The Rotary Clubs of North Shore, Texas, and Torreón, Mexico, are proudly celebrating 25 years as Sister Clubs, a partnership that has fostered cross-border friendship and meaningful service since its official formation in March 2000. The connection began when Rotarians John Painter and Celso Reyes met during district governor training and encouraged collaboration between then North Shore president Dr. Donald Niño and Torreón president Gabriel DeLeon.
The first official visit to Torreón took place in September 2001. Dr. Niño, his wife, and then-club president Mark Mulloy with his wife were warmly welcomed by the Torreón club with a luncheon and tour of their community projects, including a drug rehabilitation program, computer vocational classes, and facilities for seniors and orphans. The visit coincided with La Feria, Torreón’s major annual fundraiser held each September, which raises funds through cultural festivities and entertainment.
In 2003, Torreón members visited North Shore for the club’s Fish Fry, and regular exchanges have continued nearly every year since, building personal and professional bonds. Over the years, the clubs have collaborated on numerous joint projects. In Torreón, efforts have included furnishing a school food kitchen, donating equipment to a rehab center, supporting a kindergarten bathroom renovation, and funding breast cancer and genetic testing programs. Matching grants have also supported water, hospital, and senior care initiatives.
The partnership extends into the U.S. as well. The Torreón club has contributed to North Shore’s annual backpack and school supply drive and supported a global grant to build a seminary school inside the Darrington Prison in Texas, promoting inmate rehabilitation through education and faith.
Now celebrating their silver anniversary, the Sister Club relationship between North Shore and Torreón remains a shining example of Rotary’s motto: Service Above Self, demonstrating how international friendship and service can transform communities across borders.
