Rotarians focus on “Service Above Self,” but they also emphasize fellowship and camaraderie. So after several years of successful “Thirsty Thursday” events scheduled on the first Thursday of each month at 5 p.m., the club now has added another opportunity for both service and fun, this one geared toward early risers.“Wake-up Wednesday” was launched in January, and is held on the third Wednesday of the month at 7:30 a.m. The idea came from the club’s President-elect Devan Schaefer.
“We have been meeting every month for several years for Thirsty Thursday, enjoying fellowship and a beverage with fellow Rotarians and guests,” said Schaefer, “and also informally collecting funds for local non-profit organizations. But some of our members couldn’t make it at that time of day, so we thought we would add another option for folks who are either on their way to work or just like their cup of morning Joe!”
Response has been great, and area non-profits are reaping the benefits. Voluntary donations are collected at both Thirsty Thursday and Wake-up Wednesday for a different organization each month, and adding the second monthly event has given more people the opportunity to support the community. Last year the total amount collected during Thirsty Thursdays was $1,794. By adding only six months of Wake-up Wednesdays, this year’s total at the end of June was $2,272. Twelve different groups benefitted: Delta Dental Van, Boys & Girls Club, South Dakota Humanities Council, Brookings Backpack Program, Disabled American Veterans, Feeding Brookings, Brookings Food Pantry, Madison Food Pack, Sleep in Heavenly Peace, Brookings Humane Society/Animal Shelter, Harvest Table and the Domestic Abuse Shelter.
Wake-up Wednesdays are held the third Wednesday of each month at Kool Beans beginning at 7:30 a.m. Thirsty Thursdays are the first Thursday of each month at 5 p.m. at various locations in the community. Guests are always warmly welcomed. For more information contact Schaefer at First Bank & Trust or any Rotarian, or visit the club’s website at www.brookingsrotary.org