Chattanooga Commemorates 110 Years of Rotary Service

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Community members gather at the unveiling of the Chattanooga Rotary Club historical marker.

News Summary

Chattanooga celebrates a historical milestone with the unveiling of a new marker honoring the Rotary Club’s 110 years of community service. Located at the UBS Building, this marker pays tribute to the club’s longstanding dedication to civic responsibility and the impactful legacy of its members, including notable leader John Germ. With a focus on local initiatives and community engagement, the Rotary Club continues to inspire future generations to contribute positively to society.

Chattanooga Commemorates 110 Years of Rotary Service with New Historical Marker

Chattanooga, known for its vibrant community spirit and stunning landscapes, has a lot to celebrate these days! One of the city’s shining stars, the Chattanooga Rotary Club, recently received a special honor—a new historical marker to commemorate their incredible 110 years of service to the community. This exciting ceremony took place on a beautiful Friday morning, and the atmosphere was filled with joy and pride.

A Symbol of Legacy

The historical marker was unveiled in a prime location—right in front of the UBS Building, at the intersection of MLK Boulevard and Broad Street. This spot is not just a place to pass by; it now serves as a reminder of the unwavering dedication and impact the Rotary Club has had on the city since its inception in 1914. Over the decades, the club has become a cornerstone for Chattanooga’s business leaders and a symbol of civic responsibility.

Honoring a Distinguished Leader

Along with the club’s remarkable history, the marker also pays tribute to John Germ, a true Chattanoogan who made waves on the international stage after joining the local Rotary Club back in 1976. Germ went on to serve as the President of the International Rotary Club, leading with a mission that resonates with everyone who has ever been a part of the organization: the motto of “service above self.” This motto is not just words; it’s a way of life for Rotarians.

110 Years of Community Service

For more than a century, the Chattanooga Rotary Club has rolled up its sleeves to support various community initiatives. With a dedicated membership of 328 individuals, this club ranks among the best, holding the title of the 13th largest Rotary Club in the U.S. and a spot in the top 30 worldwide. They’re not just any organization; they are a force for good, working hand-in-hand with local citizens and governments to make everyday life better for so many.

Making a Local Impact

In a bid to keep their efforts close to home, the club has adopted the “five-mile rule”. This guideline encourages members to focus their philanthropic efforts on projects within a five-mile radius of their meeting space at the Convention Center. It’s a fantastic way to ensure that their good deeds resonate deeply within the local community. From providing support to the Chambliss Center for Children’s Isiah House—which offers vital resources to foster care children and parents of NICU babies at Erlanger Hospital—to promoting literacy by distributing books to childcare centers, their impact is felt in countless ways.

Engaging the Community

But that’s not all! The Chattanooga Rotary Club actively engages in what they call a “season of giving,” where members dive into various community initiatives, encouraging others to join in. Whether it’s through organized reading sessions, donations to local charities, or other forms of community engagement, the members are dedicated to fostering a spirit of collaboration and service.

A Bright Future Ahead

With a legacy like this, the Chattanooga Rotary Club is sure to continue making waves in the community. The unveiling of their historical marker not only marks a celebration of the past but inspires future generations to carry on the proud tradition of service. Next time you find yourself in downtown Chattanooga, take a moment to stop by the marker, reflect on the history, and perhaps consider how you can contribute to your own community.

Here’s to another 110 years of remarkable service from the Chattanooga Rotary Club and the positive difference they will undoubtedly continue to make!