This Week at Rotary
Lee really showed her spirit as she pumped up the room in preparation for Brainerd Homecoming! Our awesome members keep finding ways to dial up the fun!
Speaker
We were honored to host District Governor Peter Nelson this week. He came to present on the state of the District and area of focus.
Peter outlined Rotary International’s focus on public image, membership growth, youth programs, the Rotary Foundation, and polio eradication. He noted declining membership and youth exchange numbers district-wide but highlighted encouraging signs, including a recent youth focused QR code based campaign to 190 high schools that helped boost RYLA applications by about 50%.
Peter highlighted the “district growth engine”, emphasizing that strong social interaction, welcoming culture, and friendship at meetings lead to better participation, community impact, and ultimately membership growth. He praised Brainerd Noon Rotary as a positive example of these principles.
To help drive membership he encouraged clubs to explore corporate memberships and intentional outreach to local employers who are not currently represented in Rotary. He shared an example of a club that gained four new members in four months simply by visiting companies that had drifted away and inviting them back.
Apparel for World's Largest Polio Walk
Get excited for the WORLD'S LARGEST POLIO WALK and order apparel now!
On 10/24/26, World Polio Day, Rotary members across Region 36 – Zones 25 & 29 are coming together for something BIG — a bold, unified step toward a polio-free world.
District 5580 is encouraging clubs to order apparel for this movement.
If you are interested in ordering any gear for the walk please reach out to Matt Russell or Heather Kelm.
All orders and payments must be received by October 2, 2026.
MORE GOOD NEWS! All prices include a $5 donation to Polio Plus.
Save the Date
2026 District Conference: October 1, 2026 - October 4, 2026
Hosted at Craguns Resort.
Ditch Pick - October 5th
Fall Ditch Pick is scheduled for October 5th at 5:30pm. Let's get as many members out to show support! A back-up date in case of rain to be determined.
Rotary Speakeasy Planning Meeting - October 22nd
7:30pm - 8:30pm via Zoom. Planning for our Speakeasy night is underway. Anyone interested in helping plan this fantastic night can reach out to Adam Reese for an invite link.
Worlds Largest Polio Walk - October 24th
October 24th the District is calling for local clubs to participate in the Worlds Largest Polio Walk. The Club is tentatively planning a walk from Gregory Park to Rotary Riverside Park. If you’re interested in helping plan this event please talk to Heather.
Rotary Socials
The Club has brought back Rotary Socials! For Rotary Socials we are planning to have Rotarians represent our club and Rotary in general at Jack Pine’s Pints for a purpose events. The Next event is October 7th for Breath of Life Adult Day Services. Plan for 4:30pm and a very informal gathering.
