Statement from Rotary International
At Rotary, we have no tolerance for racism. Promoting respect, celebrating diversity, demanding ethical leadership, and working tirelessly to advance peace are central tenets of our work.
We have more work to do to create more just, open and welcoming communities for all people.
We know there are no easy fixes and that challenging conversations and work lie before all of us. Rotary’s strength has long been our ability and commitment to bringing people together. We will tap into that strength now as we stand with those who are working for peace and justice.
Rotary will do our part to listen, learn and take action to ensure that we continue to contribute to making positive change.
Board of Directors — 2nd Thursday, 7:30 a.m.
Main Library
55 W. 3rd, San Mateo
Program — Last Friday, 7:30 a.m.
Main Library
COG — 1st Thursday, 7:30 a.m.
Main Library
Climate Change Committee — 2nd & 4th Thursday, 11:15am–11:45am
Zoom or Poplar Creek
Fellow Rotarians,
This is going to be an exciting year for San Mateo Rotary, and we want you to be a part of it!
Our recent survey showed that 94% of our members’ goals are being fully or partially met. Some members said that they are still concerned about Covid, while others commented on the need to attract younger members. Others want more money to be raised and spent on scholarships and projects in the community. In all responses, fellowship is primary— we work in the community, and we have fun while doing it.
Based on your fellowship requests, we are bringing back “affinity groups,” in which Rotarians share common interests. New groups will revolve around book discussions, wine tasting, discussing politics, mental health, higher education, and respecting animals in our community. We also plan to revitalize the popular “dine out” program of visiting restaurants bimonthly. We are starting two new initiatives— the first will commemorate the 100th year of our club, and the second will engage members who are not able to maintain consistent attendance at weekly meetings. While we encourage members to attend Thursday meetings, we will maintain our Zoom services so that members may be involved in Rotary even if they cannot attend in person.
Many of our activities occur outside of our weekly meetings. We are providing scholarships for promising local students, and we are administering a global grant that provides micro-loans for small businesses in Guatemala. A new climate change group supports climate-friendly local projects, and we continue to maintain low-cost senior housing. It is an exciting time, full of potential and limited only by our imagination.
This year “Imagine Rotary” is the theme of our first female president of Rotary International. She wants us to think outside the box and imagine what we can do. Let’s remember why we joined Rotary and imagine the possibilities of positive change our club can effect in our community.
Thanks to all who join us at our weekly meetings, and to those who participate in committees and projects. Please encourage your friends and neighbors to join us in service and fellowship, allowing us to have even a greater impact on our community. It’s going to be exciting!
Sincerely,
Dick Bennett
San Mateo Rotary President 2022-2023
Service Above Self
San Mateo, CA 94401
United States of America