The Rotary Foundation’s programs are how members transform donations into sustainable projects that change people’s lives. Each year, a district can nominate one member to honor their commitment, enthusiasm, and passion for these ideals. This year, our nominee Keith Axtell was selected by the review committee as a recipient of this distinguished award.
Keith, a distinguished retired HUD executive, has been a Rotarian since 1996. He is a Paul Harris Fellow, Benefactor, Major Donor and A Service Above Self recipient 2008-2009. He has served as District 5150 Grants Chair, Rotary Microcredit Action Group member and trainer, and organizer of numerous community and international service projects.
In addition to Keith’s efforts to help lift Americans out of poverty and into decent affordable housing, he has selflessly served Rotary both in his district and internationally. He organized several international projects including a women’s health clinic, a teaching farm in the Amazon jungle, providing soy milk making machines to various institutions in Ecuador that serve hungry children. He served for several years as Host Counselor for Peace Fellows and Ambassadorial Scholars. Keith has unselfishly offered his expertise to clubs and individuals to realize their goals. Keith embodies Service Above Self.
Keith served as District Grants Chair for 4 years with 76 matching grants approved. He introduced the 3rd Grade Dictionary project into the District using DDF. Now he is in his third year as Global Grants Coordinator for our District, his second time in this role. To date, he has shepherded more than 20 global grants with clubs to successfully secure approval by The Rotary Foundation and led his own club in several global grant microcredit projects. He also leads annual Grant Management Training for clubs to become Qualified. He started an environmental summer camp scholarship program for low-income children that is now a multi-Rotary club program serving over 500 children. He also trains Rotarians in other Districts on developing effective microcredit projects.
Keith has also given years of service to 4-H, both as member and youth leader. Keith developed and led an interagency group working to turn around one of the poorest neighborhoods in North Richmond. He involved community members, public and non-profit organizations to bring employment, new housing, and supportive services to uplift this formerly minority community previously known for crime, drug use, and hopelessness. Keith has been a sought-after resource person on affordable housing matters and provided service and assistance to Ecumenical Housing of Marin in developing affordable housing.