Our local foundation earnings make an impact in South Bend in schools, capital projects, and other causes.
The Rotary Club of South Bend is unique among the Rotary Clubs throughout the world in that we have our own local foundation dedicated to supporting our community. Annual events and gifts continue to grow this asset which now has a principal balance in excess of $1,000,000. The earnings from our foundation are the source of funding for the following programs:
A new award of up to $15,000 for any worthy cause the current year’s club president and BOD deems notable. The inaugural gift will be made in the next fiscal year beginning July 1st.
A $15,000 gift given annually to support capital projects by not-for-profits (brick and mortar expenses only) in the South Bend area. Previous gifts have helped fund improvements to the Potawatomi Zoological Society amphitheater (2018); restoration of infrastructure (electrical and other upgrades) to Dismas House (2019); playground at the Jimmy & Rosalynn Carter Work Project with Habitat for Humanity (2020/21); Holocaust Reflection Garden for the Jewish Federation of St. Joseph Valley (2022).
A partial financial scholarship for local area high school students who have overcome great hardship in their life. Each year, two students are awarded a $2,500 per year for up to four years for a total not to exceed $10,000 over the students’ college career.
A partial financial scholarship for students studying in the medical/health sciences field who are enrolling in an accredited four-year college degree program. The award is $2,500/yr.
Business networking and professional development are just a couple of the many benefits of membership in Rotary. Please contact us or fill out our application form if you are interested in becoming a new member!