On October 29th The Rotary Club of Kittery was honored to celebrate and recognize five Community Champions. Five individuals who are outstanding supporters and volunteers within our community. In a gathering at the Kittery Community Center the Club recognized the efforts and commitment of Whitney Blethen, Julie Dow, Kelly Philbrook, Steve Lawrence, and Frank DeSarro.
The Rotary Club of Kittery's Community Champion recognition was established to celebrate the quiet champions within our community who quietly give of their time and embody Service above Self to their neighbors. Hosted by the year's Club Co-Presidents, Pauli Rines and Brad Hirst, and MC'd by Keith Launchbury, the Club was honored to recognize Whitney Blethen, Julie Dow, Kelly Philbrook, Steve Lawrence and, (Posthumously) Frank DeSarro. Each honoree received a certificate, a pin, and was made a Paul Harris Fellow. Paul Harris Fellow recognition represents a $1,000 donation to Rotary service work here and abroad, made in their name.
Whitney Blethen, nominated by Megan Rohan based upon Whitney's many volunteer efforts and especially her work to establish and maintain the Seacoast Fridge project, Each of the awardees is involved in many volunteer efforts, and only a few are mentioned , but all, as Megan stated for Whitney, "A voice for those who have none, an advocate for the underserved, and an organizer of people to act where there is need"
Julie Dow, nominated by Eric Waddell, based upon her long work as chair of the school committee, providing direction and leadership through many transitions. Julie has been elected chair unanimously by the School Board for the past seven years, dedicated hundreds of hours, chairing at least 150 school committee meetings. Julie's "ability to navigate complex educational issues with clarity and compassion has been invaluable in maintaining and enhancing the quality of education in our district". The time and effort, leadership, and attitude has been invaluable to the community.
Kelly Philbrook and Steve Lawrence are two friends doing good, they were nominated by Lisa D'Angelo. Kelly and Steve are responsible for the appearance of the Buoy Tree, raising money for community projects, and the Stuff a Boat, again - to name only a few of their individual efforts in the community.
Frank DeSarro was nominated by Peggi Stallings Gregory. Unfortunately Frank past away this year after the Club had requested nominations, but we all agreed people needed to know about what he did for our community. Through a chance encounter several years ago Frank became concerned about the welfare and experience of the J-1 Students who come to our community each year to help staff many of our local businesses. the J-1 program is a State department program encouraging overseas students to work for several months and learn about the USA. many of our businesses on the seacoast depend on the program for staffing. For 10 years Frank worked as an ambassador and advocate for these students, taking them on trips around the area, holding gatherings at his home, helping to make connections and solve problems. He organize a local support network and found hosts for them to stay with.The J-1 Support program that Frank help start continues and enriches the experience these students have. His friend Alan Bauters accepted the recognition on Frank's behalf.