ORIGINATING IN Chicago, the Rotary Club movement, now a global force, was initially conceived to unite business leaders in service to their communities. The Franklin County A.M. Rotary Club encapsulates this ethos with its motto, “Service Above Self.” At the core of the club’s commitment, you’ll find a unique and profound set of principles: Is it the truth? Is it fair to all concerned? Will it build goodwill and better friendships? Will it be beneficial to all?
“Our mission is to be altruistic in our endeavor to serve other people, other projects, other individuals, and the community, the state, and the world,” Vice Governor Al Clark explained.
One of the standout initiatives of the Franklin County A.M. Rotary Club is Santa Comes to Town, a heartwarming program that breathes life into the holiday spirit. What once started as a Winchester Downtown program has evolved into a passionate collaboration that goes beyond mere tradition.
The club arranged for Santa’s visit in 2023 for the first time, kicking off the festive season with its free annual Christmas Pancake Breakfast, a joyous event that serves nearly 200 people. This breakfast not only brought the community together but also raised $300 in funds for the 4-H Club’s judging team. The funds contributed to the 4-H Club journey to the state competition and later led them to participate in the national competition. The Franklin County A.M. Rotary Club added a $200 donation, totaling $500 in contributions.
Reflecting on this festive morning, David Moore shared, “Our county winning the state competition was a moment of pride, and we wanted to be part of their journey.”
The club’s persistent service shines through initiatives such as helping provide necessary equipment and signage for Winchester school tennis courts, supporting the Interact Club at Franklin County High School, and assisting in the establishment of the Sleep in Heavenly Peace program.
Clark has volunteered as a tennis coach for two years. The 4-H Club also participates by providing the team with necessary resources. They also aid the middle school golf programs, showing a dedication to youth development and providing opportunities.
What sets the Franklin County A.M. Rotary Club apart is its hands-on approach to community involvement. Members take pride in personal engagement, whether it’s cleaning trails, power washing facilities, or reading to children at the local library.
The club’s involvement goes beyond financial contributions; it’s a personal investment. Trail clean-ups, library support, and collaboration with local organizations exemplify their commitment to active community projects, creating an interconnected community involvement.
“There’s money that we make available through grants and direct donations. And there’s the involvement by the club members physically and individually to assist with cleanup of trails and parks, to assist with the Franklin County Library’s Trail Tale funding at Winchester Park.”
The Franklin County A.M. Rotary Club extends its impact beyond immediate community needs, investing in the education of future leaders. Through partnerships with the Franklin County Chamber of Commerce and hosting sessions for the Franklin County Leadership program, the club aims to instill leadership values in both high school students and business professionals. Its positive influence ripples through the community, emphasizing the value of collaboration and service.
Clark said, “Our leadership class is composed of both high school students and business adults. So, we are their first stop. Every year they do it, we’re out there making the presentation about leadership and also talking about Rotary.”
With a clear vision, the Franklin County A.M. Rotary Club is already mapping out its goals for the upcoming year. The annual pig roast, a summer tradition, and the Hiles Memorial Golf Tournament in October will continue to be vital fundraisers, contributing to the club’s mission of service.
Moore anticipates, “We’ll be looking at service programs, possibly in the medical or dental fields, so it may be a medical program or a dental program that can expand on what’s already going on and add more to it.”
From aiding disaster-stricken communities to empowering local youth, the Franklin County A.M. Rotary Club illuminates the true spirit of community service. Its dedication, both in funding and active involvement, paints a vivid picture of a club deeply ingrained in the heart of Franklin County’s identity.
The Franklin County A.M. Rotary Club resonates as a community-driven force committed to service, leadership, and making a lasting impact. In the charming community of Franklin County, the Franklin County A.M. Rotary Club remains a ray of hope, light, and service for all. GN