Welcome to this month's edition of the Rotary Breakfast Club newsletter! In this issue, we explore the theme of Finding Joy in Service. Volunteering doesn't just benefit our community—it can also bring a sense of fulfillment and fun when approached with the right mindset. One thing I have come to love about being a rotarian, is that we believe that service above self is more than just hard work; it's an opportunity to connect, grow, and find joy in making a difference. Whether it's through hands-on projects or collaborative initiatives, our shared experiences bring purpose and enjoyment to everything we do, reminding us that giving back can be both impactful and rewarding.
Did you know???? In 1988, Rotary began the PolioPlus campaign with an initial fundraising pledge of $120 million. We heard today of a campaign where stuffed animals were sold to raise money. We are doing our part here with our "HAPPY", "SAD" DOLLARS! Come prepared to share next week and lets increase our ability to say GOOD-BYE to Polio!
Last month, several members of our Rotary Breakfast Club had the incredible opportunity to volunteer with Habitat for Humanity on a home build in Orono. Together, we rolled up our sleeves, learned new skills, and had a lot of fun along the way. But the most rewarding part wasn’t just the laughter and teamwork—it was knowing that we played a small role in providing someone with a place to call home. Volunteering isn’t just about service; it’s about creating lasting impact and memories, and this experience was a perfect reminder of how fulfilling and joyful giving back can be.
We have many ways you can volunteer! If you missed out on this project- The Pumpkins in the Park is on October 20th and the Veterans Breakfast is coming up soon in November!
Mark Nicholson, Jeff Plourde, Larry Diehl, Marianna Reeves
Jeff and Marianna and our guide shaping the metal (I forgot what it's called!) The only negative in this experience was the amount of mosquitos!
Andrew Cassidy and some Habitat for Humanity volunteers finishing up the siding on the back of the house.
Matt Dexter of the Christine B Foundation
Matt founded CBF in 2014 as a single fundraising event to support other cancer services in the Bangor region and celebrate the ‘value legacy’ of his mother, Christine, after she passed to stomach cancer. Since then, the CBF community has evolved greatly to fill gaps in care across 11,500 square miles. He believes collaboration and innovation are the secrets to bringing Maine communities together and reducing the burdens of cancer. If you would like to volunteer- contact him. They are in need of volunteers on many levels.
On behalf of the entire Rotary Breakfast Club, I want to extend our heartfelt thanks to Les Meyers for your years of dedicated service, especially your contributions as the writer of this very newsletter. Your work has left a lasting impact on our club, and your presence will be missed.
As you focus on your health and rehabilitation, please know that our thoughts and prayers are with you. We wish you strength and a smooth recovery, and hope that you will always feel a part of this Rotary family. Thank you for your service and leadership—it has truly made a difference.
"Everybody can be great because everybody can serve."
– Martin Luther King, Jr.
So my challenge to you:
In the spirit of Finding Joy in Service, let's take a moment to connect more deeply with one another. Get to know your fellow Rotary members—schedule a coffee or lunch and spend time learning about their passions and experiences. When we truly understand each other, our empathy grows, and so does our collective impact. By leading with heart and embracing the principles of servant leadership, we’ll build a stronger, more vibrant Rotary club, ready to make an even greater difference in our community.
As we work together to serve, I challenge each of us to invite someone new into our Rotary circle. Look around at your friends, colleagues, and community—who would not only benefit from being a part of Rotary but also bring fresh energy and ideas to our club? Let’s reach out to the younger generation and show them the joy and purpose that comes with being part of something that truly makes a difference.
Haven't been to Rotary in a while???? Please join us:
Thursdays at 7:00 AM ( come earlier if you can)
Eastern Maine Community College at Rangeley Hall
268 Sylvan Road
Bangor, ME 04401
Zoom option available. Our President sends a link each week. If you are not getting the link, please let Andrew Cassidy know- andrew3567097.gmail.com
