The Rotary Foundation of Washington DC Supports Disaster Relief in Turkey and Syria

By Lisa Glodine McCurdyMonday, March 27, 2023

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.

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Learn more about the Rotary Club of Washington, DC's service projects and activities.

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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.

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