News
Interact raised money for project in India
Shoutout to our amazing DeForest Area High School Interact Club members! Last week, they hosted a bake sale to support the rainwater harvesting project with their partner high school in India. Thanks to their hard work and the generosity of our community, they raised an impressive $439.18!
Thank you to DeForest Rotary members who donated baked goods and made financial contributions.
211 supports Wisconsin
On December 11 Rotary Club members learned so much about United Way's 211 and disaster response systems, addressing Dane County's (and Wisconsin's) most pressing challenges.
Thank you to Ed Wall and Mark Williams for sharing about this valuable resource that connects people with resources.
Club continues donations to D.A.N.N.
Once again, the DeForest Area Rotary Club, with help from Rodeside Grill, donated to the DeForest Area Needs Network. At the October 2nd meeting, a check for $1,200 was presented to Kim Henze, D.A.N.N. President.
The funds were raised during the September 7th Yahara Riverfest event in DeForest. Rotarians sold meals during the afternoon event, with all profits going to D.A.N.N.
D.A.N.N. provides and coordinates help for people in the DeForest Area School District, in the areas of safety, health, and daily tasks by dispersing funds received via fundraising activities or donations. The group also manages two Food Pantries, provides Thanksgiving dinners to those in need, and provides meals to homebound individuals.
DANN is a tax-exempt, not-for-profit organization founded in November 1998 at the suggestion of the DeForest Area Clergy.
Pictured are DeForest Area Rotary Club members Colin Robinson and Katy Lea, Rodeside Grill Manager Chris Hyes, and D.A.N.N. President Kim Henze.
Youth Exchange student arrives!
August, 2024: Rotary Exchange Officer, Kathy Williams, and Youth Protection Officer, Jenny Olesen, along with our DeForest host family, welcomed 2024-25 inbound exchange student, Maya, from Brazil!
Welcome Maya!
On September 4th, DeForest Rotary members gathered at Western Green Park with Maya, 2024-25 Youth Exchange student from Brazil, her host family, and 2023-24 Youth Exchange students, Kayla and John and their parents. Everyone enjoyed a pizza party and getting to know each other.
Pilarowski earns Paul Harris recognition
On July 17th, DeForest Area Rotary Club member Ashley Pilarowski was presented with her first Paul Harris Fellow recognition by Past President Jacob Vehring. This recognition acknowledges individuals who contribute, or who have contributions made in their name, of $1,000 to The Rotary Foundation.
Congratulations to Ashley for the Rotary Foundation support in her name!
Judd Blau shares Village of DeForest projects
Judd Blau, Director of Public Services for the Village of DeForest, joined our club meeting on June 26 to share information about the many projects currently underway and planned in the village. Learn more about these, as well as ways to engage with the village at: https://www.engagedeforest.com.
Vehring and Oughton earn Paul Harris recognition
On June 26, two DeForest Area Rotary Club members were presented with Paul Harris Fellow recognitions. This recognition acknowledges individuals who contribute, or who have contributions made in their name, of $1,000 to The Rotary Foundation.
This is Jim's firth Paul Harris recognition and Jacob's second! Congratulations to all for supporting the Rotary Foundation!
Club members gain insight into local historical society
Louise Valdovinos, from the DeForest Area Historical Society, spoke at our club's June 19th meeting. The Society plays such a critical role in preserving and promoting the local heritage with artifacts, documents, and stories from the DeForest area communities. Their educational programs and outreach help residents and visitors alike better understand their local history.
Tenant Resource Center, a valuable resource in Wisconsin
Thank you to Amy Lindley, Development and Communications Manager and Mary Pfotenhauer, President of the Board of Directors at Tenant Resource Center. On June 12th, hey shared valuable information about TRC, which is a nonprofit, membership organization dedicated to promoting positive relations between rental housing consumers and providers throughout Wisconsin. By providing information and referrals, education about rental rights and responsibilities, and access to conflict resolution, we empower the community to obtain and maintain quality affordable housing.
Club members learn from David O'Connor
Last week our Club had the pleasure of hearing from David O’Connor, American Indian Studies Consultant at the Wisconsin Department of Public Instruction (DPI). In David's role at DPI, he supports school districts' efforts to provide instruction on the histories, cultures and tribal sovereignty of Wisconsin's American Indian nations and tribal communities. David provides training opportunities and presents at conferences and workshops throughout the state of Wisconsin on American Indian education and studies.
David is originally from and is a citizen of the Bad River Band of Lake Superior Chippewa (Anishinaabe or Ojibwe) in northern Wisconsin.
Very informative!
More Paul Harris honors!
On May 22, DeForest Area Rotary Club President Jacob Vehring presented John Marhoefer, Jim Oughton, Jerry Henrich, and Ed Halvarson with Paul Harris Fellow recognitions. This recognition acknowledges individuals who contribute, or who have contributions made in their name, of $1,000 to The Rotary Foundation.
Each of these gentlemen have earned a few Paul Harris honors. For Jim, Jerry, and Ed, this is their fourth award. This is John's third. Congratulations to all for supporting the Rotary Foundation!
Rotary Ethics Symposium gives DAHS students profound experience
Juniors Kenzie Kuenster, Colin Capobianco, and Chloe Brown from DeForest Area High School recently reflected on their enriching experience at the 20th Annual Rotary Club of Madison Ethics Symposium. Held at Monona Terrace on February 14th, event drew over 200 students from 19 different high schools across Dane County. DeForest Area High School had the opportunity of sending eight of its students, chosen by teachers, to the event.
The symposium offered a unique platform for students from various schools to collaborate and engage in discussions about ethical dilemmas through case studies. These discussions spanned a range of political and social issues, challenging students to explore and build consensus on numerous ethical questions.
The impact of the symposium on the DeForest students was profound. Kenzie Kuenster found the experience very valuable, noting, "It influenced how I approach situations. There are so many implications and perspectives to consider. I was able to see different sides to an issue." Colin Capobianco expressed a desire for more students from their school to participate in such events, highlighting the importance of discussing diverse opinions calmly and understanding various perspectives. Chloe Brown shared a similar sentiment, emphasizing the value of listening to others' personal experiences in changing one's outlook.
Their experiences underscore the significance of the Ethics Symposium in fostering critical thinking, empathy, and open-mindedness among the leaders of tomorrow.
Rotary Clubs unite to bring artistic portable libraries to rural Guatemala schools
In partnership with the Madison Breakfast Rotary Club and the Waunakee Rotary Club, the DeForest Area Rotary Club is working on a global grant project that will provide four portable cabinet libraries to schools in rural Guatemala. Members from these three Rotary Clubs have been meeting virtually with Club Rotario Los Altos of Quetzaltenango, Guatemala to design the cabinets.
These libraries aren't just functional spaces; they're works of art. A Guatemalan artist is working with the clubs to have the design on the cabinets reflect that essence of Wisconsin alongside unique elements representing the participating Rotary Clubs.
Measuring 16'x2'x5.5", each library cabinet will house not only books but also a computer station and a game closet, transforming learning into an interactive adventure. Approximately 400 books in Spanish and English will be in each library cabinet, opening doors to literacy and exploration.
As the libraries take shape, so too do friendships across borders, bound by a shared commitment to literacy. The planned installation of these beautiful library cabinets is the spring of 2024.
Club honors Paul Harris Fellow
On February 14th, DeForest Area Rotary Club President Jacob Vehring presented Kathy Williams with a Paul Harris Fellow recognition. This recognition acknowledges individuals who contribute, or who have contributions made in their name, of $1,000 to The Rotary Foundation.
This is Kathy's first Paul Harris honor, given to her by the Club in recognition of her efforts to establish an Interact Club at DeForest Area High School.
DeForest Area Rotary Club continues donations to D.A.N.N.
Once again, the DeForest Area Rotary Club, with help from Rodeside Grill, donated to the DeForest Area Needs Network. At the October 12th meeting, a check for $1,150 was presented to Kim Henze, D.A.N.N. President.
The funds were raised during the September 10th Yahara Riverfest event in DeForest. Rotarians sold meals during the afternoon event, with all profits going to D.A.N.N.
During the check presentation, Henze gave an update on D.A.N.N., sharing that in 2021 they processed referrals worth over $28,000. According to Henze, the majority of assistance was provided for rent.
D.A.N.N. provides and coordinates help for people in the DeForest Area School District, in the areas of safety, health, and daily tasks by dispersing funds received via fundraising activities or donations. The group also manages two Food Pantries, provides Thanksgiving dinners to those in need, and provides meals to homebound individuals.
DANN is a tax-exempt, not-for-profit organization founded in November 1998 at the suggestion of the DeForest Area Clergy.
Pictured are DeForest Area Rotary Club President Colin Robinson and D.A.N.N. President Kim Henze.
Pete Gunderson speaks at October 18 meeting
DeForest Rotary member Jim Oughton arranged for the club to hear from Pete Gunderson, President of Gunderson Funeral Homes. According to Pete, Gunderson Funeral Home has been serving the Cross Plains, Fitchburg, Lodi, Madison, Middleton, Oregon, Stoughton, Mt. Horeb and Black Earth area communities for many years. Pete shared the long family history of the business and the many considerations that go into honoring loved ones during this difficult time. He stressed the importance of planning in advance to relieve family members of the burden.
United Way serves many in the DeForest area
On October 11, Sara Runez and Mark Williams spoke to the DeForest Rotarians about the many ways that United Way supports individuals in Dane County and specifically the DeForest area.
Sara is a program coordinator for United Way Dane County and Mark served as a loaned executive and continues to volunteer for the organization.
DeForest rotarians learn about he inbound youth exchange program
District 6250 Youth Exchange Inbound Coordinator Bill Pritchard was the featured speaker at the July 26th Rotary meeting. Bill shared the need and benefits of hosting inbound youth exchange students.
Youth exchange students leave for Sweden and France
The DeForest Area Rotary Club heard from John and Kayla Camarato before they left for their 2023-24 Youth Exchange experience. John will be spending the year in Sweden and Kayla in France. We can't wait to learn about their adventures at the end of this school year!
New Director Natalie Raemisch highlights Senior/Community Center services
Natalie Raemisch, who recently took over the Executive Director role at the DeForest Area Community & Senior Center, shared some interesting facts about the Center as the May 17th meeting speaker. She also shared examples of how the Center is a community gathering place for DeForest, Windsor and Vienna, providing a welcoming place to meet, participate and volunteer while promoting independence self-reliance and well-being for older adults and their families. Thank you to Rotarian Jacob Vehring for inviting Natalie to the meeting. Learn more about the Center at www.deforestcenter.org/.
Two DAHS students prepare for Rotary Youth Exchange
DeForest Area High School students Kayla Camarato and John Camarato will be spending their next school year in other countries, as part of the Rotary Youth Exchange. Kayla will be spending the year in France, and John in Sweden. At the May 3rd meeting, Kayla and John shared the presentation about the U.S., Wisconsin, and DeForest, which they will give when they arrive their new host countries.
Blessings in a Backpack feed school-age children
Heather Treinen, Lana Ziegler, and Anne Staniforth were guests at our April 5th Rotary Club meeting, sharing how Blessings in a Backpack serves school-age children in the DeForest Area School District (DASD). Blessings, a non-profit organization, affiliated with the national Blessings in a Backpack organization, provides shelf-stable food for school-age children who face food insecurity on the weekends.
According to Treinen, who helped to found the organization in 2014, said that one in five kids at DASD struggles with access food for the 65 hours they are not at school. Treinen, Ziegler, and Staniforth told Rotarians about the needs of the program, including purchasing enough food to serve the nearly 200 students each week. The organization accepts donations to provide children with a health meals.
The DeForest Area School District, who provides a space for the organizations' supplies, recently honored the DeForest Chapter of Blessings in a Backpack with the 2022 Non-Profit Organization - Friend of Education award. The award was presented at the DeForest Windsor Area Chamber of Commerce State of the Chamber & Our Communities breakfast, held in March!
Learn more about Blessings in a Backpack on their Facebook page.
Lunch and reading with Windsor Elementary School 3rd graders
On Wednesday, March 22, several DeForest Area Rotarians enjoyed lunch with students in Theresa Gartland's 3rd grade class at Windsor Elementary School. The annual event is part of the school district's Adopt-a-Class program. After enjoying pizza and cookies, students read to us their favorite books.
Photos from the event below . . .
DeForest Area High School students attend Rotary Ethics Symposium
Eliza Volz recently attended the Rotary Ethics Symposium and shared her experience with our Club at the March 1 luncheon meeting. Thank you, Eliza.
It's time for the DeForest Area Rotary Club's Annual Holiday Poinsettia and Cheese Sale!
With your support, our local club can continue to provide scholarships, continue to develop youth programs, and make a difference in the community. Order from any DeForest Area Rotarian by November 18th. Poinsettias and cheese boxes will be delivered in time for holiday decorating and gift giving.
Club donates to D.A.N.N.
Once again, the DeForest Area Rotary Club, with help from Rodeside Grill, donated to the DeForest Area Needs Network. At the October 12th meeting, a check for $1,150 was presented to Kim Henze, D.A.N.N. President.
The funds were raised during the September 10th Yahara Riverfest event in DeForest. Rotarians sold meals during the afternoon event, with all profits going to D.A.N.N.
During the check presentation, Henze gave an update on D.A.N.N., sharing that in 2021 they processed referrals worth over $28,000. According to Henze, the majority of assistance was provided for rent.
D.A.N.N. provides and coordinates help for people in the DeForest Area School District, in the areas of safety, health, and daily tasks by dispersing funds received via fundraising activities or donations. The group also manages two Food Pantries, provides Thanksgiving dinners to those in need, and provides meals to homebound individuals.
DANN is a tax-exempt, not-for-profit organization founded in November 1998 at the suggestion of the DeForest Area Clergy.
Pictured are DeForest Area Rotary Club President Colin Robinson and D.A.N.N. President Kim Henze.
Paul Harris fellow
DeForest Area Rotary Club President Colin Robinson and Past President Jacob Vehring presented Kris Smith with her first Paul Harris Fellow recognition. This recognition acknowledges individuals who contribute, or who have contributions made in their name, of $1,000 to The Rotary Foundation.
Remarkable healthcare for kids
Lori Schultz, Development Outreach & Events Strategist for UW Health Kids was the featured speaker at the July 20th Rotary Club meeting. Such amazing services the UW Health American Family Children's Hospital provides to children and families. A cause definitely worth supporting, whether to enhance the patient experience or for medical research!
Rotary members volunteer at Village of DeForest Sports Complex
Rotary members combined community service, fundraising, and fun at the Village of DeForest Sports Complex July 15 & 16, 2022. Several members volunteered their time to work in the concession stand during a two-day baseball tournament that raised over $1,500. The funds will be used for local community projects.
More Paul Harris fellows!
This past month, four DeForest Area Club members earned Paul Harris Fellow recognition: Colleen Coyle (pictured at left with President Jacob Vehring), Eric Runez, David Grove, and Jacob Vehring (pictured at right with incoming president Colin Robinson). This recognition acknowledges individuals who contribute, or who have contributions made in their name, of $1,000 to The Rotary Foundation.
Lunch and reading with Windsor Elementary School 3rd graders
On Wednesday, March 16, several DeForest Area Rotarians enjoyed lunch with students in Theresa Gartland's 3rd grade class at Windsor Elementary School. The annual event, which was cancelled the past two years due to COVID, is part of the school district's Adopt-a-Class program. After enjoying pizza and cookies, students read to us their favorite books.
Photos from the event below . . .
Schultz recognized as Paul Harris Fellow!
DeForest Area Rotarian Mary Schultz, was recently recognized by our Club as a Paul Harris Fellow. This recognition acknowledges individuals who contribute, or who have contributions made in their name, of $1,000 to The Rotary Foundation.
Wilson recognized as Paul Harris Fellow!
DeForest Area Rotarian Pete Wilson, was recently recognized by our Club as a Paul Harris Fellow. This recognition acknowledges individuals who contribute, or who have contributions made in their name, of $1,000 to The Rotary Foundation. Pete is the Director of Administrative Services for the DeForest Area School District.
Blood drive: December 14, 2021
The DeForest Area Rotary Club will host a community blood drive on Tuesday, Dec. 14, 1-6 pm, at the DeForest Area Public Library. Register to give here.
Club donates to D.A.N.N.
Once again, the DeForest Area Rotary Club, with help from Pete Beeber, owner of Rodeside Grill, donated to the DeForest Area Needs Network. At their November 10th meeting, a check for $1,700 was presented to Kim Henze, D.A.N.N. President, and Kristel Tatus, Joining Forces for Families Social Worker and D.A.N.N. Board Member .
The funds were raised during the September 11th Yahara Riverfest event in DeForest. Rotarians sold meals during the afternoon event, with all profits going to D.A.N.N. The Club added $1,000 more to the donation.
During the check presentation, Henze gave an update on D.A.N.N., sharing that in 2020 they processed 76 referrals worth over $35,000.
According to their Facebook page, D.A.N.N. provides and coordinates help for people in the DeForest Area School District, in the areas of safety, health, and daily tasks by dispersing funds received via fundraising activities or donations. The group also manages two Food Pantries, provides Thanksgiving dinners to those in need, and provides meals to homebound individuals.
DANN is a tax-exempt, not-for-profit organization founded in November 1998 at the suggestion of the DeForest Area Clergy.
DANN’s Board of Directors is comprised of a representative from each of the local churches, a representative from the local Joining Forces for Families, and a representative from the DMB Community Bank, and a representative from Thrivent Financial.
Pictured are DeForest Area Rotary Club President Jacob Vehring, Rotarian and Yahara Riverfest Chair Katie Lea, Kristel Tatus, and Kim Henzie.
Treats for kids!
A few DeForest Area Rotarians volunteered their time on Monday, Nov. 1 to hand out candy treats to children. The annual Trick or Treat event is hosted by the DeForest Area High School National Honor Society. Hundreds of children dressed up, started at the Rotary station, and then moved through Harvest Intermediate School for fun activities and lots of treats!
District Governor visits club meeting
Thank you to 6250 District Governor, Karen Hebert, for visiting our club on October 13th, and for your inspring message. https://rotary6250.org/
Fellowship at the park!
Great to meeting in-person with our Rotary friends. May 26th meeting at Fireman’s Park.
Club supports Books for the World
Thanks to our DeForest Rotary Club members Blake Hart and David Grove, along with the Madison Horizons Rotary Club, for delivering 11 pallets of books for the Books for the World program!
The books, which are no longer used, were donated by the DeForest Area School District.
Club honors Paul Harris Fellow
DeForest Area Rotary Club President Jacob Vehring presented Jerry Henrich, Erin Jones, and Jim Oughton with Paul Harris Fellow recognition. This recognition acknowledges individuals who contribute, or who have contributions made in their name, of $1,000 to The Rotary Foundation.
This is Erin's second Paul Harris honor, given to her by the Club in recognition of her continued work with the annual Poinsettia fundraiser. This is Jim and Jerry's fourth Paul Harris recognition.