Greetings from District Governor Lance Eberle! 

HAPPY NEW YEAR ROTARIANS!! As we close out 2022, let’s take the time to celebrate all of the accomplishments and positive impacts that we have had on our communities.

We had a record-setting year in our Foundation giving, with our gifts to the Foundation totaling over $192,000 for the 21/22 Rotary year. Through our Foundation giving, we were able to provide over $38,000 in district grants that allowed clubs to have help improve through communities by building inclusive playgrounds, funding scholarships for minority students, improving the mental well being and social, emotional health of girls ages 16-18, purchase two new gazebos for homeless shelters just to name a few.

In addition, we have continued to spread the good word of Rotary and continue to look for new and innovative ways to increase our membership. Many clubs have varied their meeting formats and added different membership types as a way to become more attractive to potential members. We have also had the formation of a new satellite club this past year and have had conversations regarding the formation of two new clubs heading into 22/23.

As we head into 2023, RI President Jennifer Jones reminds us to think about how we can continue to build our connections through comfort and care. Recent surveys have shown that the single most important factor in member satisfaction is the club experience. Each of our club members has something unique to contribute, and should all have the opportunity to do so. Creating a club experience that is welcoming to everyone starts with having conversations about diversity, equity, and inclusion. As we are all members of an organization that embraces The Four-Way Test, we want to act in a way that is fair to everyone. Talking about diversity, equity, and inclusion with fellow members is an important first step. I would encourage each club in 2023 to designate a DEI Champion if they have not already done so. This person is an informed and enthusiastic member who can help lead and navigate through some of the difficult conversation as we work to make Rotary welcoming to all.

Lastly, in making your New Year’s Resolutions, I would encourage you to think about how you can give the gift of Rotary to others. Invite a friend or colleague to a Rotary meeting or service project that your Club is involved in. Have your club host a social event to and invite others to learn more about Rotary. Collaborate with other organizations on service projects and spread the word of Rotary. It is important to remember that Rotary is a membership organization that does service.

May I wish all Rotarians a healthy and prosperous 2023.

In Rotary Service,

Lance Eberle
District 6580 Governor 2022-2023

Get to know District Governor Lance Eberle!