Interact had elections this afternoon. The students running for Vice President, Secretary, Treasurer, and Historian each spoke about the importance of Rotary to them. A few of their comments included:
“Rotary provides a way to give back to our community when today too often things are taken for granted.”
“This club has more opportunity to make change than any others to which I belong. It’s not just another achievement or item on a resume. It impacts those we serve, brings us together as a group and helps us grow as individuals.”
“We are a group with a common goal, as everybody comes together to make a difference.”
As I listened, I wondered if I would hear similar comments within our group. Why are we in Rotary? These teens are there on a Tuesday afternoon when they could be studying for their AP exams, playing video games or making money at a job. They show up for service projects, collect canned goods and books, attend District events; in short, they put in the time to walk the walk.
Then I look at pictures of recent events in which we have participated, like the Big Star Marathon, Farmers Market, Blood Drive, and Fast Pacs. The response of our club to give to the various Projects of the Month through games, food, sock, hygiene items and funds has helped many others. We, too, have come together to make a difference and along the way, have helped and set the example for today’s high school students to follow our footsteps. They have seen our commitment to their service through helping to send 2 of their group to Nicaragua, providing funds for four RYLA participants, and college scholarships. In early June you will have the chance to hear more from these teens about their service and I look forward to our growing collaboration. We continue to make a difference in the lives of untold others as we model service above self to the Interact participants.
