By Eric Norenberg and Don O’Connell
What happens when a bunch of passionate, generous folks get together every Thursday for lunch? They change the world—starting right here in Happy Valley.
The State College/Downtown Rotary Club has been rolling up its sleeves and diving into service since 1986 (the same year the Nittany Lions were undefeated national champions). These are teachers, doctors, artists, retirees, students, and everything in between. What do they have in common? A love for community, a knack for getting things done, and a whole lot of heart. Keep reading to find out if this opportunity is right for you.
Helping Happy Valley Thrive
You don’t have to look far to see the Club’s impact. They’re the quiet heroes behind some amazing activities:
- Fresh Food, No Fuss
Through the No Cost Produce Market at the State College Food Bank, the Club helps get fresh fruits and veggies into the hands of folks who need them—no strings attached. - Grants Galore
Thanks to creative fundraisers (think beer tastings, raffles, and more), the Club has given over $300,000 to local nonprofits in the past 10 years. - Volunteers in Action
Whether it’s painting fences, flipping pancakes, donating blood, or serving on boards, members are out there every day making this a better place to live.
From Happy Valley to the World
Rotary isn’t just local—it’s global. And this Club is all in:
- Fighting Polio
Rotary’s been fighting polio for decades, and the State College Club is part of the action. Last year’s Pints Against Polio event at Boal City Brewing raised money and awareness—with beer, laughter, and purpose. (Keep an eye out for this October’s events at Boal City and Meyer Dairy!) - Disaster Relief with Heart
Through a partnership with ShelterBoxUSA, the Club helps families around the world rebuild after hurricanes, earthquakes, and wildfires. It’s emergency aid with empathy. - Cool Projects Abroad
Want to help start a beekeeping business in South America? Furnish a school in West Asia? Build a well in Central America? This Club’s done all that—and more.
The Four-Way Test that Guides Action
At the heart of every decision lies Rotary’s Four-Way Test:
- Is it the truth?
- Is it fair to all concerned?
- Will it build goodwill and better friendships?
- Will it be beneficial to all involved?
It’s not just a motto—it’s the ethical compass that guides every project, partnership, and conversation. The Club’s commitment to honesty, inclusiveness, and making space for every voice ensures that every effort is rooted in integrity.
Sound Interesting?
Curious? Hungry? Just want to meet some good humans? Join Downtown State College Rotary for lunch!
- Thursdays at Noon
📍 Ramada Hotel & Conference Center, 1450 South Atherton Street
Visitors are always welcome. - Discover Rotary
The next intro session is September 18 at 11:00 a.m.—right before the regular meeting. Come early, stay for lunch, leave inspired.
One Response
Proud to be a Rotary member since 1978 and a member of this club for the past three years!