The Torrance community is home to countless caring and generous individuals. I recently had the opportunity to learn about the extraordinary efforts generated by members of the Rotary Club of South Bay Sunrise from President Joanna Farmer. Like the Kiwanis Club of Torrance and the Rotary Club of Torrance Del Amo, members of each of these service clubs form a global network of individuals who volunteer their time and their talents to serve their communities and the world.
“When I look at our club, our 33 members are always on the move. Most recently we prepared 100 Blessing Bags at a weekly meeting. Members made peanut butter and jelly sandwiches and complimented them with granola, a banana, a bottle of water and a pair of socks. These blessing bags were then handed out, by club members, to those who were in need of a meal,” explained Farmer.
In collaboration with additional Rotary Clubs, Rise Against Hunger, which strives to feed those in impoverished countries, is another powerful project of these service minded individuals. Local Rotary clubs donate funds so that dried meals can be packed and shipped. For example, if $2,000 was raised, the members can pack 5,882 meals which breaks down to 34 cents a meal.
The South Bay Sunrise Club, San Pedro Club and Torrance Del Amo Club also sponsor Rotaract of South Bay, a club that brings together individuals, ages 18-30, to exchange ideas with leaders in the community, develop leadership and professional skills and have fun through service. “Rotarian’s have the opportunity to work side by side with members of this newly created club to assist with projects and the development of leadership skills,” explained Farmer.
Additionally, the South Bay Sunrise Club and the Palos Verdes Peninsula Rotary Club have partnered to present the South Bay Beer and Wine Festival which brings more than 100 breweries, wineries and restaurants together to share tasty treats for 2,000 attendees. “All proceeds from this event benefit the South Bay community through scholarships, charitable grants and community projects,” stated Farmer.
The Torrance Area Chamber of Commerce values the long term membership of the Rotary Club of South Bay Sunrise. Your service projects truly do have a significant effect on the quality of life in our community and around the globe.