A Message from the District Foundation Chair Mike Klingbiel

June is always a special month in Rotary. It is a time to reflect on what we've accomplished together and to recognize the role The Rotary Foundation plays in turning generosity into action.

This past Saturday, we held our District Grants Training and welcomed more than 100 attendees from clubs across District 5450. The level of engagement was outstanding. The grants team delivered excellent training, and the thoughtful questions and discussions demonstrated the passion Rotarians have for serving their communities.

The energy in the room was contagious. Clubs are already developing new projects, building partnerships, and exploring ways to create lasting impact. Based on what I saw, I am confident we are heading into another strong year of service throughout our district.

One of the privileges of serving as Foundation Chair is visiting clubs and seeing Rotary's impact firsthand. Last month, I visited Smoky Hill Rotary as they recognized 17 community members with Paul Harris Fellow awards.

What made the event especially meaningful was the way each recipient was honored. Rather than simply presenting an award, the club shared the story behind each individual and how they have made a difference through service, leadership, generosity, and commitment to others.

It was a powerful reminder that Rotary is about people. People who step forward. People who serve. People who make their communities stronger.
The event also introduced Rotary to community members who may not have been familiar with our organization. It showcased who we are, what we value, and how Rotary recognizes those who are making a difference.

These experiences highlight why The Rotary Foundation matters. The grants we fund, the scholarships we provide, the projects we support, and the lives we touch are possible because Rotarians choose to invest in our Foundation.

As we enter the final 30 days of the Rotary year, there is still time to make a meaningful difference.

June 30 marks the close of Rotary's fiscal year, and every contribution made helps strengthen Rotary's ability to serve both locally and globally. Foundation giving supports:

•  District Grants that fund local projects throughout District 5450
•  Global Grants that provide sustainable solutions around the world
•  Peacebuilding initiatives and Rotary Peace Fellowships
•  Scholarships and leadership development programs
•  PolioPlus and Rotary's ongoing effort to eradicate polio
•  Disaster response and humanitarian relief efforts

One of the unique aspects of Foundation giving is that a portion of Annual Fund contributions returns to our district three years later to support local District Grants. The projects we fund tomorrow are made possible by the generosity of Rotarians today.

Whether your support comes through the Annual Fund, PolioPlus, the Paul Harris Society, or the Endowment Fund, every gift strengthens Rotary's ability to create positive change.

Sometimes it's easy to assume that impact comes from a few large gifts. In reality, Rotary's impact is built one contribution at a time. When Rotarians come together around a shared purpose, the results are extraordinary.

Over the next month, let's challenge ourselves and each other to take one more step toward growing our impact through our giving. There is still time to reach Foundation goals, increase participation, become a Paul Harris Society member, support PolioPlus, or make your first gift to The Rotary Foundation.

Together, let's make these final 30 days count.

What would it take for every club in District 5450 to achieve its Foundation goals by June 30?

I love supporting clubs with resources and ideas; please reach out. I'd be glad to work with you and your club leadership team.

Mike