Staff Writer
About 450 people gathered Downtown Monday to celebrate the motto of “Service above Self” at the Northeast Florida Rotary District awards at the Hyatt.
The Rotary Club of Jacksonville earned the club award for “Best Humanitarian Service Award” for its campaign to benefit the Mercy Ships, a global charity that has operated hospital ships in developing nations since 1978. The Rotary Club of Jacksonville helped to raise more than $900,000 for the charity.
“It was a great achievement that would not have been possible without the leadership of Mike Williams and Charlie Towers who lead us to this achievement,” said Steve Bacalis, president of the Rotary Club of Jacksonville.
The club also worked to distribute books to the country of Belize and supported Haitian relief efforts.
Rotary members volunteer to work locally, regionally, nationally and internationally to eliminate hunger, improve health and sanitation, provide education and job training, promote peace and eradicate polio.
The award to the Jacksonville club was one of many presented to the Rotary Clubs of Northeast Florida. The “Best Club” award was presented to Amelia Sunrise, Flagler County and Palatka. “Best International Service Project” was awarded to Amelia Island Sunrise, Palatka Sunrise and West Jacksonville. “Best Local Community Project” was awarded to Amelia Island Sunrise, Flagler Beach, Flagler County and Palatka. “Best Fundraiser” award was presented to Ocala Southwest, Deerwood and Deland. “Best Service Above Self Project” was presented to Amelia Island Sunrise, Flagler County and Palatka. “Best Membership Growth” was achieved by Amelia Island Sunrise and Flagler County.
The “Paul Harris Fellows” named at the luncheon included; Jared Dollar, Kirk Young, Pat Mulvihill, Edsel Reden, David Risch, Dr. Jason Rosenberg, Hari Pulapaka, Bill Budzinski, Dr. Albert Volk and Dr. Norberto Benitez.
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