Rotary District 5150 proudly recognizes Roark O’Neill of the Rotary Club of SOMA as our Rotarian of the Month for October 2025.
A dedicated Rotarian for more than 22 years, Roark has served his club in numerous leadership roles, including Club President, Secretary, and his current position as Executive Secretary. His steadfast commitment to Rotary’s mission of Service Above Self has earned him multiple recognitions, including designation as a Paul Harris Fellow (2004), Every Rotarian, Every Year honors (2011 and 2016), and the Rotary Presidential Citation (2016).
Roark is known as the member who always steps up when something needs to get done. His leadership, reliability, and spirit of service inspire others throughout the club—so much so that he was a key influence in encouraging the current club president to take on the role.
Among Roark’s many contributions, one of the most impactful is his leadership of the Bikes 4 Vets program. Through this initiative, the SOMA Rotary Club refurbishes bicycles released from the San Francisco Police Department’s evidence locker and, in partnership with the Lions Club, donates them to veterans in need. Thanks to Roark’s coordination and hands-on leadership, more than 1,000 bicycles have been distributed—each one a tangible expression of Rotary’s commitment to community and service.
Roark’s service also extends to supporting at-risk youth in the Bayview neighborhood, connecting young people with mentors and responsible adult role models through collaboration with the SFPD. In a community where the literacy rate is only 25%, his work provides critical opportunities for growth, stability, and hope.
In addition, Roark is an active champion of literacy initiatives in local underserved elementary schools, including Malcolm X Academy, Bessie Carmichael, and Starr King. These efforts have been especially meaningful as students and families continue to recover from the educational setbacks caused by the COVID-19 pandemic.
Rotary District 5150 is honored to recognize Roark O’Neill for his unwavering dedication, quiet leadership, and extraordinary service. His actions embody the very best of Rotary and continue to make a lasting difference in the San Francisco community and beyond.