It is the Rotary International vision statement that perhaps says it best “Together, we see a world where people unite and take action to create lasting change — across the globe, in our communities, and in ourselves.” Rotarians are a collection of people of action, and we share a strong sense of purpose. In troubled times such as these, Rotarians will rise and meet the needs of their community and the world. It is with that sense of purpose that the Rotary Club of LeRoy has begun the “Rotary Community Reinvestment Fund.”
The impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic are being felt across the globe, but signs of the effects can be seen in our community. In the interest of public safety, non-essential local businesses have been forced to close. The impact of these closures may not be evident to the naked eye, but the ramifications are impacting our friends and neighbors who own these businesses. As both state and national levels begin to restart the economy, those same businesses that have supported LeRoyans in the past will need our support more than ever.
Pictured is President Mary Margaret Ripley presenting a check to Matt Walther who owns Beyond Driven Fitness.
Individuals or businesses interested in supporting our community can make contributions by mailing a check to the Rotary Club of Le Roy, Attn.: Community Reinvestment Fund, PO Box 141, Le Roy, NY 14482. Any questions can be directed to Jim Ellison at
jdellison@gmail.com or 717-503-5749.
The “Community Reinvestment Fund” turns donations made by local individuals and families into help for the LeRoy businesses most in need. There is be a short application for businesses to complete that is reviewed by a committee of Rotarians who then arrange the grants that are free of charge. The form is available on our website
www.leroyrotary.org. Fellow Rotarians and their families are not eligible to receive funds through this process. The Rotary Club of LeRoy, which has served the community for over 75 years, has collected over $8,000 and distributed $2,000 to date. The fund will continue to provide help beyond the COVID 19 pandemic.
