Wanda Bailey, President-Elect, Rotary Club of SaddleBrooke
Many of us are retired or nearing retirement. As we end our working years, we create plans to make sure our financial resources are adequate. However, did we also consider how to spend our newly found free time? Healthy aging requires having purpose—a reason to get up each morning. For many of us, we enjoy the many amenities and activities that our community offers. In addition, there is another great opportunity to fill our time with purpose: volunteering and serving your community.
Did you know that volunteering offers many proven benefits:
• Provides purpose by being involved with something greater than yourself
• Fosters friendships and connections with others and your community
• Improves your physical and mental health
• Bolsters self-confidence and broadens your perspective through new experiences and skill development
There are many ways to volunteer and serve in our community and beyond. One great way to get involved is through the Rotary Club of SaddleBrooke. Personally, I have chosen Rotary as a key component of my retirement plan and means to create purpose in my life. Rotary offers the opportunity to be a part of a global network of 1.4 million members who have fun working together to make the world a better place. Rotary is the world’s largest volunteer organization and is found in more countries than the Red Cross, Starbucks, or McDonald’s.
The Rotary Club of SaddleBrooke offers many varied volunteer options to be involved. I am able to choose projects that fit my unique interests, abilities, and availability. I enjoy getting “out of the bubble” by being involved in projects that serve my neighbors of all ages locally and also supporting international projects globally. Our service projects are always thoughtfully planned, and we often work with partner clubs or organizations.
Rotary also offers fellowship and camaraderie. Club members come from all walks of life and share common interests and a commitment to service. It’s truly fun to hang out with Rotarians. Our weekly lunchtime meetings feature interesting speakers and programs. We also gather for regular social events. Club members support one another as a Rotary family. SaddleBrooke resident Linda Drake joined Rotary after her husband passed away and says Rotary has truly helped her to reinvigorate her life through companionship and connections.
The motto of Rotary is “Service Above Self.” SaddleBrooke resident and Rotarian Elaine Terry says, “My personal commitment is to live the principles that have been a key part of my career as a human resources professional, as well as in my personal life.” A well-known quote is, “The meaning of life is to find your gift. The purpose of life is to give it away.” Find your purpose and passion through the magic of Rotary! Get out of bed in the morning and come join us for lunch!
The Rotary Club of SaddleBrooke meets on Thursdays at the SaddleBrooke Ranch House Grill. Lunch is at 11 a.m., and the meeting begins at noon. For more information, contact Diane Demeroutis at [email protected].