Using funds raised in celebration of the club's 75 anniversary, the Rotary Club of Sycamore today made a donation valued at $5,000 to the Spartan Food Pantry. The donation consisted of items needed to expand the pantry's operational efficiency to be able to continue to offer their services as demand continues to increase into the pantry's second year of operations. These items included ten 8-foot tables with storing racks, folding chairs, wire shelving units, a shoe rack, and utility wagons as well as a monetary donation of $2200. These donations come at a critical time for the pantry. Originally launched as a fully-funded pilot program through the Northern Illinois Food Bank, starting next month the pantry will have to transition to a fully self-sufficient entity, relying on local donations to continue to thrive. The donation is also timely due to the recent St. Albans fire, which has left many families in the area without food, shelter, clothing, and daily necessities.

 

 

As the club kicks off it's 2019-2020 club year, Club President Patrick Shafer and Club Treasurer Michele Jurkovic provided their snapshot of the club's situation, the past year's financials, and budget and goals for the coming club year. President Shafer identified five primary goals for the coming year in an effort to reinvigorate the membership and grow the club:

 

As a part of Michele's presentation, the club dues were held at last year's levels with decreased levels of spending on the exchange program (due to the elimination of a long term exchange student this year) and lowered levels of giving to a variety of charities. In order to resume or increase the club's giving, fundraisers must be improved  or club dues must be raised.

 

Social events were a focus and the club will host its first mixer of the year tomorrow at The Forge of Sycamore with the club providing pizza and appetizers while members and guests mingle.