Our club was pleased to welcome Dr. Geeta Kadambi, Ph.D., founder and former NASA scientist, who was introduced by Anil Inamdar. Dr. Kadambi delivered an inspiring presentation on Rotary's global impact and encouraged us to think about how our clubs can create meaningful, lasting change.
She opened with a wonderful analogy: just as a variety of spices come together to create a flavorful dish, Rotarians come together, each contributing unique talents and perspectives to accomplish extraordinary things.
Rotary Around the World
Dr. Kadambi shared the impressive scope of Rotary International:
- More than 46,000 Rotary clubs worldwide
- Over 1.2 million members
- Approximately 530 Rotary districts, with District 5170 recognized as one of the top contributors to The Rotary Foundation
She highlighted the outstanding work of The Rotary Foundation, which has earned the highest ratings for stewardship and transparency. Rotary's projects continue to transform lives through initiatives such as clean water and sanitation in Haiti, literacy efforts, and countless humanitarian programs around the world.
District 5170: Inspire, Collaborate, Create Lasting Impact
District 5170's theme is:
"Inspire, Collaborate, and Create Lasting Impact."
Dr. Kadambi encouraged clubs to think beyond individual projects and consider how each effort can leave a lasting legacy in the community. She suggested collaborating with smaller clubs, exploring creative ways to increase Rotary's visibility—such as installing Rotary wheels around town—and focusing on programs that inspire members and guests alike.
As she reminded us, people are drawn in by engaging programs and meaningful service.
District Resources
Our district offers many valuable resources to help clubs thrive, including:
- Outstanding support from Olivia Poe and the district leadership team.
- A journalism team of Interactors that can help publicize club activities (with articles reviewed before publication).
- A virtual assistant available to post district updates and promote club accomplishments.
- A beautifully produced coffee table book featuring clubs throughout the district, available for approximately $40.
Making an Impact
Dr. Kadambi also shared examples of Rotary's life-changing work around the globe:
- WASH (Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene) projects that improve health and quality of life.
- Sending books to children in Ghana to promote literacy.
- Building schools where children now receive a full day of education.
- Supporting cataract surgeries for adults in rural India, restoring sight and independence.
- Continuing Rotary's unwavering commitment to polio eradication.
- Exploring opportunities to provide soccer balls and other recreational resources for children in rural communities.
She also emphasized the importance of membership growth by encouraging membership chairs to promptly follow up with prospective members and share Rotary's impact with the community.
Dr. Kadambi's presentation was a powerful reminder that Rotary's greatest strength lies in people coming together to serve others. Through collaboration, innovative programs, and projects with lasting impact, each club has the opportunity to make a difference both locally and around the world.
President Mony Nop called the meeting to order at 8:17 AM.
Song of the Day - Jerry Hawkins led us in "America the Beautiful".
Jackie Mirisciotta, our Membership Activities Chair, will be working for her third year with Bennie Le Bourvellec to plan a club social event on the 4th Tuesday evening of every month. Some fun things planned for this year include: Christmas Lights trolley, Pizza party, Music bingo and Trivia. Any ideas welcome. Please share them with her. 
