Known by our Works, Part II

    Last week’s email asked whether the Rotary Club of Edmond measures up to the standard set by RI’s 1930-31 President, Almon Roth, that we are known by our works. Here are several additional ways the Rotary Club of Edmond puts Rotary ideals into action.

    We are a sustaining Club – every Edmond Rotarian, every year, contributes $100 to the Rotary Foundation. We raise funds for scholarships through our annual Golf Tournament, our annual Omelets and Pancakes breakfast, our Sergeant-at-Arms “fines,” and even our weekly search for the Ace of Spades. And we continue to award several college scholarships every year.

    Last year, we completed our Brazil project. The Rotary Club of Edmond, partnering with the Rotary Club of Fortaleza Planalto, our District 5750, that club’s District 4490, and the Rotary Foundation, changed the lives of indigent juvenile cancer patients and their families. The members of the Rotary Club of Edmond generously gave close to $20,000 which, when combined with Rotary grants, provided a total of $29,944. With those funds, we were able to purchase a beautiful new vehicle which is being used to transport these children and their families for their treatments in Fortaleza, Brazil. Because of Edmond and Fortaleza Rotarians, these needy, cancer-stricken residents of Ceará state will get the help they need, and will have a great chance for a normal life. This project, initiated by our club, has created a long-lasting relationship with our friends in Brazil. Together, we will be able to continue to promote the ideals of Rotary in both communities.

    And we aren’t just resting on our laurels. This year, the Rotary Club of Edmond has initiated a project right here in Edmond. Partnering with the City of Edmond, we are raising the money for, and will take part in the construction of, the Rotary Playground at Route 66 Park in Edmond. The project is not yet completed. But imagine the impact it will have for generations of families in and around our community.

    These are just a few of the more recent ways the Rotary Club of Edmond has translated Rotary ideals into positive, tangible results throughout our community, state, nation and world. I am constantly amazed at the regularity with which Edmond Rotarians volunteer to do so much and contribute in so many ways. That is what it means to put Service Above Self.

    I'm looking forward to seeing all of you at our meeting on Wednesday. Please welcome Jasco Products Company CEO and President, Steve Trice, as our special guest this week at the Rotary Club of Edmond.

    Andy