DG Lisa's Corner November 2026

What Do You Have to Give?

November is Rotary Foundation Month, and you probably know what's coming. Another reminder to give to The Rotary Foundation, right?

Well, yes. But that's not all I want to talk about because some of the most valuable things we give as Rotarians don't come out of our wallets.

Think about the Rotarian who spends hours organizing a service project. The one who knows exactly whom to call when a club needs help. The person who quietly takes care of the details nobody else notices. Or the member who invites someone new to a meeting, then makes sure they feel welcome when they arrive. Those are gifts, too.

During my first few months as District Governor, I've seen generosity take so many forms. I've met Rotarians who give their time, share their expertise, open doors, solve problems, and sometimes simply roll up their sleeves and get to work. Much of what they do never makes the headlines…or even into the Grapevine! And I'm grateful for every one of them.

But here's something else I've been thinking about: Our generosity becomes even more powerful when we combine it. That's where The Rotary Foundation comes in.

When we contribute to the Foundation, our individual gifts become part of something much bigger. Through grants, Rotary clubs can turn good ideas into meaningful projects, whether they're improving lives right here in District 7120 or addressing needs halfway around the world. And when we give to the Annual Fund-SHARE, a portion of those contributions eventually returns to our district to help support future projects. In other words, the generosity we show today helps make tomorrow's service possible.

Pretty remarkable, isn't it?

As Thanksgiving approaches, I hope you'll take a moment to appreciate the people who make your Rotary experience meaningful. Better yet, tell them. Thank the member who always shows up. Recognize someone whose work usually happens behind the scenes. Let a newer Rotarian know that their contributions matter.

And during Rotary Foundation Month, consider making a gift at whatever level is meaningful to you. Looking for a fun way to participate? Check out Don Alhart's Bills Challenge! Watch Don's video, get in on the fun, and help support The Rotary Foundation while cheering on the Bills.

Last month, I asked you to think about what will still matter after we're gone. This month, I'll ask something a little different: What do you have to give, and whose life might be different because you gave it?

Time. Talent. Treasure. Sometimes all three. That's how we Create Lasting Impact.

Yours in Rotary,
Lisa Norwood
Rotary District 7120
District Governor 2026-27