Brookings Rotary Club supports community with Thirsty Thursday collections

Brookings Rotarians serve the needs of local communities around the world. They also enjoy the company of one another and the fellowship that exists among Rotarians. Last year’s Thirsty Thursday meetings raised nearly $1,800 for 12 different community organizations.

On the first Thursday of every month, Rotarians gather at a local pub at 5 p.m. for refreshments and fellowship, then pass the hat around for a predetermined local cause. Recently, the club officially celebrated the cumulative donation of $1,794 raised for various organizations since July 2023.

“Thirsty Thursdays have become a wonderful way for us to support a number of local groups that help our community. These events also give Rotarians a chance to meet informally and just have fun while visiting some of our great local restaurants and bars,” said Rotarian Steve Sewell, who chaired the Service Project Committee this year and will serve as president-elect of the Brookings Rotary Club starting in July. “It’s also a great way for guests to learn more about the work of Rotary while visiting with members of our club.”

Last year, the following organizations received Thirsty Thursday funds: Brookings Area United Way, Brookings County Youth Mentoring Program, Boys & Girls Club of Brookings, Brookings Backpack Program, Disabled American Veterans, Feeding Brookings, Brookings Food Pantry, Helpline Center, Sleep in Heavenly Peace, Brookings Regional Humane Society, Harvest Table and Brookings Domestic Abuse Shelter.

Venues included The Pheasant, Craft Chophouse, Wooden Legs, Cubby’s, Ps & Qs, Skinner’s Pub, Edgebrook Clubhouse, Ray’s Corner, Mosaic Wine Bar, The Lanes, The Bank Saloon and Whiskey Creek.

Rotary meets regularly every Tuesday at noon at the Brookings Activity Center. Guests are welcome. For more information, visit the website at www.brookingsrotary.org.