The Santa Ynez Valley Rotary Club was officially chartered on March 10, 1959, with 25 founding members. Robert T. "Pea Soup" Andersen was elected the first president, while Willard B. "Bill" Bellack, a seasoned Rotarian and past district governor from Wisconsin, played a crucial role in recruiting members and served as the club's first secretary. District Governor Reuben J. "Rube" Irwin presented the charter on April 29, 1959.

Dr. Frank "Doc" Pedersen, the last surviving charter member, played an essential role in shaping the club and the local community. He served as president from 1965-66 and was instrumental in establishing the Santa Ynez Valley Hospital in 1964. A dedicated physician, he practiced for 36 years, delivering over 800 babies and frequently making house calls. His love for fishing led him on adventures from Alaska to Baja, and he was known for generously sharing his catches with friends.

In 1962-63, the valley was struck by a polio epidemic. Thanks to Dr. Pedersen’s initiative, the club organized one of the first polio immunization clinics in the county, vaccinating hundreds of children. Rotary’s leadership in this effort set a precedent, prompting county officials to continue similar clinics.

Dr. Pedersen’s legacy embodies community spirit, service, and dedication, making a lasting impact on the Santa Ynez Valley. His contributions, along with those of the club’s founders, have cemented Rotary’s role in supporting and improving the local community.