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DG Jim Message | November 2025

November is Rotary Foundation Month — Building Bridges, Changing Lives

This month, we celebrate The Rotary Foundation — the heart of Rotary’s mission and the engine that turns compassion into action. Every project we undertake, from local literacy efforts to international peacebuilding, begins with the generosity and vision of Rotarians like you.

Just days ago, Rotarians from both sides of the border gathered in Yuma for the USA–Mexico Friendship Conference and Global Grants Exchange. Together, members from many clubs and districts built partnerships, forged friendships, shared project ideas, and committed resources to fully fund 14 global grant projects — an amazing achievement and a new record! Lives will be changed forever on both sides of the border. It was Rotary at its finest — Service Above Self, multiplied through collaboration.

But our work doesn’t stop there.

This year, we’ve embarked on something truly transformational — a campaign to raise millions in new gifts through our Together We Raise, Together We Rise, Together We Thrive initiative. All gifts made since our last District Conference recognition event last May — and before April 15, 2026 — will be celebrated. Our goal: to raise more than $1 million in new gifts to The Rotary Foundation.

Here’s the best part: Everyone is invited to celebrate, but those who make—or commit to make—a new gift of $10,000 or more during that period will be honored at a very special celebration on Thursday, April 30, 2026, at the Mesa Sheraton Wrigleyville West — the night before our District Conference. This won’t be just another dinner — it will be a night of joy, inspiration, recognition, and unforgettable stories of the lives you’ve touched through your generosity. The program details are still under wraps, but I can promise you this — it will be the event of the year!

Your gift can go where your heart leads — ending polio, bringing clean water, supporting education, building peace, or strengthening our Annual Fund to meet needs wherever they arise. You can give in many ways: a one-time cash gift, appreciated stock, a pledge over three years, naming Rotary as a beneficiary of your retirement plan, a life income agreement, or even by including Rotary in your estate plans.

We are deeply grateful to those who have already given so generously over the years. Because of your past gifts, children have clean water to drink, classrooms have light and books, and families live in safety and peace. You are the Foundation’s heartbeat — the reason Rotary continues to change the world, one act of service and one act of giving at a time.

A special thank-you also goes to Laura Mello, our RI Regional Major Gifts Officer, who spent this past week presenting at clubs and meeting with donors across Arizona. Laura is a tremendous resource and is happy to assist with any questions — large or small — as you explore how best to make your giving count in ways that are meaningful to you.

Rotary has always been about turning compassion into action. This is our moment to do something extraordinary — to build peace, prosperity, and hope that will outlive us all.

Let’s make sure that when we gather on April 30, 2026, we’re celebrating your name among those who stepped forward to change the world.

Together We Thrive — and together, we make a difference that endures.

— DG Jim Schmidt

 

Rotaract Roundup | November 2025

Did Someone Say Rotaract Roundup?

Fellow Rotarians, have you ever wondered: What is a Rotaractor? What is Rotaract up to lately? Or even, How can we be more involved with the upcoming generation of Rotarians?

We’re thrilled to share that, in collaboration with District 5495, the Rotaract Council is launching The Rotaract Roundup, a new column dedicated to exploring the world of Rotaract within the greater Rotary family. This space will answer your questions, share updates, and serve as a direct line to what’s happening in Rotaract across our District.

Rotaract is a global network of students and young professionals who share Rotary’s commitment to service; often in the early stages of their professional journeys. This space allows members to develop leadership, professional skills, and lifelong connections within their communities.

Not only are Rotaractors passionate about contributing to our communities, we’re equally passionate about connecting with them.

We want to hear from you: What do you wonder about Rotaract? How do you see young professionals shaping the future of Rotary? What do you hope to learn from the next generation of Rotarians? You might even have the chance to see your question featured in this column!

Join us next month as we dive into the question, “What is Rotaract?” We’ll feature a vibrant snapshot of Rotaract in our District, highlighting how our clubs mirror Rotary in spirit while bringing something uniquely their own.

We’re excited for to the year ahead and the opportunities it will bring to celebrate, share, and grow alongside you—because together we lead, and together we thrive.

Read more...
Teresa Haire selected to serve as District Governor 2028-29

Dear District 5495 Rotarians,

It is with great joy and deep appreciation that I share truly wonderful news with you. After a thoughtful and thorough selection process, our District has chosen a leader whose heart, vision, and dedication to service reflect the very best of Rotary. 

It is my honor to announce that Teresa L. Haire has been selected to serve as District Governor for 2028–2029. 

Teresa has been a proud Rotarian since November 17, 2016, and is a valued member of the Rotary Club of Sun City. Over the years, she has poured her energy, skill, and heart into Rotary through many important roles—including Club President, District Secretary, Youth Services Committee Chair, District Administrator, and more. Through these experiences, Teresa has gained a deep understanding of the heartbeat of our District, the unique strengths of our clubs, and the tremendous opportunities that lie ahead.

Beyond her many titles, Teresa is known for her enthusiasm and her heart for family—including her Rotary Family. She is a beloved and trusted leader, guided by the belief that Rotary transforms lives. With wisdom, passion, and humility, she is ready to lead us forward.

Professionally, Teresa serves as Chief Operating Officer at EverVest Financial in the Greater Phoenix area, where she shapes the firm’s operational and client service strategies. She has built an accomplished career in financial services since 1997 and holds a Bachelor’s degree in Global Business Management from Arizona State University, an MBA from the University of Phoenix, and the AAMS® designation from the College of Financial Planning.

 

Her commitment to service extends far beyond Rotary. Teresa devoted more than 13 years to the Arizona Cactus-Pine Council of the Girl Scouts, earning the Wells Fargo Volunteer Service Award in 2013. She continues her passion for youth leadership as a Den Leader and Pack Registrar for Cub Scout Pack 531 with the Grand Canyon Council of Scouting USA. She has also served as a trustee for Royal Oaks, a nonprofit retirement community in Sun City.

At her core, Teresa is a devoted mother of three adult children and a daughter-in-law, and a proud “Nonna” to three grandchildren. Family remains the center of her joy—together they celebrate life’s milestones, travel, and share in the spirit of volunteer service.

A graduate of both Rotary Leadership Academy (RLA) and Rotary Leadership Institute (RLI), Teresa exemplifies Rotary’s values of lifelong learning, fellowship, and servant leadership.

Teresa is humbled and excited to accept this opportunity to serve as District Governor Designate (2028–2029). Her journey ahead will be one of growth, inspiration, and shared service—and together, we will support and celebrate her every step of the way.

Please join me in offering a warm and enthusiastic welcome to Teresa L. Haire, District Governor Designate 2028–2029! You can reach her directly at teresalynn0928@gmail.com.

Congratulations Teresa!

Together We Thrive,

Jim Schmidt

District Governor 25-26

DG Jim Schmidt Message | October 2025: Community Involvement and World Polio Day

Dear Rotary Friends,

Clubs thrive when they are deeply connected to the communities they serve. A healthy Rotary club is one that its community loves, because it listens, responds, and evolves to meet real needs. When our clubs are connected—whether through mentoring youth, supporting schools, honoring first responders, or feeding hungry families—they grow naturally. Energy flows, service expands, and new members are drawn in. Conversely, when clubs lose that connection, they risk stagnation. Let us always keep our hearts and hands firmly rooted in our communities.

October 24th also brings us to World Polio Day, a powerful reminder of Rotary’s historic promise to the children of the world. For nearly 40 years, Rotary has led the global fight to eradicate polio—a fight that is nearly won. Each year Rotary commits $50 million to this effort, with the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation matching our contributions 2-to-1. Together, that means every dollar you give has triple the impact. 

I recently heard a presentation from Michael McGovern, Chair of Rotary’s International PolioPlus Committee, who reminded us that every contribution goes directly to service—delivered in partnership with UNICEF and the World Health Organization. More than $1.1 billion is invested annually by world partners, reaching nearly 1 billion children with life-saving vaccines. The scale is breathtaking. The impact is undeniable. The end is in sight. 

But this final stretch is the hardest, and it will take all of us. For just $8.33 a month—$100 a year—we can each help push Rotary’s effort across the finish line. Every gift matters, every hand helps.

For me, this cause is personal. A dear friend’s father spent his entire life on crutches due to polio. My fellow District Governor classmate, Joy, nearly died as a child from polio, yet today leads her District with courage and passion to eradicate it. More than 100 brave frontline healthcare workers have even given their lives so children might be protected. Their sacrifice challenges us to do our part. 

Friends, let’s honor their courage, let’s honor the children of the world, and let’s honor Rotary’s promise. Together, we can eliminate polio forever—and then move forward to tackle the next great global challenges with the same passion, faith, and determination.

Let’s continue to stay deeply connected to our communities. Let’s give generously and serve boldly. And let’s remember: Together We Raise, Together We Rise, Together We Thrive.

 

With gratitude and hope,
Jim Schmidt
District Governor, Rotary District 5495

Intriguing Rotary items to check out

Intriguing Rotary Items to Check Out

Submitted by Past District Governor Lucinda General

At times do you end up with issues in your Rotary Club where no one knows what the best answer is? Here are two things that will offer some enlightenment. Do you think that organizational documents make for boring reading? What about the rules and guidelines in Rotary? Are they outdated or missing something? You have the power to influence these things.

FYI, in Rotary we request and change rules via two separate groups. First, on an annual basis we have Resolutions which are submissions from clubs around the world. These proposals ask the Rotary International Board of Directors or Foundation Trustees to consider concepts or changes. Secondly, every third year the Council on Legislation meets in Chicago to review proposed Enactments. These are the serious items that change our foundational documents. 

Intrigue #1: Beginning on October 1st the 2025 Council on Resolutions proposals will be online. Check them out here. Will your reaction to one of them be ‘Wow this is nuts!’ or ‘Oh yeah, what a great idea’? Everyone can read what is proposed and express an opinion. As your District Council on Legislation representative, I’d love to get your feedback. Please, please, e-mail me lu@azgeneral.net and share your thoughts so that I can include your opinion in my analysis when I cast our District vote in late October. 

Intrigue #2: Are you a club officer now or perhaps a concerned Rotarian? When was the last time your club revised your constitution and bylaws? We have new Standard Bylaws to see. Compare your current Club Bylaws to the new Standard Rotary Club Bylaws. Your club may be out of date! Find the new docs on the Governance documents page of My Rotary or downloaded directly using this link.   If you need some help with this, drop me a note or call me and I'd be glad to help. lu@azgeneral.net  Keep in mind that your club’s documents may not be in conflict with the Standard Rotary documents.

Did you read all of this? Then YOU are bestowed an Official Attaboy! I hope you enjoyed this peek into the details of how our organization keeps itself operating.

Intrigue #1: Beginning on October 1st the 2025 Council on Resolutions proposals will be online. Check them out here. Will your reaction to one of them be ‘Wow this is nuts!’ or ‘Oh yeah, what a great idea’? Everyone can read what is proposed and express an opinion. As your District Council on Legislation representative, I’d love to get your feedback. Please, please, e-mail me Lucinda General lu@azgeneral.net and share your thoughts so that I can include your opinion in my analysis when I cast our District vote in late October.

DG Jim Schmidt Monthly Message | September 2025
 
Education, Literacy, and the Heart of Service
 
September is Rotary’s month to highlight Education and Literacy. Yet as I have traveled and visited our amazing clubs across Northeast and Northwest Arizona—from Pinetop to Kingman, from Bullhead City to Winslow, and so many in between—I’ve seen that at the very core of Rotary is service.
 
The strength of our clubs shines through their dedication to meeting the needs of their communities. The service you render is nothing short of extraordinary: mentoring youth in leadership and life skills, promoting education and vocational training, building and advising vibrant Interact clubs that changes the trajectory of our youth, providing homecoming dresses for students who otherwise couldn’t attend, distributing food to hungry families, schoolchildren, and seniors, and supporting our veterans and first responders.
 
Words cannot adequately capture the goodness you share, the heart-touching service you render, and the joy experienced by those you serve. To all of my fellow Rotarians—thank you. I bow in gratitude for your humble, heartfelt service and the tremendous difference you make. You are truly the unsung heroes of this world.
 
Remember: you don’t go to Rotary like you go to a movie—you do Rotary. Together, let’s continue to dream big and serve boldly. And please, record your service projects in Rotary’s Service Center so we can celebrate our goal of AZ250 service projects in commemoration of the 250th anniversary of the USA.
 
With gratitude and admiration,
 
Jim Schmidt
District 5495 Governor, 2025-26
DG Jim Schmidt Message | August 2025
 
TOGETHER, WE BELONG — AUGUST IS MEMBERSHIP MONTH
 
Dear Rotary Family,
 
August is Membership and New Club Development Month — and at the heart of Rotary is our people. Membership is not just Rotary’s number one internal priority — it is our living, breathing soul. Behind every project, every idea, and every act of service is a Rotarian whose life has been touched, transformed, and uplifted by this organization we hold dear.
 
This month, let us reflect not just on how many members we have, but how we make each member feel. Are we creating clubs where people feel seen, heard, valued, and celebrated? Are we providing life-changing experiences — moments of service and fellowship that stay with someone forever? Rotary is not just an organization — it is a feeling. A belonging. A calling.
 
  • When a member feels deeply connected — to our cause, to our fellowship, and to our vision — they stay. They grow. They invite others.
  • When we care enough to listen, to mentor, and to lift one another, we create a culture that inspires people to give their best selves.
  • When we innovate — with flexible meetings, diverse club models, creative engagement through social media, and new companion clubs — we expand the circle of belonging to people whose lives Rotary hasn’t yet touched.
If your traditional club is not thriving, then you have a mandate — a beautiful, urgent opportunity — to evolve. This is not a challenge; this is an invitation to reimagine Rotary for today’s world and tomorrow’s leaders.
 
Start a service-oriented companion club that meets at a different time. Invite like-hearted friends to experience Rotary not just by talk, but by doing. Let them feel the joy of changing lives — and having their own changed in return.
 
And as we serve and go about our lives, let’s also wear our Rotary swag with pride — shirts, pins, hats — not for show, but as a conversation starter. Look for natural ways to bring up Rotary in everyday moments. Invite people into this family, not just to attend a meeting, but to discover meaning and purpose through service. And find greater happiness in their lives.
 
Use the Rotary Foundation to bring big dreams to life — through district and global grants that not only lift entire communities but deeply move the hearts of those who give. It is a gift to witness the impact Rotary can make. Let others experience that same joy.
 
This month let’s recommit to building clubs that our communities love — because they are built on love, listening, shared service, and belonging. This is how we create Rotary for life.
Together, we thrive. Together, we belong.
 
With gratitude and hope,
 
Jim Schmidt
District Governor 25-26
District to host AZ Cardinals Tailgate Party and Game Day Event Dec. 7
 
We’re excited to share the details for our upcoming Arizona Cardinals Tailgate & Game Day Event—and it’s shaping up to be an unforgettable experience!
 
Date: Sunday, December 7
Game Time: 2:25 PM (Cardinals vs. Rams)
Tailgate Starts: 11:25 AM – All-you-can-eat food, great conversations, and fun!
Location: State Farm Stadium
Tickets: $125 per person (includes game ticket and tailgate)
Raffle: $10 per ticket for a chance to win:
  • Verizon Player Tunnel Experience (4 spots available)
  • On-field Banner Holding Opportunity (4 spots available)
    Drawing will be held December 1
Proceeds benefit Rotary District 5495 Youth Programs. Let’s show our Rotary spirit and cheer on the Cardinals together at this first annual event!
Don’t miss out—tickets are limited!
 
Link for Game day Tickets: Dec 7 Cardinals Game
 
Link for Raffle: Raffle Tickets   (unlimited availability - purchase as many raffle tickets as you like) 
Rotary District 5840 Needs Our Help: Disaster Relief for Kerrville, TX
 
By Bruce Monro
District 5500 DG 2025-26
 
Just as we aided California wildfire victims, let's unite to support Rotary District 5840 in South Central Texas, where Kerrville's community has been severely impacted by flooding.
 
The Guadalupe River rose over 30 feet, claiming lives and displacing families. Rotary District 5840 is now accepting tax-deductible donations to provide emergency relief and long-term recovery support through their 501(c)(3) Foundation. 
 
The need for help is financial.  Sufficient quantities of items that the victims need are available nearby.  The best way to help is with funds for them to purchase the needed items.   The District will not collect and distribute club or member donations. Direct donations ensure funds reach those in need faster.
Contributions will:
  • Provide immediate relief to affected families
  • Support local Rotarians in cleanup and rebuilding efforts
The Rotary Clubs of Kerrville are on the ground and will direct the donated funds in the most effective ways possible.  They will also be funding long-term recovery solutions within the affected communities
 
How You Can Help:
 
Check – Payable to Rotary District 5840 Foundation, Memo: Disaster Relief - Mail to: Rotary District 5840 Foundation, P.O. Box 13, Boerne, TX 78006
Zelle – Send to D5840floodrelief2025@gmail.com, Memo: Disaster Relief
Let’s show the strength of Rotary District 5500. Together, we can help lift-up this community in their time of need.