Empowering the Hudson Valley: Rotary Club's Dynamic Vision and Impactful Youth Engagement

The Heart of Service in the Hudson Valley

The Rotary Club has long been a beacon of community service and leadership within the Hudson Valley, continually evolving to meet the needs of today. Under the vibrant leadership of district members like Bo Ohlendorf, Carrie Hernandez, and Todd Bowen, the club has embraced a dynamic approach to service and engagement. These leaders are not only reshaping the public image of Rotary as an active and youthful organization but also emphasizing crucial goals such as membership growth and youth connection.

Engaging the Next Generation

A notable drive within the Rotary Club is its commitment to youth programs. Bo Ohlendorf, the current District Governor for District 7210, emphasizes the importance of youth involvement. "The next generation is watching what we do, so we must invest in them," he states, highlighting initiatives like Interact and RYLA (Rotary Youth Leadership Awards). These programs provide young people with opportunities to engage in leadership activities and community service, laying the groundwork for future Rotarians.

Carrie Hernandez, the District Governor Elect, has a personal connection to Rotary's youth programs. As Carrie explains, "It's really awesome to see some of these kids go from shy kids who joined the club... to eventually becoming district governor one day." Her dedication is reflected in her efforts within the Brewster Rotary Club, where projects focus on youth programs such as the career skills class partnership, enhancing students’ job skills.

Innovation and Growth

Todd Bowen, the District Governor Nominee, has been instrumental in expanding membership through innovative approaches like corporate membership. His efforts have not only increased local club numbers but have also rejuvenated the club with younger members. "We want to focus on new members, new ideas, and new opportunities to serve," Todd says, attributing this growth to changing public perceptions of Rotary.

The emphasis extends beyond local impact as Todd oversees projects like Shelter Box, a program delivering emergency shelter and aid to global disaster victims. This initiative exemplifies Rotary's international service footprint, which Todd is passionate about expanding further.

Looking Forward

As the Rotary Club continues to push forward under the guidance of its young leaders, the emphasis remains on creating an inclusive, energetic environment that fosters community and leadership. Bo Ohlendorf encapsulates this mission aptly: "There’s no better feeling than seeing someone smile when you do something nice in the community."

For those interested in joining the efforts or simply learning more about the Rotary Club's initiatives in the Hudson Valley, visiting the website at rotary.org provides resources and contact options to connect with local clubs.

As the Rotary Club celebrates community spirit and service, it stands poised to inspire and empower future generations through its unwavering dedication to local and international goodwill.

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