Discover the groundbreaking strides in combating severe acute malnutrition as we host an insightful conversation with Dr. Mark Manary, the trailblazing mind behind Project Peanut Butter, and Arthur Santos, the president-elect of the Palm Springs Sunup Rotary Club. Prepare to be moved by tales of innovation and compassion that have reshaped the lives of countless children across sub-Saharan Africa through the creation of Ready-to-Use Therapeutic Food (RUTF). This episode not only celebrates the success of these life-saving treatments and the collaborative efforts that made them possible but also peers into the future with the revelation of an upcoming global grant application that could steer Project Peanut Butter into exciting new directions.Our dialogue traverses the multifaceted challenges of delivering humanitarian aid in developing countries, highlighting the synergistic partnership with a Catholic organization in the Philippines, where a production facility and a preschool program provide not just food but hope and education to malnourished children. The generosity and spirit of Rotary Club members, exemplified by Dennis Spurgeon's dedication, emerge as beacons of hope in this narrative of global impact. Join us for an episode that not only applauds these Heroes of Hope but also encourages you to spread their stories of transformation and the enduring power of human connection and generosity.

Every community has its quiet champions, and today, we're shining the spotlight on those extraordinary individuals with Rob Haskins, president of the Murrieta Rotary Club. Prepare to be moved by tales of compassion and courage as we discuss the Vocational Service Awards, honoring those whose daily deeds typically go unnoticed. From the heart-rending sacrifices of fire engineer Corey Wheeler to the meticulous care of police officer Riley Cameron, this episode is a tapestry of humanity's finest threads.The power of recognition can never be overstated, and through our conversation with Rob, we unpack the memorable moments and the ripple effects of celebrating our local heroes. Marguite Rucker's commitment to diversity and nurse Jennifer McMahon's unwavering spirit in the face of her own battle with cancer serve as beacons of hope and resilience. As these stories unfold, we're reminded of the strength found in community and the profound impact of service above self.Wrapping up, we turn the lens on Rotary's initiatives that extend these accolades beyond the award ceremonies. The music competitions, speech contests, and the embracing of new technologies like the police drone highlight that the Rotary's mission is about fostering hope and inspiring future generations. This episode is not just about applause; it's a call to action to recognize and celebrate the everyday heroes among us. Share in our journey to amplify these voices of hope and perhaps, find inspiration to be a hero in your own community.

Stephanie Urchick, Rotary International President-Elect, steps into our podcast studio, exuding the wisdom and strategy that she's poised to bring to one of the world's most impactful service organizations. She doesn't just sit at the helm; she actively steers the Rotary community towards greater diversity, inclusion, and global peace. Throughout our conversation, Stephanie's dedication shines, especially as she recounts the profound impact of Rotary in the Dominican Republic—reminding us all that service truly begins at the grassroots level.Rotary's mission for peace resonates throughout the globe, and Stephanie's insight into how initiatives like the Youth Exchange program and Peace Pole installations are cultivating a new generation of peacemakers is nothing short of invigorating. She underscores the necessity of creating irresistible clubs that beckon new members to join and stay, fostering an environment where every Rotarian's story is a thread in the vibrant tapestry of our shared mission. It's not just about growing numbers; it's about nurturing a connected community that thrives on continuity and commitment to service.As we look to the future, Stephanie paints a picture of a Rotary that is both expanding its global footprint and deepening its community roots. From supporting clubs with the tools they need to succeed to enhancing our governance, every step is a stride towards a more engaged and effective Rotary. Stephanie's upcoming travels to Rotary Peace Centers and her focus on the Hearts of Europe are testament to her resolve to grow membership and magnify our impact. And within every project, from local initiatives to global grants, the narrative of personal transformation carries the promise of Rotary's enduring legacy.

Embark on a stirring journey with us, as we share the riveting tales of Rotarians embodying the spirit of 'Heroes of Hope'. Our latest episode captures the heart of true service, featuring the remarkable Stephen Gale, Dan Cortese, and Nicholas Campbell, who bring their water system expertise to the beautiful but challenged landscapes of Thailand. Tune in to hear how their mission isn't just about providing clean water but also fostering a ripple effect of knowledge and empowerment that spans continents.Our Vocational Training Team's adventure in Thailand wasn’t just about hard work; it was filled with moments of human connection and cultural celebration. We recount the warm embrace by local Rotarians and the exuberance of the Songkran Festival, drawing you into a narrative that blends purpose with the joy of cross-cultural fellowship. Through our narrative, experience the contrast between Western water systems and the Thai approach, and the promising path toward sustainable practices sparked by the team's efforts.Concluding the episode, we reflect on the profound personal transformations that come from engaging in international service. These aren't just stories; they're calls to action that inspire both local and global initiatives, encouraging listeners like you to become ambassadors of change and hope. Your support fuels our collective journey to make a lasting impact on communities worldwide, and this episode is a testament to the power of combined efforts and the enduring compassion of the Rotary community.

Discover the monumental impact of providing children with the gift of sight as we're joined by the passionate Nora and Damian Carroll from Vision to Learn. Together, we uncover the startling reality that up to 40% of kids in areas like Riverside County are hindered academically due to uncorrected vision problems. This episode is a deep dive into the roots of Vision to Learn's mission, starting in Los Angeles and expanding its reach to bring vital eye care to students in need. Learn how the partnership with Rotary is changing lives, one pair of glasses at a time, and how community involvement is key to this program's success.Feel the warmth of community action as we discuss the incredible strides made by the collaboration between Rotary Clubs and Vision to Learn. We've witnessed firsthand the joy on children's faces when they receive their very own glasses, allowing them to see their potential clearly—sometimes for the first time. Through engaging stories and insightful conversations, we reveal how trust and connections within school districts play a crucial role in the program's growth. The episode celebrates the heroes who make this possible and the expansion plans that promise to brighten more futures, spotlighting the heartwarming journey that Nora and Damian Carroll facilitate every day.

Esther Phala, the District 5330 4-Way Speech contest winner, joins the conversation about how preparing and performing in this contest changes the lives and perspectives of the students who participate.

Immediate Past District Governor Don Casper gives us a sneak peek at what the upcoming iGNITE Festival offers. This festival, which will be held at Lake Skinner on June 15th, will be open to everyone and will be one that no one will want to miss.

PDG Dan Goodrich and PDG Ricardo Loretta unveil the impactful Human Trafficking Awareness interactive exhibit, a project born out of a deep-seated passion for eradicating human trafficking in our region. They delve into the profound inspiration behind this initiative, which will soon be introduced in District 5330 to raise community awareness about this pressing issue.

PDG Bob Duistermars, PDG Dan Goodrich and Jennifer O'Farrell from the Vocational Training Team, headed to Thailand to help fight against human trafficking, join us to discuss this vital mission.  We learn what a Rotary Vocational Training Team is about and how Rotarians worldwide work together to make a more significant impact.

PDG Marilyn Sanderson and MaryAlice Owens give a detailed outline of what attendees can expect at the Club Leader and Member Training Assembly scheduled for Saturday, April 6th from 8am to 1pm.  This dynamic training session is open to all Rotarians and those interested in learning more about Rotary and how it works.

Alumni, Alohi joins us to give her perspective as a student who benefited from RYLA last year and is ready and eager to serve as an alumnus this year.  After hearing her story, you will know why District 5330 RYLA is the biggest and best in the world!

Tawnya Hensley brings several students from the Rotary Life program to explain first-hand how that program has impacted their life.

Ladd Seekins takes us on a journey of past and future Rotary Friendship Exchange Opportunities.  We reminisce about past Friendship Exchanges from Brazil, India and other countries worldwide and talk about the upcoming opportunity from both India and Vermont.

Rotarian Chuck Weisbart encourages clubs to investigate their communities and determine where the greatest need is as they develop and deploy their community service projects around the district.

It’s getting Hot In Here! Corona Circle City President and Immediate Past President invite us to enjoy the upcoming Fire & Ice fundraiser featuring the hot Chili Cook-off and ice-cold beer.

Community Block Grants chairperson Mary Brown joins us to talk about the many opportunities each of the clubs in the district have to apply for community block grants

Past District Governor Marilyn Sanderson reiterates the importance of Rotary’s continued effort to eradicate polio as well as some new opportunities to get your pet included in the fight to end polio!

Past District Governor Marilyn Sanderson joins us to talk about the diversity, equity and inclusion efforts in District 5330 that is built to help all our members and members to be feel a sense of belonging in our clubs.

Service is often born out of the pain or love or both.  Anne Marie Duncan and Megan Brennan explain how the Shamrock Club came about and why it is so important to provide this love and service to terminally ill children and their families.

Nicole Murray from U.S. Vets and Madelyn from Riverside Rotary Club talk about their very important partnership and service to our US Veterans housed at March Air Force Base.  This community collaboration is critical to the success of the US Vets program and is just one example of Rotarians working within our community to create lasting change.