The Rotary Clubs of Newport News, Oyster Point, Virginia Peninsula, Warwick at City Center, and Yorktown are proud recipients of a multi-club district grant of $25,000 from Rotary District 7600. This significant sum, contributing to a project total of $27,500, will be used to boost a joint effort titled “Connections that THRIVE.” The project aims to bring immense benefits to THRIVE Peninsula, an organization that works tirelessly to equip people with practical tools and fresh perspectives to transition through crises toward financial peace and accountability.

Come early fall, THRIVE Peninsula is set to move into a new location on Nettles Drive. The newly-acquired grant will be instrumental in refurbishing several rooms within the Community Connect Wing of the new facility. Besides renovations, the project also encompasses building self-watering garden beds in the outdoor Patio Garden, purchasing laptops, a smart board, and room dividers for a large conference room.

Beyond the tangible contributions, the heart of the Rotary Clubs manifests in service. Members of these Rotary Clubs will volunteer at “The Market at THRIVE,” a full-service food pantry. Here, they will assist families with grocery shopping, pack meal kits, and help restock shelves, creating a ripple effect of support within the community. The project is projected to conclude by late January 2024, marking a milestone in the combined efforts of the Rotary Clubs and THRIVE Peninsula.

THRIVE Peninsula offers an array of services, including Critical Bill Assistance, a Food Pantry, Financial Coaching, a Partner Church Network, and Supportive Services. The goal of these services is not merely to assist individuals in need but to empower them to thrive.

This initiative underscores the Rotary International and the Rotary Foundation’s commitment to providing grants that support a diverse range of projects worldwide. These grants aid scholarships, training, and projects carried out by Rotary members everywhere. Various resources are available to assist you in fully harnessing the potential of these grant opportunities, furthering the Rotary’s mission of service above self.

“Connections that THRIVE” stands as a testament to the power of unity and service. As the Rotary Clubs of District 7600 and THRIVE Peninsula work together, we are reminded of the impact we can make when we pool our resources and skills. Stay tuned for updates on the project’s progression, and join us in celebrating this milestone in service and community support.