COMMUNITY SERVICE
Rotary Members are involved in the community throughout the year. Here are just some of the projects Branford Rotarians have been – and continue to be – involved in.
Feed Our Neighbors
Run by the Outreach Program, which works to end hunger at home and abroad, “Feed Our Neighbors” packages meals for those in need. In 2019, nearly 150 Rotarians, volunteers and Interact students from Rotary District 7980 (Branford, Guilford, East Haven, Madison and Clinton), spent a Saturday in Madison packing 46,000 meals for Haitian relief. In fact, in the past seven years, Rotarians from District 7980 have packaged more than 300,000 meals.
“Rotarians live their motto, ‘Service Above Self,’” said Matt Martin, regional director of Outreach. “They take charge in every area of ending local hunger: raising money, getting district grants, inviting volunteers, stocking and sometimes even starting food pantries.”
To learn more about the Outreach Program and their great work, click HERE.
Nelson Bernabucci Veterans Day Luncheon
Each year, Branford Rotary honors all those who have served in the United States Armed Forces by hosting the Nelson Bernabucci Veterans Luncheon at the Branford Italian American Club. Last fall, nearly 100 veterans - from World War II through Afghanistan and Iraq, were honored. Patriotic music was supplied by the Branford High School Music Makers, and special guests for the event included vets from the VA Blind Center, members of the VFW, and members of the American Legion. The event is named for Branford Rotarian and WWII Navy veteran Nelson Bernabucci. For more information, contact Joshua Balter at (203) 208-1659.
Bell Ringing
One Saturday each holiday season, Branford Rotary takes over the Salvation Army bell ringing at multiple locations throughout town. The Rotary brings in thousands of dollars each season to support the Salvation Army.
Earth Day Clean Up
Every April, Rotarians pitch in to help the Branford Land Trust with their annual Earth Day Spring Clean Up, removing litter from throughout town. To volunteer for the Branford Land Trust, please click HERE.
Raise the Roof
In partnership with Habitat for Humanity, Raise the Roof CT hosts building projects to construct homes for needy families. Last winter Branford Rotarians volunteered on the Branford Green to build a Habitat house. To learn more about Raise the Roof, click HERE.
Assistance Abroad
Rotarians from Branford and the area often travel to parts of the world that need support. They regularly go to Haiti, at their own expense, to work in health clinics and on other projects. This year several Branford Rotary members went to Kenya to help with a schools program. Every year, local Rotarians team up with Rotary clubs in host countries offering help and friendship.
Isn’t it about time you joined Rotary? Learn more HERE.
