The Rotary year began under extremely difficult circumstances as devastating July floods swept through the Texas Hill Country, affecting many of the communities served by Rotary clubs throughout District 5840. Homes, businesses, schools, and public infrastructure sustained major damage, leaving countless families facing uncertainty and hardship. For many communities, recovery became a long and ongoing process that required both immediate assistance and sustained support. Play video
In true Rotary spirit, clubs across our district responded quickly and compassionately. Rotarians mobilized almost immediately to organize relief efforts, collect and distribute supplies, assist displaced families, and coordinate volunteer support in impacted areas. District 5840 worked alongside local clubs, community leaders, partner organizations, and Rotarians from around the world to help communities begin the difficult rebuilding process.
Our Foundation Chair, Monica Gutierrez, applied for and was granted a Rotary International Disaster Grant of $25,000. A significant part of the district’s response came through grants provided by the district 5840 Foundation, our 501(c)(3) charitable organization. Our Foundation received over $700,000 in donations. These grants supported critical recovery and rebuilding efforts and allowed clubs to respond directly to the unique needs within their communities. To date we have approved and funded grants for almost $300,000 and are still reviewing additional grants. The generosity of Rotarians, donors, and supporters demonstrated the strength of Rotary fellowship and the power of people united in service. We will continue to manage and grant available funds as future community needs are presented and approved by our Foundation board.
This year’s Rotary theme, Unite for Good, was clearly demonstrated through the district’s response to the floods. Rotarians from different communities, backgrounds, and even countries came together with a common purpose — helping neighbors recover and rebuild. Throughout the Rotary year, flood recovery remained a continuing focus for many clubs in our district. Rotarians not only provided financial support, but also offered leadership, compassion, and encouragement to those affected by the disaster. We have already begun to demonstrate that we are striving to Create Lasting Impact, Rotary International’s 2026-2027 Theme.
While the devastation caused by the floods was significant, the resilience of the affected communities and the dedication of Rotarians throughout District 5840 reflected the very best of Rotary and its commitment to Service Above Self. Together, we truly united for good and created a lasting impact through service, fellowship, and compassion.