Welcome to the Rotary Club of Washington, DC
Upcoming Lunch Programs
In-Person/Hybrid Washington DC Weekly Club Meeting
Speaker: Ben Ali
A transformational message of faith, discipline, self-mastery, and economic empowerment.
Ben Ali is an entrepreneur, community leader, and motivational speaker committed to elevating lives through business, advocacy, and empowerment. As a driving force behind the iconic Ben’s Chili Bowl, Ben’s Next Door, and Ben’s Chili Bowl Foundation, he has built on his family’s legacy while using his platform to uplift others. From expanding a historic business to working with nonprofits addressing gun violence and systemic challenges, his work reflects a deep commitment to progress, unity, responsibility, and self-determination.
Through his book ASCEND, speaking engagements, and mentorship, Ben is walking in his calling to challenge Black men to break detrimental generational cycles, reclaim excellence, and lead with purpose. His mission is clear: to help others rise beyond survival and ASCEND toward lasting wealth, wisdom, and legacy.
A native Washingtonian, Ben attended Shepherd Elementary and Georgetown Day School before heading to the University of Pennsylvania. For over 27 years, he has been married to Sonya Ali. Together, they have twins, Jaleel and Suraya. Sonya helps lead operations at Ben's Chili Bowl, and the Ali family's deep-rooted commitment to the city shines through their business and community engagement.
In-Person/Hybrid Washington DC Weekly Club Meeting
Speaker: Annual Meeting & Holiday Music by the Washington Chorus
Please join us for a Holiday Musical Performance.
Our Upcoming Events
In-Person/Hybrid Washington DC Weekly Club Meeting
Speaker: Ben Ali
Topic: A transformational message of faith, discipline, self-mastery, and economic empowerment.
More info
Annual Holiday Party
Topic: Celebrate the Season at our Cocktail Reception. Tickets include heavy hors d'oeuvres & open bar. Dress Code: Festive Cocktail Attire. Pre-registration is required and will close on Tuesday, December 9th.
More info
In-Person/Hybrid Washington DC Weekly Club Meeting
Speaker: Annual Meeting & Holiday Music by the Washington Chorus
More info
Interested in the Rotary Club of Washington DC?
ATTEND LUNCH
Visitors are warmly invited to attend a weekly luncheon meeting of the Rotary Club of Washington, D.C. to experience our culture of service, leadership, and fellowship. The Club meets every Wednesday from 12:30–1:30 p.m. at the University Club of Washington, D.C. (1135 16th Street NW), with informal fellowship beginning at approximately 12:15 p.m. Guests are encouraged to register in advance using the link below and to introduce themselves at the registration table upon arrival. The cost of lunch is $42.
MEMBERSHIP INFO
We would also like to invite you to attend a New & Prospective Membership Orientation, which takes place on the 3rd Monday of every month from 6:00 to 7:00 p.m.
Please register HERE.
It’s the best opportunity to meet Club leaders and learn more firsthand about why joining us is so rewarding personally and professionally.
APPLY TODAY
If you are looking for a place to serve, lead, and connect with others who care about making a difference, we invite you to apply for membership in the Rotary Club of Washington, D.C. Our members come from many professions and backgrounds, united by a shared commitment to “Service Above Self” and to building community in the nation’s capital. Simply complete the application using the link below, and a member of our team will reach out to welcome you and guide you through the next steps.
Impacting the Community
Our members take action to create lasting change in Washington, D.C. and around the world. Through service projects, partnerships, grants, and hands-on volunteerism, we work to address real needs in our community while building meaningful relationships with those we serve and with one another.
Rotary is where people come together to turn commitment into impact.
Our Impact
