Today is the District Change of Gavel at Cragun's. If you see Pete Nelson, please congratulate him in his new role as 5580 District Governor!
New Member Alert!!!
Please send a warm welcome to Matt Russell, the Brainerd Noon Rotary Club's newest member, inducted at today's meeting!
Today's Speaker: Ben Davidson presented an inspiring international service opportunity called Rotary Shark Pond. Inspired by the television show Shark Tank, Shark Pond gives aspiring entrepreneurs in Africa the opportunity to pitch their business ideas to Rotary clubs. But unlike the TV version, everyone is working toward the same goal—lifting families out of poverty through sustainable entrepreneurship.
Participants (Rotary clubs, families, individuals) serve as "Sharks," asking questions, offering encouragement, and helping select entrepreneurs to receive startup funding. The businesses range from poultry farms and tailoring shops to food production, recycling, and skilled trades. Even relatively modest grants can have a life-changing impact, helping entrepreneurs build businesses that provide lasting income for themselves, their families, and their communities.
What makes Shark Pond especially unique is the ongoing relationship. Clubs receive updates, photos, videos, and success stories from the entrepreneurs they support, allowing members to see the real-world impact of their investment long after the pitch session ends. It's an innovative example of Rotary's commitment to creating sustainable change through service and economic opportunity.
If you are interested in this project and learning more, please read through the MOU sent by the presenter, Ben Davidson, and reach out to Adam Rees or Buford Johnson, chairs of our club's International Service committee.
Greeters:
7/7/26: Michael Doran, Michelle Francis, Adam Rees
7/14/26:
7/21/26:
7/28/26:
Upcoming Speakers:
7/7/26 - Adam Rees & Buford Johnson - International Service
7/14/26 - Open
7/21/26 - Andy Rangen - Club Meeting
7/26/26 - Stephen Schmid DPM, FACFAS - 3D Printing & Applications in Surgery
2026 District Conference: Our Club will host the District Conference in 2026! The conference will take place from October 1, 2026 - October 4, 2026 at Cragun's Resort.
Full Conference Registration
Rotarians - $225.00
Spouse/Partner/Guest - $200.00
Rotaract/Interact - No Charge
Full Conference Registration Includes:
FRIDAY
Casual family fun night with live music from Dos Guys, games, heavy appetizers, cash bar
You are invited to visit us at an upcoming meeting.
Brainerd Rotary Club meets on Tuesdays at 12pm at the Northland Arboretum (lower level) - 14250 Conservation Dr, Baxter, MN 56425
Our club members are dedicated people who share a passion for community service and friendship. Becoming a Rotarian connects you with a diverse group who share your drive to give back. Join us here for updates, announcements, and stories.
To see our schedule of upcoming speakers, click HERE. If you have an idea or question, contact Bob Nystrom at robertnystrom5@gmail.com.
Rotary Youth Exchange
Samanta Candia Aguirre - from Peru arrived the summer of 2023. If you’d like to be more involved in our youth exchange program and willing to join our Youth Exchange committee, please contact Jesse Hopkins at 218-515-0821 or jesse.hopkins@hhrarchitecture.com or jesse.david.hopkins@gmail.com.
Rotary International Convention:
May 25-29, 2024, Singapore.
Brainerd Club Board
Meeting occurs at 11am on the Second Tuesday of the month at The Northland Arboretum. Anyone can attend.
Please take and share photos of current rotary club events. Share with Allie Verchota allie.verchota@deerwoodbank.com or Brian Andrews executivedirector@larjp.org so we can keep our website and social media platforms current. Thank you!
