Shelburne recognizes Rotary Club with flag raising and proclamation

Written By JOSHUA DRAKES

LOCAL JOURNALISM INITIATIVE REPORTER

The Town of Shelburne honoured the local Rotary Club with a flag-raising ceremony and a formal proclamation recognizing the organization's long history of community service.

The event marked the club's founding date of April 22, 1938, and acknowledged nearly nine decades of contributions that have shaped local programs and supported residents in need. The Rotary's motto, “Service Above Self,” framed the day's observance and underscored the group's focus on giving back.

Shelburne Councillor Len Guchardi presented a proclamation declaring April 22 as Shelburne Rotary Day in recognition of the club's sustained efforts and broad impact. He said the club's contributions are extensive and far-reaching.

“We are very lucky to have this rotary club here in Shelburne,” said Coun. Guchardi. “They truly do so much for the town. They're very humble, selfless people. They are a great organization, and we're happy to have them.”

He highlighted the club's leadership role in a wide range of initiatives, including support for the community kitchen, the local food bank, the acquisition of a cargo van, and the development of the splash pad.

Ongoing events and fundraisers – such as golf tournaments, pumpkin fest, and food drives – were cited as examples of the club's hands-on involvement and fundraising success.

Organizers and town representatives emphasized that the Rotary's strength stems from consistent community support. Sponsorships, volunteers, and regular donors enable the club to operate week to week, sell raffle tickets, and host events that generate funds and services for the community.

Rotary Club organizer Bill Waite said that the club is immensely grateful to be recognized and supported by the local community.

“We greatly appreciate the recognition we have received from the community and, of course, the town as well,” he said. “We are grateful as well to get a lot of recognition where people step up to sponsor and support us and all our different events, whether we're selling raffle tickets to the golf tournament or smile cookies. But this one day is important to us, as 88 years ago, Shelburne Rotary was established.”

Despite a decline in membership seen in some community groups, the Rotary has maintained and even increased its output, attributing gains to technology adoption and a younger membership base.

The club's average age is now under 55, contributing to renewed energy and capacity to deliver programs.

“We continue to do a lot of work in the community, raise a lot of funds, give back to the community, probably more than we ever have,” Waite said. “So we're very proud, after 88 years, we're still here, and we're very strong.”

The proclamation and flag-raising served both as recognition of past achievements and encouragement for the club's future work.

Town officials and residents were urged to continue supporting the Rotary through participation, sponsorship, and volunteerism to ensure the organization's legacy and continued benefit to Shelburne in the present and future.