December is a crucial time for charitable organizations. Rotary members in the Tualatin Club are busy working on behalf of our community this month. In the spirit of giving many residents will benefit from Rotary’s outreach.
The Tualatin Food Pantry was presented with a check for six thousand dollars. The funds will provide by-monthly dental van visits for pantry patrons. Dental health is a gift that many of us take for granted. Free dental work brings smiles in many ways.
Gifts will travel to Ethiopia. Rotary sponsors a Brightspot Student and a package will be delivered soon. A chosen child will receive clothing, school supplies, small toys and a message from the club membership. This program is a part of Embrace Compassion, a charity founded by a Tualatin Rotary member. Ongoing donations from our club also ensure that our sponsored child will have funds for school and family needs.
Every third grade student in Tualatin will be presented with a dictionary in December. Yes, Tualatin Rotary will be visiting elementary schools and giving free books to students. This is an annual tradition and members and school children look forward to the visit. Many eight year olds celebrate the book as a reward for learning to read. The Rotary Club has a special commitment to education and the youth of our community. December is a perfect month to highlight student achievement.
Two local families will be adopted for the holidays. Food, clothing and toys will be collected and delivered with joyful hugs and holiday cheer. Rotary members work together to provide wishes for every member of the two adopted families. Club members lucky enough to deliver the gifts find that December delights come in the thanks and happiness of strangers.
Rotary Club is not known for its musical talent but once a year the members come out in force for a good cause. Bells ring loud and strong at Fred Meyer as the Salvation Army’s Red Kettle fills with donations. Members take one hour shifts and some even sing for dollars and coins.
Greeting shoppers is also a merry byproduct of this event.
Fellowship is a key component for the success of any Rotary Club. In December, the Tualatin High School Crimsonaires are the entertainment at a club meeting. Music and fun from the youth of our city make for a merry meeting. A donation from Rotary to the high school provides support for this famous singing troupe.
Several Rotary members are mentoring additional students at the High School. Working together, students and club members find ways to support the Intercambio middle school guidance club. Rotarians support high schoolers who then assist middle schoolers to achieve in school and in life. Ongoing financial support from Rotary is essential to the program’s success.
Goodwill is ample in this month of giving. Rotary is thankful for community support that allows our club to serve others. Our Annual Auction is the engine for our ability to help others. Supporting The Tualatin Rotary Club does good things here and around the globe. Check out the website at: www.tualatinrotary.org.
