Program:
President Michelle Nash's Vision for the 2026–2027 Rotary Year
President Michelle Nash outlined her vision for the coming Rotary year, reflecting on the club's remarkable 68-year history and the legacy of service established by generations of Rotarians. She reminded members that the club helped build the Conejo Free Clinic, played a key role in the creation of Many Mansions, has long supported Manna Conejo Valley Food Bank and Ventura County Special Olympics, and has provided educational opportunities for hundreds of local students.
Michelle challenged members to honor that legacy by continuing to think boldly, embrace new ideas, and expand Rotary's impact in the community.
New Areas of Focus:
President Nash announced several new special interest groups that will provide additional opportunities for fellowship and service:
- Environmental Group – Focused on environmental stewardship and conservation.
- Peace Building Group – Supporting individuals transitioning from homelessness back into the community.
- Safety Group – Launching in January in partnership with the local Police Chief to help prepare the community for disasters and emergencies.
Board Introductions:
Michelle introduced members of her Board of Directors and invited several to briefly explain their responsibilities:
- Karen Albaum – Club Administrator
- Carol Schreiber – Family of Rotary
- Sara Collins – Vocational Service
- Marc Feigen – Executive Secretary
Each director received a Rotary Director pin in recognition of their service. Michelle also thanked Board members Larry Baker, Paul Dryman, Gary Seigel, and Treasurer Anthony Linquata for their willingness to serve and asked members to extend them patience and support as they begin the new Rotary year.
2026 Hours of Service Challenge:
In recognition of America's 250th birthday, Michelle challenged the club to contribute 2,026 hours of community service before the end of the year. She noted that with approximately 100 members, the goal averages only about three hours of service per member each month. Members will also receive service credit for charitable donations at a rate of one hour for every $20 donated to approved causes.
Random Acts of Kindness Challenge:
Michelle encouraged every member to perform one random act of kindness each week throughout the year. She reminded the club that even small gestures can make a meaningful difference and that, collectively, the club could complete more than 5,200 acts of kindness over the course of the year.
Members were encouraged to share their stories, inspiring others through simple acts of compassion and reinforcing Rotary's commitment to Service Above Self.
Building Fellowship:
Recognizing that a large club can make it difficult for members to form close relationships, Michelle emphasized creating more opportunities for fellowship through service projects and special interest groups. She shared a personal story about getting to know fellow Rotarian Chris Lamia during the MS Walk, illustrating how shared experiences strengthen friendships.
She also announced plans for Rotary walking teams to participate in community events, including:
- Conejo Valley Turkey Trot
- MS Walk
- Hope Walk for Cancer
- Additional community walks throughout the year
Members who prefer not to walk were invited to volunteer at Rotary information tables, welcome participants, and help promote Rotary's community involvement.
Growing Rotary:
Michelle reminded members that the greatest way to increase Rotary's impact is by welcoming more people into the organization. She challenged every member to invite at least one guest to a Rotary meeting during the coming year, noting that every new member strengthens the club's ability to serve the community.
To support that effort, members received:
- A Rotary "cheat sheet" with ideas for explaining Rotary to prospective members.
- Business cards to invite guests to lunch or service projects.
Michelle also encouraged greeters to personally escort guests into the ballroom and introduce them to fellow Rotarians to ensure every visitor feels welcome.
Closing Remarks:
President Nash concluded by emphasizing the importance of friendship, communication, kindness, and service. Quoting Rotary founder Paul Harris, she reminded members:
"The foundation upon which Rotary is built is friendship; on no less firm foundation could it have stood."
She thanked the Board of Directors for their dedication, expressed her appreciation for the club's members, and encouraged everyone to embrace a year filled with fellowship, meaningful service, and lasting impact.
President Nash then adjourned her first meeting of the Rotary year.
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