Stories

Leif has continued visiting clubs, and while the pace has slowed this month, the meetings continue to be engaging and worthwhile. The travel time to and from each visit provides an opportunity to reflect on the value of Rotary and the connections being made across the district. Click “Read More” to see photos from all the visits this month. 

The Rotary International Convention Committee (ICC) has confirmed Minneapolis as the destination for their annual convention in 2028, with anticipated attendance of approximately 17,000 Rotarians and guests. The Minneapolis Host Organization Committee (HOC) recently welcomed the ICC for its fourth site visit, held August 9–13th. Learn more about being great in 2028 by click “Read more”. 

Rotary Club Ukraine Sunrise shares two powerful examples of what Create Lasting Impact means in communities living through war. One story follows women in the Kharkiv region who transformed their recovery into leadership and action. The other shows how teenagers are rebuilding spaces for learning and connection. Click “Read more” for full stories and photos from Ukraine Sunrise Charter President Yulia. 

In mid-August, 55 Global Travelers and family members from 14 different states came together in Alexandria, MN, for a long week-end of service and fellowship. For the third year, we volunteered for Habitat for Humanity to help build two homes for local families. Click “Read more” to learn and see more from the weekend! 

The entertainer and philanthropist Dolly Parton died 25 August 2026. This Q&A was originally published in the March 2010 issue of The Rotarian (now Rotary) magazine. Later that year, she spoke at the Rotary International Convention in Montreal, Canada. Click “Read more” to read the full story and learn about the Imagination Library in District 5950. 

August has been a full and lively month for DG Leif Hagen as he traveled near and far to visit clubs across the district. He continues to enjoy meeting each Club and seeing the communities they serve. During his visits, he shares the Art of Rotary theme while learning how every Club is creating meaningful, lasting impact. See photos from every August Club Visit by clicking “Read more". 

A look back at a very successful Rotary Club of Crystal, New Hope and Robbinsdale grant project to enhance and encourage learning by bringing Lego System Packs to youth in Guatemala in partnership with Common Hope.  Rotary Club member Jim Benshoof recaps the project and shares photos from Guatemala. From CCX Media