The Melissa Rotary Club's Service Projects Committee is kicking off the 2026–2027 Rotary year with an ambitious schedule of 17 service projects led by Chair Brian Kirkpatrick. From annual traditions to exciting new initiatives like Rise Against Hunger, members will have countless opportunities to live out Rotary's motto of Service Above Self.
Service is the heartbeat of the Melissa Rotary Club, and the 2026–2027 Rotary year promises to be one of our busiest yet. Under the leadership of Brian Kirkpatrick, Chair of the Service Projects Committee, our club has already planned an impressive calendar of 17 service projects that will provide members with opportunities to make a difference. These projects will support local traditions, honor our veterans, fight hunger, and serve those with special needs. Brian and the committee have set up a variety of activities that reflect Rotary’s commitment to Service Above Self.
Our calendar includes many annual traditions, such as the Chili Cook-Off, Veterans Day Celebration, Wreaths Across America, Heart of Melissa Spring Festival, Special Olympics, and the Memorial Day Ceremony. This year also marks the addition of an exciting new service opportunity – Rise Against Hunger. These projects not only serve our community but also remind us to improve lives through service, compassion, and fellowship.
The excitement doesn't stop there. The committee is already exploring several new initiatives that could expand our reach even further. Ideas currently under consideration include a Kenya Water Project, bringing clean water to communities in need; a family-friendly Game Night designed to bring our community together; a Clothes for Veterans program to support those who have served our nation; and other opportunities that continue to reflect Rotary's commitment to meeting both local and global needs. Every project is an opportunity to build relationships, welcome new members into service, partner with community organizations, and leave a lasting impact on the people we serve. Whether you're handing out meals, placing wreaths to honor our veterans, cheering on Special Olympics athletes, or packing meals for families across the globe, every act of service matters.
The Service Projects Committee is off to a remarkable start, and throughout the year we'll be sharing stories, photos, and highlights from each project.