Embracing Community through Rotary: A Commitment to "Service Above Self"

For the past two decades, I have been an active and dedicated member of local Rotary clubs. Rotary is a global community service organization whose motto, "Service Above Self," deeply resonates with my approach to ministry and community involvement. Rotary's core values and activities have provided me invaluable opportunities to serve, connect with diverse leaders, and contribute to meaningful change locally and internationally.

A cornerstone of Rotary's ethical framework is the Rotary Five-Way Test, a guiding principle recited at every meeting:

• First: Is it the TRUTH?

• Second: Is it FAIR to all concerned?

• Third: Will it build GOODWILL and BETTER FRIENDSHIPS?

• Fourth: Will it be BENEFICIAL to all concerned?

This test promotes integrity, fairness, and positive relationships, values that are essential in building trust and fostering collaboration within any community.

One of the aspects of Rotary I cherish most is its ability to bring together people from all walks of life who share a common passion for service. Through my involvement, I've had the privilege of connecting with a diverse network of community leaders, including mayors, supreme court judges, school superintendents, business professionals, and fellow clergy members. These interactions have broadened my understanding of community needs and strengthened my ability to work collaboratively across various sectors.

My local Rotary clubs, such as the Pittsford Rotary Club (as detailed on their website: https://www.pittsfordrotaryclub.org/), actively support numerous non-profit organizations and initiatives. These efforts include:

• Local Community Support: Rotary clubs organize and participate in fundraisers (as seen on https://www.pittsfordrotaryclub.org/SitePage/service-projects-within-pittsford) to support local organizations addressing food insecurity, youth development, education, and community improvement projects.

• International Service: Rotary's reach extends globally, with initiatives focused on eradicating polio, providing clean water and sanitation, promoting peace, and supporting economic development in underserved communities.

Through my active participation, time as president and years on the board in Rotary, I have:

• Developed strong leadership and organizational skills through planning and executing service projects and fundraisers.

• Served the club by connecting them with non-profits in the community

• Honed my ability to collaborate effectively with diverse teams to achieve common goals.

• Cultivated a deep understanding of community needs and resources.

• Demonstrated a commitment to ethical conduct, integrity, and service to others.