The word “inventor” brings to mind images of men like Thomas Edison and Alexander Graham Bell, but inventors come from every demographic and segment of society. The stories of inventive women often have been overlooked, undervalued, and sometimes lost, not least because they have lacked the support and backing necessary to secure patents and develop inventions into marketable products or services. In mid-2019, both houses of Congress held hearings on what lawmakers called the “lost Einsteins,” looking at gender gaps in science, engineering, technology, and invention. Patricia Bath, inventor of a surgical instrument for cataract removal, testified: “The pipeline for increasing women scientists and engineers begins by igniting the spark for learning and curiosity.” Academic research has confirmed the importance of role models in inspiring invention among girls while also pointing out that, at current rates, it will take more than a century to reach gender parity with male inventors. 1
The Smithsonian’s Lemelson Center for the Study of Invention and Innovation, part of the National Museum of American History (NMAH) in Washington, DC, has been studying, documenting, and disseminating stories of historic and contemporary women inventors and innovators since 1995. Most recently, our Lemelson Center team led by senior historian Joyce Bedi developed a photo mural exhibition called Picturing Women Inventors/Estampas de mujeres inventoras. 2 This exhibition—which you can currently visit at NMAH—highlights the distinctive motivations, challenges, and accomplishments of exceptional 20th- and 21st-century inventive women who are diverse both personally and professionally. Presented in bold wall murals, with text in English and Spanish, this exhibition illustrates the creativity of women inventors while inspiring young people (especially girls) to see themselves as future inventors. There is also a poster version of Picturing Women Inventors available through the Smithsonian Institution Traveling Exhibition Service (SITES with accompanying educational curriculum materials, and you can read more on our website. Picturing Women Inventors is both timely and designed to impact visitors with engaging and often unexpected stories about women inventors. The exhibition is meant to inspire everyone—men and women, girls, and boys—with stories about what women inventors have accomplished and how their breakthroughs are part of our daily lives.
Today, I will highlight women inventors in the exhibition who I selected because we have recently collected archival materials from them or because they will soon be featured in public programs and the Lemelson Center’s upcoming exhibition at NMAH:
- Cataracts are a clouding of the lens of the eye that cause blurry or distorted vision and can lead to blindness. Ophthalmologist and surgeon Dr. Patricia Bath (1942–2019) invented the Laserphaco Probe in 1981 to make cataract removal faster, easier, more accurate, and less invasive. Using the Laserphaco Probe, a surgeon inserts an optical laser fiber through a tiny (1 millimeter) incision in the eye to vaporize the cataract. Then a replacement lens is inserted. Patented in 1988, Dr. Bath’s invention has improved the sight of millions worldwide. 3
- Colombian-born inventor Amy Prieto is creating safe, inexpensive, fast-charging, and environmentally friendly rechargeable batteries, with potential applications in everything from smart phones to electric vehicles. She joined the Colorado State University chemistry department in 2005 and started her company, Prieto Battery, in 2009 to take the battery from research to prototype to commercialization. Still in development, Prieto’s solid-state batteries contain none of the toxic components found in other batteries. 4
- Millions of people worldwide get sick from contaminated drinking water. Theresa Dankovich saw a way to prevent illness by using nanoparticles that naturally kill bacteria and viruses. As a graduate student, she invented germ-killing water filters, made of thick paper embedded with silver nanoparticles. The filters are inexpensive, easy to distribute, reusable, and biodegradable. She founded Folia Water in 2016 to produce her invention, which is being tested extensively around the world. “It’s not just to make this really cool product, but also to help improve people’s lives.” 5
- Madison Maxey started sewing when she was eight years old and began interning in the fashion industry when she still was a teenager. She enrolled at the Parsons School of Design, but dropped out to start her own clothing company. She taught herself to code and combined that skill with her passion for fashion—she invented stretchable ink that conducts electricity, and the machine to print the ink on fabric. A pioneer in the field of e-textiles. Maxey and her company, Loomia, create fabrics that act like circuit boards for applications including heated jackets and safety gear with lights. 6
- After a hang-gliding accident in 1978, Marilyn Hamilton was determined to continue her active lifestyle, but her heavy wheelchair made that difficult. Drawing inspiration from the materials used in hang gliders, she worked with two friends to invent a lightweight wheelchair that was easy to maneuver. She co-founded Motion Designs in 1979 to manufacture her wheelchairs, still sold today under the brand name Quickie. Hamilton’s many accomplishments as an athlete include two women’s wheelchair singles titles in the US Open tennis competition. 7
- Lisa Lindahl was one of millions of Americans who started jogging as part of the running and fitness boom that swept the United States in the 1970s. But as much as she loved running, it was painful because she didn’t have a supportive bra. Lindahl teamed up with costume designers Polly Palmer Smith and Hinda Miller to solve that problem. They deconstructed two men’s athletic supporters and sewed the pieces into a prototype sports bra they called “Jogbra.” Lindahl and Miller first sold their invention through mail orders and quickly expanded into a successful company. 8
If you’re interested in learning more about Prieto, Dankovich, or Maxey, please join the Lemelson Center’s upcoming free Innovative Lives programs—for more information and registration link visit https://invention.si.edu/about/events. On Wednesday, April 12, 4-5 p.m. Eastern via Zoom (free but registration required for link), you can “meet” Prieto and another Fort Collins, Colorado, inventor Sunil Cherian during an informal online chat with moderator Joyce Bedi. Then on May 10, we are hosting an in-person evening program at NMAH featuring Dankovich and Maxey together in conversation with me on stage, followed by a reception.
In March 2024, a new exhibition Change Your Game/Cambia tu juegos will open in the Lemelson Hall of Invention and Innovation at NMAH, located in first floor’s West wing. Stories in the exhibition include Jogbra inventors Lindahl, Miller, and Palmer Smith and Quickie Wheelchair co-inventor Hamilton among many others. Change Your Game will invite visitors to experience their own inventive abilities while learning about the people and motivations behind sports innovations. The 3,500-square-foot exhibition will feature fascinating stories about diverse inventors with related museum objects, vibrant graphics, and inspiring activities to transform visitors in inventive problem-solvers. The exhibition’s priority audiences are girls and African American youth ages 10-17 and people with disabilities.
Thanks, and I hope you’ve enjoyed this presentation in honor of Women’s History Month!
U.S. Senate, Committee on the Judiciary, Subcommittee on Intellectual Property, “Trailblazers and Lost Einsteins: Women Inventors and the Future of American Innovation,” (3 April 2019) available at: https://www.judiciary.senate.gov/meetings/trailblazers-and-lost-einsteins-women-inventors-and-the-future-of-american-innovation; Alex Bell, Raj Chetty, Xavier Jaravel, Neviana Petkova, and John Van Reenen, “Who Becomes an Inventors in America? The Importance of Exposure to Innovation,” National Bureau of Economic Research, No. 24062 (January 2019).
Picturing Women Inventors is organized by the Lemelson Center for the Study of Invention and Innovation, and was developed in collaboration with the United States Patent and Trademark Office and made possible with the support of Lyda Hill Philanthropies IF/THEN Initiative and Ericsson. 19 women are included in Picturing Women Inventors at the National Museum of American History (NMAH): Tara Astigarraga; Patricia Bath; Ayah Bdeir; Cynthia Breazeal; Theresa Dankovich; Marion O’Brien Donovan; Marilyn Hamilton; Grace Hopper; Marjorie Stewart Joyner; Michelle Khine; Margaret Knight; Stephanie Kwolek; Alexis Lewis; Lisa Lindahl, Hinda Miller, and Polly Palmer Smith; Madison Maxey, Ellen Ochoa; Amy Prieto; Sharon Rogone; Charlotte Cramer Sachs?; Laura Shepherd; Kavita Shukla; Maria Telkes; Madam C.J. Walker; and Cindy Whitehead.
https://invention.si.edu/node/28532/p/602-patricia-bath; https://invention.si.edu/remembering-dr-patricia-bath
https://invention.si.edu/node/28532/p/600-amy-prieto
https://invention.si.edu/node/28532/p/601-theresa-dankovich
https://invention.si.edu/node/28532/p/721-madison-maxey
https://invention.si.edu/node/28532/p/631-marilyn-hamilton
https://invention.si.edu/node/28532/p/611-lisa-lindahl-hinda-miller-polly-palmer-smith
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Every year, Rotaractors and Rotarians around the world celebrate World Rotaract Week during the week of March 13-18 to commemorate the founding of the first club in 1968.
World Rotaract Week is a time for celebrating the success and importance of the Rotaract program. This is also an excellent opportunity to inform members of your community about the amazing work that Rotaract clubs do and give them an opportunity to get involved.
Every year, our DC Rotary Club invites our sponsoring DC Rotaract Club as our guest speaker at our weekly luncheon during World Rotaract Week. President Marilyn Nevy Cruz decided to do things a little differently this year and invited them to preside and take over the meeting! They shared their accomplishments, ideas and success stories with their members, as well as ideas for building a stronger relationship between Rotaract and Rotary.
Established by our Club in May 1994, the Rotaract Club of Washington, D.C. has shown the level of positive impact that young professionals can have on a community for nearly 29 years!
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Dear PolioPlus Society Member,
Thank you ever so much for making the personal commitment to rid the world of polio. You should be pleased to know that as of 1 February our total contribution toward eradicating polio is $43,689. That is a per capita donation of $21.75 according to Zone 33 records. We've reached this amount through contributions made by clubs and individuals!
To put this into perspective, our district is one of seventeen in Zone 33. The Zone's total polio eradication contribution as of 1 February is $1,510,583 for a per capita amount of $43.71!
I am particularly grateful to you as a PolioPlus Society member. I am asking you for an additional favor on behalf of millions of children. Please encourage at least one more Rotarian to join the PolioPlus Society. If we can each get one more Rotarian to make the commitment that will mean an additional $2,200/year.
And, for the foreseeable future, the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation will be matching $2 for $1.
Finally, we will have a table at the District Conference. The Polio Eradication Committee could use your help. Please contact Billy Louis to volunteer some time.
Now...Imagine a world without polio!
YIRS,
-y
2022-23 District 7620 Polio Plus Chair
2022-23 District 7620 Treasurer
Fillable PolioPlus Society Commitment Read More
On March 29, 2023, the Rotary Club of Washington, DC, held its regular weekly meeting in person at the University Club of Washington, D.C. and via Zoom, and welcomed guest speaker Gabrielle Webster, the 2022 Washingtonian of the Year and President and CEO of Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Washington.
President Marilyn Nevy Cruz called the meeting to order at 12:30 PM and led everyone in the Pledge of Allegiance.
Secretary Todd Miller introduced the guests and visiting Rotarians. Guests included visiting Rotarian Nichcolas Boliat from Paris West Club; Rody Baron, a guest of Jennifer Hara, from Everybody Wins; and Rotarian Jean-Marie Cayemitte from the International Monetary Fund and President Elect of the Petion-Ville Sud Club.
Sergeant-at-Arms Lola Perez recognized birthdays and anniversaries for the week
Past President Jennifer Hara introduced the speaker Garbrielle Webster, the 2022 Washingtonian of the year.
Gabrielle Webster is a visionary thought leader and youth development expert who is sparking positive change as President and CEO of Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Washington (BGCGW). As a skilled convener who engages communities, business leaders, philanthropists and partners in service of capital area youth and their families, Ms. Webster has put to use her strategic planning, management abilities and development skills to fuel unprecedented growth for BGCGW. Under her leadership, BGCGW, which serves more than 21,000 youth, is exceeding financial goals and achieving record accomplishments. Ms. Webster is the driving force behind a first-ever $30 million comprehensive campaign. Ms. Webster also tripled the number of Clubs in the metro area, earning BGCGW the distinction of being among the top 5% of BGCA (Boys & Girls Clubs of America) affiliates in the nation. In 2022, BGCGW celebrated its first National Youth of the Year in 75 years. Ms. Webster is further blazing new trails with plans for a flagship Center of Transformation at the Nation’s Boys & Girls Club, which will serve as an incubator to pilot and implement innovative programs across local sites and ideally the BGCA movement.
Ms. Webster has a depth of leadership experience as a nonprofit and public sector professional with a track record of growth and exceeding expectations. Prior to BGCGW, she raised more than $220 million as part of her leadership roles at three large non-profit organizations, which operate in the Washington metropolitan area, the Mid-Atlantic region and at the national level. Ms. Webster served as the Chief Development Officer at the United Way of the National Capital Area as well as National Vice President for the American Heart Association, where she was charged with the development, implementation, and execution of a new national business to consumer campaign. Prior to that role, she was Vice President of the Mid-Atlantic Region’s Leukemia & Lymphoma Society where she managed a $36 million budget across nine states. Before her career in the nonprofit sector, Ms. Webster spent more than a decade with the Eastman Kodak Company and she held several leadership positions in marketing, sales, university relations, and engineering technology.
Ms. Webster was selected by Washingtonian Magazine as a 2022 Washingtonian of the Year. She was also a National Science Foundation Fellow, a National Biomedical Symposium Fellow and a Polaroid Scholar. She was chosen to attend the Center for Creative Leadership in 2009 as one of the top executive directors at the American Heart Association.
Ms. Webster earned her Bachelor of Science degree in Chemistry from Xavier University and a Master of Physical Chemistry degree from Atlanta University. Ms. Webster is also a graduate of the Leadership Greater Washington program and was recently awarded a Harvard Business School Executive Education Certificate for Strategic Agility and Inclusive Leadership. She and her husband reside in Upper Marlboro, Maryland, and they have one daughter.
Ms. Webster spoke about the impact of covid and trauma on children and about the negative impact these things have on social skills. She also discussed the effect of bullying and self-harm. The speaker mentioned Asha H.R., the Boys and Girls Club Youth of the Year for 2022, who represented 4 million boys and girls. The speaker reported the Boys and Girls Club was expanding in DC and PG county. The speaker mentioned after school programs and mentioned capitol campaign and talked about various programs and reported that 98-99% Boys and Girls Club kids graduate from high school and about 95% go on to college. She also discussed the Center of Transformation. |
After a lively question and answer session moderated by Steve Liston, with questions and comments from Past President Gerry Murphy, Past President Andy Cook, Dr. Sam Hancock, Max Salas, Sofia DeMartino, Dr. John Sandy, and President Marilyn, past President of the Club’s Foundation Lisa McCurdy presented the speaker with a check for $92,000. President Marilyn presented Ms. Webster with a certificate for the planting of a tree under the Club’s Trees for the Capital Program. The tree is a living memorial to the speaker.
In his Member Moment, Shahbaz Khan talked about his background and work and involvement in Rotary Club activities.
Sterling Hoffman presented a Paul Harris award +5 to May O’Brien.
David Klaus spoke about Rotary Foundation.
Mary Goldsmith also announced the Spring Soiree on March 30 at Andy Cook’s offices at K&L Gates.
President Cruz awarded Mary Goldsmith Member of the Month award for January 2023.
Visiting Rotarian Nikolas Foliet exchanged flags with President Cruz.
Dr Erminia Scarcella and Dr Shahbaz Khan spoke about their trip to Milan, Italy, to attend the International Rotary Meeting. The flags from all the participating clubs and plaque awarded to the club was shared with the members.
Sterling Hoffman conducted the Raffle, which was won by Kenny Barnes, but the Ace of Spades was not drawn.
The meeting was adjourned at 1:30 PM. Pamela Stern Green was the producer on Zoom, and Steve Liston the producer in the room. Chelsea Uzarowski and Dr. Sam Hancock were the greeters, and Sofia DeMartino provided hospitality. Dr. Shahbaz Khan provided the meeting in review.
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Our support of disaster relief in Turkey and Syria was one of our most comprehensive to date.
On February 22, 2023, the Board of our Club’s Foundation, the Rotary Foundation of Washington, DC, voted to accept the recommendation of the Foundation’s Disaster Working Group to support a proposal providing funding for Turkey and Syria, specifically to provide “emergency shelter and essential household items depending on what is needed”—tents and shelter kits, stoves, thermal blankets, clothing to keep people warm through the freezing winter nights, and solar lights that help people when there is no electricity, or cash to help people buy what they need to survive. A donation of $1000 was distributed to each of two organizations known to be Rotary International partners — Disaster Aid USA and ShelterBox USA.
The Foundation Board established a process for funding disaster relief efforts at our November 2021 Board meeting, which includes the Working Group receiving and processing disaster relief applications from Club members, calling for competing applications for relief concerning the same disaster, ranking the applications, and recommending the highest-ranked proposal to the full Foundation Board for a vote on funding.
The Working Group consists of Foundation President Lynn Holec, Club President Marilyn Nevy Cruz, Past President Bill Dent, Foundation Director Irene Koerner, Foundation Treasurer Linda Solomon, and Past President Lisa McCurdy as the Group’s Chairperson.
A second round of giving to Turkey and Syria was spearheaded in February. The Rotary Club of Washington, DC Shelter Box fundraising campaign raised $4,040.00, and that was matched so Shelter Box received $8,080 from our Club thru that effort.
There was another $800 donated to the Club Foundation since the “match” was announced, and therefore $960.00 was donated to the Foundation to fulfill the $5,000.00 match commitment. This will help to fund additional Disaster Relief through the Foundation.
Due to the generous annual donations of club members, bequests of past club members through their estate plans, and the sound stewardship of the Foundation Board over the past century, our Rotary Club can fund disaster relief initiatives in addition to the many other worthy projects, programs, and activities through its Foundation. We should be proud of our legacy and make every effort to expand our reach.
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On March 15, 2023, the Rotary Club of Washington, DC, held its regular weekly meeting in person at the University Club of Washington, D.C. and via Zoom and welcomed the Rotaract Club of Washington, D.C. who conducted the meeting.
On March 15, 2023, the Rotary Club of Washington, DC, held its regular weekly meeting in person at the University Club of Washington, D.C. and via Zoom and invited the Rotaract Club of Washington, D.C. to conduct the meeting.
Rotaract President Allison (Allie) Rivera called the meeting to order at 12:30 PM.
Rotaract Member Ta-Sha Watkins led the pledge of allegiance.
Rotaract Secretary Jhosse Rivera provided the secretary’s report and welcomed our guests.
Rotaract Treasurer Maria Schweitzer recognized three birthdays and zero member anniversaries.
Rotaract Membership Chair Julia Moluf shared words of inspiration in the form of a quote by the late Disability Rights activist Judy Huemann.
President Marilyn Nevy Cruz welcomed the Rotaract Club and shared a brief background on Rotaract and inducted new Rotary Club of Washington, DC members Frank Gamez and Arden Demirayak.
Sterling Hoffman shared a Rotary Foundation Moment and made an appeal for donations to the Rotary International Foundation Fundraiser. Sterling shared the following information about current donations to date:
- Currently raised: $26,783 USD from 41 donors (approximately 1/3 of club members)
- Sterling shared information on how to donate at Rotary.org and shared that his business, Sterling Portraits, will offer discounted rates on portraits to those club members whose donations exceed $500.00 USD.
- Sterling shared that there are currently 79 Paul Harris pin recipients in the club with and additional 8 pins to be distributed at the March 22, 2023, regular club lunch meeting.
Donnie Shaw provided a recap of the Career Fair hosted by the Rotary Club of Washington, DC at Richard Wright Public Charter School. Donnie recognized several other members that contributed to the success of the event. A video recap of the event, produced by Elijah from Richard Wright, was shared to the club.
Alexandar Tu welcomed and moderated a panel of students from CHEC, Cardozo, and Richard Wright to share their experiences and answer/ask questions following the RYLA leadership training. Students shared their key takeaways from the weekend, including what they learned and what they did on the retreat.
President Marilyn Nevy Cruz welcomed President Elect Lisa Cohen and President Nominee Bob Schott to take a photo with the students and reminded members to donate to the Rotary Club of Washington, DC Foundation, which funds this type of project.
Rotaract President Allison (Allie) Rivera shared a presentation in which she recognized individual Rotaract board of directors and provided updates on Rotaract’s recent events, including,
- District Clean Ups Brookland
- World Polio Day
- Fundraiser for Food Justice
- Best Buddies Gala
- MLK Day of Service
- District Clean Ups-Capitol Hill
- Volunteering with Food Justice
- Fellowship Events:
- Summer Potluck
- Cook out
- Fall induction ceremony
- Halloween Scavenger Hunt and Bar Crawl
- Music Trivia
- Ice Skating
- Professional Development
- September: Rotary Connection
- October: Home Buying
- December: Goal Setting
- January: Taxes
- International Connections:
- Cultural Exchange with Rotaract Sri Lanka
- Careers in Foreign Service Panel
- Partnership with Young Professionals in Foreign Policy Group (ins and outs of hiring process and challenges/ demands of roles)
- ShelterBox Fundraiser (in conjunction with other Rotaract clubs across the country)
Rotaract President Allison (Allie) Rivera thanked the Rotary Club of Washington for funds that help support Rotaract and shared upcoming events that the Rotary Club of Washington members are invited to attend. Events and registration can be found on MeetUp: https://meetu.ps/e/LTcSj/1K8Lc/i
Belek Toktosunov conducted the raffle and announced small pot winner at $29. No large pot drawing was conducted.
Rotaract President Allison Rivera adjourned the meeting at 1:23 PM.
Steve Liston was the producer on Zoom, Megan Miller and Ahmed Eltally were greeters, Brian Blum and Maria Schweitzer provided hospitality, and Dylan White wrote the meeting in review.Read More
On March 8, 2023, the Rotary Club of Washington, DC, held its regular weekly meeting in person at the University Club of Washington, D.C. and via Zoom and welcomed guest speaker the Honorable H.E. Hilda Suka-Mafudze, the African Union Ambassador to the United States of America.
On March 8, 2023, the Rotary Club of Washington, DC, held its regular weekly meeting in person at the University Club of Washington, D.C. and via Zoom.
Past President Nancy Riker called the meeting to order at 12:30 PM and led everyone in the Pledge of Allegiance.
Sergeant-at-Arms Lola Perez recognized birthdays and anniversaries for the week.
Secretary Todd Miller introduced the guests and visiting Rotarians. Past District Governor Rich Carson attended the meeting and brought with him Daniel Jimenez as a prospective member. Other guests included Terry Hill, a guest of Bill Busker, Ayce Ozerdem, a guest of May O’Brien who has applied for membership, Ronan Taylor, a guest of President Marilyn Nevy Cruz, and Julie Fischer, a guest of Sterling Hoffman.
Deputy Secretary Debbie Peters introduced the speaker, the Honorable H.E. Hilda Suka-Mafudze, noting that the Ambassador was a role model for her as one of the first female parliamentarians in Zimbabwe and a picture of grace. Ambassador Suka-Mafudze is the African Union Ambassador to the United States of America since October 2021. She was nominated by H.E. Moussa Faki Mahamat, Chairperson of the African Union Commission, to lead the African Union Mission in the USA, the first bilateral diplomatic Mission opened by the AU in 2007.
Ambassador Hilda Suka-Mafudze is the Permanent Representative of the African Union to the United States of America. Her core mandate is to enhance and maintain existing bilateral ties. These ties strengthen democratic institutions, advance trade and investment, knowledge sharing, promote peace and security, mutual relationships between the U.S and all 55 AU member countries based on culture and shared values.
A career diplomat with experience that spans the African continent, Ambassador Suka-Mafudze assumed her most recent duties on November 2, 2020. Prior to coming to the U.S., she helped lead diplomacy for more than two decades in a variety of top government positions in her home country, Zimbabwe. Well known as a “quiet champion of democracy,” Ambassador SukaMafudze held ambassadorial positions representing her country in Khartoum Sudan and South Sudan between 2010 and 2019, and most recently, in the Republic of Malawi.
With a staunch commitment to democracy and the will of the people, Ambassador Suka-Mafudze worked fastidiously with the 55 AU member countries to promote and deepen democracy and democratic elections on the African continent. While Ambassador to Malawi, she chaired the group of regional ambassadors representing the South African Development Community (SADC), a regional Economic Community comprising 16 member states. With an agreed objective to coordinate efforts and settle issues of a contested national election, the Ambassadors engaged deeply with the African Union Election Observers and other international observers. Ambassador Suka-Mafudze herself was serving as an international observer. In Khartoum, Sudan and South Sudan, she led important high-level political processes that continue to move the entire region toward greater peace and security. In 2007, Ambassador Suka-Mafudze was the Executive Director of Community Development where she was responsible for the day-to-day running of an organization and technical professional staff who interfaced with the government, civil society, and private sector. She worked to ensure civil society's needs were articulated and streamlined in public policies and programs.
From 2000 to 2005, Ambassador Suka-Mafudze served as an elected member of Zimbabwe’s Parliament. As one of the few women parliamentarians, she was an influential voice committed to ensuring Zimbabwe’s laws were balanced and served the interests of the poor and other marginalized groups – women, youth, the elderly and children.
Ambassador Suka-Mafudze has a Master of Arts degree in International Relations and World Order from the University of Leicester, United Kingdom, and a Bachelor of Science degree in Sociology and Gender Development from the Women’s University in Africa (WUA). Located in Marondera, Zimbabwe, WUA is a private university that works to address gender disparity and foster equity in tertiary education while developing knowledge and skills in areas of vital importance for women.
Ambassador Suka-Mafudze’s other professional and academic training include: The United Nations Senior Mission Leaders’ Course, Interaction Leadership from the British Council, a professional certificate in Networking Leadership, Diplomacy, and Mediation Skills, Leading in Conflict Environments and Skills for Conflict Transformation. Ambassador Suka-Mafudze is fluent in English, with working knowledge of French and some Southern African languages, including Shona and Ndebele.
Ambassador Suka-Mafudze is married with four children.
Ambassador Suka-Mafudze mentioned that today was International Women’s Day and discussed where Africa is today with regard to women. She recognized the important role that Rotary plays in Africa and invited Rotarians to get even more involved. She stressed the need for transformation of access to digital technology for women, explaining that women are important to the business world of Africa but lag behind in access to and knowledge of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics.
She discussed the recent US-Africa Summit and the Biden Administration’s commitment to allow increased 2-way trade with Africa. The Ambassador urged the US to get more involved in Africa, where there is generally a favorable view of the country. This is critical since everyone is vying for access to Africa’s minerals.
After a lively question and answer session, Past President Nancy presented Ambassador Suka-Mafudze with both an Honorary Membership in the Club and with a certificate for the planting of a tree under the Club’s Trees for the Capital program.
May O’Brien discussed the International Service Committee and invited everyone’s participation, particularly those with grants experience to do country assessments. She explained that the ISC has funded projects in 33 countries over the years. The goal is to fund high impact projects that support one of the Rotary themes (most of which were listed by Ombudsman David Klaus, supplemented by May O’Brien). This year the ISC has $28,900 to distribute.
Past President Nancy Riker, in Sterling Hoffman’s absence, asked everyone to support the Rotary Foundation. She emphasized that the Rotary Foundation returns money to the Club and we are seeking to meet the challenge of Every Member, Every Year.
Todd Miller invited everyone to participate in the Community Service Grants Committee, noting that the recommendation meeting had been set for April 1 at a place to be determined, and to nominate a Hero.
President Elect Lisa Cohen discussed her attendance at CPETS, the Chesapeake President Elect Training Seminar. She confirmed the value of the experience and noted her belief that the experience will help her have a better year as president and to support her theme of having fun.
Past President Nancy encouraged everyone to participate in the Dictionary Project, a signature program of the Club. She noted that the dictionaries are more like mini-encyclopedias and contain a lot of valuable and fascinating material.
Past President Nancy also announced the Spring Soiree on March 30 at Andy Cook’s offices at K&L Gates. She also discussed World Rotaract Week and explained that the March 15 meeting will be run by the two Rotaract Clubs sponsored by the Club.
Ombudsman David Klaus conducted the Raffle, which was won by Sofia DeMartino, but the Ace of Spades was not drawn.
The meeting was adjourned at 1:30 PM. Salvador Farfán was the producer on Zoom, and Steve Liston the producer in the room. Dr. Sam Hancock was the greeter and Sofia DeMartino provided hospitality.
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On February 22, 2023, the Rotary Club of Washington, DC, held its regular weekly meeting in person at the University Club of Washington, D.C. and via Zoom, and welcomed guest speaker Celeste Marinelli Minister Counselor of the Embassy of the Republic of Guatemala to the United States.
On February 22, 2023, the Rotary Club of Washington, DC, held its regular weekly meeting in person at the University Club of Washington, D.C. and via Zoom.
Past President Andy Cook called the meeting to order at 12:30 PM and also led the pledge of allegiance.
Deputy Secretary Debbie Peters read our list of visiting Rotarians:
- Anna Kaflik, guest of Bill Day
- Jaquelyn Riloff, Rotoract DC
- Molly Hanrahan, Rotoract DC
- Miles Bernhard, guest of John Kropf
- Yohanis Temteme, guest of Alexander Tu
- Reginald Read, guest of Adrian Allen
- Jose Diaz-Asper, guest of David Klaus
Sergeant-at-Arms Lola Perez recognized birthdays and anniversaries for the week.
There was a Member Moment from Marianna Keita-Thiero: she shared her story from early dreams and plans for a career in fashion to working in television, redirecting to international communications, and finally launching her independent consulting firm here in the DMV.
President Nominee Bob Schott made an appeal to support the Club’s Foundation.
Donnie Shaw announced tomorrow’s Career Fair at Richard Wright PCS.
Past President Lisa McCurdy offered a reminder for the Write Lunch with Free Minds event on March 1st. Rotarians will have the opportunity to give encouragement and feedback to returning citizens on their writing projects. Free Minds also works to support job readiness and outreach activities to reduce recidivism.
Past President Andy Cook offered a reminder to the club for the Twin Cities Club Open House. Participating clubs will include Tokyo, Edinburgh, Santiago, Athens, Manila and more.
David Klaus introduced our speaker. From Iowa roots, David has had the opportunity to visit many South American nations with the World Bank, including Guatemala. Our speaker Celeste Marinelli serves as Minister Counselor of the Embassy of Guatemala.
Ms. Marinelli has been the Minister Counselor of the Embassy of the Republic of Guatemala in the United States since 2021. Prior to her post to the United States, she was the Deputy Head of Mission of the Embassy of the Republic of Guatemala to Thailand, Counselor of the Embassy of the Republic of Guatemala to the Kingdom of The Netherlands, and Chief of Staff of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Guatemala. She received her master’s degree from The Fletcher School at Tufts University and received her Bachelor of Arts in International Relations and Affairs from the Universidad Francisco Marroquín in Guatemala City, Guatemala.
Ms. Marinelli began her talk by first acknowledging the efforts of Rotary on healthcare and food insecurity in the nation of Guatemala, then offered a bilateral relations summary. Guatemala is the size of Tennessee, and is home to a population of 17 milllion. The GDP is $80B. Guatemala is diverse in both climate and in ethnic groups. Priorities for the nation of Guatemala are increasing trade and investment, and decreasing drug and human trafficking.
There are many differences between the United States and Guatemala, particularly in terms of the power dynamic. However, the goal is to find common interests. The U.S. has 3 main objectives for Guatemala – reducing irregular immigration, combatting drug trafficking, and strengthening the rule of law. For Guatemala, its goals with the U.S. are to increase exports and investments and ensuring the rights of Guatemalans in the United States are being respected. Public policy common ground can be found – Guatemala hopes to achieve circular immigration with seasonal workers who return to Guatemala. This must be a local policy process. On trade: Guatemala hopes to enhance and grow trade. The United States and Canada are Guatemala’s biggest trading partners. On drug transit and criminality: Guatemala is not a producer, trafficking is the issue.
Guatemala’s U.S. partners in the effort to pursue aligned goals are the DOJ, CBP, DOS, DOL, and Congress. There were many seizures last year, and they are working on dismantling structures and systems that facilitate human trafficking. Other issues include child labor in the United States and wage theft – Guatemala hopes through an awareness campaign to encourage Guatemalans living in the United States to know their rights and responsibilities, and to reach out for assistance if they are being taken advantage of by an employer.
While there is asymmetry in the power dynamic between the United States and Guatemala, there are also common goals. Guatemala is committed to working with the U.S. to achieve prosperity for both nations and peoples.
Following Ms. Marinelli’s talk, questions and answers were facilitated by Past President Nancy Riker.
Past President Andy presented our speaker with her certificate for a Tree planted in her honor.
Sterling Hoffman led the raffle drawing, Sofia DeMartino won the small pot, but did not draw the Ace of Spades.
The Meeting was adjourned at 1:30 pm by Past President Andy.
Salvador Farfán was the producer on Zoom, and Past President Nancy the producer in the room. James Corey was the greeter, and Ali Nettles provided hospitality.
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On March 1, 2023, the Rotary Club of Washington, DC, held its regular weekly meeting as a hybrid live/Zoom meeting, and welcomed the former President of Rotary International, our District Governor Dr. Sean McAllister, Rotary Club Presidents, and other distinguished Rotarians to a Presidential Assembly to introduce Club Members to the Club’s Twin Clubs.
On March 1, 2023, the Rotary Club of Washington, DC, held its regular weekly meeting as a hybrid live/Zoom meeting. The meeting was a Presidential Assembly to introduce Club Members to the Club’s Twin Clubs.
President Marilyn Nevy Cruz called the meeting to order at 12:30 PM and led everyone in the Pledge of Allegiance.
Secretary Todd Miller led the introduction of guests and visiting Rotarians.
Sergeant-at-Arms Lola Perez recognized birthdays and anniversaries for the week.
President Marilyn noted the beginning of the Assembly and acknowledged the District Governors for each Rotary District in which a Twin Club is located. She gave a special thanks to DG Bala Murthy and welcomed Past Rotary International President Gary Huang who participated from Taiwan by Zoom. She also acknowledged our own DG Sean McAllister who attended in person.
Steve Liston introduced the program and explained that each Twin Club would have a few minutes to discuss their Club. He emphasized that the primary purpose of today’s assembly was to encourage fellowship with and understanding of our Twin Clubs. After thanking him for all his effort in putting today’s Assembly together, he turned the program over to Mark Wilson. Mark introduced the President of the Rotary Club of Athens, followed by the President of the Rotary Club of Bangkok and then the President Elect of the Rotary Club of Edinburgh. President Marilyn introduced the President of the Rotary Club of San Salvador Maquilishaut; Debbie Peters introduced the Past President of the Harare Dawn Rotary Club. Mark Wilson then introduced a video presented by the Rotary Club of Manila, followed by a representative from the Paris Academies Rotary Club. Erminia Scarcella introduced a representative of the Roma Appia Antica Rotary Club. Mark Wilson presented on behalf of the Santiago Rotary Club. Ambassador Jasmine Huggins attended the meeting in person and presented on behalf of the Rotary Club of Taipei, where she had been an honorary member during her tenure as Ambassador there. May O’Brien introduced the video presented by the Rotary Club of Tokyo, and Linda Solomon introduced a representative of the Tunis Doyen Rotary Club. The Rotary Club of Seoul was unable to attend.
President Marilyn thanked Mark Wilson for his herculean effort towards today’s Assembly.
President Marilyn announced that the Member of the Month was Mary Goldsmith, but a more formal presentation of the award would be done at a future meeting. She also reminded everyone to nominate a Hero.
Todd Miller reminded everyone of that evening’s Community Service Grants Committee meeting.
Sterling Hoffman conducted the raffle, which was won by David Klaus. He drew the Ace of Spades and took home a very substantial pot. For his own safety, we will not disclose the amount, but suffice it to say that he could buy every Club member a couple of drinks and still have a lot of money left over.
The meeting was adjourned at 1:39 PM. Past President Nancy Riker and Steve Liston were the room producers and Sarah Ross was the producer on Zoom. Dr. Sam Hancock was the greeter, and Amaa Damdindorj provided hospitality.
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Greetings fellow Rotarians,
As you know, I am the committee Chair for the Rotary International Foundation fundraiser for this fiscal year.
We had a very successful initial drive this past October and November and are starting a fiscal year-end drive in March and April.
Our motto is “Every Club, Every Member, Every Year”.
The beauty of being a part of such a large club, is we can raise a lot of money, even with small donations! Some can afford to give $25,000, some $2500, some $500, and others maybe only $25. It’s all good, appreciated and it all adds up.
Why is it so critically important to donate?
Because Rotary International, one of the largest service organizations on the planet, needs funding to continue its global projects - humanitarian, health, educational, disaster-relief. They are ongoing, every day. Only through our worldwide donations can Rotary International fulfill its 118-year missions.
So how do I donate?
- go to Rotary.org
- Click to donate tab
- Click on annual fund – SHARE
- Select your amount
- Sign in with your email and Rotary password
- Enter your credit card information
- Submit
How much should I donate?
As much as you can afford and choose to. Any amount is appreciated.
How do I receive a Paul Harris Society (PHS) pin?
The Paul Harris Society pin is prestigious and is recognized worldwide as a symbol of a $1000 donation to Rotary International. This can be incrementally or in full during one fiscal year.
Our club fortunately has “points“ which can be donated on your behalf to supplement your $500 donation so you qualify for the PHS pin. Download or see me for the form and submit it for your points allocation request.
Sterling’s Portraits Offer.
If you are in need of an updated executive/branding portrait, you can receive a $500 credit towards your portrait with your $500 donation to Rotary International! Studio session $400
Prepaid digital file $400
————
$800
- $500 RI credit
———
$300 + tax
You may use your digital file image for any of your headshot needs - including updating your profile image on the Rotary website.
If you want a more comprehensive portrait session of you, you and your spouse/significant other, or your family, use your $500 Rotary donation as a credit to our standard portrait commission pricing.
Your Sterling portrait can be created in the studio at your home or at any location worldwide
This is a great opportunity to experience a wonderful session and portrait for you and your loved ones.
Read More
Dear DC Rotary Club Members,
Wanted to report about my visit to Rotary Club in Pakistan. Last week I visited Lahore Pakistan my birth country and visited two rotary clubs in Lahore- Rotary Club Lahore Garrison and Rotary Club of Lahore-
With Rotary Club Lahore Garrison member Shehzad, I visited Aabroo school and learned that Rotary Club Lahore Garrison has been supporting Aabroo school for some time in various projects. Aabroo school provides education for children who are not able to afford an education and toured the school library and computer labs and classrooms and met with school teachers and students and members of the Aabroo school Rotaract members. Rotary Club Lahore Garrison has helped Aabroo school with books, computers, school supplies.
Afterwards we went and toured Mayo Hospital surgical ward and met with Mayo Hospital surgeons and staff and toured the operation rooms and saw the surgical room equipment. Rotary Club Lahore Garrison has supported Mayo Hospital Surgery center by providing medication and equipment.
Later we toured another hospital Shaukat Khanum Cancer Hospital and toured the pediatric wards and adult cancer wards and learned about the rotary club projects at the cancer hospital.
On Feb 21, I attended the meeting of Rotary Club of Lahore- this club is the oldest Rotary Club in Asia and was chartered on Dec 7, 1927. I was invited to be the chief guest of the meeting and spoke at the meeting about myself and our DC Rotary Club.
It was a wonderful opportunity for me to see all the various Rotary Club projects at the schools and hospitals and attend the meeting of the Rotary Club in Lahore. I am attaching pictures of all the activities.
Additionally, I spoke with Saleem Zamindar in Karachi and emailed Asif Bhally’s dad to convey regards from Bill and May and although I could not go to Karachi to attend Karachi Club meeting, I spoke with Saleem and he sends his regards as well.
Shahbaz
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First of all, I wish to thank President Marilyn Nevy Cruz for her proactive and supportive role this year in the Membership arena, even as she serves as Club President.
Membership Development. As you know, we continue to have a steady stream of new membership applications and, as a result, our membership numbers are up. Our total Club membership as of the January Board meeting stood at 127. We could call this a “post-pandemic” phenomenon but what I continue to hear when I do a "Past President’s Interview” of membership applicants is the interest of today’s young professionals to “give back” and be engaged in the community and community service.
Getting involved. It is indeed great to see that the ideal of Rotary, “Service above Self”, resonates with many. I have found that each of our new members is anxious to find their best fit in the Club by identifying and becoming engage on one of our dynamic committees, which is where our Club members truly become “People of Action” and make a difference through specific projects and programs.
Guides. Nancy and, occasionally, I have continued to help new members identify a more veteran Club member to serve as a ‘Guide’ for each of our new members. Besides helping guide the new member through the Red-badge-to-Blue-badge process, a key initial task of the Guide is to help the new member find at least one committee that fits his/her interests well and get them introduced to the respective committee chair. I have even tried to do this when I do the Past-President’s interview. There is no time to waste in getting a new member on board and involved.
Member Moments. Many of us in the Club look forward to the ‘Member Moment’ segments that have become a regular part of our meetings, seemingly at least once a month. They have proven to be a great way to get acquainted with new member and even an additional way to welcome them. It is important that we continue to also invite long-time members to do a MM, since they often provide great insights into the professional and personal lives of our fellow Club members, which, otherwise, may never have come to our attention. Bill Busker is currently in charge of scheduling Member Moments. In speaking with him, I was surprised, even a little taken aback, to learn that he has faced challenges in getting some new members to commit to doing a MM. In a few cases, they have not even acknowledged his email.
Outreach & Expressions. This important Club function continues to be ably handled by PP Nancy Riker, with the same personal touch that is her hallmark. For example, all members over 75 are mailed an actual physical card for their anniversaries and birthday. For other members, she sends an email or text on or about the respective date. Nancy also has made a practice to reach out to members we know are facing serious health issues and send out ‘Get Well’ cards, as appropriate.
Fellowship Events. These continue to be organized very ably by Mary Goldsmith. The most recent one was, of course, the beautifully-done Holiday Party in December. Something, no doubt, will be planned soon to welcome spring.
Committee Meetings. The Membership Committee continues to have committee meetings, as well as once every six weeks a new & prospective “Orientation” meetings to introduce Club leaders via Zoom and provide background information on the Club, its Committees, membership fees, etc. A ‘Fireside Chat’ was also organized at Lynn Holec’s home, continuing that long tradition, providing an in-person experience for the same purpose.
New membership categories. We continue to make periodic announcements at Club meetings about the availability of the two new membership categories, respectively, for organizations and for family members/domestic partners. Unfortunately, we have had no one sign up for either. For that reason, the Committee should continue to review them and determine if any further tweaks to them are required.
YIRS,
Bill Dent
Membership CommitteeRead More
On February 8th, 2023, the Rotary Club of Washington, DC, held its regular weekly meeting in person at the University Club of Washington, D.C. and via Zoom and welcomed guest speaker Makeba Clay, an International Expert
on Diversity, Equity and Inclusion.
On February 8th, 2023, the Rotary Club of Washington, DC, held its regular weekly meeting in person at the University Club of Washington, D.C. and via Zoom.
President Marilyn Nevy Cruz called the meeting to order at 12:30 PM and led everyone in the Pledge of Allegiance.
Deputy Secretary Debbie Peters introduced the guests and visiting Rotarians.
Sergeant-at-Arms Lola Perez recognized birthdays and anniversaries for the week.
President Nominee Bob Schott asked everyone to support the Club Foundation. He emphasized that purchases of pink gin from him also benefits the Foundation and that the gin makes a great Valentine’s gift.
President Elect Lisa Cohen announced a Vision Board event at her house and invited other members to share ideas for her upcoming year as President.
Alphonso Westley discussed the Career Fair to be held on February 23 at the Richard Wright Public Charter School. He announced that volunteers are needed to present their respective careers at the fair.
Mark Wilson asked the Twin City Club liaisons to submit the contact information for their designated Clubs by February 10. There will be a Club Assembly/Twin City Clubs Open House on March 1.
President Marilyn reminded everyone of the Mount Zion Cemetery Work Day on February 11, hosted by the Rotarians for Equality for Black People Committee and Metro Bethesda Rotary.
President Marilyn announced the “Write Lunch” with Free Minds after the Club luncheon meeting on March 1.
President Marilyn introduced the speaker, Makeba Clay. Ms. Clay is the past national president of the Association of Black Women in Higher Education (ABWHE) and has also served on numerous Boards and Advisory Councils, including, The Maryland Roundtable for Diversity, Princeton in Africa, the New Jersey Chapter of the American Council on Education Network, and The Maryland Governor’s Commission on Volunteerism and Service. She currently maintains board leadership or professional affiliations with numerous organizations, among them, The Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM), the National Speakers Association (NSA), The Maryland Humanities for the Arts, Museum Hue, DC Commission on Arts and Humanities, ArtTable, Arts Administrators of Color, and the American Alliance of Museums (AAM). She is a member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Incorporated, and The Links, Incorporated.
Ms. Clay spoke of her work in diversity, equity and inclusion and different techniques she has used to help many companies grow their awareness and actions in that area.
After questions and answers, President Marilyn presented Ms. Clay with a certificate for the planting of a tree under the Club’s Trees for the Capital program.
Sterling Hoffman conducted the Raffle, which was won by Chelsea Uzarowski, but the Ace of Spades was not drawn.
The meeting was adjourned at 1:30 PM. Sarah Ross was the producer in the room, and Steve Liston the producer on Zoom. Balraj Gupta provided hospitality; Amaaragchaa “Amaa” Damdindorj was the greeter.
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On February 15th, 2023, the Rotary Club of Washington, DC, held its regular weekly meeting in person at the University Club of Washington, D.C. and via Zoom and welcomed guest speaker Leora Hoffman, an attorney and matchmaking expert.
On February 15th, 2023, the Rotary Club of Washington, DC, held its regular weekly meeting in person at the University Club of Washington, D.C. and via Zoom.
President Marilyn Nevy Cruz called the meeting to order at 12:30 PM and led everyone in the Pledge of Allegiance.
Sergeant-at-Arms Lola Perez recognized birthdays and anniversaries for the week.
Secretary Todd Miller introduced the guests and visiting Rotarians.
President Nominee Bob Schott asked everyone to support the Club Foundation.
President Elect Lisa Cohen reminded everyone of the Vision Board event at her house on Saturday, February 18.
President Marilyn reminded everyone of the “Write Lunch” with Free Minds after the Club luncheon meeting on March 1.
President Marilyn inducted John Sandy into the Club. John provided some background, noting that he holds a PhD in Organizational Leadership and currently manages contracts. He thanked President Marilyn, Sergeant-at-Arms Lola, and Past President Bill Dent for their assistance and encouragement in his joining of the Club.
Sterling Hoffman introduced the speaker, Leora Hoffman, noting that she was not related to him. Ms. Hoffman is an attorney and matchmaking expert. She was born in Israel and raised in Brooklyn, NY. After graduating law school in 1982, Ms. Hoffman lived and worked in London, England, before moving to Washington, DC where she began her career as a practicing attorney in the field of criminal defense and civil litigation. In 1986, she joined the Commodity Futures Trading Commission, where she served as an attorney in the trading and markets division. In 1989, after the birth of her second child, she left the federal government to start her matchmaking business, focusing on professional singles in the Washington DC/Baltimore area. In 1999, Ms. Hoffman returned to the practice of law in the field of Child Protection and established a private practice in DC Family Court, representing children in the neglect system. While concurrently running her matchmaking business, Ms. Hoffman joined the Office of the Attorney General of DC in 2003 as an Assistant Attorney General in the Child Protection Division, where she served until 2015, when she left the legal profession to expand her matchmaking company. In 2020, Ms. Hoffman published her book: Catch Me a Catch: Chronicles of a Modern-Day Matchmaker, wherein she describes her own journey to find love, as well as over thirty years of client case studies.
Ms. Hoffman is a frequent public speaker in the area of relationships and matchmaking, and has appeared on public, cable and network TV, public radio, and the Dating While Grey podcast. She has been featured in numerous newspaper and magazine articles including Washingtonian magazine, the Washington Times, and the Baltimore Sun.
Ms. Hoffman currently specializes in the 50+ demographic. Since 1989, she has been responsible for 82 marriages and hundreds of long-term relationships. She currently resides in Garrett Park, MD, with her third husband Jim, to whom she has been married for ten years.
Ms. Hoffman explained that she is a hopeless romantic who believes that enduring love is possible at any age and any stage of life. She believes that successful relationships require common goals and values, good chemistry, and a “pinch” of humor. At the same time, no relationship is perfect. Hence good relationships are not about perfection, but about connection. She proceeded to describe her book, which chronicles the take-aways of each situation, successful and unsuccessful, that she has faced. In the end, the book provides a message of hope for singles and underscores that relationships take work for couples.
After questions and answers, President Marilyn presented Ms. Hoffman with a certificate for the planting of a tree under the Club’s Trees for the Capital program.
Todd Miller invited everyone to participate in the Community Service Grants Committee
Sterling Hoffman conducted the Raffle, which was won by Past President Gerry Murphy, but the Ace of Spades was not drawn.
The meeting was adjourned at 1:31 PM. Salvador Farfán was the producer on Zoom, and Steve Liston the producer in the room. Alphonso Westley and Chelsea Uzarowski were the greeters and provided hospitality.
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My Dear Fellow Rotarians:
Our annual fund drive on behalf of the Rotary Foundation of Washington, D.C is in full swing but, unfortunately, some of our members are not yet swinging. Our own Foundation is really a great asset because of all the good that it enables us to do. In this, the 100th year of our Foundation, we want to do even more. Take a look at what we’ve done in the past:
Charitable Activities Financed Annually by the Permanent Fund
of the Rotary Foundation of Washington, D.C.
Community Service Grants. Every year, our club’s Community Service Grants Committee meets in the spring to review applications for grants received from charitable organizations throughout the metropolitan area. Typically over 100 applications are received; typically some 40-45 different agencies receive grants. Large grants are for $20,000; smaller grants are for $1,000 to $5,000 each. Beneficiaries include agencies that provide services to under-served children and youth, abused women, the hungry, the sick, the homeless, the elderly, people in hospitals and retirement homes, etc. The Committee uses its discretion to decide how many large grants to award (typically two to five) and how many small grants to award (typically around 40).
International Service Grants. Every year, our club’s International Service Grants Committee meets in the fall to review applications on behalf of not-for-profit charitable organizations in developing countries. Most such applications are developed by Rotarians from our club who have an association with the non-profit organization and have visited it in the developing country. For every grant, our club partners with a local Rotary Club which oversees the use of the funds. Typically some six or seven grants are awarded each year. They support activities these areas: (1) peace and conflict prevention/resolution, (2) disease prevention and treatment, (3) water supply and sanitation, (4) maternal and child health, (5) basic education and literacy, and (6) economic and community development. Grants are generally in the range of $3,000 to $5,000 each. Some of the grants involve only our club and the partner club in the developing country; other grants are supplemented with contributions from other Rotary Clubs, individuals, our Rotary District, and Rotary International.
Trees for the Capital. Every year, our club donates money to the National Park Service for trees to be planted to restore the much-diminished tree canopy of Washington, D.C., particularly cherry trees near the Tidal Basin and other kinds of trees in Farragut Square and other local parks. We do this for its inherent value and also to honor the speakers at our weekly luncheon meetings.
Rotaract Clubs. Our club supports two Rotaract Clubs for young people aged 18-30. The young people benefit from leadership development and professional development and participate in many different service activities, many in conjunction with our club. Each Rotaract Club meets twice a month. The Rotaract President of the older of the two clubs is sent each year to the annual Rotary International Convention, which takes place annually in a different city around the world. The club’s officers also receive money for lunches so that they can attend our Rotary District Conference as well as United Nations Day in New York City.
Interact Clubs. Our club supports two Interact Clubs for young people of high-school age, with goals and activities similar to those of the Rotaract Clubs.
Career Fair. Once a year, some 30 professionals in various fields—Rotarians from our club and others—spend a day meeting with up to 300 high-school students from D.C. public high schools and talking with them about careers in various fields.
Walter Reed Bingo. Rotarians from our club have been working with wounded warriors at Walter Reed medical centers since World War II. One evening a month, Rotarians from our club and friends go to the USO Warrior Center at the Bethesda Naval Base to play bingo with wounded servicemen and women and their families, awarding the winners small, inexpensive prizes and sharing fellowship.
Rotary Youth Leadership Awards (RYLA). Each year our club pays to send about a dozen deserving young students from Roosevelt and Dunbar (public) Senior High Schools to a leadership conference in rural Maryland over the Presidents’ Day weekend (three days and three nights). There they meet and interact with other student leaders from Northern Virginia and much of Maryland. Many return home from the camp describing it as a vision-broadening and life-changing experience.
Disaster Relief. Every year, natural disasters occur around the country and around the world which cause enormous human loss and suffering. At the discretion of the Foundation Board, grants of varying amounts may be made to Rotary Clubs in the afflicted areas for use in mitigating the suffering. A related category is the Discretionary Budgets, each of $1,000, for the Club President and for the Foundation President, to be spent as they see fit on humanitarian objectives.
Rotary Youth Exchange Program. Rotary International has long sponsored international youth exchange programs, in conjunction with local Rotary Clubs. This Rotary year, the Foundation Board voted to support one American student traveling overseas by defraying some of the related costs.
Grate Patrol. A Salvation Army van goes out every night of the year to provide a hot meal and beverage to homeless people in the District of Columbia. Rotarian Volunteers from our club go out two nights a month to help. The Salvation Army pays for everything, but our Foundation nevertheless has a small budget ($500) to pay for any ancillary costs which might arise.
These projects need your support. The ROTARY FOUNDATION of WASHINGTON, D.C. needs money to continue supporting these projects. Please contribute.
By check: Mail your check, payable to:
The Rotary Foundation of Washington, D.C.
P.O. Box 65484
Washington DC 20036
Or hand your check to Kathy at a weekly Rotary meeting.
OR
Online: Go to our club’s website, www.DCRotaryClub.org. Click on “Foundation” at the top of the home page. In the window that opens, scroll down and click on the gold button that says “Donate Now.” In the window that opens, enter the amount that you want to give and choose your method of payment (PayPal or credit card or debit card).
One hundred per cent of your contribution to the Rotary Foundation of Washington, D.C., a 5.01(c)(3) charitable agency, is tax-deductible. Our goal every year is to encourage every member of our club to make a donation, no matter how large or how small. We do hope that your contribution will be at least $100, but every contribution is welcome. If you donate $400 or more, you will be invited to the Major Donors Reception on my deck in the spring. All donors will receive a letter acknowledging their contribution, giving the amount and confirming that the donation is tax-deductible.
Thank you, in advance, for your generosity.
Sincerely,
Bob Schott, Annual Fund Drive Chair,
Rotary Foundation of Washington, D.C.Read More
On February 1, 2023, the Rotary Club of Washington, DC, held its regular weekly meeting in person at the University Club of Washington, D.C. and via Zoom, and welcomed guest speaker Chris Syphax, President Emeritus of The Black Heritage Museum of Arlington.
On February 1, 2023, the Rotary Club of Washington, DC, held its regular weekly meeting in person at the University Club of Washington, D.C. and via Zoom.
President Marilyn Nevy Cruz called the meeting to order at 12:31 PM and led everyone in the Pledge of Allegiance.
Secretary Todd Miller led the introduction of guests and visiting Rotarians.
Sergeant-at-Arms Lola Perez recognized birthdays and anniversaries for the week.
President Nominee Bob Schott asked everyone to support the Club Foundation. He emphasized that purchases of pink gin from him also benefits the Foundation and that the gin makes a great Valentine’s gift.
Brian Blum shared his Member Moment. He is a small business owner and has been a Rotarian since 2010. (He joined in Cary, NC, and was at one point President of that Club.) He is very proud of his initiation of a Memory Café for Alzheimer’s patients in Cary and his recent participation in the Grate Patrol. He has been a member of our Club for about 6 months. He and his wife have two grown children (one a Marine and the other in law school).
Sheldon Ray discussed the Committee for Equality of Black People and various initiatives that it was undertaken. In honor of Black History Month, he commended two books, “Stolen: Five Free Boys Kidnapped into Slavery,” by Richard Bell, and “Beyond Freedom’s Reach: A Kidnapping in the Twilight of Slavery,” by Adam Rothman. He also discussed the Mt. Zion Cemetery and the interest that the newly elected DC Attorney General, Brian Schwalb, has taken in it. He has appointed President Elect Lisa Cohen, Sheldon Ray, and Kenny Barnes to his transition team as a result.
Donnie Shaw discussed the Career Fair to be held on February 23 at the Richard Wright Public Charter School. Volunteers are needed both to talk to the students about career paths and opportunities but to help set up. Please contact Donnie if you are interested.
President Marilyn explained that there will be a “Write Lunch” with Free Minds after the Club luncheon meeting on March 1. This is an excellent way to see Club Foundation funds in action, and it is a fun event where Club members and Free Minds Ambassadors provide feedback on the writings of currently incarcerated Free Minds’ members.
Kenny Barnes introduced the speaker, Chris Syphax, President Emeritus of The Black Heritage Museum of Arlington. A native Arlingtonian, Mr. Syphax is a descendant of slaves from Mount Vernon and Arlington House. Mr. Syphax is very involved in Arlington’s vast community, as a past board member of the Arlington House Foundation, as well as President Emeritus of The Black Heritage Museum of Arlington.
A real estate investor since 1998, Mr. Syphax manages the properties he owns. He also enjoys being a television producer at Arlington Independent Media, AIM, since 2004.
Mr. Syphax gave a detailed description of his family history, explaining how is descended from George Washington Parke Custis, the adopted son of President George Washington and son of Martha Washington. Through this relationship, his family were given land in Arlington, VA, that were taken by the Union Army and dedicated as “Freeman’s Village.” These same lands were later taken for Arlington Cemetery and the Pentagon Annex.
Mr. Syphax also shared how he had started the museum, which will eventually be housed in Amazon’s building in South Arlington, and how the focus of the museum is on the 1800s to Segregation. There is also a Syphax exhibit at the National Museum of African American History & Culture.
After a lively question and answer period, President Marilyn presented Mr. Syphax with a certificate for the planting of a tree under the Club’s Trees for the Capital program.
Sofia DeMartino conducted the Raffle, which was won by Todd Miller, but the Ace of Spades was not drawn.
The meeting was adjourned at 1:30 PM. Past President Nancy Riker was the producer in the room, and Steve Liston the producer on Zoom. Balraj Gupta provided hospitality; Chelsea Uzarowski and Ali Nettles were the greeters; and Balraj Gupta registered guests.
Read More
On January 11, 2023, the Rotary Club of Washington, DC, held its regular weekly meeting in person at the University Club of Washington, D.C. and via Zoom, and welcomed guest speaker Dee Dee Parker Wright, Executive Director of Jubilee JumpStart.
On January 11, 2023, the Rotary Club of Washington, DC, held its regular weekly meeting in person at the University Club of Washington, D.C. and via Zoom.
President Marilyn Nevy Cruz called the meeting to order at 12:30 PM and led everyone in the Pledge of Allegiance.
Deputy Secretary Debbie Peters led the introduction of guests and visiting Rotarians.
Sergeant-at-Arms Lola Perez recognized birthdays and anniversaries for the week.
Sibel Kulaksiz shared her Member Moment.
President Marilyn inducted Chelsea Uzarowski, Alphonso Westley, and Dylan White into the Club. Each then provided a few words about themselves and their excitement to be a member of the Club.
Dr. Arrel Solano provided an update on the Youth Exchange Program. Dr. Olano introduced our YEP Outbound Student, Tabitha Vasquez, a junior at CHEC, who was accompanied by her mother, Susan Vasquez. Ms. Vasquez indicated that her country choices (in order of preference) are Thailand, South Korea, Belgium, and Hungary. Ms. Susan Vasquez thanked the Club for its sponsorship of Tabitha.
President Nominee Bob Schott made an appeal for donations to the Club’s Foundation.
Elise Egan reminded everyone that applications were being accepted for Community Service Grants.
Elise Egan introduced the speaker Dee Dee Parker Wright, Executive Director of Jubilee JumpStart. Ms. Parker Wright has committed her career to helping families form strong attachments to ensure the best possible outcomes for children, particularly where difficulties create barriers to success. She has been Executive Director of Jubilee JumpStart since 2011, following 12 years in Head Start and 4 years at Children's Protective Services, all settings in which racial, socio-economic and language differences have increased the barriers the families faced. While at Jubilee JumpStart, she has led their efforts to achieve NAEYC accreditation twice, implementing a responsive and nurturing parent engagement program, and creating an organizational structure with coaching and development of teachers at its core. She knows that children are healthier and can achieve more when they grow up surrounded by nurturing adults who are developing themselves. She strongly believes that building community and connection that best supports vulnerable children and their caregivers requires awareness, naming, and challenging of systems that are inherently and actively biased.
The Rotary Foundation of Washington D.C. awarded Jubilee JumpStart with a Special Grant of $20,000 in the 2021-2022 Rotary Year. After a brief question and answer period, President Marilyn presented Ms. Parker Wright with a certificate for the planting of a tree under the Club’s Trees for the Capital program.
Sterling Hoffman conducted the raffle, but the Ace of Spades was not drawn. Hospitality was led by Balraj Gupta, the greeter was Dr. Sam Hancock and Room/Zoom Producers were Steve Liston and Salvador Farfán. President Marilyn adjourned the meeting at 1.30pm
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Member Moment: Sibel Kulaksiz
February 2, 2023
I find it fascinating to be part of Rotary’s mission to provide service to the disadvantaged groups. It is particularly rewarding to discuss and agree on actions with like-minded folks at the Washington, D.C. Rotary Club. I enjoy very much weekly meetings and listening to those who look from different angles to address complex issues at home and elsewhere. One of my favorite assignments so far was the grate patrol when we distributed food in DC area jointly with the Salvation Army. I saw it first-hand how important Rotary’s contribution is for the community. I also enjoyed preparing children’s books together with “Everybody Wins DC” which I am sure will have significant impact on education quality. I look forward to contributing to other projects going forward.
As an economist, I look at economic and social development issues at macro level and I am also interested in humanitarian impact of what we are recommending as policies. I actively participate in international discussions with public and private sector leaders, civil society organizations and the academia. As co-President of the Arya International Women Empowerment Club, I pro-actively participate in projects that will improve women’s access to economic activities as leaders. There are a lot of complementarities between what I do professionally at the World Bank and how I contribute through social clubs which I think comes naturally. So glad to work with Rotary members who see value in doing these services that have visible impact on improving other people’s lives.
Best regards,
Sibel
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My name is Brian Blum. A small business owner and a member of Rotary since 2010 and was President of the Cary Page Rotary Club in 2013-2014. I was born in Boston Ma. My father is from Caracas Venezuela and my Mother is from Boston Massachusetts. After graduating from UMASS, I relocated to Cary NC. After 30 years in NC. We relocated to Washington DC.
I have been married to my wife Annette for 30 years. We have 2 children and an English Cream Golden Retriever. Our daughter Rachel has a degree in Russian from the university of the South in Sewanee TN and is in her second year of law school at GW with a focus on National Security law. Our son Jonathan is a graduate of UNC and currently serves as a Captain in the US Marine Corp. My wife and I travel a lot and this year we are spending 2 weeks every month in Wilmington NC to spend time with our son while he is not deployed.
I was once asked a question. When did you first feel like you were a Rotarian?
I started to think, and I believe my first time feeling like I was a Rotarian, was feeding the 70+ trash men and women in Cary NC with other members of our Rotary Club. We woke early and catered the event with Chick-Fil-A, coffee, Yogurt, Juice, and more. It gave me a chance to meet these hard-working people in our community.
My proudest moment as a Rotarian was starting a memory café for people with dementia and their caregivers. Through a service project involving all 5 Rotary Clubs in Cary NC, we were able to fund and provide volunteers for a date night out with music, dancing, a great dinner and fond memories for spouses and adult children taking care of their loved ones at home. Not only were we helping people in the community but for the first time we had a monthly service event involving members from all 5 clubs which build comradery and friendship with all of the Rotarians in the city.
The most recent time I felt as though I was a real Rotarian, was 2 weeks ago when out with the Salvation Army Grate Patrol helping to feed the homeless on the streets of Washington. It was a reminder of what I love most about being a Rotarian, helping people in need. If you haven’t been out on the Grate Patrol recently, I highly recommend it. Read More
The Rotary Club of Washington, DC is committed to improving and beautifying the environment. At each meeting, we present our guest speaker with our "Trees for the Capital" certificate signifying our commitment to plant a tree in their honor. Yes, we plant a tree for every speaker that speaks at our weekly meetings! Our Club has a partnership with the National Park Service in which we provide GPS coordinates to the speakers showing them where their actual tree is planted in the nation's capital.
It's also worth mentioning that the National Park Service "matched" our trees planted, doubling the number of trees planted this year!
Together with partners such as our Club, the Rotary Club of Washington DC, the National Mall and Memorial Parks work hard to maintain its tree canopy. #TreesForTheCapital is a program initiated and maintained by our Club. At each weekly meeting, the Rotary Club speaker is presented with a certificate indicating that the DC Rotary Club plants trees several times a year honoring speakers. Named the Peter Gilsey Trees for the Capital in honor of long-standing #DCRotaryClub member, Peter Gilsey, this program has resulted in more than 300 trees being planted, around the Tidal Basin, although a few trees have been planted elsewhere (e.g., near the White House and the Capitol), and at Farragut Square. Though funded by our Rotary Foundation of Washington, D.C., the choice of tree and actual planting is conducted by the experts of the National Park Service.
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On January 25, 2023, the Rotary Club of Washington, DC, held its regular weekly meeting in person at the University Club of Washington, D.C. and via Zoom, and welcomed guest speaker David (Dave) A. Micha, President of Intelsat General Communications (IGC), a Business Unit of the Intelsat Corporation.
On January 25, 2023, the Rotary Club of Washington, DC, held its regular weekly meeting in person at the University Club of Washington, D.C. and via Zoom.
President Marilyn Nevy Cruz called the meeting to order at 12:30 PM and led everyone in the Pledge of Allegiance.
Secretary Todd Miller led the introduction of guests and visiting Rotarians.
Deputy Sergeant-at-Arms Max Salas recognized birthdays and anniversaries for the week.
President Nominee Bob Schott asked everyone to support the Club Foundation. The Foundation helps the Club engage in both local community and global activities and is the linchpin to the DC Club’s activities. Anyone interested in purchasing pink gin, the proceeds of which are provided to the Foundation, should contact him.
President Marilyn presented the Member of the Month for December 2022 to Dr. Sam Hancock. She thanked him for his efforts in organizing greeters for the meetings and in mentoring new members.
Todd Miller reminded everyone about the applications for Community Service Grants which are due January 31, 2023. He reiterated that all were encouraged to publicize the grants and to participate in the Committee. An email would be forthcoming once the applications were submitted to organize the review process.
Sterling Hoffman introduced the speaker David (Dave) A. Micha, President of Intelsat General Communications (IGC), a Business Unit of the Intelsat Corporation. As the foundational architects of satellite technology, Intelsat operates the largest, most advanced satellite fleet and connectivity infrastructure in the world. In this role since February 2021, Mr. Micha is involved in all aspects of the business including Strategy, Business Development, Customer Relationships, M&A, P&L and Operations.
Mr. Micha has spent his entire thirty-six-year career in the Aerospace and Defense industry, including twenty-three years at L3Harris and, prior to that, thirteen years at Lockheed Martin. Prior to joining Intelsat, Mr. Micha was the Chief Operating Officer for the L3Harris Integrated Mission Systems Segment and, prior to that, served as the Sector President for L3 Technologies Advanced Communications Sector. Mr. Micha also led the Maritime Sector and Space Sector for L3 Technologies. While at Lockheed Martin, Mr. Micha worked in various functions, including Program Management, Operations and Finance supporting the DoD, Intelligence Community and International partners.
Mr. Micha received his bachelor’s degree in Business Administration from S.U.N.Y. Fredonia in 1983 in Business Administration. He currently holds a TS/SCI Clearance. Mr. Micha is a member of the Air Force Association, AUSA, NDIA and Navy League. He also serves on the Board of Directors of Coopers Ferry Partnership and the Rutgers School of Business Deans Leadership Council.
Prodded by Sterling Hoffman, Mr. Micha explained that he had been a roadie for such bands as Journey, Foreigner, and Kiss and, as a result, developed a friendship with some of the members of Kiss. He then gave a detailed explanation of Intelsat’s business, noting that it is the largest commercial satellite business in the world. He is responsible for Intelsat’s government business, which comprises about 30% of Intelsat’s overall business.
At base, Intelsat provides connectivity through satellite-based communications. Its 52 satellites cover 99% of the Earth’s surface in geosynchronous orbit. These satellites connect to 62 teleporters located around the world. Intelsat carries about 1,500 terabytes of data every day. Intelsat supports inflight connectivity to 21 airlines, is the largest distributor of broadcast television, and provides mission critical connectivity to governments for military and other purposes. Intelsat also provides, on a pro bono basis, connectivity for disaster relief efforts. After a brief question and answer period, President Marilyn presented Mr. Micha with a certificate for the planting of a tree under the Club’s Trees for the Capital program.
President Marilyn inducted Chuks Okoriekwe as a new member. He noted that he was looking forward to participating in the Club’s activities.
Past President Bill Dent noted the passing of David Fishman. In addition to noting his many contributions to Rotary, and in particular his interest in the Peace Initiative Project, Past President Bill explained that David had endowed a pilot project at the Carter School for Peace and Conflict Resolution at George Mason University.
John Kropf invited everyone to participate in Grate Patrol on Tuesdays and Fridays. It was easy to sign up on the website through a sign-up genius.
John Kropf conducted the Raffle, which was won yet again by Ken Kimbrough, but the Ace of Spades was not drawn.
The meeting was adjourned at 1:30 PM. Salvador Farfán was the Zoom producer and Nancy Riker was the producer in the room, with an assist from Steve Liston. Balraj Gupta provided hospitality; Dr. Sam Hancock and Ali Nettles were the greeters; and Amaa Damdindorj registered guests.
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On January 18, 2023, the Rotary Club of Washington, DC, held its regular weekly meeting in person at the University Club of Washington, D.C. and via Zoom and welcomed guest speaker B. Douglas Hoey, CEO of the National Community Pharmacists Association.
On January 18, 2023, the Rotary Club of Washington, DC, held its regular weekly meeting in person at the University Club of Washington, D.C. and via Zoom.
Past President Gerry Murphy called the meeting to order at 12:30 PM and led everyone in the Pledge of Allegiance.
Secretary Todd Miller led the introduction of guests and visiting Rotarians.
Tuya Munkhjargal, a Rotarian from Mongolia doing graduate studies at Johns Hopkins, spoke about a reading program for Mongolian children on which she had been working with the Rotary Club of Annapolis. She discussed how the program worked and how those who achieved their reading goals would be eligible to visit the United States. She asked for support, including for volunteers to be host families for the children.
Deputy Sergeant-at-Arms Max Salas recognized the birthday for the week.
Michelle Ems provided an update on the Dictionary Project, noting that the COVID hiatus was over and that the Club would be back to delivering dictionaries to elementary schools in the District. Volunteers are needed for deliveries, and she displayed a map with the schools to which dictionaries would be delivered. Further information would be sent by email.
Sofia DeMartino gave a brief talk asking for support for the Club Foundation. She explained how her engagement with Rotary began because of support from a Rotary foundation and how the Foundation supported so many critical activities that benefit the community.
Secretary Todd Miller noted that one of the areas of Foundation support were community grants. Applications for the grants are due at the end of January, and shortly thereafter the Community Service Grant Committee would begin to review them. All were encouraged to publicize the grants and to participate in the Committee. An email would be forthcoming in the next couple of weeks to organize the review process.
Alexander Tu provided an update on the Rotary Youth Leadership Awards. He provided a description of the Awards and how this culminates in participation by high school students in a leadership program over the President’s Day weekend. This year the Club’s Foundation will be sponsoring 13 students, and volunteers are needed to assist with the program. If interested, please contact him.
Alexander Tu introduced the speaker B. Douglas Hoey, Chief Executive Officer of the National Community Pharmacists Association. The National Community Pharmacists Association represents the owners of nearly 19,400 pharmacy small businesses. These pharmacies are important to local economies, providing jobs for more than 215,000 people in their communities. Consumers consistently rank them as the top-rated pharmacies in the country.
Mr. Hoey is a licensed pharmacist in Oklahoma, Virginia, and Texas and practiced in a variety of community pharmacy settings including his own family’s pharmacy before coming to NCPA. Mr. Hoey was NCPA’s first Chief Operating Officer and in 2011 was named CEO. He is widely quoted by media as an industry expert on community pharmacy practice issues including drug supply and prescription drug pricing. He also developed and taught pharmacology courses at George Washington University and Marymount universities. He is President of the World Pharmacy Council, co-chairman of the Surescripts Board of Directors, chairman of the NCPA Innovation Center, and vice-chair for the CPESN® USA Board of Managers.
Mr. Hoey served on the Pharmacy Quality Alliance board for six years and was chairman of the Mirixa board for eight years. His pharmacy degree is from the University of Oklahoma College of Pharmacy and his MBA is from the Oklahoma City University graduate school of business.
Mr. Hoey discussed the pharmacy and pharmaceutical marketplace. He explained that community pharmacies are independent businesses that serve the vulnerable or less populated areas that are largely ignored by the larger chains. He said that there has been growing polarization of pricing between the drugs that have generic equivalents (which represents 90% of prescriptions) and the much higher priced, newer prescription drugs. He discussed the increasing vertical integration in the industry, which included integration between health plans, pharmacy benefit managers, and even primary care providers. After a brief question and answer period, Past President Gerry presented Mr. Hoey with a certificate for the planting of a tree under the Club’s Trees for the Capital program.
Sterling Hoffman conducted the Raffle, which was won by Ken Kimbrough, but the Ace of Spades was not drawn.
The meeting was adjourned at 1:30 PM. Pamela Stern-Green was the Zoom producer and Steve Liston was the producer in the room. Balraj Gupta provided hospitality; Dr. Sam Hancock and Amaa Damdindorj were the greeters; and Sofia DeMartino registered guests.Read More
We are very pleased to announce that the winner of the Rotary Foundation of Washington, D.C. $100,000 Centennial Grant is the Multicultural Career Intern Program (MCIP)! We received many excellent applications from non-profit 501(c)(3) organizations that do great and amazing work serving our community in D.C. During their November meetings, the Club and Foundation Boards approved the Community Service Committee’s recommendation.
With the Centennial Grant funds, MCIP, which works out of the Columbia Heights Educational Campus (CHEC), will establish a student-run and led Community Development Corporation (CDC). The MCIP-CHEC CDC will be the first student-run CDC in the country and serve as an economic change agent for the students and their communities throughout Washington, D.C. Some of the areas of need already identified by the students include food insecurity/inequity, employment, housing, financial literacy, and college accessibility and scholarships. We are excited to enter this new partnership in celebration of 100 years of our Club’s Foundation and will be officially awarding the grant to MCIP through a small ceremony at the Club meeting on Wednesday, December 14.
Club members are invited to stay in touch with news on MCIP and all of our great applicants. We will commence our normal cycle of community service grant applications and review on December 1, 2022, when the online application will be made available.
Please email grants@dcrotaryclub.org with any questions.
Yours in Rotary Service,
Elise Egan & Todd Miller, Co-Chairs
Community Service Grants CommitteeRead More
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