MY FELLOW ROTARIAN,

This past Friday was everything Rotary should be - engaging, generous, and rooted in connection.

We kicked off the meeting with a powerful round of Classification Talks, and the energy in the room was undeniable. Members leaned in, shared openly, and walked away with a better understanding of each other’s journeys and what we each bring to Rotary. These conversations matter. They deepen trust, uncover talents, and remind us that Rotary isn’t just an organization, it’s a community.

A heartfelt thank you to our members and friends of Rotary who donated door prizes and helped create a welcoming atmosphere:

• United Way of Northern Cameron County, Jennifer Allen

• Belinda Cavazos Zapata Farmers Insurance

• The Point, Dillon Dawi

• Loaves & Fishes

• Bert Ogden Mercedes, Michael Faul

• First Community Bank, Anita Boswell & Cynthia Gamez 

• New York Life Insurance, Roel Rodriguez

• Granting the Best Education (GBE), Lorenzo Alaniz

• Educational Research Institute (ERI) and Comprehensive Training Center (CTC), Linda Alaniz 

Gratitude also goes to Eddie Bartnesky and Chris Boswell for donating Rotary swag, and to Taylor Allen, one of our dedicated Interactors, who volunteered to help facilitate the activity.

We also had the honor of presenting checks to five community partners making a direct impact across our region:

• Children’s Bereavement Center of the RGV, represented by fellow Rotarian and Executive Director, Bill Reagan

• Family Crisis Center, represented by Jacky Moreno

• Loaves & Fishes, represented by their Board President, Mike Allex

• Boys and Girls Club of Harlingen, represented by their Executive Director, Gerald Gathright and Board Member and fellow Rotarian, Kathy Preddy

• United Way of Northern Cameron County, represented by CEO and fellow Rotarian, Jennifer Allen 

Supporting these organizations isn’t just a donation, it’s an investment in the work that lifts up families, restores dignity, and strengthens lives. Our club stands behind them proudly.

On Saturday, August 2, the Rotary Club of Harlingen hosted its Hearts of Giving event at Target, treating 83 deserving children to a back-to-school shopping spree. Thanks to a generous donor and a strong showing of Rotarians and volunteers from HCISD, Treasure Hills Presbyterian Church, Marine Military Academy, and The Boys & Girls Club, these kids shopped for essentials with guidance and support.

This was service at its most personal - real impact, real smiles. Special thanks to Target for their outstanding support in making the day truly unforgettable.

If you missed it, check out the photos in our album below. The smiles said everything!

 

Coming up this Friday: The Coaches Forum, a dynamic community event where area coaches join together to talk about mentorship, leadership, and character-building through sports. It’s a great chance to stay connected and support our next generation.

🚫 NO RAFFLE THIS WEEK
The 50/50 raffle will return at our next regular meeting.

🥪 FRIDAY MEAL                                                                                                   ⚠️ Meals are limited. Reserve yours now:

Chick-Fil-A Sandwich, served with waffle potato chips.- $12 🔗https://square.link/u/ZQIM7GsW

Chick-Fil-A Salad - $14 - 🔗https://square.link/u/MYxZc5S1

Every week we gather, something meaningful happens whether it’s a story shared, a cause supported, or a child helped. Let’s keep building on that. This is how we move from good intentions to real impact.

Always—Make Service Personal.

In Rotary Service,
Victor
President, 2025–2026
Rotary Club of Harlingen