When Rotarians are part of a local service project, they do more than just put in a day of volunteer work. They perform an act of social responsibility and community empowerment that reflects their motto of “Service Above Self.” A perfect example is Columbia-Patuxent Rotary Club’s yearly support of Rebuilding Together Howard County Day.
This meaningful project involves teams of volunteers from across our area coming together to repair and revitalize the homes of neighbors in need as part of National Rebuilding Day. Current club president Karen Mosel has been involved since 1998, when the program was known as Christmas in April. She’s a six-year board member and fundraising committee co-chair as well.
“This work matters. We are committed to improving the quality of life for elderly homeowners, individuals with disabilities, veterans and families with children—people who have worked hard but can no longer afford the critical repairs their homes need,” Karen says. “In today’s challenging economic climate, the need is even greater. Rebuilding Together fills a vital gap by serving an often-overlooked population in Howard County. It brings dignity, safety and stability to those who need it most.”
Columbia-Patuxent’s house rehab project included such tasks as building and installing two fence gates, caulking and painting window trim, kitchen trim painting, replacing three posts in a split-rail fence, adding hangers to a pergola, putting corrugated extensions on four downspouts, strapping and connecting another downspout, cleaning and mulching a flower bed, and moving an orange azalea to the cleaned bed.
These small jobs comprise more than hands-on service. They show caring hearts sharing values of compassion and unity, of taking care of our own and honoring the dignity of neighbors. They have a tangible impact, not only physical results but also intangibles like meeting new people, bridging divides and proving that we can take care of each other. In essence, that’s what Rotary is all about.
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