Rotary projects around the globe
https://www.rotary.org/en/rotary-projects-around-globe-september-2025
September 2025
By Brad Webber
Peru
In the western Amazon, Rotary clubs in the city of Iquitos participated in a seminar in January to learn about the state of the area’s schools. Two District 4465 leaders, Doris Alván and Fernando Del Aguila, enlisted a well-known educator in the area, Josefa Ríos Gil, to share with Rotarians what they can do to assist educators. In May, the Rotary Club of Iquitos Amazonas finished one related initiative, a district grant-supported teen empowerment project that taught young people to make earrings sold at eco-lodges near Lake Zungarococha. The club also provided school supplies to primary schools in the area.
United States
Prom is an expensive rite of passage, with purchases of gowns, tuxedos, flowers, meals, and transportation. In New York City, the Rotary Club of North Shore (Staten Island) is helping students through its “Cinderella/Cinderfella” project. The entire 25-member club solicits new and gently used formal attire, some of which is purchased new by Rotarians. In April, students from across the borough are invited to choose from about 200 free dresses and suits, as well as shoes and accessories, so they’re ready for prom season. The project was started in 2024 by then-President Suzanne Demetrio and is led by members Stephanie Accardo and Regina Boukhvalova. “We believe no student should miss out due to financial hardship,” says Demetrio. “We are giving young people the chance to feel special and confident on one of the biggest nights of their lives.”
