Clemmons Rotary Club

BY MEGHAN CORBETT

There are an estimated 1.2 million members of Rotary clubs across the world. These members come from all different backgrounds with various strengths and experiences that allow them to work on xing the issues that plague people around the globe. These issues include disease, poor water, sanitation and hygiene, mothers and children in peril, lack of educational opportunities and struggling economies. Of the more than 35,000 Rotary clubs in existence, the Rotary Club of Clemmons is doing its best to make an impact locally that will likely lead to spreading awareness for countless individuals.

“We want to increase the community awareness of what Rotary is,” said Rotary Club of Clemmons President Susan Joy. “We are doing this through print media, social media and by hosting the Totally Outstanding Awesome Stroll through Tanglewood, or TOAST, (a fundraiser that sees about 2,000 community members come out to have fun walking through the Festival of Lights before it opened to the public.)” This was the second year for the Rotary to host this event. “TOAST is a fundraiser, but it is also an opportunity for us to raise awareness of Rotary’s impact,” said Joy. “The community will bene t from the money raised at the event, and those dollars will be used to support many local groups and organizations.”

Collaborations can have a massive impact on the community through name and brand recognitions, as well as introducing those who may not come into contact with Rotary members to all the group has to offer. “We are participating in The Amazing Shake with Southwest Elementary School and a Junior Achievement event in partnership with students from West Forsyth High School,” said Joy. “We are also working with the Humane Society of Davie County to bring the 2nd night of Paws in the Park to the community. We are working with the Salvation Army and other area Rotary clubs in a project called Rotarians Unite to Stop Hunger (RUSH), and we continue to partner with Panera Bread to deliver food to the Clemmons Food Pantry.”

Another great way to get involved in the impact is to join a Rotary club yourself! “All are welcome in Rotary,” said Joy. “All you need is a heart for service in our community.”

For more information about the Rotary Club of Clemmons, visit the website at rotaryclubofclemmons.com or nd them on Facebook.

50 CHILDREN SPONSORED AT YMCA CAMP HANES

4 COLLEGE SCHOLARSHIPS AWARDED TOTALING $7,500

1500 COMMUNITY SERVICE HOURS WS/FCS FOOD BACKPACK PROGRAM

3,400 LBS. OF FOOD PICKED UP AND DELIVERED TO CLEMMONS FOOD PANTRY

300 CHILDREN SERVED THROUGH HAND-IN-HAND