The Rotary Club of West Hartford stands as a beacon of community service and philanthropy, embodying the Rotary International motto of "Service Above Self." Through a myriad of initiatives, the Rotary has made significant strides in addressing local needs, fostering education, and promoting global goodwill.
Established with the mission to serve both local and international communities, the West Hartford Rotary Club has consistently prioritized community giving. Their efforts are evident in various programs designed to uplift and support residents of West Hartford and beyond.
Feeding the Community
One of the club's hallmark initiatives is the annual "Food Caravan." In May 2024, members orchestrated a substantial donation, delivering $10,000 worth of non-perishable food items for the Town That Cares (West Hartford’s food pantry). This contribution was meticulously planned, with funds allocated to essential staples such as beans, cereals, canned proteins, and sauces.
The selection aimed to provide balanced nutrition and long shelf life, ensuring sustained support for those facing food insecurity. The West Hartford Social Services staff estimated that this donation would supply the Food Pantry for approximately two months during the spring season. The food drive not only addresses immediate nutritional needs but also exemplifies the club's commitment to proactive community support.
“It’s the clubs favorite project to come together to be able to give back to our own West Hartford community and provide food to those that are less fortunate than us,” Rotary President Kyle Egress said.
Promoting Literacy and Education
Recognizing the transformative power of education, the Rotary Club has been a staunch advocate for literacy. In December, club members celebrated the 11th anniversary of their annual book drive, introducing the "Bowling for Books" event. This innovative fundraiser combined community engagement with philanthropy, inviting residents to participate in a bowling event at Lessard Lanes in Plainville.
The drive successfully collected physical books and monetary donations, benefiting disadvantaged students in the Greater Hartford area. Over the years, this initiative has resulted in the donation of over 10,000 books and raised more than $20,000, underscoring the club's dedication to fostering a love for reading and learning among youth.
Global Outreach and Health Initiatives
The club's benevolence extends beyond local borders. In recent years, they have sponsored international projects, including the renovation and re-equipment of a dental clinic in Nkozi, Uganda. This endeavor aimed to enhance dental care services in the region, reflecting the Rotary's global commitment to improving health outcomes. Such projects highlight the club's understanding of global interconnectedness and their role in promoting health and well-being worldwide.
Engaging the Community
The Rotary actively participates in local events to raise awareness and foster community spirit. They are regular exhibitors at "Celebrate! West Hartford," an annual festival that attracts tens of thousands of attendees. This event provides a platform for the club to showcase their initiatives, recruit new members, and engage with residents on pressing community issues. Their presence at such events reinforces their commitment to being an integral part of the community fabric.The club’s largest fundraiser is the Vines of March Wine Tasting and Auctuon. The 13th annual event was held in March.
“It is our goal to raise $50,000.00 this year. All of the proceeds will go back to our local community," Kyle said. "We can’t do the good work we do without the support our friends, neighbors and family purchasing tickets."
A Call to Action
The Rotary of West Hartford exemplifies how dedicated individuals can come together to effect meaningful change. Their multifaceted approach to community giving addresses immediate needs while also laying the groundwork for long-term improvements. As they look to the future, the club remains committed to expanding their outreach, fostering partnerships, and continuing their legacy of service.
For those interested in joining or supporting the Rotary Club, more information is available on their website, Westhartfordrotary.org. Engagement opportunities, said Kyle, abound for individuals eager to contribute to a cause that resonates both locally and globally.
"We're always looking to expand our membership and engagement in the community."
At a glance: The Rotary Club of West Hartford's history:
In 1950, the local district petitioned the Hartford Rotary Club to release the West Hartford territory so a new club could form. At the time West Hartford was one of the nation's largest communities without its own Rotary Club. While the request wasn't approved, enthusiasm for a local club lived on. A second request was filed and the Hartford Rotary Board of Directors approved it in 1951. Within a few weeks club organizers lined up 31 prospective members and they traveled to the Rotary International's Chicago offices to learn the objectives of Rotary International and the process for instituting a new club. The West Hartford club was officially chartered on Jan. 14, 1952.
We can’t do the good work we do without the support our friends.
We're always looking to expand our membership and engagement in the community.