TOGETHER, WE

PROMOTE PEACE

TOGETHER, WE

TRANSFORM

TOGETHER, WE

Learn

TOGETHER, WE

CONNECT

TOGETHER, WE

SERVE

TOGETHER, WE

INSPIRE

TOGETHER, WE

SAVE LIVES

TOGETHER, WE

FIGHT HUNGER

TOGETHER, WE

EMPOWER

TOGETHER, WE

MENTOR

Support Communities Impacted by the Southern Connecticut Flash Flood Disaster

On August 18, 2024, an unexpected severe rainstorm hit southwestern Connecticut, dumping up to 16 inches of rain in just 6-8 hours—a 1000-year flood event. The hardest-hit areas, from Monroe to Oxford, saw rainfall exceeding 3 inches per hour, leaving families homeless and without basic necessities.

In response, Rotary Southern Connecticut has launched a Disaster Relief Initiative, backed by Rotary International. The District seeks donations for immediate assistance to provide clothing, food, and water to affected families.

Your support can make a difference. Every contribution, regardless of size, goes directly to those in need. Join us in helping our neighbors rebuild their lives.

URGENT: Southeast Devastated by Hurricane Helene – Your Support Can Save Lives Today

Hurricane Helene has left a trail of destruction across the Southeast (Rotary Zones 33 & 34), leaving thousands homeless and in desperate need. The Rotary Foundation is on the ground, providing critical aid – but we need your help to do more.

Your donation today can make a real difference:

  • $50 provides emergency food for a family of four for a week
  • $100 supplies clean water filtration for 10 households
  • $250 helps furnish temporary shelter for a displaced family

Every contribution, no matter the size, brings hope to those who’ve lost everything. Join us in this crucial mission. Together, we can rebuild lives and restore communities.

District Governor Robert Friend and Family

(from left to right) Alyssa Friend (daughter), Edward “Teddy” Friend (son), Robert Friend, his wife Maribel Friend, and Brianna  Friend (daughter) pictured at the Rotary Southern Connecticut 2024 Club & District Installation at Water’s Edge Resort and Spa in Westbrook, Connecticut — June 23, 2024.

A Message from Rotary Southern Connecticut’s 2024-2025 District Governor

Robert B. Friend

“Join us in igniting an irresistible fire that unites Rotarians and the entire Southern Connecticut community in a journey of unparalleled impact and inspiration!”

Visit a Rotary Club Today

Rotary District 7980 covers the four southern counties of Southern Connecticut and is made up of 54 Rotary Clubs with almost 2,000 members. 

We are “People of Action” creating change in the world and saving lives every day while embracing the Rotary Vision:

Take Action

“Service Above Self”

Rotary is a worldwide organization of more than 1.4 million business, professional, and community leaders. Members of Rotary clubs, known as Rotarians, provide humanitarian service, encourage high ethical standards in all vocations, and help build goodwill and peace in the world.

There are over 35,000 Rotary clubs in more than 200 countries and geographical areas. Clubs are nonpolitical, nonreligious, and open to all cultures, races, and creeds. As signified by the motto Service Above Self, Rotary’s main objective is service – in the community, in the workplace, and throughout the world.

Connect and Engage

Interested in giving back and creating an impact in your community and around the world? If so, we encourage you to connect, engage and visit a local club meeting near your home or place of business.

Or, better yet, join a service project and get involved in our story of Saving Lives.

Robert B. Friend, District Governor — Rotary Southern Connecticut, 2024-2025

Stephanie Urchick, President — Rotary International, 2024-2025