As we step into January 2026, we begin the year focusing on Vocational Service Month, celebrating how our skills and careers bring meaningful impact to communities through service. In December, just before Christmas, I had the privilege of visiting several of our clubs across the district. From Idabel and Antlers, Oklahoma, to Pittsburg, Paris, and Clarksville, Texas, the passion and commitment of our Rotarians were truly inspiring. These visits reflect the very heart of Rotary — clubs united in service, fellowship, and action.
District Foundation Banquet Weekend — Paris, Texas
Mark your calendars for a fun-filled weekend and celebration! Our District 5830 Foundation Banquet is set for:
Saturday, February 21, 2026 5:00 p.m. – 8:30 p.m. CST
Paris Conference & Event Center, Paris, TX (click to register)
This annual event is more than a banquet — it’s a chance for all of us to come together, celebrate our clubs’ and members’ achievements, and recognize outstanding contributions toward The Rotary Foundation. Whether you’re a longtime supporter of the Foundation or new to Rotary, this is the perfect opportunity to connect with leaders and fellow Rotarians from around District 5830.
There will be a delicious dinner, fellowship, silent auction, Paul Harris raffles, and great company. Don’t miss this chance to reconnect, share stories, and build momentum for the year ahead. Our keynote speaker is Rotary International Director, Brian Hall.
Register soon — the deadline is February 11, 2026!
Uniting for Greater Impact
Rotary International’s message for the 2025-26 year invites us to "Unite for Good" — bringing members together, strengthening connections, and deepening collaboration to amplify our impact.
Our RI Presidential directive encourages consistency in service and greater collaboration across clubs and communities. What better way to live out that call than to meet together in Paris? The Foundation Banquet Weekend gives us the space to share ideas, align our efforts, and renew our collective commitment to service above self.
Investing in Youth & Leadership: RYLA 2026 Begins
January also marks an exciting step forward for Rotary Youth Leadership Awards (RYLA) in District 5830.
This month, PDG Karen Maines will be facilitating RYLA leadership training for our district leaders at the Boy Scouts of America Camp Trevor Reese-Jones in Athens. This important training prepares our volunteers and facilitators as we look ahead to the first RYLA Youth Session, which will take place later this month.
RYLA is one of Rotary’s most impactful investments in the next generation — equipping young leaders with skills in communication, ethical leadership, teamwork, and service. I am grateful to PDG Karen and her committee for their continued leadership and dedication to ensure our district delivers a meaningful, high-quality RYLA experience for our students.
As we emphasize Vocational Service Month, there is no better reminder of how Rotary develops leaders — not only in our professions and communities today, but for generations to come.
Let’s Make It a Great Start
As we embrace Vocational Service Month and all the opportunities ahead, I encourage every Rotarian to:
• Register for our Foundation Banquet and join the celebration in Paris.
• Reflect on how your club’s service contributes to our district’s impact.
• Engage with clubs beyond your own to build new collaborations.
• Carry the spirit of Unite for Good into your Rotary activities throughout 2026.
Thank you for all you do — and here’s to a year of meaningful service, fellowship, and shared accomplishments!
In Rotary Service,
Damon Donnell
District Governor
