The Waunakee Rotary Club’s board of directors has a goal of increasing its membership to 100. That would be a be new record for the club, which has hovered at between 83-99 members over the past five years, losing about nine per year and gaining some. 

At the April 17 meeting, David Kennedy, who joined many years ago, and Leah Abeyta talked about why they joined, and Lori Derauf, Kylie West and Jennifer Tasker offered information on efforts to retain members. Now the goal is to attract new ones. 

Rotary’s objectives are fellowship, providing opportunities to network, ethical standards to follow, global goodwill and personal growth, Lori said. 

The club has instituted a new member Red Badge, with a program to graduate to the Blue Badge to retain members. 

Kylie West talked about some of the perks for joining. She noted that if you invite people to volunteer at Rotary events, or to events themselves, they will likely want to join. And, Rotary is a Chamber member, so Rotarians can attend Chamber events even if their business is not a member. 

For those who sponsor members, there are expectations, including regular attendance at meetings, timely payment of dues, graduating to a Blue Badge within the first six months, and contributing $100 to Rotary International each year. 

The club has a new marketing plan it will implement, as well, to attract new members that includes printed materials, redesigned website and new Facebook page with regular posts, and new ideas for the Rotary Lights magazine. 

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Other News:

-The Club was awarded a Bronze Star for its $1,000 contribution to Shelter Box, which provides temporary shelter for a family of five after disasters such as a hurricanes or fires. 

-The Hero Award went to Nancy for her participation as the Bunny during the Easter Bunny Drive-Thru event. Thanks to Nancy and to Paul Knutson and Leah for organizing the wonderful event. 

-On Saturday morning, April 26, Waunakee Community Cares Coalition in partnership with MERI and the Waunakee Police Department will host Drug Take Back Day, Tim Decorah announced. It will be at the Waunakee Police Department. If you can’t make it, you can drop off any unused drugs or sharps inside of the station when it’s open. 

-The Waunakee American Legion has passed a resolution supporting the Rotary Arch at the Village Park next to the memorial. 

-Alex Welk and his wife are welcoming their second daughter. Congratulations!!

-Lots of folks are signed up for the May 3 Kentucky Derby event at Lampbouse Apartments. Mark Penfield will be cooking. 

Guests: ??

Birthdays: April 30, Harriet Statz

Anniversaries: April 26, Sean and Holly Wayne; April 28, Scott and Melanie Cochems.

What’s for Lunch: April 24, BBQ pulled pork sandwiches.

Greeters: April 24, Jean Elvekrog and John Cullen; May 1, Tracy Graber and Mark McFarland.

Programs: April 24, Club Assembly.

To sign up to greet or to find out if you are greeting, visit: 

https://www.signupgenius.com/go/805054CAAAA2CA7F85-44320149-2023#/