From Our District Governor

Off to a Great Start!

Focused on Membership and New Club Development

By Cynthia Edwards

Fellow Rotarians, I have begun my exciting journey to meet with all of the clubs in our district! Rotary International designates August as Membership and New Club Development Month, highlighting the importance of growing and sustaining strong clubs. Strong clubs grow through connection, invitation, and engagement. Membership is the engine of Rotary’s service, leadership, and innovation. This month, we encourage all members to engage prospective Rotarians, strengthen club culture, and support opportunities for new club formation. Let’s recommit to welcoming new voices, strengthening relationships, and building clubs that reflect the communities we serve. In that spirit, my article features my visit to one of our newest clubs, the Rotary Club of North Atlanta Professional Alliance (NAPA). This club was chartered March 23, 2026, with 16 members and it has already added 28 new members. They are intentional on the people they are recruiting -- “young” entrepreneurs or mid-career professionals with a heart for service and an interest in development and networking. [more]

From Our District Governor

Peace Begins Within, at Home, and Spreads

By Cynthia Edwards

At the 2026 District Conference, PDG Gordon Owens and DG Steve Ivory presented me with my own personal PEACE POLE. My husband, Lonnie, decided to surprise me and “plant” the pole while I was away at a convention. Now we cannot only see and reflect on the peace pole from our home, but it is located at the edge of a golf course, so Rotary’s message of peace will be seen by many on a daily basis.

The District Governor sign was presented to me by the Rotary Club of Peachtree City. [more]

Our Rotary Foundation

The Start of New Year

By Bob Hagan

As many of you know, I do spend a lot of time working on the Polio side of what we do as Rotarians, but don’t think for a moment I don’t throw myself into the Annual Funding side also. Both Polio and the Annual Fund are very much a part of Foundation giving. My later article is this newsletter focuses on Polio, so let's turn our attention here to what is referred to in Rotary as “The Annual Fund (AF).” If you are a newer Rotarian, you may not be familiar with what piece parts make up AF. So let me spend a bit of time here to fill you in.
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Chair Ian Bond congratulates new D6900 Trustees Emeritus Lynn Clarke and Aadu Allpere - recognized for their years of support for GRSP

Chair Ian Bond congratulates new D6900 Trustees Emeritus Lynn Clarke and Aadu Allpere - recognized for their years of support for GRSP

GRSP Update

GRSP Elects FY27 Leadership, Honors Emeritus and Welcomes Class of 2026-27

By Katheryne Fields

The Georgia Rotary Student Program and GRSP Foundation held its annual summer business meeting in July. During the session, members approved the upcoming FY27 fiscal budget, elected officers for 2026–2027, recognized new trustees and directors, and honored distinguished donor contributions and members named with emeritus status. We look forward to welcoming the GRSP Class of 2026-27 at Conclave in Savannah - August 21-23 - and invite Rotarians and their guests to join us. Conclave information and registration is open at www.grsp.org.
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New School Year, New Opportunity for Student Voices

By Carol Gray Walker

As students return to classrooms across Georgia, another exciting Georgia Laws of Life Essay Contest season is about to begin.  As one participating teacher shared, "Students are engaged by the writing task, and it is a great way to start the year by writing a meaningful narrative." Want to learn more and be part of Laws of Life? Read on to learn about:

  • Teacher & Rotarian Workshop Luncheon on Friday, August 21
  • Our annual Founder's Celebration on Tuesday, October 20
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Nominations for 2029-2030 District 6900 District Governor Are Open

By Cynthia Edwards

Nominations for our 2029-2030 District Governor are open. We need your help in identifying qualified candidates and officially nominating them by resolution of your club. The certified club resolution form will be sent to club presidents along with Article 16 of the Rotary Manual of Procedure that outlines the role and responsibilities of a District Governor. Read on for more about the requirements, process and deadline for nominations.
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Earthquake in Venezuela

Disaster Relief Appeal

By Cynthia Edwards

The devastating earthquakes that struck Venezuela on June 25, 2026, left communities facing significant loss and hardship. In response, Rotary leaders from Districts 4370 and 4380, together with Zone 25A and Rotary International leadership, have launched the Let’s Support Venezuela initiative to coordinate relief efforts and provide organized, effective assistance to those affected.  Rotary District 6900 will donate $5,000 to the Venezuela Disaster Relief Fund. We have had many inquiries by our members regarding the best way to contribute to assist the people of Venezuela recover from this disaster; so we're sharing this information about how you can help.
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End Polio Now

When History Touches "The Now"

By Bob Hagan

It truly is special when history collides with us in what I like to call “the now”! For Rotarians this rather special phenomenon happened this year - on June 26, 2026, when we lost the last Polio survivor who was on an Iron Lung. Her name was Martha Ann Lillard. She was born in 1948 in Shawnee, Oklahoma, and contracted Polio in 1953. Her story is an inspiration for us all to keep fighting, keep giving and keep moving forward until the battle against Polio is won.
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End Polio Now

While We're Talking Polio: Let's Make October 24 Count

By Lee Hollingsworth

That’s me in Death Valley — 282 feet below sea level, August, 115 in the shade, but no shade anywhere. The hand-lettered “End Polio, Rotary” sign. No committee, no lead time, just one offbeat Rotarian thinking Polio the day before. It raised approximately $8,000 for Polio. With the Gates Foundation’s $2-for $1 match $24,000. It wasn’t the miles that brought in the funds – it was the crazy idea itself – the hook. It inspired others an excuse to join in (maybe from their A/C!) to a cause they already respect. So, imagine all of District 6900 focused on raising money on a single date — World Polio Day, October 24. [more]

District Conference 2027

Join Us in Asheville for the 2027 District 6900 District Conference

By Cynthia Edwards

It's never too early to add District 6900’s 2027 Conference to your calendar. Next year, we're headed to Asheville, NC from Thursday, April 22 to Sunday, April 25. The host hotels are the Embassy Suites and the Doubletree, located in downtown Asheville, both in the Hilton family of hotels. Asheville is a beautiful city nestled in the Blue Ridge Mountains - known for its creative spirit, deep roots, and steady mountain rhythms. And we'll have lots of fun and inspirational activities planned for you to enjoy! Learn more about conference reservations and booking your rooms. Then mark your calendar!
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Rotary Leadership Institute (RLI)

Why RLI Matters: And Why You Should Be There

By Walter Marria, Jr.

The Rotary Leadership Institute (RLI) is a great opportunity for Rotarians looking to enhance their Rotary experience. RLI does more than teach leadership; it inspires it. Participants not only deepen their understanding of Rotary but also learn fresh ideas to strengthen their clubs and feel more motivated and engaged.
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RI Convention 2027

Join Us at June 2027 Rotary International Convention: Barcelona, Spain

by PDG André Marria, Zone 34 RI Convention Promotion Chair

By André Marria

The 2027 Rotary International Convention in Barcelona, Spain, June 26–30, 2027, promises to be an unforgettable celebration of Rotary's global fellowship, service, and impact. We hope every Club in our district will consider attending this event where we come together to learn, connect, and be inspired by Rotarians from around the world.  We would love to have over 50 in attendance!  The convention website is now live and can be accessed at https://convention.rotary.org/en-us/.
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Club News

Create Lasting Impact through CPR Training

By Lisa Gelber

Rotary Club of North Fulton is passionate about reducing deaths from sudden cardiac arrest, and we invite other Rotary clubs in District 6900 to bring this life-saving initiative to their own communities.  Our commitment to this cause began two years ago when one of our club members suffered a cardiac arrest while playing pickleball. His life was saved because bystanders immediately recognized the emergency, began CPR, and used an automated external defibrillator (AED) while waiting for paramedics to arrive.
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Club News

Griffin Daybreak and Griffin Team Up to Beat the Heat

By Debby Daniel-Bryant

The Griffin Daybreak and Griffin Rotary Clubs collaborated to help the community by supplying 100 box fans to individuals without air conditioning free of charge. These fans were distributed on a first come first serve basis to many in need of relief during the heat wave. In addition, the two clubs worked together to provide free bottles of cold water during the 4th of July Parade.
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Service Opportunity

Join Us in Honduras ... A Journey of Joy

By Bob Hope

Every once in a while you need a joy booster in your life. The best one I know is going with us on our annual trip to the Agalta Valley in Honduras. Now is the time to reserve your spot. We have room for 80, so we should have plenty of spots. Our largest groups have been about 60, but it seems we have momentum. We have groups of people signing up, particularly from Rotary clubs and friends recruiting friends.
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Club News

Atlanta Brasil Hosts World Cup Watch Party

By Josiane Carolino

In early July, the Rotary Club Atlanta Brasil transformed the excitement of the 2026 FIFA World Cup into an opportunity for fellowship, cultural connection, and community engagement.  “This event reflected the kind of club we are building: international, welcoming, joyful, and united through service,” said Club President Josiane Carolino. “Our Brazilian roots are an important part of our story, but our vision is much bigger. We want to create a space where people from many cultures can build friendships, serve together, and feel that they belong.”
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Dunwoody Presents Fourth of July to Remember!

By Dave Burr

What a spectacular Independence Day in Dunwoody! Residents who were out at the annual 4th of July parade t couldn't possibly miss the Rotary Club of Dunwoody's vehicle. We didn't just march—we brought the party and the patriotism. A massive round of applause goes to Past President Jennifer Shumway, who coordinated our club’s participation this year. 
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Club News

Welcome the North Cobb Hero Duck!

By Sheila Hines

The North Cobb Rotary Club kicked off the 2026–2027 Rotary year by unleashing our newest (and probably cutest) club mascot—the Rotary Hero Duck! Each week, this little blue celebrity is awarded to a member who rolled up their sleeves and participated in a service project, proving that doing good really does earn you bragging rights. The duck's mission is simple: spread smiles, celebrate service, and remind us that even heroes sometimes say, "Quack!"
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Club News

Paulding County Boasts Friendships, Commitment to Community

By Cynthia Edwards

On Tuesday, July 14, 2026, I met with the Rotary Club of Paulding County. President Brian Headrick and his board shared many of the fundraising activities, meaningful moments they have experienced, and service projects on which they have enjoyed working together.  They recently donated $50,000 to Chattahoochee Technical College for student support.
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Club News

Happy 100 Years to RC of Blakely!

By Mac Gordon

On June 2, the Rotary Club of Blakely reached the 100-year milestone! On June 25, Retired U.S. Navy Lieutenant Commander Warren Baxley took the oath as Club President for the second time. He was installed by former club president Dr. Bronwyn Ragan-Martin. Among the meeting's comments,  "It’s a tribute to Rotary that we have been doing this for over 100 years, so let’s continue the tradition for the Rotary Club of Blakely."
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Club News

Atlanta Ascent Joins District 6900's Rotary Family

By Sheila Hines

The Rotary Club of Atlanta Ascent - D6900's newest club - held its inaugural meeting at Mission + Market in Buckhead. Led by Charter President Max Zhong, the club brings together an energetic group of young professionals committed to leadership, fellowship, and Service Above Self, and they kicked things off in style with The Honorable Marilyn Morgan, retired Judge of the Federal Bankruptcy Court, as its first guest speaker. North Cobb is proud to be this vibrant new club's sponsor.
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Club News

Three Clubs Partner to Serve The Table on Delk

By Thomas House

his July, members of the Rotary Clubs of Atlanta Brasil, Smyrna, and Vinings Cumberland came together for a hands-on service project benefiting The Table on Delk. Working side by side, volunteers assembled 140 lunch sacks filled with sandwiches, chips, juice, and snacks for children and families served by the organization.
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Club News

Roswell’s “Connections Challenge”

By Geoff Smith

In her inaugural speech, new Roswell Rotary President Leslie Bassett expressed her mission for our Rotarians to become more deeply connected and issued “The Connections Challenge.” Meant to encourage communication, collaboration and understanding, meeting the weekly challenges could also result in free dues for a year. See more about how the story is starting to unfold ...
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Club News

North Fulton Provides Back Packs and School Supplies

By Lisa Gelber

The Rotary Club of North Fulton kicked off the new Rotary year with our first meeting under the leadership of President Dan Jenkins! President Dan shared his vision for the year ahead and challenged each of us to consider how we can deepen our involvement in service projects and continue making a meaningful impact in our community. We put that challenge into action before the meeting even ended - assembling 48 backpacks filled with essential school supplies for middle school students served by North Fulton Community Charities. [more]

Club News

Buckhead's Year Begins with Sleeves Rolled Up

By Jeff Clark, Jr.

For 75 years, Buckhead Rotary has lived Service Above Self—and our first meeting of the 2026–27 year proved that legacy has never been stronger. We started not with speeches but with our hands. Before the meeting was fully underway, we stuffed 100 Buckhead Rotary backpacks for Horizons Atlanta scholars heading back to school in a few weeks. That momentum carried straight into welcoming Horizons Atlanta as our new signature project. [more]

Club News

NAPA Welcomes DG Cynthia Dorsey Edwards

By Eryn Hopkins

The North Atlanta Professional Alliance Rotary Club was honored to welcome District Governor Cynthia Dorsey Edwards for her official visit at our July monthly meeting at Roswell Junction in Roswell, GA.  What we shared that night is a story worth telling. NAPA was officially chartered on March 23, 2026 with just 16 members. In just a few months, we have grown to 42 strong - and the momentum has not slowed down. What draws professionals to NAPA is something most networking groups can't offer: caliber and genuine community in the same room.
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Club News

Heart Behind the Pin: Honoring Service and Legacy of Carrollton Rotarian Jim Gill

By Nichole Fannin

Throughout the past Rotary year, the Rotary Club of Carrollton celebrated one exceptional member each month with the Rotarian Spotlight: The Heart Behind the Pin Award. Each honoree demonstrated the strength, commitment, and spirit of service that define our Rotary family.  The celebration also marked the beginning of a meaningful new chapter for our club, as the award and its recipients will now carry the name of Mr. Jim Gill, a Rotarian who passed in August 2025 and embodied its ideals of service, humility, and commitment. For more than 40 years, Jim helped shape our club through his leadership, generosity, and unwavering dedication to Rotary.
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Club News

Peachtree City Rotary Creates Lasting Impact Through Community Grants and Service

By Andy Borders

The Rotary Club of Peachtree City began the new Rotary year with a strong commitment to serving our community. In July, our club provided Community Grant support to 14 nonprofit organizations, celebrated the completion of two meaningful projects at Camp Southern Ground, and joined members of Rotaract in service to veterans, families, and the wider community.
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Club News

North Cobb Supports Kids2Leaders Camp; Addresses Hunger Issues

By Sheila Hines

North Cobb Rotarians spent a week serving alongside Kidz2Leaders, an Atlanta-based nonprofit whose Camp Hope summer camp serves children of incarcerated parents — one of the most difficult adverse childhood experiences a kid can face. The club also took time to stock the KSU Marietta campus food pantry for students facing food insecurity and helping package food in a separate project for 65 local families.
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Club News

North Columbus Completes Clean & Green Sanitation Hub in Nepal

By Madison Jones

On June 29, 2026, North Columbus Rotary Club’ s just completed international project in Nepal was handed over to the municipal authority of the city of Biratnagar in Nepal. The project, funded by a Rotary International Global grant, was completed at a cost of $32,300. It has been a collaborative effort between the Rotary clubs of North Columbus (international sponsor), Birartnagar (host club), Districts 6900 and 3292. It was supported by a $10,400 matching grant from the World Fund.
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