District & Club Spotlight Reel
District Headlines
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District 5170 Celebrates Early-Year Membership Growth and Calls All Clubs to Finish 2025 Strong
District 5170 Celebrates Early-Year Membership Growth and Calls All Clubs to Finish 2025 Strong
Rotary District 5170 is proud to celebrate the incredible progress many of our clubs have achieved so far this Rotary year. Membership growth is the strongest sign of a vibrant, welcoming culture—and dozens of our clubs are already showing that energy in action.- Across the district, 158 new members have joined since July 1st, a powerful reminder that people are excited to be part of Rotary when we invite them in, engage them quickly, and show them the impact we create in our communities and around the world. However we have lost 57 members.
Congratulations to the clubs leading the way with impressive membership gains this year. These clubs have demonstrated strong outreach, meaningful engagement, and a commitment to giving more people the opportunity to experience Rotary:
- Top Growth Performers:
eClub of Silicon Valley Health & Wellness (+9), Cupertino (+8), Morgan Hill (+8), Oakland (+8), Evergreen Valley (+7), Hollister (+6), Santa Cruz Sunrise (+6), Alameda (+5), Capitola-Aptos (+5), East Palo Alto Bayshore (+5), Los Gatos (+5), Niles Fremont (+5), and many more. - Major Percentage Gains:
Evergreen Valley (+175%), East Palo Alto Bayshore (+38%), Silicon Valley Chinese (+14%), Gilroy Sunrise (+15%), and Silicon Valley Passport (+12.5%).
Let’s continue building on the momentum we’ve created. Every new member strengthens our impact, our friendships, and our future.
A Final Word of Thanks
To all clubs—those growing and those still finding their footing—thank you for the heart you put into Rotary. Your effort matters. Your leadership matters. And together, we are creating a district where people feel welcomed, valued, and inspired to serve.Let’s finish this Rotary year stronger than we started.
Together, we grow.
– Camilla Boolootian
District Membership Chair, Rotary District 5170
Rotary Leadership Fellowship Dinner & Train of Lights Celebration 12-2-25
Rotary Leadership Fellowship Dinner & Train of Lights Celebration
Tuesday, December 2, 2025 | 5:00 PM
Casa Bella Event Center, Sunol
Join us on Tuesday, December 2nd at 5:00 PM for a very special Rotary Leadership Fellowship Dinner celebrating the incredible work of clubs in the Central Bay Region of District 5170!
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This evening of connection, collaboration, and inspiration will be led by Lieutenant Governor Lisa Lorenz, who has brought together a dynamic lineup of Club Presidents to share impactful stories, exciting initiatives, and creative ways we’re growing Rotary across the region.
After dinner, we’ll stroll over to board the Train of Lights — a beloved holiday tradition — and continue the celebration with Rotary fellowship and festive cheer!
REGISTER NOW CLICK HERE
Rotary Poet of the Year - An Invitation to Celebrate Humanity Through Poetry
“Poetry is a celebration of something beautifully human,” said Immediate Past Rotary International President Stephanie Urchick during her inspiring address at the RI Convention in Calgary, Canada (June 2025).
Her words remind us that empathy builds bridges — and poetry is one of the most beautiful ways to build them. Through verse, we connect hearts, share understanding, and create peace.
Now, as we continue this spirit of creativity and compassion, we invite you to take part in an exciting Rotary initiative — The Rotary Poetry Awards
Submit your entry HERE - https://rotarypoetry.org/
The Poetry Awards are open to all, in any language. We celebrate creativity, compassion and unity through verse.
- Limericks
- Sonnets
- Peace and harmony around the world (Unite for good)
- Poems on any general subject
Express yourself.
Share your voice.
Inspire peace through poetry.
The winners will be announced by RI President Francesco at the Rotary Convention in Taipei on Saturday, 13th June 2026.
Good luck, and happy writing!
Rotary Commemorates the UN at 80yrs old: with RI President Francesco 12-11-25
Join Us in San Francisco to Reignite Our Shared Commitment with the United Nations to Peace and Progress
On December 11, Rotary will host a one-day summit in San Francisco—the birthplace of the United Nations Charter—to commemorate the 80th Anniversary of the UN.
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This event, Global Goals, Local Action, will bring together upwards of 1,700 Rotarians, community leaders, and international partners to explore how local collaboration can drive global progress toward achieving the UN’s 2030 Sustainable Development Goals, which closely align with Rotary’s Seven Areas of Focus.
Highlights include:
- Keynotes from UN, Rotary, and global leaders
- Breakout sessions on collaboration, sustainability, and innovation
- Historical UN exhibit and community impact booths
- Curated networking opportunities
- Bonus events available through select event package
- Special sessions for youth to build future leaders.
As a bonus, the Club Presidents will have an opportunity to meet and have a picture prior to the opening session with our Rotary International President, Francesco Arezzo of Italy
As Rotarians, we are driven to create lasting change – across the globe, in our communities, and in ourselves. This is our moment to recommit.
Visit www.RotaryUN80.org for more information and registration.
Rotarian Pricing Starts at $107.48ea
Student / Interact / Youth Exchange – $28.52
Includes plenary and breakout seating, youth reception, and snacks.
District Governor’s Message – November 2025
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Rotary District 5170–November Governor’s Message
“Giving Thanks Through Action: The Power of The Rotary Foundation”
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This November, District 5170 joins Rotarians around the world in celebrating The Rotary Foundation — the beating heart of Rotary’s mission to create lasting change.
Through the Foundation, our clubs across Silicon Valley and the Greater Bay Area turn compassion into measurable action — eradicating polio, supporting peace scholars, empowering education, and funding clean water, sanitation, and disaster relief projects across the globe.
This year, we’re raising the bar with an inspiring district-wide goal: 100% of our clubs earning the Rotary Foundation Banner Award. That means every member contributing at least $25 to The Rotary Foundation. Every gift — no matter the size — fuels a life-changing impact and strengthens Rotary’s ability to serve communities both locally and worldwide.
The Rotary Foundation Donate NOW<<< Click here to Donate now.
Remember, those that donate $1000 or more to the Rotary Foundation this Rotary Year between (7/1/26 thru 4/30/26) to the TRF foundation will get a *Spcial Invitation* to the Hornblowers Mimosa Brunch Cruise on the SF Bay, scheduled for Friday 11:30AM May 15th, 2026
District Governor Herb Ritter encourages members to “give with gratitude, joy, and hope,” adding:
“When every Rotarian gives from the heart, we create a ripple of goodwill that stretches far beyond our borders. Together, through our Foundation, we Unite for Good — building peace, trust, and a legacy of Service Above Self.”
As the season of thanks unfolds, let’s honor our Rotary promise — to turn generosity into lasting change and leave our mark on the world.
The Rotary Revolution has begun in District 5170; RAP VIDEO
The Rotary Revolution has begun in District 5170
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Be part of the movement!
Check out the Rotary Revolution Rap video and help us ignite a new Rotary Revolution by sharing it with friends, clubs, and communities around the world. The more voices and screens we reach, the stronger our message of service, unity, and innovation becomes.
Together, we can amplify Rotary’s story—spreading inspiration, energy, and impact across every corner of the globe.
Special Thanks to Rotary Zone 33/44 Leadershttps://vimeo.com/1119156492
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If You Would Like Your Club ezStory Published . . .
Rotary District 5170 DACdb Club ezStory Guidelines
(For email broadcast and posting on the 15th of every month)
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PurposeClubs are encouraged to use the DACdb ezStory tool to share stories about their events and activities. These stories allow us to showcase Rotary’s impact, invite community participation, and inspire collaboration with other clubs.
Requirements for District Publication
To be featured in the District Club News Bulletin (sent on the 15th of each month), your ezStory must meet the following guidelines:
Amazing Speakers: The Richard D. King Annual Youth Speech Contest
What amazing speakers we had at the 2025 District Speech Contest Finals this past year. But this is not unique. Every year, we are so impressed with the ideas and voices of the students who choose to participate in this annual program. However, it only happens because Clubs support the contest by either conducting a club contest and/or hosting an Area or Regional Contest. Additional funding is provided by businesses, clubs, and individuals who participate in the District Speech Contest Sponsorship Program with their generous contributions that enable the leading cash awards for the Area, Regional, and Finals participants.
Please read more below to understand how to help your club plan a contest and to learn more about becoming a sponsor.
Club Headlines
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Rotary District 5170 and Club Name Shirts ***Embroider your Own Option***
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Show Your Rotary Pride – Custom District 5170 Embroidered Shirts Now Available!
Fremont, CA — Rotary District 5170 and the Rotary Club of Fremont Bridge are excited to announce a new way to wear your Rotary spirit with pride! For just $20, you can now have your favorite shirt embroidered with the official Rotary District 5170 logo and your club name on top — proudly customized to reflect your membership in one of the most dynamic districts in the Rotary world.
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Members can choose from a selection of high-quality shirts available through the District 5170 & Fremont Bridge Rotary Store (CLICK HERE), or send in their own favorite shirt for embroidery. This is a great opportunity to show your Rotary pride at conventions, conferences, community events, and service projects — wherever Rotary is represented!
“We are proud to wear our Rotary colors and show the world the strength and unity of District 5170,” said District Governor Herb Ritter. “When people see that Rotary logo, they see compassion, leadership, and service in action.”
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Rotary District 5170 encompasses 63 clubs and over 3,800 members across the Greater Bay Area, united under the motto “Lead with Vision. Serve with Heart. Leave Your Mark.” Together, we serve communities locally and globally — creating lasting change in people’s lives through projects that promote peace, fight disease, support education, and build goodwill and better friendships.Santa Cruz Sunrise Rotarians travel to Tecate Mexico to build a house
Please enjoy: https://lisakrigsman.smugmug.com/Rotary-Tecate-House-Build/i-qdRLprK/A
Santa Cruz Sunrise Rotarians Build a Home in One Day — And Change Lives Forever
Sixteen Santa Cruz Sunrise Rotarians grabbed their passports, rolled up their sleeves, and headed to Tecate, Mexico for an unforgettable International Community Service Project: building a home for a single mother and her three children… in just one day.
Sixteen Rotarians. One Home. One Day. One life-changing experience.
From Cement Slab to Safe Haven — All in 9½ Hours
At 8:00 a.m. it was nothing but a concrete pad.
By 5:30 p.m.… it was a dream come true.
The team worked side-by-side—framing walls, raising them into place, painting and installing siding, setting rafters, putting on the roof, hanging drywall, pulling electrical, cutting in windows, installing trim, and nailing down the final shingles.
By sunset, a mother and her three children had a safe, secure home… and sixteen Rotarians had a moment they’ll never forget.
A Circle of Gratitude
Before packing up, the team formed a circle in front of the newly built home.
They shared their wishes for the family, reflections on the day, and stories of what the experience meant.
The mother stood tearful—overwhelmed by gratitude.
But the truth? The sixteen Rotarians were just as transformed.
They didn’t just build a home.
They built connection.
They built purpose.
They built Rotary fellowship that will last a lifetime.
Because once you take part in an International Service Project… you’re never quite the same.
No, we didn’t change the whole world in a day.
But as someone wisely said, “every piece of sand builds the beach.”
Hector: The Heart Behind the Hammer
Los Altos Rotary: 2026 Climate Action Summit 01/10/26
Date: January 10, 2026, 12:30 - 4:00 pm, Check-in begins at 11:45
Location: Los Altos Community Center
97 Hillview Avenue, Los Altos, CAAlthough brought to you by the Los Altos Rotary Club, the event is open to all individuals and organizations focused on environmental sustainability. We are dedicated to finding proven and worthwhile projects that can be easily replicated. This is a forum to pursue opportunities for collaboration and networking with others sharing the same goals.
Last year, over 100 attendees came to the Summit to connect with individuals, businesses and organizations to learn about and cooperate on sustainability programs. This year’s event will be bigger and even better!
We have a dynamite list of speakers. Please see the 2026 Climate Action Summit Website for Speaker Bios, presentation topics, and registration information. Topics to be addressed include:
- How to Have a Zero-Waste Event
- California Pollinator Collaborative
- Community River Habitat Restoration
- And more!
- PLUS: Visit with Environmental Leaders and See Projects from around Northern California
We look forward to coming together to build a cleaner, greener, and more sustainable world—one connection at a time. We can’t wait to see you there!
With warm regards,
Los Altos Rotary Climate Action Committee
REGISTSER NOW!
Rotary Club of Santa Cruz Sunrise supports local Santa Cruz County Food Bank
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Rotary Sunrise Club Takes Bold Action to Fight Food Insecurity – Donates $25,000 to Second Harvest Food Bank Santa Cruz County
Santa Cruz County, CA — In the face of a rapidly escalating hunger crisis, the Rotary Sunrise Club has stepped up in a major way—announcing a powerful $25,000 contribution to Second Harvest Food Bank Santa Cruz County (SHFB). This extraordinary act of service arrives at a critical moment for local families and food assistance networks stretched thin by recent national events.
The suspension of Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits during the September U.S. Government shutdown sent shockwaves through communities across the country. Santa Cruz County was hit especially hard. Thousands of families suddenly found themselves without essential support, prompting unprecedented demand on local food banks. At the same time, SHFB—already navigating significant losses in federal and state grant funding—has been working tirelessly to meet the urgent surge in need.
Recognizing the severity of this crisis—and honoring their long-standing partnership with SHFB—the Sunrise Rotary Club’s Foundation Board voted unanimously this week to release $25,000 from its reserve funds to provide immediate relief.
Rotary eClub of Silicon Valley Days for Girls Fall Fundraiser - 10/27-11/30 2025
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Rotary eClub of Silicon Valley Launches Fall Fundraiser in Partnership with Days for Girls
Silicon Valley, CA – [10/27-11/30 2025] — This week marks a special milestone for the Rotary eClub of Silicon Valley, as the club kicks off its Fall Fundraiser in partnership with the global nonprofit Days for Girls.
The featured program for the week spotlights Tiffany Larson of Days for Girls, who will share the inspiring story behind the organization’s mission to advance menstrual equity, health education, and opportunity for women and girls worldwide.
“This partnership embodies Rotary’s spirit of service — local hearts with global impact,” said Club President Rushton Hurley. “Through this fundraiser, we’re helping ensure that every girl has access to the resources she needs to thrive, stay in school, and pursue her dreams.”
The Rotary eClub of Silicon Valley invites members, friends, and community supporters to donate and share the fundraiser to help make a lasting difference.
>>>Donate today and support our Fall Fundraiser: [Click HERE]
Together, we can turn compassion into action — one kit, one girl, one future at a time.
PNR Annual Tri-Valley Turkey Burn: November 28th
Pleasanton North Rotary Club & Foundation Invites You to Our 11th Annual Tri-Valley Turkey Burn on Thanksgiving Morning!
Annual Fundraiser for Youth Services.
5K/10K - Run/Walk/Stroll
Thursday, November 28, 2024
Ken Mercer Sports Park, Pleasanton, CA
Proceeds from registrations, donors, and our generous sponsors will support Pleasanton North Rotary Youth Programs such as scholarships, leadership training and youth exchange.