Meeting at the Dam Shop, January 13, 2026
News
For more than 75 years, Rotary Club of Elk Rapids has excelled at community service and leadership. We are proud to be an integral part of this close-knit community, working tirelessly to improve lives, foster connections, and create lasting change. 
 
We invite you to be part of our journey. Your donation to our Good Works program can make a significant difference. Please give.
Another way to help our community is to give to our Elk Rapids Rotary Charities. Please consider donating:
Events
 Public Documents
Sheri Reid Grant of Art & connection explained the many programs they support including Elk Rapids Schools
Local community groups are welcome to meet at "Arts & Connection" at no charge!
Bulletins
Elk Rapids Robotics in action at a recent competition meet.
Elk Rapids Robotics
coach Tim Hibbard made a very short presentation about the HS robotics program
Scholarships
Are you a graduating senior at ERHS or Sunrise Academy planning to attend Northwestern Michigan College? We want to help you fund your future!

The Rotary Club of Elk Rapids is awarding three $2,500 scholarships to local students. Whether you’re heading to NMC this fall or are a recent grad (up to two years post-graduation), you are eligible to apply!

Here’s what you need to know:
Who: Current ERHS/Sunrise seniors or recent alumni (within 2 years).
Criteria: We’ll be looking at your academic performance and community spirit.
What to Prep: You’ll need transcripts or report cards and two written letters of recommendation.
Deadline: Your completed application must be postmarked by May 1, 2026.

Click the link below to download the application and get started.

https://clubrunner.blob.core.windows.net/.../2026-ER...
 
20 R E A S O N S  T O  J O I N  R O T A R Y
 
Joining Rotary offers a multitude of benefits and opportunities for personal and professional growth,
community involvement, and global impact. Here are 20 compelling reasons to join Rotary:
1. Service Opportunities: Rotary provides numerous opportunities to engage in meaningful service projects that address local
and global challenges, allowing members to make a tangible difference in their communities and beyond.
2. Networking: Rotary offers a diverse and extensive network of professionals, business leaders, and community members,
providing valuable networking opportunities for personal and professional development.
3. Leadership Development: Rotary offers leadership development opportunities through participation in club activities,
committee roles, and training programs such as the Rotary Leadership Institute (RLI) and Rotary Youth Leadership Awards
(RYLA).
4. Community Engagement: Rotary clubs are deeply rooted in their local communities, providing members with opportunities
to build relationships, collaborate with community partners, and contribute to the betterment of their neighborhoods.
5. International Connections: Rotary's global network spans over 200 countries and regions, offering opportunities for
international collaboration, cultural exchange, and service projects that address global challenges such as poverty, disease,
and environmental sustainability.
6. Personal Growth: Rotary fosters personal growth by encouraging members to step outside their comfort zones, learn new
skills, and embrace diverse perspectives through service projects, leadership roles, and interactions with fellow members.
7. Friendship and Fellowship: Rotary clubs are vibrant communities where members develop lasting friendships, share
common interests and values, and enjoy fellowship through social events, meetings, and service projects.
20 R E A S O N S  T O  J O I N  R O T A R Y
 
8. Professional Development: Rotary provides opportunities for members to enhance their professional skills, expand their
knowledge, and gain exposure to different industries and professions through networking, mentorship, and educational
programs.
9. Ethical Leadership: Rotary promotes ethical leadership and integrity in all aspects of life, encouraging members to uphold
high ethical standards and make ethical decisions in their personal and professional lives.
10. Personal Fulfillment: Rotary offers a sense of personal fulfillment and satisfaction by allowing members to contribute their time, talents, and resources to meaningful causes, make a positive impact in the lives of others, and leave a lasting legacy
of service.
11. Philanthropy: Rotary is committed to philanthropy and giving back to the community through charitable donations,
fundraising events, and service projects that address pressing social, health, and environmental needs.
12. Youth Programs: Rotary offers a variety of youth programs, including Interact, Rotaract, and Rotary Youth Exchange,
which empower young people to develop leadership skills, promote peace and understanding, and become active citizens
in their communities.
13. Global Impact: Rotary's global reach and collective efforts enable members to contribute to large-scale initiatives that have
a transformative impact on communities around the world, such as the eradication of polio and humanitarian relief
efforts.
20 R E A S O N S  T O  J O I N    R O T A R Y

14. Camaraderie: Rotary fosters a sense of camaraderie and belonging among members, creating a supportive and inclusive
environment where individuals from diverse backgrounds come together to share common goals and values.
15. Professional Recognition: Rotary provides opportunities for members to gain professional recognition and build their
reputation within their communities and industries through involvement in Rotary projects, leadership positions, and
awards programs.
16. Continuing Education: Rotary offers opportunities for members to engage in lifelong learning and continuing education
through guest speakers, workshops, and seminars on a wide range of topics, including business, technology, health, and
social issues.
17. Public Speaking Skills: Rotary clubs provide a supportive environment for members to develop their public speaking and
presentation skills through regular meetings, club activities, and participation in Rotary events.
18. Travel Opportunities: Rotary offers opportunities for members to travel domestically and internationally to attend
conferences, participate in service projects, and connect with fellow Rotarians from around the world.
19. Family Involvement: Rotary welcomes family members to participate in club activities and events, fostering a sense of
togetherness and shared values among generations.
20. Making a Difference: Ultimately, the most compelling reason to join Rotary is the opportunity to make a meaningful
difference in the world by contributing to Rotary's mission of advancing peace, fighting disease, providing clean water,
supporting education, and alleviating poverty through service above self.