Fall in Love with Learning
Dear Rotarians,
September is Rotary’s Basic Education and Literacy Month, and it also begins our District 5150 Fall in Love — Education & Literacy season.
Welcome to Rotary District 5150
Rotary District 5150 stretches across Marin, San Francisco and San Mateo counties of the San Francisco Bay area. Our Rotary club members are people of action and inspired individuals who translate their passions into relevant social causes to change lives in communities, both locally and globally. Rotary International forms a global network of business, professional, and community leaders who volunteer their time and talents to serve communities and form strong, lasting friendships in the process. Join us!
Few Rotarians embody Service Above Self more personally than Bobba Venkatadri of the Rotary Club of Burlingame & Hillsborough.
Born into poverty in rural Andhra Pradesh, India, in 1943, Bobba transformed his life through education, determination, and hard work. He became a pharmacist and went on to a distinguished international career in senior leadership in the pharmaceutical and life-sciences industries. Today, he is using the opportunities that changed his own life to create those same opportunities for thousands of disadvantaged children.
The District 5080 Relief Fund will be the mechanism from which District 5080 can provide the needed support to volunteers and individuals in need.
The District 5080 Disaster Relief Committee will develop a plan for how these funds can support all areas of District 5080 over the coming weeks and months. This includes British Columbia, Stevens County, and Spokane County.
Donations don't have to be large to help—any amount makes a difference. DONATE HERE
Disaster Aid USA is on the ground in Spokane preparing to assist with the cleanup effort and is seeking volunteers. You don't have to be a Rotarian!
Volunteer Opportunity
Dan Crawford, a Rotarian from the Coeur Alene (Friday) club and a leader within Disaster Aid USA, will coordinate our Rotary disaster response.
If you are able, please answer the call to serve by clicking here; then select “Northwest Fires Rotary 5080 Volunteer Opportunity” (https://volunteer.
Here's a QR code to make your donation even easier!
Throughout the 2026–2027 Rotary year, District Governor YuHui Chen will highlight Rotary International and District awards that are currently accepting nominations or applications. Each month, we'll share award information, recognize past recipients from District 5150, and encourage clubs to nominate deserving Rotarians.
Some Rotarians serve their local community. Others travel into the heart of a war zone to bring hope, healing, and lifesaving aid. Noel Sutter and Tom Warren exemplify Rotary's motto, Service Above Self.
Since joining the Rotary Club of Central Marin in August 2023, Noel and Tom have completed five humanitarian missions to Ukraine and are preparing for their sixth mission this fall.
A Lifeline for Our Littlest Neighbors
In the most fragile days of life, the difference between struggle and strength can be measured in ounces. Whether a newborn is fighting for their first breath or a mother is navigating the challenges of recovery, a simple act of support can be life-changing.
This July, as we focus on Maternal and Child Health in District 5150, remember that our commitment to "The Season of Love" isn't just about programs—it’s about the profound human connection of neighbors helping neighbors.
Our District 5150 team is growing, and we need your help to bring "The Season of Love" to life. With over 150 core members and 50+ sub-committees, there is a place for your talents.
Artificial intelligence (AI) is becoming part of everyday life—and increasingly part of how we communicate, plan projects, and support our clubs and districts. Rotary International encourages the responsible use of AI, recognizing its potential to help volunteers work more efficiently while protecting our members, our data, and Rotary's reputation.
Rotary International has published new AI Guidelines for Members [PDF]. The guidelines are designed to help Rotarians use AI with confidence—and with care. While AI can be an excellent tool for brainstorming ideas, drafting communications, summarizing information, and improving productivity, it also introduces risks if used without appropriate oversight.