The Rotary Club of Mason Deerfield continues to prove that service and generosity are alive and thriving in our community. Celebrating their 30th year in Mason and Deerfield, the club recently awarded 15 grants to local nonprofits and organizations, each aimed at solving critical needs, lifting spirits and sparking growth throughout the region. From youth development programs to services for veterans and families, these grants are more than financial support—they're investments in transformation.
Originally founded to fight polio, Rotary Club International supports seven pillars: Promoting Peace, Fighting Disease, Providing Clean Water, Saving Mothers and Children's Health, Education, Growing Local Economies and Protecting the Environment. The Mason Deerfield group has focused primarily on providing basic needs to people in the area, including mother and child development and education in all forms.
“You give back in whatever capacity you have at whatever age you are, you find a way to give back,” says Jean Raga, president of the Rotary Club of Mason Deerfield. “This is being part of humanity.”
One standout grant recipient this year is Jumpstart Ohio, an organization making profound differences in the lives of incarcerated people. Jumpstart Ohio is a nondenominational faith-based nonprofit dedicated to supporting people’s transition from prison into a productive life. The organization was founded by three gentlemen serving life sentences in North Carolina. They were heartbroken to see so many of their peers be released, only to return to incarceration a short while later. So they developed a 40-week curriculum based on Rick Warren’s The Purpose Driven Life.
“What’s unique about our program is that it’s peer led. The people leading the class can relate to the people going through the curriculum,” explains Kristie Sheanshang, head of employer and donor relations for Jumpstart Ohio. “Of the 40% of people who complete the curriculum, 96% stay out of jail for good.”
In total, the 15 grants range in size and scope but share a common thread: enhancing lives. From children’s disability services and food insecurity to arts programming and educational initiatives, the Rotary Club of Mason Deerfield’s giving strategy touches nearly every corner of community needs.
Other grant recipients include:
- Mason Challenger League: Sports programming for children and adults with mental and physical disabilities.
- Atrium Medical Center: Support for the loss of a child.
- Alzheimer's Association-Greater Cincinnati Chapter: Early stage programming for people with Alzheimer's.
The committee evaluates applicants based on community impact, sustainability and alignment with Rotary’s values of service and leadership. The Rotary Club of Mason Deerfield’s ability to support local nonprofits stems directly from their annual fundraising efforts, which are not only effective but also some of the most anticipated events in the community.
“It’s not the act of doing so much as it is the finding out about people. You find out about their world and what their passions are,” shares Jean. “Everyone has dreams. When I can see someone else encouraged, and I can see that light inside of them, it gives me hope.”
While the grant awards and major fundraisers mark highlights in the Rotary Club of Mason Deerfield’s annual calendar, the club works year round to advance its mission. Weekly meetings provide community and support to members and they participate in everything from park cleanups to youth mentoring.
“Rotary isn’t just about meetings and check writing,” enthuses Jean. “It’s about showing up, rolling up your sleeves and asking, ‘How can I help today?’ That’s what we’re here for.”
To learn more about the Rotary Club of Mason Deerfield, visit MasonDeerfieldRotaryClub.com.
Get Involved
Rotary Club of Mason Deerfield Charity Golf Classic
When: Monday, June 9, 2025, 10:30 a.m., dinner is served at 5:30 p.m.
Where: Four Bridges Country Club, 8300 Four Bridges Drive, Liberty Township
The golf outing includes lunch and dinner, as well as an awards ceremony to close the event. Sponsorship opportunities are available before the event.
Christmas Tree Auction and Holiday Ball
When: November 22, 2025
Where: The Manor House Event Center, 7440 Mason Montgomery Road, Mason
The second annual one-of-a-kind, signature holiday event sponsored by altafiber. This black tie evening will feature a preview of decorated Christmas trees for auction, a VIP cocktail party and plated dinner, followed by dancing, a jazz lounge and bourbon bar, casino activities and a cocktail bar. There are also opportunities to sponsor the evening and contribute services and items for auction.
Before the event, individuals or groups can volunteer to decorate the trees that will be auctioned. Tree decorators can be novice or professional. Decorated trees will be on display at The Mason Community Center before they make their way home with the families who win them at auction. A list of the sponsors will be displayed with the auctioned Christmas trees.
Volunteer or Join the Rotary Club of Mason Deerfield
When: Tuesdays at 7:30 a.m.
Where: The Manor House Event Center, 7440 Mason Montgomery Road, Mason
Breakfast begins at 7:30 a.m., with the meeting from 8-9 a.m. “We would love to get to know you!” shares Jean.
Apply for a Grant
To apply for a grant, reach out to the Rotary Club of Mason Deerfield through their website. Applications for 2026 will be posted in the spring at MasonDeerfieldRotaryClub.com.