This Week at Rotary
President Ryan asked a new participant from the DCF Picnic to share their perspective on the event last week. Jim Rose stepped up to the plate to say how impressed he was with the event and the work of the volunteers. Rotarians set up grills, tables and a bounce house; grilled a delicious BBQ meal for families; organized other activities; and distributed popcorn and cotton candy (which looked very concerning to Matt Callcut in the photo below). A fun time was had by all, including our Rotarian volunteers!
District Governor Pooja Singla's Club Visit
DG Singla began her presentation with recognition of the Salem Rotary Club's 107 years of service. Congratulations were extended to President Ryan and the new directors and officers. Appreciation was expressed to all members and District officers for their ongoing support.
DG Singla emphasized that the District exists because of its members — every Rotarian is a leader and each club is essential to Rotary’s success. Clubs are the “inner cogs” of the Rotary Wheel of Excellence.
She talked about Rotary International's 2025-2026 theme, “Leadership is to dream with others,” introduced by President Francesco Arezzo. His focus is on uniting members and enhancing the member experience through four initiatives: Impact, Reach, Engagement, and Adaptability, summarized in the IREA Action Plan. President Ryan was thanked for submitting our goals to Club Central, and our Club Excellence Award from last year was recognized.
DG Singla gave an overview of District 7930, which includes 44 Rotary Clubs (plus two E-Clubs), two Rotaract Clubs, 28 Interact Clubs, two EarlyAct Clubs, and two ElderAct Clubs. Three new clubs are forming: a Veterans Club, a Gamers Club, and a Satellite Club. A new E-Club was chartered on August 15, 2025.
Youth programs remain active, including RYE, RYLA, and one outbound Global Scholar. Nine inbound students have been placed. Members were thanked for supporting scholarships and youth development.
Salem Rotary was acknowledged for collaboration with local government, nonprofits, and other Rotary clubs, embodying the “Uniting for Good” spirit. We were encouraged to promote our work via the District eBulletin, social media, and club website using official Rotary branding, although DG Singla applauded our PR efforts and our website.
For 2025–2026, the District will have $101,033 in DDF. Global Grants will receive $50,516, with $23,850 available for club-sponsored projects. District Grants total $50,516, with $35,516 available after dedicated funding. Mini grants of up to $250 per club are available to support marketing and public image.
Environmental initiatives such as Operation Pollination, clean-ups, plastic reduction, and tree planting were highlighted. Clubs were invited to engage and share ideas.
District fellowships were discussed, including “Corks & Caps” (wine appreciation) and “Communi-Tea” (tea lovers). Peacebuilding efforts continue, with a major event scheduled for February 12, 2026. Rotary’s 8th Peace Center will open in Pune, India, in 2027.
Members were invited to join the PolioPlus Society by pledging $100 annually, matched 2:1 by the Gates Foundation. World Polio Day is October 24, and a District-wide fundraiser, “Spring into Action,” will be held March 21, 2026.
An upcoming Vocational Training Team global grant for cleft surgeries in India is in progress, and clubs are encouraged to participate.
Members were encouraged to reflect on ways to improve Rotary and District 7930. DG Singla closed by emphasizing that Rotary’s strength lies in its members: “The power lies in this room.”
A list of District events is included below.
Lifebridge helps the folks in our community who are most in need with important basics like shelter and food. Once every two months, volunteers from the Salem Rotary Club make dinner. If you are looking for a quick and easy way to make a real impact on people's lives, this is it. Volunteers pick the recipe, get the ingredients, prepare the meal, and help serve it. Many hands make meal service easy, so if you are interested in helping but are not able to shop or create the menu, you are still welcome to sign up to help. You are also welcome to bring family members and friends to volunteer with you. Meal prep typically starts around 4/4:30 PM, with dinner service at 5:30 PM. 
