Jennifer Ray, of Cassopolis, is the director of the Cass District Library and the immediate past president of the Dowagiac Rotary Club. Ray turned over leadership of the area service organization to new President Sandra Bessey during the club’s last meeting Thursday.

 

How long have you been a member of Rotary?

Since around 2005.

Why did you want to join?

When M. E. [Harper] — she was the former director — left, she had been a member of the club and the board wanted me to continue her membership in the club, to continue representing the library at Rotary.

What are some of the things you’ve done with the club over the years?

I’ve been the club secretary in the past…I probably served as secretary for five years. Other than that, I’ve always tried to be the best member I can. I always try to participate in community events, like the walks and raffle and calendar sales. Anything that was needed. I felt that I couldn’t help this year, but I’ve helped out with our Rotary blood drives in the past.

What made you want to volunteer to become president last year?

It seemed to be my turn and I wanted to step up to the plate and do the best I could. I wanted to do my part to help keep this club alive.

What are some of the things the club accomplished during your term?

We fulfilled the district’s governor’s wish to have every club in the district give a local a family a better Christmas, and we certainly did that. The van was stuffed with [gifts]. We really did the club proud in term of giving stuff to the family we had adopted through social services. We increased the scholarship amount. We also maintained membership…it stayed about steady. We’ve seen interest in membership grow, though, as we have two new people who will be joining the club soon. We’ve had some wonderful programs too.

What is the most important thing Rotary gives to the community?

We’re an organization in the community that is dedicated to helping young people become leaders, and also helping with initiatives to water to polio eradication. We help locally with things like scholarships and youth leadership and internationally with the bio-sand filters or raising money for polio eradication.

Is there anything you want to say to encourage people to get involved with Rotary?

We have a great time. There’s fun, camaraderie, we learn some good information and there’s enthusiasm for helping others, whether it is here in Dowagiac or in another country in the world. You get to be part of something that makes a difference in the lives of so many.

 

Do you know a volunteer worthy of recognition? Nominate him or her by calling Craig Haupert, community editor, at (269) 687-7720, or by email at craig.haupert@leaderpub.com.