At the Rotary 6920 District Assembly in Dublin, Georgia, on Saturday, June 18, 2022, the Glennville Rotary Club was awarded the coveted Blankenship Cup. This recognition is made to the Rotary Club in the 61-club district that has the highest per capita average over a three-year period in contributions to the Rotary Foundation. The Glennville club averaged $384.69 per capita (number of club members) over the past three years.
The three-year per capita average for the next four highest clubs were Perry, $254.88; Macon, $205.32; Valdosta, $196.17; and Jekyll Island, $190.93.
In attendance to accept the award for the Glennville club were Donald Fountain, Shellie Smith (outgoing 2021-2022 President), Lynda Goodell, and Pam Waters.
"We are pleased with our giving to the Foundation, and this marks the fifth year of being awarded the Blankenship Cup," said Fountain.
The District Assembly was held at Oconee Fall Line Technical College from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. The meeting opened with District Governor-Elect Heather Kellen of Perry talking about her theme for the 2022-23 year: "Imagine: Rotary."
Breakout sessions followed throughout the day, with District Youth Services Director Donald Fountain making presentations on the various types of Rotary membership. Eary Act is new this year, for ages 5 to 13, and centered in the elementary schools. Interact is for middle school and high school students.
“Rotary Youth Exchange is new to our District this year as well. Rotary Youth Exchange is one of many youth leadership development programs offered by Rotary. Living in a foreign country is a powerful way to gain global understanding and promote peace. Through Youth Exchange, students learn a new language, discover different cultures and customs, and make friendships that last a lifetime. High school students from 15 to 19 years of age are eligible to apply to the Rotary Youth Exchange program,” said Fountain.
Other sessions included Membership, Public Image, Club Services, Global Grants, and other topics pertinent to Rotary club finances.
Audley Knight, Rotary International Regional Membership Officer, shared alternative club meeting possibilities and what he felt was needed for successful clubs.
The afternoon included a session on Global Grants, with each club required to have a club member in attendance so as to receive grant funds during the 2022-2023 year.
Attending District Assembly from the Claxton Rotary Club were President-Elect Tom Kilday, Julie Braly, and Alfie Cofield, who has a District Membership role.
From the Hinesville club, President-Elect Dr. David Peer, Karen Bell (current Club Prsident), Michelle Ricketson, and Timothy Byler attended.
Rotary Foundation is the "doing arm" of Rotary, providing funds for projects in their seven areas of focus, which are centered on providing sustainable projects that are related to humanitarian, education, peace, medical, and environment concerns.
