UNITE FOR GOOD
Embedded Files
September 2025 Newsletter
Count on us for monthly news and inspiration from around District 6600!
Count on us for monthly news and inspiration from around District 6600!
Message from DG Pam
Message from DG Pam
What is Your Club’s Story?
By Pamela Brumbaugh
Every Rotarian has a story—how we joined, what we’ve experienced, and why we stay. These personal stories matter, but have you ever thought about your club’s Rotary story?
As I visit clubs across the district, I see that each has its own personality, culture, and history. Some have deep traditions; others are newer and experimenting with fresh approaches. Many are finding creative ways to enhance the member experience—Rotary on the Road events, hybrid meetings, collaborations with neighboring clubs, or shifting meeting times to fit modern schedules. All of these efforts have a common goal: making members feel valued and connected.
So, what is your club’s story?
How did your club get started, and who were the visionaries?
Who are your long-time members, and how have they shaped your club?
What are your traditions, signature projects, and community partnerships?
How has your club evolved to meet changing needs?
Do your members know and share this story?
Your club’s story isn’t just about the past—it’s also about how you intentionally build the future. Are you reaching out to members who haven’t attended lately? Do you ask for feedback when someone leaves, so you can learn and improve? Have you considered creating a “Friends of Rotary” companion group for people who want to serve but can’t commit to regular meetings?
Balancing tradition with innovation is key. Veteran members value history, while newer members bring fresh energy and ideas. Both are essential for keeping Rotary vibrant. Your meetings should reflect your story—engaging, inspiring, and intentional. Every gathering is an opportunity to celebrate your club’s history, foster fellowship, and write the next chapter together.
And don’t forget: stories are meant to be shared. Tell your club’s story in newsletters, on social media, and at community events. When people see who you are and why you matter, they are more likely to join you in making a difference.
At your next meeting, take a moment to reflect. Celebrate how far you’ve come, and dream about what’s ahead. Your Rotary story is still being written—and it’s one worth telling.
District 6600 Updates
District 6600 Updates
Thinking of launching a literacy project in your community? Download Rotary’s Basic Education & Literacy Project Strategies guide—a step-by-step resource to help your club assess local needs and build a meaningful project!
What are you doing this month? We'd love to share it with others on Facebook! Send your club news to our email. Thank you.
Every community has different needs and different opportunities to serve. Learn how your club can make a difference in your community by downloading Rotary's "Economic & Community Development Project Strategies" guide.
If your club already has a strategy that works, we'd love to share your story in the October issue of this newsletter. Send your news on this Rotary Area of Focus to our email:
Five District 6600 Rotary Clubs Awarded "Club Excellence Award"
Five District 6600 Rotary Clubs Awarded "Club Excellence Award"
The Club Excellence Award recognizes the hard work clubs do throughout each year. The criteria is based on a club achieving 13 goals set by its President at the beginning of the Rotary Year.
Goals include a myriad of measurable actions such as membership growth, foundation participation, community service, member engagement, and how the Club is recognized in its community.
A welcoming and engaging club reflects the values of Rotary. Given the opportunity, a District Governor would, no doubt, choose to recognize all 57 Clubs in the District.This requires exceeding and/or achieving yearlong measurable goals. RI has completed its review and now named the 2024-2025 Clubs of Excellence in D6600.
Congratulation for a job well done to:
Thank you for all you do!
Meet Rotary International President-Elect Yinka
Meet Rotary International President-Elect Yinka
Olayinka Hakeem Babalola, a member of the Rotary Club of Trans Amadi, Nigeria, has been selected to become Rotary International’s president for 2026-2027. A Rotary member for more than 30 years, he will become the second African to lead Rotary International, following Jonathan B. Majiyagbe of the Rotary Club of Kano, Nigeria, who served in 2003-04.
“Rotary transforms lives – not only through the projects we deliver, but through the hope we share, the meaningful relationships we build, and the shared purpose we inspire,” said Babalola. “In a world that urgently needs dialogue and understanding, I’m committed to helping Rotary advance peace, expand opportunity, and support communities – and each of us – to grow and thrive.”
Babalola became involved with Rotary in 1984 through Rotaract — Rotary’s program for young professionals and students — and joined the Rotary Club of Trans Amadi in 1994. He has since held a number of leadership roles within the organization and currently serves as a trustee of ShelterBox UK, Rotary’s official project partner for disaster relief.
He and his wife, Preba, support The Rotary Foundation through a named endowment and are members of the Arch Klumph Society, which recognizes Rotary’s highest level of philanthropic giving. His Rotary honors include the Africa Centennial Heroes Award, the Service Above Self Award, the Regional Service Award for a Polio-Free World, and The Rotary Foundation Citation for Meritorious Service.
We know Rotary will continue to Unite for Good under his leadership. Congratulations!
2025 Rotary Zone 30 & 31 Institute in Columbus, Ohio
2025 Rotary Zone 30 & 31 Institute in Columbus, Ohio
WHAT IS ROTARY ZONE?
Rotary International Zones 30 & 31—also known as the Heart of America—spans 31 districts across 13 states. It includes more than 1,509 clubs and 67,000+ Rotarians.
2025 ZONE INSTITUTE
District 6600 is one of the five Ohio Districts in Zone 30 and earlier this month, Our District Leaders, PDGs, and “Emerging Leaders” joined 400+ Rotarians in Columbus to listen to RI Past Rotary Presidents, incoming Rotary President-Elect, and dynamic speakers on all areas of focus.
A Zone Institute, at its core, is for the formal training of District Governor Nominees and District Governors Elect with added days added for District Committee and selected Emerging Leaders.
Taking advantage of the 2025 Ohio location, DG Pam invited / sponsored 40+ emerging leaders from D6600 Clubs to attend a full Saturday of vibrant programs and fellowship.
Service Projects and Rotary Partners, even MESA, were celebrated. Hands-on working seminars, Polio challenges, and engaging conversation were the norm. Packing food for those in need, heartwarming stories shared, strategic guidance given, lots of fun and fine dining, seasoned with an abundance of fellowship was the agenda.
2026 ZONE INSTITUTE
Next year's Zone 30 & 31 Institute will be in New Orleans. We hope to see you there!
Monthly District Calendar
Monthly District Calendar
September District 6600 Membership Monday
September 22, 2025 at 7:00 PM [zoom link]
District Advisory Committee Meeting (DAC)
September 27, 2025 at 9:00 AM - in person, Waterville
September Monthly Membership Chat
September 29, 2025 at 7:00 PM [zoom link]
DACdb U - RI Compare
October 14, 2025 at 12:00 PM [zoom link]
DG Pam & Club Presidents Monthly Meeting
October 14, 2025 at 7:00 PM [zoom link]
DACdb U - RI Compare
October 18, 2025 at 12:00 PM [zoom link]
DGE Katherine & Club Presidents-Elect Monthly Meeting
October 21, 2025 at 7:00 PM [zoom link]
To learn more about these events and to get instructions on connecting by zoom,
visit the DACdb District Calendar
Help Us Find the Next District Governor!
Help Us Find the Next District Governor!
Do you know a Rotarian leader who can inspire and motivate District 6600? Now is your chance to nominate them—or yourself—for the role of District Governor for 2028-2029!
We are seeking a visionary leader who is passionate about service and ready to guide our district through a year of impactful work. This is an incredible opportunity to create a legacy and inspire Rotarians across our communities.
Encourage your club outstanding leaders to take a look at this opportunity. Suggest to them to speak with a Past District Governor with questions they may have.
Key Dates:
Nominations Deadline: Friday, October 31, 2025
Tentative Interview Date: Saturday, November 22, 2025 at 10:00 a.m. (Location TBD)
To nominate a candidate or submit your own name, send requested information to Nominating Committee Chr PDG Jim Duke, at jimd6600@outlook.com. If you need an official submission form please let Jim know.
Let’s ensure our district has the strong leadership it needs for a powerful future.
Nominate today! Thank you.
Applications Now Open!
Applications Now Open!
To follow and learn more about our RYE Student Experiences and the application process... visit the D6600 RYE Webpage.
START PLANNING TODAY!
START PLANNING TODAY!
Calling All Polio Fighters!
Calling All Polio Fighters!
Please put October 24 on your calendar as we celebrate World Polio Day. District 6600 is challenging each club to raise some money to End Polio Now by participating in the Purple Pinkie Challenge. Club Presidents and Foundation Chairs have been asked to designate someone in your club to reach out to Dunkin Donut (or a local bakery in your area) and ask if they will partner with your rotary club by discounting donuts or munchkins to be sold by pre-ordering prior to October 24. Ask for purple frosting or make your own so that each donut has a dab of purple on it to represent the purple painted on a newly vaccinated person’s pinkie!
Everyone loves donuts, especially at early morning work huddles or business meetings. Donate a box of Munchkins to your local library, and put out a donation box. Be sure to put some educational material next to it so that we can spread the word about how Rotary is eradicating this horrible disease. The Donuts have been very successful around the US. This year….we are adding Ohio.
Our District has some wonderful marketing tools that you can use. “Donut” be a club that does not participate. 🤭
Please email Melanie Satterfield at mfredrickson1968@gmail.com with your designated donut chair so we can collaborate and share ideas!
Since 1985, Rotarians have stood by their Purple Pinkie Promise to eradicate polio. Together, let’s keep that promise alive and do our part to End Polio Now.
Get to Know Your District Leaders!
Get to Know Your District Leaders!
District Polio Chair - Melanie Satterfield Fredrickson
Hello. I was born in Fairmont, West Virginia. I met the love of my life, Rich Fredrickson, at West Virginia University in 1988 and graduated with a BA in Biology in 1990. In 1994, I earned my Doctor of Dental Surgery degree, also from WVU.
Rich and I have two adult children, Heidi and Heath. A month ago, we became grandparents to little Dahlia Belle! We live with a very ornery 5-year-old dog, Noodle.
In 2005, I built my own dental practice after working in a corporate setting for 10 years. Soon after opening my practice, a fellow dentist and Oberlin Rotarian invited me to a Rotary pancake breakfast. The rest is history! Rotary has taught me to be a leader, I have been President of Rotary 3 times, and I have met a plethora of people that I now call friends!
As a healthcare provider, prevention of disease is near and dear to my heart. As such, I am embracing my new position as District 6600 Polio Chair and look forward to celebrating World Polio Day on October 24th with you!
Peace,
Melanie Satterfield
District 6600 Polio Chair
Curious about another District 6600 Leader? Click below...
Step into District Service
Step into District Service
Looking for a new way to serve beyond your club? District 6600 has several opportunities to get involved:
Peace Conference Committee
Help plan our annual Peace Conference, held in Lorain County each February. We need Rotarians with a passion for peace, fundraising skills, or connections to engaging speakers. Meetings are via Zoom. Contact Jeanine Donaldson.
Grants Committee
Support clubs in securing District Grants for impactful service projects. About 8–10 hours/month. Great fit for those with grant writing or project experience. Training provided. Contact Amber Fisher or Liz Muether
Foundation Speakers Bureau
Share the story of Rotary’s Foundation at club meetings. Presentations and scripts are provided — just bring your voice and enthusiasm! Contact Foundation Chair Deb Cheney.
Club Environmental Chairs
Each club is asked to name an Environmental Chair to promote sustainability locally and help coordinate District-wide environmental projects with Chair Adam Cassi.
Around the District
Around the District
Club Spotlights
Club Spotlights
A District Shared Grant - Better Together!
A District Shared Grant - Better Together!
Toledo and Defiance Rotary with D6400 (MI / Ontario Canada) and District 6600 included a Public Image Campaign in a special Grant.
This public image campaign is part of our District 6600 Environmental initiative to reduce nutrient runoff into Lake Erie. The project is funded through a Rotary Special Initiative Grant, along with generous support from the Defiance and Toledo clubs, District 6400 to our north, and The Nature Conservancy.
As you know, nutrient pollution is one of the most serious challenges facing Lake Erie. Excess fertilizer runoff contributes to harmful algal blooms that damage water quality, harm fish populations, and increase costs for communities that rely on the lake for drinking water and recreation. Lake Erie provides drinking water for over 11 million people, supports a $15 billion tourism industry, and is at the heart of our regional economy. Protecting it is not only an environmental responsibility but also a vital investment in our future.
Through this project, we have retooled agricultural test plots near Defiance in partnership with The Ohio State University. These plots are being used to demonstrate improved fertilizer products and practices that reduce nutrient runoff while maintaining crop yields and controlling costs. Farmers can see firsthand how these changes make both economic and environmental sense. This is a tangible example of Rotary living out our mission of bringing people together to solve pressing problems in ways that benefit both our communities and the environment. Adam Cassi, District Environmental Chair and Janina Douglas, Environmental Chair for Toledo Rotary Club are the leads on this impactful program.
On The Road - Watch for our Billboards!
The Bonus of the Rotary District Grant - Billboards! To help stretch our public image, three billboards will share Rotary’s environmental message. Two will be static posters, one near Oak Harbor and another near Point Place in Toledo. The third will be a digital billboard near Defiance. These will highlight Rotary’s commitment to protecting Lake Erie and demonstrate to the public that Rotary is not only about service, but also about solutions to the most urgent issues of our time.
Start looking for them in October!
Grand Lake | Celina Rotary Cornhole Fun
Another Grand Lake Rotary Cornhole Tournament | Celina is in the books! Would like to thank all our sponsors for there help. Money raised will be used to help buy equipment at Wright State University for testing lake water, Tri Star scholarships, and various community projects. Like many Rotary Club events, sponsors ensure success even before event day.
Mansfield Rotary Dedicated to Summer of Caring
Mansfield Rotary Dedicated to Summer of Caring
The Mansfield Rotary was hard at work, collecting food to support the United Way's "Summer of Caring" and local area food banks. Because of your generosity, shelves are being stocked and families in need will have meals on their tables.
A heartfelt THANK YOU to everyone who donated food and cash! Your kindness makes a real difference in our community!
Port Clinton and Oak Harbor Rotary Clubs Working Together
Port Clinton and Oak Harbor Rotary Clubs Working Together
It is not uncommon for the Rotary Clubs of Port Clinton and Oak Harbor to work together for Ottawa County Children. This summer, members packed food bags for children in Erie County, partnering with the Family Advocacy Center. One large space, an abundance of food, and lots of Rotarians ready to work!
John Davenport Past President, Port Clinton Rotary with current President Duane Waite led the food packing assembly line.
Sandusky's Newest K-9 Officer Visits the Club
Sandusky's Newest K-9 Officer Visits the Club
A surprise guest showed up at the Thursday's Sandusky Rotary Meeting. Sheriff Sigsworth brought his Department's newest K-9 officer. Thanking the club for its generous donation. Rotarian Melissa Gundlach, also Executive Director of the Erie County Humane Society, took a special moment with our impressive guest with paws.
Together We Can Do So Much More
Together We Can Do So Much More
Six members of the Rotary Club of Tiffin were among the volunteers who worked to fill meal blessing bags made up of rice, soy, veggies and vitamin packets. Sincere thanks to all who helped fill 2400 bags that will be distributed by Midwest Missions. This is a great example of how Clubs can help their community whether the entire club or a few members at a time. It all counts!
Show off your club highlight!
Show off your club highlight!
Show off your impact! Email a brief write-up (what/when/impact) and one photo to d6600-public-image@googlegroups.com.
Images from Around the District
Images from Around the District
Wouldn't you like to see your club's photos in this space?
Wouldn't you like to see your club's photos in this space?
Send your good quality photos and a caption to the D6600 Public Image Team at d6600-public-image@googlegroups.com!
Together These Three Legs
Keep us Strong
The Rotary Foundation | Public Image | Membership
Rotary clubs are strongest when three essential “legs” work together: Membership, The Rotary Foundation, and Public Image. Like a stool, all three are needed for balance and strength. Each month we’ll highlight news and updates from these areas of focus to help your clubs grow, serve, and shine. Here are this month's updates.
Membership
Membership
Alison Frye
Alison Frye
October is prime time for public engagement as many District 6600 clubs host polio-focused fundraisers around World Polio Day (October 24). These events naturally attract service-minded community members—exactly the people who may be looking for a place to belong. Let’s be intentional: greet guests warmly at the door, offer name tags, and have a simple “welcome script” that explains why Rotary fights polio and what membership looks like all year long. Make it easy to stay connected—collect contact info with a QR code or card, invite them to an upcoming meeting or service project, and be sure they leave with a personal connection to a Rotarian.
Just as important is what happens after the event. Assign a club member to send a thank-you within 24–48 hours, extend a specific invitation (“Join us next Thursday…”), and highlight the broader value of Rotary—friendship, local impact, leadership development, and global service—so it’s not just about one great event. A simple follow-up plan turns one-time attendees into future members.
Quick reminder: our next Membership Monday is Monday, October 27 at 7:00 PM on Zoom. We’ll share easy ideas you can use right away. Invite your club leaders or interested members today!
The Rotary Foundation
The Rotary Foundation
Deb Cheney
Deb Cheney
This Rotary year, our focus is on the Endowment Fund—the gift that keeps on giving.
When you contribute to Rotary’s Endowment, your gift is invested in perpetuity. The principal is never spent—only the investment earnings are used to support Rotary Foundation grants. That means your generosity will do good in the world forever.
Endowment earnings fund the programs that come back to our district in the form of local, community, and global grants. Donors may choose to direct their support to the World Fund, the SHARE system, Rotary Peace Centers, or one of Rotary’s Areas of Focus.
Through the Endowment Fund, future Rotarians will always have the resources to design and implement sustainable, life-changing projects. Contributions can be made as:
Outright gifts
Planned gifts (such as a bequest in your estate)
Major gift pledges
The District 6600 Legacy Campaign
For the first time ever, District 6600 is launching a Legacy Campaign to grow our Endowment for the future. Our goal: $1 million by February 15, 2026.
Here’s how you can participate:
Outright Gift – A one-time gift of $10,000 or more to The Rotary Foundation.
Planned (Legacy) Gift – A bequest through your will, trust, or estate plan. Bequests are the most common form of legacy giving.
Major Gift Pledge – A pledge of $10,000 or more, typically paid in three installments over three years. Recognition is received for the full amount once the first installment and signed agreement are received.
Named Endowed Fund – With an outright gift of $25,000 or more, you may establish a Named Endowed Fund in your name (or in honor of someone). These personal funds support the area of Rotary service you care about most.
Celebrate with Us!
Mark your calendars—February 28, 2026. We will celebrate the success of the Legacy Campaign, and everyone in District 6600 is invited, whether or not you’ve made a gift.
💡 Key Point: Only the earnings from Endowment investments are used for Foundation programs, while the principal is preserved forever. Your generosity makes a difference in perpetuity.
👉 What’s your legacy? If you would like to explore leaving a lasting impact through the Endowment Fund, please reach out to me directly.
Here is a short video: Rotary Foundation Endowment Fund
Public Image
Public Image
Jen Allred
Jen Allred
Did you know Rotary has a one-stop shop for all your branding and communications needs? The Rotary Brand Center is a free online resource designed to help clubs tell their stories with impact and consistency. You don't even have to log in or remember a password to use it! Inside the Brand Center, you’ll find:
Logos and Brand Guidelines — official Rotary logos, People of Action graphics, and color palettes.
Customizable Templates — flyers, posters, brochures, PowerPoint slides, and even business cards you can edit online.
Social Media Tools — ready-to-use graphics, photos, and videos that make it easy to promote projects and events.
Inspiration — success stories from other clubs, plus guidance on how to share Rotary’s story with your community.
Why does it matter? Clubs that use consistent Rotary branding not only look more professional, but also raise awareness, attract new members, and strengthen support for The Rotary Foundation. A unified voice and image help amplify the impact of all the amazing service happening across our district.
👉 Explore the Rotary Brand Center here: https://brandcenter.rotary.org
✨ Public Image Tip of the Month: Download your club’s official Rotary logo from the Brand Center and use it consistently on flyers, newsletters, and social media posts. A polished logo makes your club instantly recognizable!
Upcoming Events
Upcoming Events
Great reason to take a road trip and share in the fun members of other Clubs. Sign up or Save The Date!
Friday-Sunday, September 19-21
Saturday, September 20
Saturday, September 20
Sunday, September 21
Thursday, October 2
Monday, October 6
Sunday, October 19
Tuesday, October 21
Have an event coming up? Be sure to add your events to the DACdb Calendar as a Club Fundraiser or email your flyer to d6600-public-image@googlegroups.com to be featured here.
Tools and Resources
Need Help with DACdb? We've got you covered!
Need Help with DACdb? We've got you covered!
Whether you're a new club officer or a seasoned Rotarian, DACdb (District And Club Database) can be a powerful tool for managing your club information. If you or a member of your club needs assistance, there are several resources available to help you.
👉 District DACdb Support: Your first point of contact for support is your District Secretary and DACdb support lead, Sharon Trabbic. Please feel free to reach out to her with your questions.
Contact: Sharon Trabbic
Email: sharon@trabbic.com
Phone: 419-344-2881
👉 Additional DACdb Training and Resources: DACdb offers a variety of training options to help you get the most out of the system on their Knowledge Base Support pages: https://www.dacdbsupport.com/.
User Manuals: Find step-by-step guides for different functions.
Video Tutorials: Learn through short, easy-to-follow videos.
Webinars: Participate in live sessions for in-depth training on specific topics.
We encourage all club leaders to take advantage of these resources to ensure accurate and up-to-date club data, which is essential for effective communication and operations throughout the district.
Coming Soon: The D6600 Video Podcast!
Coming Soon: The D6600 Video Podcast!
Beginning in October, District 6600 will have its own Webcasts monthly, This new District 6600 video podcast series will cover stories from our clubs as well as timely interviews with District Leaders? One episode each month will feature district focused news, and, up to two additional episodes will spotlight the great work happening in our clubs. The debut October webcast will be with District Governor Pam Brumbaugh. Stay tuned — and get ready to see your club featured!
Put Your Club in Next Month's Issue!
Help us showcase your projects, events, and accomplishments in the District 6600 Monthly Newsletter and Video Podcasts.
Submission Deadlines:
Send us the great things your club is doing! We want your newsworthy items and/or photos with brief descriptions.
Info must be submitted by the 10th of each month to be considered for that month’s issue.
Remember that pictures that tell a story will be the most memorable.
Email Subject Line:
ROTARY DISTRICT 6600 SUBMISSION from [Your Club Name]
Send submissions to: d6600-public-image@googlegroups.com
Page updated
Google Sites
Report abuse