Chillicothe Rotary Club President Angela Poling had a vision to start a companion club during this Rotary year. She developed a committee to think through the entire process. Then once plans were made, the board gave the approved to pursue a companion club. Past Rotary members and prospects were solicited for membership. Monthly meetings started in September 2024 at a wine bar in Chillicothe. Rotary members came to the meetings each time to explain what Rotary does and what Rotary is. Over the course of time, a core group kept coming to the meetings and began planning service projects.
Each member is encouraged to pursue their own passions and present a plan of action at the meetings. Together they decide on a calendar of activities, so all members' service projects are considered. Dues are $30 per month and include a donation to both the Chillicothe Rotary Foundation and The Rotary Foundation. This companion club was chartered on June 13th with 9 members. 8 are completely new to Rotary and one is transferring her membership to the companion club. She was contemplating leaving Rotary as she never could attend the noon meetings; so, she is now able to stay in Rotary! And the companion club members are still a part of the noon or legacy club. Joint activities will be done together such as fundraisers, service projects and social events. We hope to expand this new club in the next Rotary year as we have several more prospective members that have expressed a desire to join. Spouses are also encouraged to join the club at a lessor dues rate. All we need to do now is to celebrate!