Fellow Rotarians of District 5830,As we enter this season of gratitude, reflection, and service, I continue to be inspired by the heart and spirit I see across our district. Each club or event I have visited—whether in Texas, Oklahoma, or Arkansas—has shown me that Rotary’s strength is the power of community, the impact of shared service, and the hope we offer to others through our collective action.
Over the past month, I had the joy of visiting clubs across District 5830, witnessing the creativity and dedication each brings to “United for Good.” From community fundraisers to youth service initiatives, from partnerships with local nonprofits to early holiday outreach projects, your efforts are creating real and meaningful change. Thank you for welcoming me and our AGs so warmly and for demonstrating what Service Above Self truly looks like.
A Call for Holiday Service Across All Clubs
December is one of the most important times of the year for us to come together—not only within our individual clubs but as a united district. I want to encourage every Rotary and Rotaract club in District 5830 to seek opportunities to collaborate this month:
- Joint service projects
- Shared food drives and Operation Full Plate contributions
- Community holiday events
- Rotary visibility and partnership moments
When we combine our efforts, our impact multiplies. Let’s shine together this season.
International Peace Begins With Us
Rotary’s commitment to global peace is not only a message we share—it is a mission we live. I want to highlight the work of our District International Peace Chair, Tammy Haas, who has been developing opportunities for clubs and communities to engage in meaningful conversation, education, and action toward peacebuilding.
Please take time this month to learn about the resources and programs available through her committee. Peace does not just happen; it is created through intentional relationships, service, understanding, and compassion—qualities that Rotarians exemplify every day.
December Rotary Theme: Disease Prevention & Treatment Month
This month, Rotary International places a spotlight on one of our core Areas of Focus:
Disease Prevention & Treatment.
Disease Prevention & Treatment.
From polio eradication to clean water initiatives, from mental health support to health equity projects around the world, Rotary empowers communities to live healthier lives.
This is a perfect time to:
- Highlight health-focused projects in your club
- Partner with local clinics, hospitals, or nonprofits
- Support Hope Springs Water and other WASH-related initiatives
- Advocate for wellness and prevention in your own communities
I encourage each club to reflect on how your service contributes to a healthier, more hopeful world.
Year-End Giving & Rotary Direct
As we approach year-end, I invite every Rotarian who has not yet done so to consider enrolling in Rotary Direct. It is the easiest, most consistent way to support The Rotary Foundation and empower projects both here at home and across the world.
And remember:
All year-end gifts to The Rotary Foundation are tax-deductible.
This is a wonderful opportunity to make a meaningful impact before December 31—and to support the incredible work that your Foundation makes possible.
This is a wonderful opportunity to make a meaningful impact before December 31—and to support the incredible work that your Foundation makes possible.
Save the Date: The 2025–26 Rotary Foundation Banquet
January 24, 2026 – Paris…Texas, that is!
Who wants to join me—and your District Leadership Team—in PARIS?
Yes… Paris, Texas!
The 2025–26 Foundation Banquet will be held in one of our district’s most charming communities. We are planning a fun-filled weekend, and I am excited to announce that RI Director Brian Hall and his spouse, Lynn will be joining us as our distinguished keynote guests.
The 2025–26 Foundation Banquet will be held in one of our district’s most charming communities. We are planning a fun-filled weekend, and I am excited to announce that RI Director Brian Hall and his spouse, Lynn will be joining us as our distinguished keynote guests.
More information, registration details, and hotel blocks will be available soon here: District 5830 Foundation Banquet | Rotary District 5830. Mark your calendars—you won’t want to miss this celebration of our district’s leadership in Foundation giving. Last year we led Zones 30/31, and together we are well on our way to surpassing $500,000 this Rotary year!
In Closing
Thank you for your commitment to Rotary, to your communities, and to one another. I am grateful to serve alongside you, and I look forward to all the good we will continue to accomplish together.
Wishing each of you a joyful, peaceful, and service-filled holiday season.
Yours in Rotary Service,
Damon G. Donnell
District Governor 2025–2026
Rotary District 5830
Rotary Club of Athens
