Community & International Service
Serving Our Community
Since 1927, our motto has guided everything we do: Service Above Self. From helping build the local library to supporting young mothers, from student exchanges to international education initiatives—our commitment to making a difference runs deep. Today, that same spirit drives our work both at home and around the world
Supporting Local Organizations
Bernie's Book Bank
Four times a year, we roll up our sleeves at Bernie's Book Bank alongside fellow Rotarians and Interact students. Sorting books, building friendships, and getting kids excited about reading—it's meaningful work that brings our community together and reminds us why we serve.
We're proud partners with organizations that make Highland Park and Highwood thrive:
- Highland Park Community Foundation – Investing in local initiatives that create lasting change
- Highland Park Parks Foundation – Supporting local parks and youth programs
- Highland Park Chamber of Commerce – Championing the local businesses that are the backbone of our economy
Empowering Young Leaders
Our partnership with the Highland Park High School Interact Club is at the heart of our community service. With over 100 student volunteers, we mentor the next generation of service leaders while working side-by-side on projects that strengthen our community.
We also sponsor local students to attend the Rotary Youth Leadership Awards (RYLA), an intensive leadership training program for young people ages 13-30. Participants develop essential skills in communication, ethics, problem-solving, and community citizenship, all expenses covered by our club. Many RYLA graduates go on to become youth exchange students, Rotaract members, and Ambassadorial Scholars, extending their commitment to service well beyond high school.
Our Global Impact
Transforming Education in India
In a powerful example of Rotary's global reach, our club recently secured a Global Grant for an extraordinary project. Led by club member and President Nominee Satish Thripathi, in partnership with Rotary Clubs in India, we're supporting the Ek Kadam Aur Foundation, an organization that provides technological and educational resources to over 250,000 blind children in India who lack access to education.
Through our combined efforts, we're raising nearly $100,000 to expand this life-changing program. But we're not stopping there. Our vision is to leverage Rotary's worldwide network to bring this model to other countries, proving that local action can spark global transformation.
This is what it means to be part of Rotary: a neighbor in Highland Park can change the life of a child in India, and together, we can change the world.
Become a Person of Action!
Whether you're passionate about local education, community development, or international humanitarian work, there's a place for you in our club. Together, we'll continue the legacy of service that has defined us for nearly a century.
Ready to make a difference? Learn how you can get involved.