Rotarians Give this December
The Rotary clubs of Juneau gave of their wallets and time this December and holiday season. The Rotary clubs and Rotaract, the Rotary organization for young professionals, helped man the kettles and ring the bells for the Salvation Army, raised money to buy to adopt a family, and packed and delivered food boxes to be distributed by local non-profit organizations.
For many years, each of the Clubs (Juneau, Glacier Valley and Gastineau), have been helping the Salvation Army raise money by ringing the bells at kettles in key locations around town. A friendly competition between the clubs has grown over the years with the Glacier Valley Rotary/Rotaract taking the championship title this year with $2,299.86. Close behind was the Juneau Rotary with $2,011.72 and Gastineau Rotary with $1660.31.
Besides their bell ringing activity, the clubs also raised money to adopt families – making sure each received presents, as well as a Christmas feast. The Rotary Club of Juneau conducted a mini-food drive for their family. Along with presents, Rotary clubs and Rotaract raised money to pack and distribute 200 food boxes to bring holiday cheer to numerous Juneau families. Rotaract coordinated the packing, storing and distribution of the food boxes, which were stored and prepared at AAA Moving and Storage. Northland Services delivered the boxes to the Salvation Army, St. Vincent de Paul’s, The Glory Hole, and Catholic Community Services to be distributed to those in need.
In addition the Gastineau Rotary purchased gifts and contributed the big Christmas tree in the main room of the Pioneer Home. They wanted to ensure that every resident at the Pioneer Home got to open a present at Christmas. Rotarians delivered the presents along with Interact member from Juneau Douglas High School. When they delivered the presents they sang Christmas carols as well as sharing cookies and beverages.
In addition, the Juneau Rotary, with a hand from Behrends Electric, decorated and lit the community Christmas tree that sits outside of the Juneau Arts and Culture Center each year.
Every December the Rotary Clubs of Juneau and Rotaract help to bring the spirit of the season to those in need. This December was no different.