Warren-Barrington Rotary Club Needs New Members, Leadership To Avoid Closure

WARREN, RI — The Rotary Club of Warren-Barrington is seeking new members to lead the organization t0 prevent its expected closure at the end of the month.

Rotary leadership said it needs new members before June 30 to continue operating. Anyone interested in taking leadership roles or becoming members are asked to attend the club's next meeting from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. Tuesday at the East Bay Chamber office at 16 Cutler St. in Warren.

"We’re reaching out to individuals who share our vision of helping charities through our fundraising and service projects, and who are eager to make a positive impact throughout Warren and Barrington," said Ray Parker, whose term as president of the Rotary Club of Warren-Barrington will end on June 30. "Bringing new members in with fresh perspectives and ideas will enable our club to stay in existence and impact more families and individuals in need than ever before. Together, we can create a bright future for our community and beyond."

The Rotary Club of Warren-Barrington has a history of running community projects since its founding in 1940. Perhaps the most well-known is the free Warren Quahog Seafood and Art Festival held each summer at Burr’s Hill Park in Warren featuring seafood, activities, live music, and entertainment. According to club leadership, the event raises more than $30,000 each year for it to disperse to local organizations and charities.

"We’ve accomplished much over the years," Parker said. "Projects range from delivering food baskets to needy families at Christmastime, to a Pumpkin Fest Weigh-Off at Frerichs Farm, to mention just a few. We simply don’t have the bandwidth to continue doing these projects with the small number of older, retired members we have."

"I’m hoping like-minded individuals who are as passionate about service and fundraising as we are will accept the invitation to join to make a difference through their rotary membership and participation," Parker added. "It would be a shame to see the Club have to cease operations."

Membership in the Warren-Barrington Rotary Club is open to anyone age 21 and over, including young professionals and corporate employees. Those who join will have the opportunity to collaborate and network with others, participate in service projects, gain leadership experience, and build lasting friendships with diverse community members, club leadership said.

To RSVP for the next meeting or to inquire about membership, call Rotary District 7950 Assistant Governor Betty Galligan at 401-433-5965 or email her at betty@newberrypr.com.

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