Making a difference: The Rotary Club of East Northport’s impact on the community

The following article was submitted by members of the Rotary Club of East Northport for publication in the Journal.

For nearly seven decades, the East Northport Rotarians have been dedicated to serving and uplifting their community. Established in 1955, this esteemed Rotary Club has consistently worked toward building international relationships, improving lives, and creating a better world. With a strong founding commitment to supporting peace efforts and eradicating polio, the Rotary Club of East Northport continues to make significant strides in achieving its goals.

Reflecting on its accomplishments over the past year, the Rotary Club of East Northport has much to celebrate. Its efforts have positively impacted various aspects of the community, with initiatives ranging from food drives to educational support.

One of the club’s notable achievements has been its successful food drives held at the IGA in East Northport. With the support of the generous community, the Rotary Club was able to collect and donate boxes of essential food items to Manna Ministries and Island Christian Church on Elwood Road. The Rotary Club of East Northport plans to continue organizing food drives throughout the year.

Collaboration and partnership have been key to the Rotary Club of East Northport’s impact. Last year, members worked closely with the Visiting Nurse Services of Northport during its annual 5K run. Led by Ali Camp, the immediate past president, the Rotary Club formed a team to support the not-for-profit health care agency. Through their combined efforts, the Rotarians provided vital assistance to an organization dedicated to caring for the community’s health and well-being.

The month of March held a special significance for the Rotary Club of East Northport, as it marked its annual shoe collection drive for Soles4Souls. Teaming up with the Northport Rotary, they collected shoes from churches, synagogues, schools and businesses in East Northport, Greenlawn and Northport. The community showed remarkable generosity, and Westy’s graciously provided a storage unit for the month. A staggering 12,000 pairs of shoes were loaded onto a truck bound for Tennessee, where Soles4Souls distributes them to regions in need. By providing footwear, Soles4Souls not only offers short-term relief but also contributes to long-term solutions, helping individuals step out of poverty.

On June 6, the Rotary Club installed their new officers for the 2023-2024 term. Led by District Governor Sonia Saleh, the ceremony saw the induction of Sharon Joy Woodhouse as president, Rosemary Hamel as secretary, and Ali Camp as treasurer. The club expresses excitement and anticipation as it continues to serve the local and international community under the leadership of these dedicated individuals.

Demonstrating its commitment to education, the Rotary Club of East Northport awarded two $500 scholarships to deserving students from Northport High School as well. Through this initiative, the club strives to support the educational aspirations of talented young individuals in the community, empowering them to achieve their goals.

For those interested in joining the Rotary Club of East Northport and making a difference alongside this inspiring group, monthly meetings are held on the first Wednesday of every month at 8am at the Atria East Northport. By becoming a member, individuals can contribute to the Rotarians’ ongoing efforts to serve those in need.

To learn more about the Rotary Club of East Northport and its initiatives, visit www.eastnorthportrotary.org. Together, let us support the Rotary Club of East Northport in its mission to create a better world for all.