FiND iT FREDERiCK Magazine Spring 2015 | Page 36

SHARE iT! On the local level, Frederick County’s Rotary clubs have worked on very large projects around town such as the Community Bridge, giving the Baker Park Bandshell a facelift, and, most recently, raising funds for 80 murals to be painted and installed in the pediatric unit at Frederick Memorial Hospital. The clubs also provide countless community grants to nonprofits such as Heartly House, the Mental Health Association and the YMCA. But big projects aren’t the only way that Rotary gives back. On any given day, you will find Rotarians volunteering in the community in smaller ways as well. From starting a running club at Lincoln Elementary School to passing out turkeys during the holidays, the members of our local Frederick clubs are selfless with their time, their talents and their giving. You see their fundraising efforts in the Leprechaun Luau and at Frederick’s Oktoberfest. Money raised at these fun events goes to fund grants and big projects. (So feel free to buy an extra drink or two at these events, OK?) While giving locally is a huge part of what Rotary does, the international component is equally as important. Rotary clubs in Frederick sponsor water well projects in Honduras and Kenya. In Cambodia, clubs sponsor a school for children to have a safe space to continue their education even after the school day is over. There are also sponsored projects in South Africa and Nicaragua. Simply stated: Frederick’s Rotary groups make a big difference. The “Rotary Four Way Test” is a strong testament to what its members bring to the community: Is it the truth? Is it fair to all concerned? Does it promote goodwill and better friendship? Will it be beneficial to all concerned? With 1.2 million members worldwide, Rotary is a movement to bring understanding, kindness, and compassion to everyone. It's a way to give back locally, nationally, and globally. It's a way to band together, create a plan, and make a positive impact. It’s pretty inspiring to be a small part of something so big. carrollcreekrotary.org frederickrotaryclub.org fredericktownerotary.org southernfrederickcounty.rotary-clubs.org mountairyrotary.org 36 SPRING 2015