On Tuesday evening, March 10, community members gathered at The Twisted Tomato in Blue Ridge for a meaningful night of connection and service. The event, part of a multi-part Discover Rotary series hosted by Rotary District 6910, marked the next community meeting focused on renewing Rotary energy and engagement in the Blue Ridge area—and it proved to be a tremendous success.
The evening brought together 24 attendees, including local professionals, community leaders, and individuals curious about how they could become more involved in service in Fannin County. While Discover Rotary events introduce people to the mission and impact of Rotary, this gathering added an important twist: it paired the informational meeting with a community service effort benefiting the Fannin County Family Connections Food Pantry.
That combination—learning about Rotary while actively serving the community—created an environment that felt authentic, welcoming, and mission-driven.
A Community Need Highlighted
Guests heard from Jacqueline McKee, Executive Director of Fannin County Family Connections, who shared insights into the organization’s collaborative work supporting families throughout the county. Through partnerships with schools, nonprofits, and community groups, Family Connections provides vital resources to residents facing food insecurity and other challenges.
During her remarks, McKee noted that Family Connections serves approximately 20,000 clients annually, underscoring the significant need that exists even within small mountain communities like Blue Ridge.
The message resonated with attendees—and they responded with generosity.
Turning Conversation Into Action
Rather than simply talking about service, participants brought donations and collectively contributed nearly 300 pounds of food for the Family Connections Food Pantry during the event.
The evening demonstrated a powerful idea that Rotary leaders have long understood: people are often most inspired to join a service organization when they can immediately see and participate in its impact.
“By pairing a membership discovery event with a tangible service activity, the gathering attracted individuals who may not have otherwise attended a traditional informational meeting. It allowed prospective members to experience Rotary’s culture of service firsthand rather than just hearing about it,” stated Gerald Hulett, who is Co-Membership Chair for the District.
The result was not just a successful event, but a meaningful step toward building a stronger Rotary presence in Blue Ridge.
Building Momentum for What Comes Next
The Discover Rotary series in Blue Ridge was intentionally designed as three community gatherings to introduce Rotary to residents and explore interest in building a new local club. With each meeting, momentum has grown as more community members have expressed interest in service, leadership, and collaboration.
The energy from the March 10 event is already carrying forward into the next hands-on opportunity to serve.
On April 16 from 5:30 PM to 7:30 PM, community members will gather at the Family Connections Community Room for another hands-on service project. Volunteers will help sort food donations, stock pantry shelves, and support the important work of Family Connections.
Following the service activity, participants will have time to network, socialize, and enjoy light refreshments together.
Just like the Discover Rotary event at The Twisted Tomato, the upcoming gathering is open to anyone who wants to make a difference in their community.
Service as the Best Invitation
If the March 10 event proved anything, it’s that the most compelling invitation to Rotary is simple: come serve with us.
When neighbors roll up their sleeves to help their community, conversations turn into connections—and connections often turn into lasting commitments to service.
Blue Ridge took a big step forward that evening, demonstrating how Rotary can grow when service is placed at the center of the conversation.
With the enthusiasm shown at The Twisted Tomato, the future of Rotary service in Fannin County is looking bright.
Rotary District 6910 is part of Rotary International, a worldwide network of more than 1.4 million neighbors, friends, and leaders who come together to create lasting change in their communities and around the globe. District 6910 represents more than 70 Rotary clubs across North and Northeast Georgia, uniting professionals and community leaders who are committed to service above self.
Through hands-on projects, partnerships with local nonprofits, youth leadership programs, and global humanitarian initiatives, Rotary members work to address some of the most pressing challenges facing communities today—from fighting hunger and supporting education to improving health, protecting the environment, and promoting peace.
Interested in finding out about Rotary? Learn more about membership on our website and find the club closest to you!
