Others may be brand new to the role and wonder where to start. Wherever you are on that spectrum, know this: orientation is just the beginning. We have a chance to go further and offer even more ways for members to learn, lead, and stay engaged.
Too often, orientation is the only shared learning experience clubs offer. Let’s change that! Let’s build a culture where learning becomes a regular (and fun!) part of club life.
District Leadership is here to support you. Learning fuels engagement, and engagement helps members stick around. Let’s partner up to create fresh, relevant, and meaningful learning opportunities—not just for new members, but for everyone in your club.
And don’t worry—no extra meetings! I’m setting up casual Zoom “office hours” where you can drop in, ask questions, share ideas, brainstorm together, or just chat. Keep tuned for times. Want help planning something? Thinking about trying something new? Let’s talk!
You’re not alone in this—and together, we can make learning a powerful part of Rotary.
Never Miss a Public Image Webinar!
By Lisa Hazlett
Thanks to everyone who was able to join us live for the Storytelling that Sticks webinar on Tuesday night. All of the Public Image webinars are available online. It typically takes about a week for them to be added to the YouTube playlist. You can find them here.
In the webinar, Whitney references a few tools for clubs that are interested in learning more about the platform. Donald Miller’s Building a Storybrand is an easy to understand process for reframing the stories we are telling. I have used Storybrand in my marketing and grant writing efforts resulting in over $10M raised. Consider that a testimonial. You can learn more here.
Finally, unrelated to story, some of our clubs are struggling with social media. It’s not so much the WHAT to post but the WHERE and WHEN.
Submitted by Kevin Kendrick, RYE Co-Chair
Rotary Youth Exchange isn’t just about crossing borders – it’s about flinging open the doors to adventure, friendship, and the kind of life-changing moments you can’t find in a guidebook. For students, it’s a front-row seat to the world: living with warm, welcoming host families, making friends from every corner of the globe, learning a new language, and discovering that while cultures are wonderfully unique, people everywhere share the same human spirit. Every day brings a new story, a new taste, and a fresh way of seeing the world. The attached picture represents many of our inbound students who were enjoying a weekend at Black Mountain, NC.
For volunteers, the magic sparkles just as brightly. Hosting an exchange student fills our homes and clubs with energy, curiosity, and laughter. We get to share our traditions, explore theirs, and watch a young person grow into a confident global citizen. And the best part? The friendships often outlast the suitcases by years – sometimes a lifetime.
Here in District 7680, we’re working to grow the program so more students and more Rotarian volunteers can experience this magic. Co-chairs Kam Chandan and Kevin Kendrick are building a team of people who believe in what Youth Exchange can do—for individuals, families, and communities.
Like any great adventure, we need a crew! If you’d like to help with inbound or outbound students, long-term or short-term exchanges, we’d love to connect. Jump in, lend a hand, and help us make the world a little smaller and a whole lot friendlier!
Learn more at: Youth Exchange – Rotary District 7680
STEAM in Action: STEAMSCAPE℠
On June 20, 2025, BRC’s STEAM Committee, in partnership with Ballantyne Elementary School and Dot.Consulting, presented the journey, purpose, and impact of their STEAM initiative, STEAMSCAPE℠. Designed to empower underserved students through science, technology, engineering, arts, and math, the program inspires students to reimagine their futures and transform their communities.
With a strong focus on equity, STEAMSCAPE℠ addresses growing STEM workforce needs, persistent achievement gaps in North Carolina, and the link between socioeconomic status and academic proficiency. From a creative, vibrant logo to engaging experiences, this initiative brings innovation to life.
The event also celebrated partners and supporters, including TowneBank, Ballantyne Elementary School, Dot.Consulting, and Rotary leadership. STEM kits were donated to local schools, extending the program’s impact beyond the presentation.
The STEAM Committee is committed to building momentum, expanding the initiative, and ensuring every student has access to tools for success.
Huntersville Happy Hour Rotary Hosts 1st Bike Drive for Kids 
An enthusiastic group of volunteers holding signs and waving to passersby got the attention of the Huntersville community. The bike drive hosted by the Huntersville Happy Hour Rotary Club for Trips for Kids, was held at the Huntersville Presbyterian Church located on Old Statesville Road in Huntersville bringing in 31 bikes.
Trips for Kids, a non-profit organization run out of Charlotte, transforms lives and communities through cycling. Bikes and bike parts are donated to the Re-Cyclery where they are repaired, refurbished, and put back into use. The community collaborative fosters sustainability through recycled bikes, parts and accessories and benefits Trips for Kids’ programs which include bicycle education, the “earn-a-bike program” and supervised cycling adventures.
The Huntersville Happy Hour Rotary Club got involved at the suggestion of one of the club members who has been helping the organization since 2011. Michael Camp also known as “Bike Mike” chaired the project for the club.
“We all understand the importance of bike ownership especially for kids and teens without the means to purchase a brand-new bike,” explains Uni Brown, Club President. “In addition to the bike drive, our club is committed to helping with other aspects of the program under the guidance and direction of Eric Supil, Executive Director for Trips for Kids.”
Volunteer Night happens every Tuesday at the Re-Cyclery from 5 pm to 8 pm. Volunteers can assist by breaking down bikes, sorting parts, cleaning the shop and organizing the space.
To learn more about Trips for Kids and its mission, go to www.tripsforkids.org.
New digital sign dedicated for HH Beam Elementary 
Members of the Rotary Club of Gastonia, led by HH Beam Elementary School Principal Beth Crosby, dedicated a new digital sign at HH Beam Elementary on Saturday, August 2, just in time for the new school year. The new digital sign will be an important tool to enhance the school’s ability to share important communications.
“Our new sign is going to better meet the needs of all of our students and families as we let them know about upcoming events and initiatives at our school. We’ll be posting real-time news, updates, messages, and be able to share posts in multiple languages to best serve our students, their families, and our community,” Principal Crosby explained.
The Rotary Club of Gastonia expanded its partnership with HH Beam during the 2024-25 year and made a significant financial contribution toward the sign.
“The partnership between The Rotary Club of Gastonia and HH Beam is an integral part of the work that we are able to do at our school.” The sign project was championed by 2024-25 Gastonia Rotary Club President Luke Upchurch and 2025-26 Club President (past Service Chair) Sharon Padgett.
Crosby shared words of appreciation for all who supported the sign project. “I am extremely grateful for the support Rotary has provided in order to make this digital sign a reality.” Crosby proudly reported that the school’s students raised just over $13,000 in a fall fun walk.
Gaston County Schools provided additional funds. Principal Crosby added, “We look forward to using the sign for the good of our community for many years to come!”
HH Beam staff, students, and families joined in the dedication as they returned for a back-to-school welcome event.
Pictured are: D7680 DGN Sharon Heinrich, Past President Les Davis, Tim Grooms, D7680 DGE Jerry Coughter and Maggie, Community Service Chair Marcia Scheideman, Immediate Past President Luke Upchurch, and President-Elect Andrew Pierce.
Happy Feet Returns:
Salisbury Rotary Club Helps Students Start the Year on the Right Foot
Submitted by Alexandra Fisher, Executive Director of Meals on Wheels and Salisbury Rotary Club Member
The Rotary Club of Salisbury strengthened its commitment to local students this September through the return of its Happy Feet program. The club provided nearly 400 pairs of brand-new shoes to all third graders at six Rowan-Salisbury Elementary Schools.
Happy Feet, which has been on hiatus since 2019, ensures students have quality footwear to support their growth, learning, and play. Shoe Carnival staff measured each child’s feet to ensure a proper fit, and they could select their own shoes to enjoy.
Shoe Carnival partnered with the Rotary Club to make this initiative possible, offering a 20% discount on all purchases. Donations from the Rotary Club of Salisbury and Fred and Alice Stanback ensured that every child received the shoes they needed.
Students from North Rowan, Overton, Koontz, Hurley, Hanford-Dole, and Isenberg Elementaries participated in the project.
Each school visited Shoe Carnival on an assigned day between September 8 and 12. Rotarians, along with student volunteers from the Salisbury High Interact Club, helped the children pick out their shoes.
Rotarian Chris Bradshaw, who organized the event, noted that Happy Feet is a key part of the club’s mission to support local students.
“Happy Feet is about more than just shoes, it’s about giving students the support they need to start the school year with confidence,” said Bradshaw, “seeing their excitement reminds us why service to the community is at the heart of everything we do.”
The Rotary Club of Salisbury has a long history of investing in local youth through service projects, scholarships, and community partnerships. By reviving Happy Feet, the club reaffirms its commitment to improving the lives of children and families in Rowan County.
For more information about the Salisbury Rotary Club or how to get involved, visit https://www.salisburyrotary.org/
Rotary Member Spotlight: Dorothy Woodard
Preserving Legacy, Building Community
Submitted by David Bullins, President, Statesville Rotary Club
On August 21, 2025, Dorothy Woodard was honored with a proclamation by the Mayor of Statesville at the Chestnut Grove Community Center—a moment that celebrated not only her personal achievements but also the enduring legacy of a place that shaped her life and continues to shape her community.
Dorothy grew up in the Chestnut Grove community and attended Chestnut Grove Elementary School from first through eighth grade. For her, the school was more than a place of learning—it was a foundation for belonging, resilience, and pride. After graduating from college and returning to Statesville, Dorothy felt a deep calling to give back to the community and to the Center that had given her so much.
The Chestnut Grove Community Center, formerly Chestnut Grove Elementary School, holds profound historical significance. Built in 1927 through community fundraising and the Rosenwald Fund, it was one of the few segregated schools in Iredell County for African American children and among the first to receive accreditation. It served students from grades 1–8 until its closure in 1966. Afterward, a core group of residents purchased the building from the Iredell County Board of Education to preserve it for community use and historic remembrance.
Since 1970, the Center has been the primary social, cultural, and gathering place for the surrounding community. Entirely volunteer-run, it operates through grants, donations, food and yard sales, and rental fees. Dorothy and her late husband, Woody, both served as presidents of the Board of Directors, leading efforts to secure funding for major improvements such as replacing windows, installing heating and air conditioning units, and enhancing the building’s overall efficiency and comfort.
Today, Dorothy continues to serve as Treasurer of the Board, remaining actively engaged in supporting the Center’s programs and preserving its legacy. Her work ensures that the Center remains a vibrant, welcoming space for future generations—a symbol of resilience, progress, and the enduring power of community.
Beyond Chestnut Grove, Dorothy’s impact is far-reaching. A retired educator and administrator, she served in the Iredell-Statesville Schools, Newton-Conover, Rowan/Salisbury, and Philadelphia School Districts, earning recognition from many of these institutions. Her civic involvement includes service with Hospice and Palliative Care, Iredell Adult Day Services, Crosby Scholars, and the Statesville NAACP, where she serves as Life Membership Chairperson.
The August 21 event also brought together alumni, former teachers, and community leaders to celebrate the rich history of the Chestnut Grove Rosenwald School and to honor Dorothy’s lifelong commitment to education and community service.
Dorothy Woodard exemplifies the Rotary motto, Service Above Self. Her leadership, compassion, and dedication continue to inspire all who know her. We are proud to spotlight Dorothy as a true steward of history and a champion of community.
Monroe Rotary Micro Project
Submitted by Jennifer Sutton Smith, Monroe Rotary Communications
As part of its ongoing commitment to serve the local community, Monroe Rotary recently completed a purposeful micro project—packing more than 125 backpacks filled with essential school supplies for children in the Union County foster care system. These backpacks will help ensure students start the school year with the tools they need to succeed.
This effort was led by new members Thomas Engl and Abby Bak, who have jumped right in to embrace the Rotary motto of Service Above Self. Their leadership and enthusiasm brought fresh energy to the project and inspired fellow Rotarians to take action.
The program also featured guest speaker Keith Rorie, who shared insight into the growing need for foster families in our area. He spoke passionately about the impact foster parents can have and explained the process of becoming a foster parent.
This project reflects Monroe Rotary’s mission to meet real needs with hands-on service and support for vulnerable children and families in our community.
Rotarian Oscar Outen Honored with National ADTSEA Teacher Excellence Award
Reprinted from the Monroe-Union Rotary Newsletter and with permission.
In Memory of Dr. Francis Kenel
Monroe, North Carolina – July 2025
We are proud to announce that our very own Oscar Outen, President of the Monroe-Union Breakfast Rotary Club, has been named a 2025 recipient of the prestigious ADTSEA Teacher Excellence Award (TEA)—one of only four honorees nationwide.
Presented by the American Driver and Traffic Safety Education Association (ADTSEA) and sponsored by the National Road Safety Foundation (NRSF), this award is given in memory of Dr. Francis Kenel, a pioneering figure in traffic safety and driver education. It recognizes educators who exemplify outstanding leadership, innovation, and dedication to promoting driver and traffic safety.
A Lifetime of Service and Leadership
Oscar’s selection for this national honor reflects a distinguished career marked by dedication to public service, education, and community leadership:
- S. Army Veteran & Master Driving Instructor (1988–2003): Trained military personnel in advanced driving and combat vehicle operations. His military awards include the National Defense Service Medal, Armed Forces Expeditionary Medal, Combat Action Badge, and U.S. Army Driver’s Badge.
- USPS Driving Safety Instructor (retired 1994 – 2022): Promoted safe driving practices in the federal workforce as a City Carrier and Instructor for the U.S. Postal Service.
- President of the NC Private Commercial Driving School Association: Leads efforts to improve driver training statewide and currently operates Oscar’s Driving School in Union County.
Service Beyond the Classroom
Oscar’s leadership doesn’t stop with driver education. He also serves as:
- District 17 Commander, American Legion Department of NC, covering Anson, Cabarrus, Stanly, and Union Counties
- Commander, Sam F. Keziah American Legion Post 535, Unionville, NC
- President, Monroe-Union Breakfast Rotary Club
These roles reflect his unwavering commitment to veteran advocacy, youth development, public service, and community impact.
“Oscar’s breadth of service—from the military and federal workforce to the classroom and community—perfectly reflects the legacy of Dr. Kenel,” said an ADTSEA spokesperson. “He is a leader, a mentor, and a model of excellence in the field of driver and traffic safety education.”
National Recognition
Oscar was formally recognized at the 2025 ADTSEA Annual Conference in Billings, Montana, where driver educators and safety leaders from across the country gathered to honor excellence and advance the mission of safer roads through better education.
Please join us in congratulating Oscar Outen on this well-deserved national recognition. His example continues to inspire our club, our community, and beyond.
Rotary Club of Inner Peace Organizes Peace Day Activities
Submitted by Quanta Dawn-Light, Chair of Rotary Club for Inner Peace
The newly formed Satellite Rotary Club for Inner Peace of Charlotte International Rotary Club, held a virtual program to celebrate World Peace Day, which was established by the United Nations, on Sunday, September 21st. The program was held in collaboration with “We The World” organization and was live-streamed globally in all time zones by them.
Submitted by Erika Hudson, President – Charlotte South Park
This is a note from PDG David Hare to members of the Charlotte South Park Club. David is reporting on the condition of member Diego Mora, who was seriously injured while cycling. Diego’s journey to recovery will be a long and arduous one.
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Hi everyone!
I visited Diego again this afternoon. he has now been off the ventilator for six days -fantastic!
He is responding slightly to voices and opened his eye(s) briefly.
The latest news is that he will probably be transferred to Duke in Durham early next week, depending on various doctors decisions regarding his recovery and brain rehab.
Luz is looking for a brain injury lawyer who can deal with Diego’s case.
I plan to visit him on Thursday, and I know a few of you will also like to see him. At that time, I will have his Paul Harris Fellow award certificate to present to Luz. It would be special to have at least 2 Rotarians there.
Please let me know what the best time is for us to meet. I am open most of the afternoon/early evening.
Two people + Luz are allowed in his room (11129) at one time.
Keep praying!
David
Concord-Afton Hosts 8th Annual “School Tools” Event!
This year marked the Concord Afton Sunset Rotary Club’s 8th annual School Tools drive. Each year, our club collects school supplies to support both the Cabarrus County and Kannapolis City school systems, ensuring that local students have the tools they need to succeed. Our members once again came together with great dedication and teamwork to make this year’s effort a success. Special thanks go to Cindy Fertenbaugh and Lynne Golie for leading this important service project, and to all our club members and volunteers who contributed their time and effort to help make a difference in our community.
Youth in West Stanly Helping Disaster Areas
Submitted by Amy Ennis, West Stanly PI/PR
A big thank you to Emma Salyer, member of the Locust Presbyterian Church Girl Scout Troop, for sharing about her Gold Award project at West Stanly Rotary meeting. She was also one of our scholarship winners this year.
Emma has been working with the Disaster Relief Warehouse at LPC, creating policies and procedures to help this important ministry run smoothly. The warehouse fills 5-gallon buckets with essential supplies like cleaning materials and clothespins and sends them to disaster victims. So far, they’ve already delivered over 1,800 buckets to western North Carolina!
Introducing AJ Kerley
Submitted by David Bullins, Statesville Rotary Club
AJ Kerly was recently welcomed her as a member of the Statesville Rotary Club! She is transferring from the Rotary Club of Hickory and is being sponsored by Debbie Howell, and we are thrilled to have her join our Rotary family.
AJ brings with her a mindset of service and leadership. She has been a dedicated Rotarian for eight years, during which she served on the Board of Directors. Her professional life is equally service-oriented—AJ works in marketing for Carolina Senior Care in the PACE Program (Program for All-Inclusive Care for the Elderly) in Lexington, where she helps support the well-being of older adults in our community.
AJ is a proud graduate of Appalachian State University and a graduate of Leadership Catawba through the Catawba County Chamber of Commerce. Her commitment to community extends beyond Rotary—she has served on the Greenway Transportation Board and multiple advisory boards, always with a heart for making a difference.
Now living in Statesville with her husband, AJ enjoys relaxing by watching scary movies together at home.
We are excited to welcome AJ to our club and look forward to the energy, experience, and passion for service she brings with her.
Waxhaw-Weddington Recognizes Harry Swimmer: A Living Embodiment of “Service Above Self”
At age 96, Harry Swimmer’s sharp wit and generous spirit are as vibrant as ever. On June 28th, the Rotary Club of Waxhaw‑Weddington recognized Harry’s lifetime of service with Rotary’s esteemed Paul Harris Fellow award, one of the highest honors in Rotary International. But for Harry, this isn’t about recognition; it’s a reflection of a life dedicated to lifting others.
After retiring from his successful insurance career, Harry and his wife, Marilyn, transformed their Saddlebred horse farm, Misty Meadows in Union County, North Carolina, into a sanctuary for children with special needs. When Harry Swimmer placed Stacy, a young girl with cerebral palsy who was nonverbal, onto the back of a pony more than 30 years ago, he had no idea how that moment would change countless lives. As the pony stepped forward, something extraordinary happened: Stacy’s face lit up. Her joy was immediate, her connection undeniable. For Harry, that moment was the spark that ignited a mission of service that continues today.
Inspired by Stacy’s breakthrough, Harry founded the Mitey Riders, an equine-assisted therapy program offering free services to children with a wide range of physical, cognitive, and developmental challenges.
Since its founding, more than 700 children have ridden at Misty Meadows, experiencing the unique healing power of horses. Each week, the program supports about 65 riders, with the help of 18 therapy horses, PATH Intl. certified instructors, and more than 200 dedicated volunteers.
In 2016, CNN named Harry one of its Top 10 Heroes, recognizing his extraordinary impact. The television tribute highlighted how the rhythmic movement of horses not only improved riders’ physical abilities, enhancing balance, strength, flexibility, it also often unlocks speech and confidence that many had never experienced.
The Paul Harris Fellow award, a mark of Rotary’s highest philanthropic honor, celebrates individuals whose contributions align with Rotary’s mission since Rotary founder Paul Harris launched the initiative in 1957. When the Waxhaw-Weddington Rotary Club presented this award, it wasn’t something Harry sought—but a heartfelt acknowledgment of his enduring legacy. It reflects the club’s deep appreciation for his tireless devotion to families across the community.
“Harry is the embodiment of the Rotary motto: Service Above Self,” says one Rotarian. Indeed, humility defines Harry more than medals ever could. He is quick to deflect attention, insisting the true joy isn’t in awards—it is in the laughter, breakthroughs, and bright smiles of his Mitey Riders. He’s the kind of person anyone would be grateful to know – funny, authentic, inspiring, and unwaveringly kind.
What drives Harry now is ensuring that Misty Meadows continues to serve equine therapy long after he’s gone. His desire isn’t a legacy in name; it is legacy in impact. He wants the farm, and its message of hope, to outlive him as a gift to future generations just as he’s given to these families.
Honoring Harry with the Paul Harris Fellow award is more than just a momentary commendation. It is an acknowledgment of a lifetime of selfless service. In Harry Swimmer, we see a man whose life resonates with Rotary’s deepest values, and whose spirit reminds us all: the greatest joy lives in what we give, not what we receive.
Charlotte Rotary Sharpened Up for Success!
Did you know pencils can write underwater, upside down, and in extreme temperatures? Turns out, Charlotte Rotarians are just as reliable, and just as sharp!
Our goal for the Push for Pencils campaign was 4,531 pencils… but the Rotary Club of Charlotte doesn’t stop at “good enough.” We collected a whopping 16,600 pencils – that’s more than 356% of our goal! Add in $1,450 in donations (enough to buy another 14,500 pencils!) plus notebooks, sharpeners, crayons, and glue sticks, and you’ve got one seriously stocked classroom.
Thank you to Charlotte Rotarian Karen Calder for leading the charge and to everyone who donated, volunteered, and joined in the fun at Classroom Central. Our efforts even earned Charlotte Rotary the Nine School Tools Excellence Award!
We may not have set a Guinness World Record (yet!), but the stories these students will write with those pencils are just getting started.