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25 Percent of New Members
At a recent meeting, club members reviewed Rotary's core principles, including its commitment to service, integrity, friendship, and community engagement. The educational session was prompted in part by the club's recent membership growth. Over the past eleven months, membership has increased by 25 percent, with many new members joining the organization, including a growing number of women.
New Member Brooke Wood inducted
A highlight of the meeting was the induction of Brooke Wood, Town Clerk for the Town of Cedaredge. Sponsored by incoming Club President Mark Condon, Wood was formally welcomed into Rotary by outgoing President Steve Blackburn.
During the induction ceremony, Blackburn emphasized that Rotary membership is defined by active participation and service. "It will be by your own actions that you truly become a Rotarian," Blackburn said. “Learn all you can about Rotary. Strengthen your leadership and communication skills by participating in the activities of this club. Engage with your fellow Rotarians in their plans and projects to provide service to others in our community and throughout the world.” He encouraged Wood to pursue service opportunities that align with her interests and to help the club continue expanding its impact throughout the Surface Creek Valley and beyond.
21 Guest Speakers in One Year
Members also discussed about Rotary in general and emphasized that Rotary International is a non-political and non-religious service organization. Founded in 1905, Rotary brings together individuals from diverse backgrounds who share a commitment to serving their communities locally and globally.
The meeting also highlighted the club's role as a forum for community education and dialogue. Over the past year, the Rotary Club of Cedaredge hosted 21 guest speakers who covered a wide range of topics, including local economic development, education, humanitarian projects, emerging technologies, and international service initiatives.
In addition to regular meetings, the club supports numerous community projects and events throughout the year, such as the Summer Scramble Golf Tournament, Apple Fest, and the Community Christmas Dinner. Whether through sponsoring scholarship programs for Cedaredge senior students, highway cleanup, or community events, the Rotary Club of Cedaredge continues to attract people who want to make a difference, build lasting friendships, serve, connect, and strengthen our community.
As the club prepares for a new Rotary year, members say the recent growth reflects residents' continued desire to connect, serve, and strengthen the community. "Rotary offers an opportunity to make a difference while building meaningful friendships," Blackburn said. "We welcome people who want to serve and who want to be part of something larger than themselves."
If you want to learn more about the club, please contact Mark Condon at 720-257-4358.
The photo shows outgoing president Steve Blackburn and incoming president Mark Condon (right) congratulating new member Brooke Wood.