We hope this message finds you well. As we navigate through the new year, we are excited to share some highlights and updates on our recent and planned South Placer Rotary Club activities.

 

1. Community Outreach:

 

Our recent community outreach activities, the "Annual Christmas Basket Program” and the 2023 Diaper and Formula Drive for the Sierra College Basic Needs Center were tremendously successful. With generous giving from our members and the community, we were able to provide nearly 30 cases of diapers and formula to the college for distribution to students through the Basic Needs Center.  Additionally, we partnered with the Rocklin Unified School District to spread holiday cheer and support those facing financial challenges during the holidays by providing gifts for children, warm clothing, and essential supplies to numerous families in need. The heartfelt gratitude from the recipients and the positive impact on the community was truly inspiring.

 

2. Educational Initiatives:

 

Our ongoing collaboration with local schools continues to thrive. In November, South Placer Rotary Club members joined STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts & Math) students from Granite Oaks and Spring View Middle School for docent-led tours, lunch, and a talk with retired Commanding Officer and Navy F/A 18 pilot and current FedEx pilot Andy Hoekstra for hands-on learning experiences, student interaction with exhibits, and demonstrations related to aerospace and STEAM subjects. The day concluded with an engaging discussion regarding the various career paths within the aerospace industry.  Additionally, we are also currently finalizing plans for our annual speech contest with our local high school students.  The topic this year is “Create Hope in the World,” and we look forward to the speeches presented by our local students, which will take place on Wednesday, March 6th.

 

3. Environmental Stewardship:

 

In line with Rotary International's focus on environmental sustainability, our club organized a creek clean-up project on Saturday, September 14th, with the City of Rocklin. Together, we hauled many bags of debris out of the open space, a car tire, and a large orange cone.  The actions of the individuals involved help foster a sense of environmental responsibility among our residents.  We are planning another creek clean-up next Spring.

 

4. Upcoming Events:

 

Looking ahead, mark your calendars for the 17^th Annual Brewfest, which will take place on next summer Saturday, June 7th, at Johnson Springview Park in Rocklin. This event will serve as a major fundraising platform for the South Placer Rotary Club's upcoming projects and initiatives. For all other upcoming events and speakers, please refer to our upcoming events and speakers sections on the site.

 

5. Membership Drive:

 

We are thrilled to welcome several new members who have joined our Rotary family. Dave Butler, Krishna Bachina, Matt Heinz, and Mary Lee are all recent additions to our club.  Their passion and commitment to service will undoubtedly strengthen our club's ability to create positive change. If you are interested in joining Rotary, please contact us or simply join us at one of our weekly Wednesday lunches which are currently held at Whitney Oaks Golf Club in Rocklin.