Strengthening Our Committees:
- Rotary isn’t meant to rest on the shoulders of a few . It thrives when we work as a Club.
- Every committee this year will have (1) clear direction and purpose; (2) defined roles and responsibilities; and (3) support and training for success, so every committee understands exactly what it is supposed to do and how to succeed.
- Whether you are serving on the Membership, Youth Services, Community Service, Fundraising, or Public Relations/Public Image Committee, the goal is to equip every member with the tools and confidence to lead.
Growing Our Membership - with Meaning:
- Whether you are a new member or a longtime Rotarian, the Club is committed to helping you grow, engage, and find purpose within our club.
- Together, we thrive when every member feels valued, empowered, and connected to Rotary’s mission of service above self.
- Currently, there are 17 prospective members! New members are like seeds, but they won’t grow without care and nurturing.
- As the Club grows, we need to grow it with intention. Each prospective members will be thoughtfully vetted to ensure they are a good fit for the Club and that they understand what it means to truly be a Rotarian.
Members will be asked to
- Take one new member under their wing as a sponsor, mentor or guide because being a Rotarian is more than attending meetings or wearing a pin, which is a symbol of trust, of character, and of purpose.
- As a Club member, you will not just be helping to guide a new member (i.e., learn the ropes), but inviting them into the legacy that is Rotary. You will help new members understand (1) What it means to be a Rotarian; (2) Understand the expectations of the Rotary Club of Castro Valley; and (3) How to lead with heart, service, and integrity
- Members will assist in passing the Rotary torch and, in the process, renew their own commitment to Service Above Self.
- Every new member will be assigned a sponsor/mentor. Additionally, the Club will hold a Rotary 101 for all new members as well as hold quarterly socials for new members.
- The Club will be offering training sessions to help members understand the role of sponsor, mentor, and guide.
Expanding Our Reach Through Signature Events
The Club shines brightest when we are in the community, not just in lunch, committee, or Board meetings. This year, the Club will
- Continue beloved, traditional events (e.g., Senior Thanksgiving Luncheon, Holiday Kids Christmas Party)
- Amplify our presence at the A Taste of Castro Valley (formerly the Castro Valley Restaurant Walk)
- Possibly take an active lead in Dogs & Deputies, which is an opportunity to connect with animal lovers, rescue groups, families, and recruit new members
- Explore new service opportunities (e.g., recovery families reclaiming their lives and children
- If you have an idea, please share it
Reviving Rotary Spirit Through Connection
The heart of our Club is our members - not just what we do, but how we do it together. So, the Club will
- Reintroduce monthly member spotlights at Club meetings that will be called Rookies & Legends.
- Encourage each member to bring a guest to meeting or mixer at least once this year
- Evening Mixers and Socials will be held at various locations throughout the community (e.g., Val’s Burgers, TwiningVine Winery, Senior Centers, Poker Night at Direct Sales Floors)
- Offer more opportunities for fellowship, mentorship, and support
Misti eloquently noted, “As Rotarians, we are we’re not just part of a club - we’re part of a community; and we want to support that community by showing up, building relationships, and introducing others to who we are and for what Rotary stands.”
Wearing Our Why
This year let’s wear our Rotary pins proudly - not just in the room, but in public. Every pin is a conversation starter. A simple “What’s that?” can lead to “Let me tell you what Rotary is doing in this community.” It’s a powerful, visible symbol of what we stand for: Service Above Self.Misti then share the meaning of here Presidential pin, “At Every Sunrise, a New Day to Serve.”
This pin features Lake Chabot at sunrise with the Rotary Wheel as the sun. On the shore stand a veteran and his service dog—two powerful symbols of strength, sacrifice, and purpose. Together, they embody Service Above Self: the veteran who served our country, and the dog who now serves him. Both still willing to serve others—selflessly, humbly, and with heart.
Misti encouraged members to "Let's wear our pins as decoration, but as declarations. Declaration that say, I'm part of something bigger; I believe in serving others, and I'm here to make a difference.
Let this pin be a daily reminder that each sunrise brings a new opportunity to serve with compassion, courage, and connection.