District Governor Visits Brookings Rotary, Urges Members to “Unite for Good,” Grow Membership, and Power the Final Push to End Polio
Brookings, S.D. — October 14, 2025 — Brookings Rotary welcomed the District Governor at its weekly meeting for an interactive program highlighting Rotary International’s 2025 theme, “Unite for Good,” lessons from June’s International Convention in Calgary, fresh momentum for PolioPlus/End Polio Now, and practical ideas to expand membership and engagement across the District.
To kick off, attendees scanned a QR code to join live polls supporting the Governor’s presentation. “We’re an organization of people of action, and today I wanted you to see and shape the conversation in real time,” the Governor said. “When we unite for good—across clubs, communities, and districts—we multiply our impact.”
End Polio Now: The marathon’s last miles
The Governor reported 33 wild poliovirus cases year-to-date, primarily in Afghanistan and Pakistan, and reaffirmed the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation’s 2:1 match up to $50 million for Rotary’s polio work.
“Think about the journey—from roughly 365,000 cases a year in 1985 to just dozens today. We’re in the last miles of the marathon, and they’re the toughest. Every $10 becomes $30 with the match. Let’s finish the job.”
“Think about the journey—from roughly 365,000 cases a year in 1985 to just dozens today. We’re in the last miles of the marathon, and they’re the toughest. Every $10 becomes $30 with the match. Let’s finish the job.”
Brookings Rotary’s giving helped fuel that effort last year—including about $1,400 specifically to PolioPlus and $16,000 in total Foundation support. “Thank you for your generosity—and yes, I’m asking you to do even more,” the Governor said with a smile, encouraging members to consider the PolioPlus Society ($50/year multi-year commitments).
Rotary Foundation impact
The Governor reviewed how Rotary’s charitable engine translates donations into measurable outcomes: last year, the Foundation approved 74 disaster response grants, 468 district grants, and 1,424 global grants.
“Rotary has proven systems, accountability, and local partnerships. From handwashing stations and menstrual health education that keep girls in school, to skills and tools that help widows in India earn a living—your gifts change lives,” the Governor said.
“Rotary has proven systems, accountability, and local partnerships. From handwashing stations and menstrual health education that keep girls in school, to skills and tools that help widows in India earn a living—your gifts change lives,” the Governor said.
Membership & engagement: “Each one invite one”
Calling “expanding our reach” a top Action Plan priority, the Governor challenged every club to be “plus one” in membership this year and urged members to personally invite one prospective Rotarian to a hands-on service project or meeting. “Someone saw something in you—that you share our value of Service Above Self. You know at least one more person like that. Invite them,” the Governor said. He also highlighted companion clubs (e.g., twice-monthly, early-evening, project-focused gatherings) and encouraged clubs to survey members, keep meetings interesting and fun, and schedule regular socials.
“Engaged members stay. Try new formats. If something doesn’t work, stop and try something else. That’s how we stay relevant and welcoming—to young professionals, to retirees, and to neighbors from every part of our community.”
“Engaged members stay. Try new formats. If something doesn’t work, stop and try something else. That’s how we stay relevant and welcoming—to young professionals, to retirees, and to neighbors from every part of our community.”
The Governor also shared a data insight from the District web team: clubs that submit 15+ news items a year tend to grow. “Visibility follows activity. People want to join groups that do things—not just have lunch. Show the community what you’re doing.”
Earth Day 2026: Multi-district water project week
Looking ahead, the Governor announced a multi-district water initiative spanning SD, ND, MN, parts of WI and KS, and IA, calling on every club to complete a local water-focused service project during the week of Earth Day (April 22, 2026).
“Imagine hundreds of clubs acting in the same week—stream cleanups, well work, filters, education. Coordinated outreach to radio, TV, newspapers, and social media will showcase Rotary as people of action across the region,” the Governor said.
A friendly challenge to Brookings
The Governor closed with friendly rivalry: “We’ve got a three-way tie for the District’s second-largest club—Brookings, Pierre, and Rapid City—hovering around 90–95 members. I’m throwing down the gauntlet. Let’s see who grows!” He added, “Thank you for all you do. You’re a vital club—generous, active, and influential in our District.”