In today’s fast-paced world, the public image of organizations is crucial for attracting new members, and Rotary is no exception.

A strong public image showcases your club's values, community impact, and global reach, significantly enhancing membership attraction.

A compelling public image fosters trust and credibility. When potential members see your club’s commitment to community service, they are more likely to view it as an effective way to contribute.

Trust is essential for attracting individuals who want to be part of something special.
 

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There is a lot happening behind the scenes at ShelterBox USA. Here is a brief update of recent response decisions for our District 5500 supporters that demonstrates the strength of collaboration between ShelterBox USA and Rotary.

If you would like to schedule a club presentation: “ShelterBox: What’s new in 2025”, please contact PDG Don Jorgensen or DGND Leo Lawrenson, District 5500 Volunteer Ambassadors at [email protected] or
[email protected], or call Don at 520-906-9148.

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As an international community, Rotary is able to bring together leaders willing to take on the world’s toughest challenges.

Polio eradication is one of our longest standing and most significant efforts. Along with our partners, we have helped immunize more than 2.5 billion children in 122 countries. We have reduced polio by 99.9 percent worldwide, and we are committed to not stop until we end the disease for good. 

Ride to End Polio: Saturday, November 23

Our District has had a significant impact through our annual Ride to End Polio on the Saturday before Thanksgiving.

I wrote about Mike Harris and his commitment to end polio in my letter in July. Our Ride began in 2009 and, assisted by the Gates Foundation’s two-to-one match, we have raised over $60 million to aid in Rotary’s fight to end polio. There is a tribute to our efforts at Rotary International Headquarters in Evanston.
 

I look forward to seeing many of you at this year's race, riding or cheering on our riders. 

There is also a District pre-ride dinner on Friday evening, and all are welcome to join us.

There are opportunities to help by either donating to a rider or directly to End Polio Now, helping at the Aid Station (contact the Valle Verde Club) along the route or joining us at the gathering location (contact the new Rainbow Club) at the finish line! 

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Paul Harris Fellow recognition is given to anyone who contributes at least $1,000 to the Annual Fund, PolioPlus, or an approved global grant. This recognition, which consists of a certificate and pin, can also be given on behalf of someone else. 

More than 1.6 million people have become Paul Harris Fellows since 1957, including notable figures such as former U.S. President Jimmy Carter, former Russian President Boris Yeltsin, and polio vaccine developer Dr. Jonas Salk. 

Are you ready to become a Paul Harris Fellow and support The Rotary Foundation at this level? 

Friday, November 22 from 6-9pm to benefit FUSD Scholarships

The Ride to End Polio is a signature event for District 5500 in the annual El Tour de Tucson. 

Check out the 2024 District 5500 Ride to End Polio website for route map and other details, then come join the excitement this Saturday.

New Post-Ride Gathering Area! Rainbow Rotary Club of Tucson is hosting the booth at the finish line. You'll find them one block from the finish line in a great spot to gather, share stories, eat, drink and reminisce. Click here for a map.  

Get more bang from your giving buck by donating to the Annual Fund/SHARE. Your donation is invested and comes back to our district three years later. 

We ask all Rotarians to make The Rotary Foundation one of their personal charities by giving at least $10 a month through Rotary Direct. 

Mark your calendar for Giving Tuesday, December 3rd!

Gear up for a great ride at the Friday Night Pre-Ride Dinner!

Whether you're riding to end polio in the El Tour de Tucson or just want to show your support for this great cause, come join the excitement at Brother John's Bourbon and Barbecue.

An entertaining program is planned, plus great food, door prizes and fun Rotary fellowship. Plus it's a chance for you to meet Rotary CEO John Hewko and his wife Marga.

All for just $50. Click here to register for the dinner, and do it soon, before registration closes. 




 

Has your club supported or is engaged in projects in Guatemala? Why not consider helping us create a Rotary District 5500 Guatemala Collaborative Forum (a focused discussion group)?

As a part of the Guatemala Collaborative Forum (GCF), your club would join with the Rotary clubs of Tucson Sunset and Oro Valley, and other non-Rotary organizations in the Tucson Area in support of the people of Guatemala.

Rick Chimblo (RC of Oro Valley) and Eugene Medina and PDG Diane Ventura-Goodyear (RC of Tucson Sunset) want to increase interest in International Service throughout the District, one of DG Sue Archibald’s Areas of Focus.

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The Willcox Rotary Club supports Tajikistan students learning English by supplying them with books every year since 2016. 

We could use your help.

The books we provide equip students for crucial exams such as the IELTS, TOEFL, GRE, and GMAT. These opportunities transform students' lives, enabling them to study abroad, return home, land excellent jobs, and achieve career success.
 

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