The future of local philanthropy is in good hands as showcased during the most recent meeting of the Emporia Rotary Club Tuesday.
The club’s regular meeting was highlighted by a presentation from the Emporia Middle School Interact Club. Interact Clubs are present around the world and are an extension of Rotary International, allowing youth to embrace the Rotary principle of “Service above self.”
The EMS chapter has volunteered for and helped to raise thousands of dollars for local causes and organizations since its inception including the Emporia Animal Shelter, SOS and many more. Club facilitator and Rotary Club Paul Harris Fellow Andrew Hawley says it is important to start service early adding that when you instill a sense of selflessness in young people, that desire to help others will only grow and intensify throughout their lives.
Hawley adds his students are a “great group” of individuals who rarely need encouragement to go out and do their work.
According to Rotary.org, there are more than 14,000 active Interact Clubs comprising nearly 343,000 members across 145 countries. Club members range between 12 to 18 years old and organize at least two service projects each year.
One of the said projects is meant to support either the club’s school or community with the other focused on promoting “international understanding.”
For more information on Interact visit Rotary.org.
