Even at the early hour of 7:30 a.m., the meeting room at the Onalaska YMCA is buzzing with conversation and energy. More space is made at tables as members and guests grab some breakfast and join the meeting. Visitors at the regular Wednesday meeting of the Valley View Rotary Club of La Crosse often ask what makes this club so special.
Our secret: It’s the members and the camaraderie we share as we work together to provide service.
One treasured rotating role at the meeting is that of the Rooter. The Rooter elicits the latest news from members, brief words about their challenges and accomplishments, joys and sorrows, big news and small things, that help us connect. We also celebrate the big things, like our biggest community event, Moon Tunes. This summer marks the 15th anniversary of this free weekly summer music concert held in Riverside Park, La Crosse. Every week an average of 1,500+ people gather along the Mississippi River to picnic and enjoy live music.
We recently honored member Terry Bauer for his leadership of this event. This year, additional club members are stepping into leadership roles to offer him support. We are also excited to announce that we have established the Terry Bauer Moon Tunes Special Project Fund. Funds from Moon Tunes donations will be managed by the Rotary Works Foundation and used to support community programs and projects for the Greater La Crosse Area.
Our club maintains a special relationship with a Northside La Crosse elementary school where many of the students face economic and social disadvantages. When the school calls, we respond with supplies, treats, and hands-on activities. In addition, we serve as liaisons with the local alternative high school by recognizing Students of the Month at club meetings and visiting classrooms to share personal career experiences, insights, and strategies for success.
Because Rotary is an international organization, we also engage in projects that promote peace and understanding around the world. For example, members participate in Rotary Friendship Exchanges and host Rotary Youth Exchange students. This past summer we hosted a Ukrainian delegation through the Open World program, which led to some important personal connections and understanding of the impact of the Ukrainian war on ordinary citizens.
Although we are a small club, we’ve had several new members join us this past year. Each new member adds to the excitement, energy and creativity of our vibrant Rotary club.