The Rotary Club of Atlanta West End gathered at Atlanta Technical College for a Club Assembly centered on strengthening operations, refining engagement strategies, and advancing several ongoing service initiatives. With the calendar year winding down and leadership planning ahead, the conversation highlighted the practical work that keeps our club active, visible, and connected to the community.
Progress on the Peace Pole Project
President Victoria Seals opened with an update on the Peace Pole installation, noting that funding has been secured and that images from Co-President Elect Debra Stokes will soon be shared with the BeltLine for site consideration. Atlanta Technical College remains a strong alternative location, with school foundation property adjacent to a public park, offering good visibility and long-term placement.
The installation must be completed by March. Purchasing materials, documenting the installation with photographs, and submitting receipts will satisfy the grant’s requirements. Coordination for an installation in conjunction with an MLK Service Day event was discussed, although that timeline may be tight. Planning continues as members work toward an early-spring installation.
Membership Engagement and Social Connection
Membership Chair Sonia Hantman led a focused discussion on cultivating stronger relationships among club members. She proposed monthly social gatherings in the West End, potentially including trivia nights or watch parties, to create relaxed environments where members can connect and invite potential new Rotarians. There was broad agreement that these gatherings would reinforce fellowship and strengthen recruitment. It was also noted that some perspective members may want to be involved in service projects beyond the value of our in-person weekly meetings. Therefore it was recommended that we create more service projects as a part of AWER’s repertoire. These projects could be described in the Keyway and presented in our member recruitment materials.
Members also revisited the use of name tags during meetings. Name tags help guests, new members, and long-time Rotarians build rapport more easily. The sentiment was clear: simple tools that support visibility and hospitality make a meaningful difference in member engagement.
Service Partnership with Booker T. Washington High School
Bridget Long provided updates on the club’s continuing support for Booker T. Washington High School. Thanksgiving donations were successfully delivered, which were generous contributions of food and gift cards. As winter break approaches, she encouraged members to help assemble snack packages for students who face food insecurity while school is out of session.
The school welcomed deeper partnership, including opportunities for students to attend our meetings and for Rotarians to participate in student recognition events. An Amazon wish list to streamline recurring donations was discussed.
Administrative Priorities and Member Status
Administrative matters were reviewed with attention to dues payment and bylaw requirements. The treasurer noted concerns about members significantly behind on dues, and the assembled members agreed that adherence to the bylaws and a clear communication plan are essential.
Each member receives a quarterly invoice, and dues must be paid within 30 days of receiving the invoice, per Article 6 of the Bylaws. Club dues cover a variety of mandatory expenses such as RI per capita dues, subscriptions to the official magazine, district per capita dues, club fees, accrued meal charges, and any other Rotary or district per capita assessment. Per Article 13 of the Club Constitution, any member who fails to pay dues within 30 days after they are due shall be notified in writing by the secretary. If dues are not paid within 10 days after the notification, the club board may terminate membership, at its discretion. The board may reinstate a former member if the former member pays all debts to the club.
Your membership dues help to keep our service strong. Please click here now to pay on the District 6900 website.
Leadership transitions begin in January, with elections scheduled for February. Members were encouraged to consider where they might serve. The elected positions open for consideration are the president-elect, secretary, treasurer, and the other director positions, which consist of the chairpersons of the standing committees. The standing committees of the Atlanta West End Rotary Club are: Club Administration, Membership, Public Image, Service Projects, The Rotary Foundation, and Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI).
Closing Reflection
This meeting underscored the steady, practical work that sustains our club: thoughtful planning, structured engagement, and a shared commitment to service. As we prepare for a new year, AWER continues to build a culture grounded in fellowship, accountability, and purposeful action.
Jared Evans & Neil Shorthouse, KeyWay Meeting Reporters