Hi Thristina! To get us started, could you tell our readers a little bit about yourself?

Hello!  I am currently an International Rotary Peace Fellow in Brisbane, Australia.  I am also a Returned Peace Corps Volunteer, having served in Comoros (East Africa) from 2017-2019.  Afterward, I worked at the Peace Corps' headquarters in Washington D.C. for several years. Before obtaining the Rotary Peace Fellowship, I took immense pride in the people-to-people work in Comoros and in various other volunteer positions I held locally in the United States.

That is wonderful! Rotary and the Peace Corps have a long history of collaboration together. How did you come across the Rotary Peace Fellowship?

I heard about the Fellowship when I was a Peace Corps volunteer and it struck a nerve because I felt the education given was a great way for me to continue peace work after my volunteer service. Ultimately, I was selected in 2024 to be one of ten fellows from around the world to study at the University of Queensland for a Master’s Degree in Peace and Conflict Studies. It is a fully paid fellowship thanks to Rotary International, and I feel deeply honored to have been selected. I, without any doubt, would not have been able to have this opportunity if it wasn’t for the Rotary.

As Rotarians, we are always excited to hear how Rotary impacts our Fellows. How are you settling in to your new life in Brisbane? 

Since arriving in mid-January, I have been settling in very well thanks to my Rotary Host Counselors, David and Anna. They have been the most hospitable hosts and have mentored me through my new life here in Brisbane. I have bonded with them and know I wouldn’t have been able to settle into life in a new country without them. Additionally, I have discovered a neighborhood dog to admire and encountered a koala, a wallaby, frogs, and various birds.

I have also attended a few local Rotary events. One of them was a morning tea with the faculty of the University of Queensland and Rotarians in the area. Each fellow introduced themselves and talked about why peace is important to them. I very intentionally prepared something to say but, of course, I forgot a large chunk of it as soon as the microphone was in my hands. I think I managed to get out my main points successfully talking about how my privilege isn't a given in the world and I see it as my job to bring equity to other communities.

Encountering a koala and a wallaby, sounds like fun! We are delighted to hear things are going well. Sounds like you are in great Rotarian hands at the other end of the world! And how is school? 

I started my classes in late-February.  I am taking three core courses and one elective course. The classes are diverse, offering a variety of experiences and perspectives that I believe are necessary as we tackle complex issues. Being around the other nine fellows is inspiring; they all bring unique experiences and have done incredible work in their communities.

I have a full class schedule trying to learn and seize everything I can while navigating the hot summer in Queensland. I am excited, and, to be fully transparent, a bit nervous with hints of imposter syndrome, but I am finding support in the other students, the faculty, family, friends, and my Rotary counselors. Aside from my courses, my next big hurdle is finding an applied fieldwork position for three months starting in November. The Applied Field Experience is part of the Rotary Peace Fellowship and gives the fellows the opportunity for practical experiences. We will see where this takes me!

That all sounds exciting and busy!  It is an opportunity of a lifetime and although we just met you here at the Crystal City Pentagon Rotary Club, you can think of us as your “home club,” rooting for you here in the DC area and always ready to support in any way we can. 

Thank you all for your support while I work on my Master’s degree here. This truly would not be possible without the Rotary!  I'm grateful for the support from the Crystal City Pentagon Rotary Club.

We are so happy to be a part of your experience! Good luck with this exciting new chapter and we look forward to more updates and photos as your journey progresses. 
 

The Crystal City-Pentagon Rotary Club (CCPRC) recently attended a performance of the thought-provoking play Chicken and Biscuits, showcasing their support for the arts. Club members Steve Leisge, Peter Anderson, and Sue Walia, along with two friends, enjoyed an evening of theater at the First Stage.

The play, a 2015 hit from London's Royal Court, explores the complexities of justice and human nature through a gripping story line. The talented cast includes Lolita Horne, a three-time Helen Hayes award recipient and former Rotary Club speaker. Horne's impressive career includes performances at Arena Stage and other prominent area theaters.

One of the four areas of focus of the Club this year is arts and culture, along with education, veterans, and environment. 

By attending the play, the CCPRC members demonstrated their appreciation for the arts and their commitment to supporting local cultural events, while also raising over $100 for the club. The evening was a wonderful opportunity for socializing and enjoying a stimulating performance. 
 

In early April, the Crystal City Pentagon-Rotary Club (CCPRC) participated in the Four Mile Run Clean Up, demonstrating their commitment to serving the community. Club members, including Past President Grace Mukupa, Sue Walia, and Steve Leisge, joined forces to beautify the area and promote environmental stewardship.

With gloves and trash bags in hand, the Rotarians worked together with other volunteers and collected 567 pounds of trash and debris along the Four Mile Run stream. Their efforts not only improved the local environment but also set an example for community responsibility. The CCPRC’s participation aligns with one of the club’s four areas of focus this Rotary Year, the environment, and reflects their dedication to making a positive impact in the community. 

Members of the Crystal City-Pentagon Rotary Club (CCPRC) recently demonstrated its commitment to literacy and community development by supporting the English Empowerment Center's (EEC) “A Taste of Literacy” luncheon fundraiser. Held at the Army Navy Country Club, the event brought together community members and organizations to promote literacy and language skills.

Club members, District Governor Nominee 2026-27 Peter Anderson, CCPRC Rotarian Anupam Kumar, and his wife, Shalu, attended the fundraiser, showing their support for the EEC's mission. As an EEC board member, Anupam's involvement highlights the club's dedication to fostering partnerships and promoting community initiatives.

The EEC is an organization that has previously benefited from the CCPRC’s support, and also provided support for the club’s project to help resettle Afghan immigrants, by providing English language courses to an Afghan family. By attending the fundraiser, club members demonstrated their continued commitment to literacy and community development.

The club's involvement in this event highlights the importance of community partnerships and the role that organizations like the CCPRC can play in promoting literacy and community development. 

My name is Inja Nazon, and I am currently an exchange student in Arlington, Virginia, through the Rotary Youth Exchange program, sponsored by Crystal City-Pentagon Rotary Club. I am originally from France, and this year has been an incredible journey of learning, discovery, and unforgettable experiences. I am a junior at Yorktown High School, and I have had the opportunity to participate in several amazing activities, explore new places, and make lifelong friends.

One of the highlights of my exchange year so far has been my involvement in the Yorktown Dance Team. We have competed a lot, including at the Coastal at the Capitol cheer and dance competition in Washington, D.C., where we won first place for the GAME DAY DANCE! It was such an exciting and proud moment for all of us. We even traveled to Orlando, Florida, for the National Dance Competition. I went to Disney World for the first time with my dance team, which was an experience I’ll never forget. Being part of the dance team has not only allowed me to improve my skills but has also helped me make great friends, many of whom are now like family to me.

I’ve had the chance to experience American school spirit firsthand, attending football and basketball games with my friends. I’ve learned that sports play a huge role in American school culture. The practices, the games, and the crowds are all part of a tradition that is truly unique to this country. One of the most surprising things about my school experience has been the emphasis on sports and school spirit. In France, school events aren’t as centered around athletic competitions, so it was a new and exciting experience for me.

My favorite subject so far is history. I’ve always enjoyed learning about different cultures, and studying American history has given me a deeper understanding of this country’s past and its impact on the world today. I’ve also had the chance to make new friends during my classes, including other exchange students, and I’ve enjoyed getting to know people.

My host family has been amazing. They’re from Mexico, so I’ve had the opportunity to experience Mexican culture and tradition. Mexican food has quickly become one of my favorite cuisines. I’ve loved trying new dishes.

What has surprised me the most during my exchange year is how welcoming and friendly everyone has been. From my classmates to my host family, I’ve felt like I truly belong here.

Looking back on my time here so far, I can honestly say that I’m loving my exchange year. The experiences, friendships, and cultural exchange have all enriched my life in ways I never imagined. I can’t wait to see what the rest of the year will look like.

In a heartwarming display of Rotary spirit, Crystal City-Pentagon Rotarian Matt Leavitt and his wife Maria opened their home to host 20 Rotary Youth Exchange students and their Rotary Youth Exchange team members for dinner. Students were in town for a ‘DC Weekend’ and visited the Smithsonian and National Zoo as well as the Paul Harris plaque at the “Points of Light” volunteer display on 15th St.

This unforgettable evening embodied the essence of Rotary's mission to promote global understanding, peace, and friendship. As the students, hailing from several Rotary Districts, gathered at the Leavitts’ home, they enjoyed getting to know one another over games of pool and foosball and showed their considerable talent at singing and playing the guitar and keyboard.

The evening's festivities also included a delicious paella dinner cooked by Matt himself and birthday celebrations for three of the students, complete with cake.

Throughout the evening, the students shared stories about their cultures, traditions, and experiences as exchange students which in turn sparked engaging and memorable conversations.

This ‘DC Weekend’ and dinner gathering epitomized the magic of Rotary, which transcends borders and languages. By bringing people together, Rotary fosters global understanding, breaks down cultural barriers, and cultivates lifelong friendships.

Matt Leavitt, a long-time dedicated member of the Crystal City-Pentagon Rotary Club, emphasized the significance of hosting exchange students: “Maria and I wanted to provide a welcoming space for these incredible young individuals to share their stories and connect with one another. It's moments like these that remind us of the power of Rotary to unite people and inspire positive change.”

Anyone interested in finding out more about Rotary's Youth Exchange Program is encouraged to contact YE Chair Barry Gordon at the Fairfax Rotary Club, Matt Leavitt, or any member of the Youth Exchange Committee. They are always looking for good candidates, families in our District willing to host students, and Rotarians of good will wishing to participate in the program. 

Thank you, Matt and Maria, for your kindness, hospitality, and commitment to the Rotary spirit!
 

On a crisp Saturday morning, March 15, 2025, the Crystal City-Pentagon Rotary Club (CCPRC) embarked on a heartwarming community project, distributing over 50 children's books to various locations in Alexandria. This initiative was the result of a Rotary District 7610 service project led by incoming District Governor Ravi Respeto during the Chesapeake Presidents Elect Training Seminar (CPETS) which took place March 6-8 in Chantilly, VA.

The goal of the service project was to promote literacy and bring joy to young minds. The CCPRC element of the district-wide project was led by the club’s President/President-elect Dr. Marina Theodotou and District Governor Nominee Peter Anderson. The project saw club members, including Club President Marina, come together to make a positive impact. The team visited Carpenter's Shelter, a local organization providing vital services to homeless families, and three Little Library locations in Alexandria on the corners of North Fairfax and Madison Streets, Pitt and Gibbons Streets, and on Wolfe Street between Fairfax and Royal Streets.

The book distribution was met with enthusiasm and gratitude from the recipients. The children's books, carefully selected to cater to diverse age groups and interests, will undoubtedly provide hours of entertainment, education, and inspiration. “This community project underscores the Crystal City-Pentagon Rotary Club's commitment to education and giving back to the community,” said DGN Peter. By promoting literacy and supporting local organizations, the club demonstrates its dedication to creating positive change and a tangible difference in the lives of children and families in our community. 

HIBS was founded by Crystal City-Pentagon Rotary Club (CCPRC) member Glen Evans through his charity Art for Humanity, which emphasizes helping those is need to become capable of independent living. Through their long-term partnership, CCPRC has supported several initiatives at HIBS, including supporting a new septic system, outfitting new classrooms with chairs and desks using a district grant, funding walls for the lunchroom and bathrooms, and securing donated laptops and other items for the students and school.

HIBS, located in Quimistan, Honduras, provides Pre-K through 12^th grade students with standard academic courses while teaching English as a second language and imbuing the students with the values of independent and responsible living.  Students from all income levels attend without differentiation by families’ wealth, with some students receiving financial assistance up to full scholarships provided by the school and individual donors.  The school is run and staffed entirely by young Honduran teachers, themselves striving to perfect their use of English.

CCPRC members and their family members visit the school annually and have provided hundreds of volunteer hours over the years. These visitors attend classes to assist the teachers in their use of English and usually present classes of their own to broaden the students’ awareness of topics not in the normal curriculum. In February 2025, three CCPRC members and two non-members spoke to the students about how to make informed decisions, how to protect themselves from harm on social media, and how airplanes fly. They also organized the students to perform singing and dancing routines, which they showed off on the last day of the visits.

This long-standing relationship demonstrates how the magic of Rotary enriches cross-cultural relationships and provides ongoing support at the local level that is able to meet the specific needs of communities.
 

On January 26, 2025, Crystal City-Pentagon Rotary Club, alongside four other local organizations, partnered with Arlington County Central Library to table at the showing of Join or Die.

Join or Die is a 2023 documentary about the decline of community engagement and the value of club participation and deeper community connections. The documentary features Robert Putnam, author of Bowling Alone, and references many organizations, including Rotary.  A lively Q&A with co-directors Becca and Pete Davis followed this standing-room only event.

Crystal City-Pentagon members attended the documentary and, by hosting a table, spread awareness of the Club’s activities and opportunities for community engagement. Arlington County Central Library will host a Joiner Fair - in which Crystal City-Pentagon Rotary Club will participate! - this spring.
 

Dr. Grace Mukupa, a Crystal City Pentagon Rotary Club member, was highlighted by the Zambian National Broadcasting Corporation and other media outlets for her generous contribution to Mufulira Secondary School in Zambia's Copperbelt region. The donation included pens, pencils, library books, pocket dictionaries, and footballs, all intended to enhance educational resources and support student success.

Although Dr. Mukupa could not attend the event in person, her colleague, a fellow Rotarian and teacher at Kakungu, presented the donations on her behalf, reflecting her unwavering commitment to community service and empowering youth.

School headteacher Moses Kabamba expressed heartfelt gratitude, emphasizing that the timely donation would inspire 851 students to strive for excellence. Representing the student body, Cheswa Kabasa thanked Dr. Mukupa, sharing that the supplies would encourage students to work harder and inspire them to become responsible citizens dedicated to giving back to their communities.
 

The Crystal City-Pentagon Rotary Club kicked off 2025 with excitement and enthusiasm as they inducted three new members into their dynamic team. The induction ceremony, held in Old Town Alexandria, was attended by club members and guests.

The three new inductees were welcomed by Club President Dr. Marina Theodotou and Secretary Ms. Christine Kras. Each new member brings unique skills and experiences to the table, and the club is eager to tap into their talents to drive meaningful service in the community.

As the club looks to the new year, they are gearing up to launch several innovative projects focused on education, veterans, environment, and arts and culture. One of the flagship initiatives is a scholarship program supporting local underprivileged graduating seniors. The club is also planning to partner with a local shelter to cook a full dinner for its guests.

Marking the occasion, Dr. Theodotou said that the club is "thrilled to welcome our new members and look forward to working together to create positive change in 2025 and beyond!"
 

The Crystal City Pentagon Rotary Club (CCPRC) proudly supported Wreaths Across America by purchasing 42 wreaths to honor the nation's fallen heroes. 

The project raised $714 for Wreaths Across America and $220 for the club. The project was led by CCPRC Past President Steve Leisge.  CCPRC's contribution helped place wreaths on graves at Arlington National Cemetery and many other cemeteries across the nation and the world as a symbol of gratitude and respect for those who served and honoring the fallen. Further, the club participated in the picking up of wreaths on January 11, 2025, and Steve represented the club in an on-air interview for wreathsacrossamerica.org/radio.

On Saturday, Nov. 2, 2024, a dedicated group of community members gathered at Alexandria's Founders Park for a monthly clean-up event. 

Among them were five members of the Crystal City-Pentagon Rotary Club (CCPRC), led by President Dr. Marina Theodotou, who was accompanied by club members Archie, Sheriann, Steve, and Peter.  The team tackled the park's maintenance with gloves, trash pickers, and trash bags provided by the Founders Park Association, which organized the initiative. The association aims to preserve the park's beauty and ensure a clean, safe environment for residents and visitors. 

CCPRC President Dr. Marina Theodotou emphasized the importance of these events: “One of our Club’s four focal areas this year is the environment. So, today we are here to support the park clean up. Our parks are the heart of our community. By working together, we not only maintain their beauty but also foster connections among neighbors and spread the magic of Rotary.”

In only an hour, the volunteers' hard work paid off. With the several bags of trash collected, the park was transformed into a pristine oasis. The effort demonstrated the power of collective action and community spirit. Quick win service projects like this clean-up serve as a testament to the impact Rotarians can have as people of action collaborating toward a common goal.  

On Tuesday, October 29, 2024, the Crystal City-Pentagon Rotary Club (CCPRC) hosted its First Annual Giving Gala at Jula’s on the Potomac, a well-known restaurant with incredible views of the Potomac, great food, and impeccable service. The event brought together 39 dedicated Rotarians and friends for an evening of generosity and fellowship. 

This inaugural event marked a significant milestone in the club's commitment to community service and charitable giving to fund scholarships. 

The event moderator, Past President Matt Leavitt, welcomed guests while the band played jazz tunes as the sun was setting on the Potomac. 

The event honored two students who benefited from the club's scholarship program and youth exchange activities. Rotary’s motto of “service above self” was shining bright. “Tonight, we are honored by your support and celebrate our collective efforts and reaffirm our commitment to creating lasting change by supporting education, which is the foundation and framework for everything else,” said CCPRC President Dr. Marina Theodotou.


Long-time Rotarian Dr. Neal Davidson offered a riveting keynote, sharing powerful stories of Rotarian impact, highlighting Rotary’s focus, and spreading much laughter and cheer. The audience was inspired by his tales of resilience, compassion, and transformation and entertained by his focus on fun, friends, and fellowship.

Through a silent auction of delectable gourmet baskets, led by Club Treasurer Alejandra Underwood, the gala surpassed its fundraising goal to support educational scholarships for local high school students. The club's dedication to addressing pressing global issues was also evident throughout the evening.

CCPRC recognizes all guests, Rotarians, and friends for their indispensable contributions to the evening’s success. As the CCPRC continues to grow and thrive, events like the Giving Gala will remain essential to its avenues of service in spreading the magic of Rotary. 
 

On Sep. 21, 2024, Crystal City-Pentagon Rotary Club (CCPRC) President Dr. Marina Theodotou, along with District Governor Nominee and Past President Peter Anderson, were joined by club members Sue Sheats, Glynn Bates, and Stefan Tisma for a visit to Carpenter’s Shelter in Alexandria, Virginia. 

Carpenter’s Shelter provides support to people experiencing and at risk of homelessness to achieve sustainable independence through shelter and housing placement, guidance, education, and advocacy. Last year, Carpenter’s Shelter served more than 700 homeless and formerly homeless children and adults.

CCPRC visited the premises with Ms. Megan Cole, Development Associate, and agreed to organize a volunteer day where club members could offer services to guests including cooking and serving meals, providing career and resume advice, and tending to the garden, among other activities.

“Their mission aligns with our Rotary avenues of service at the community level and, through our visit, we learned the needs of the shelter so we can spread the magic of Rotary in early 2025,” said Dr. Theodotou. 

 

Two students participating in Rotary's Youth Exchange Program are just now getting settled in with their host families.  Before too much time goes by, we thought we'd share how they're doing:

Mayla (Arlington, VA) arrived in Briançon in the French Alps in late August.  Her father Juan Pablo (Crystal City-Pentagon Rotary Club) was a youth exchange participant in Austria many years ago, so the family tradition continues.  Mayla, starting her junior year in high school, hoped to find a placement in France as she's been studying French for the past two years.  Mayla took the initiative to learn about her options, fill out the paperwork, and was rewarded with a placement in France.  Mayla stepped up her French studies this past spring in anticipation of her year abroad.  As she's just arrived in Briançon, we'll have to check in with her again to see how her year is progressing.

Inz (Marseille, France) arrived in Arlington, VA in mid-August.  Hosted by Juan Pablo's family, she had the good fortune to spend time with Mayla before Mayla began her exchange program in France.  Prior to Inz' arrival in the US, Inz' family and Juan Pablo's family were able to introduce each other via WhatsApp.  Since her arrival, Inz has begun her junior year at Yorktown High School.  Before Mayla headed to France, she helped Inz get in touch with the dance coach at Yorktown; Inz has dance experience and was interested in joining the team.  Not only did Inz make the team, she's been attending regular drills for upcoming performances and games. Inz becomes more proficient in English every day as she attends classes at Yorktown and interacts with Juan Pablo's family, including Mayla's younger brother and sister.  The whole family is excited and happy to host Inz – they're making her feel very welcome here in Virginia.

Stay tuned for a future update on Mayla and Inz!
 

On Saturday, September 14^th, more than 16 members of the Crystal City-Pentagon Rotary Club volunteered at the Arlington Food Assistance Center (AFAC) to package black beans and oats, both nutritious staples in daily meals. 

AFAC serves the Arlington community and provides dignified access to free groceries, which allows families to devote their limited financial resources to obligations such as housing, utilities, medication, and other basic needs.

Crystal City-Pentagon Rotary Club members have been volunteering at AFAC for several years, and it is always a rewarding fellowship and community service experience.

“Helping others is a great way to start the day,” said Club President Dr. Marina Theodotou. Rotarians Past President Dr. Grace Mukupa and Member Kim Murphy organized and coordinated the effort, with several other similar volunteering days in the works for the Rotary Year.

On June 29, 2024, the Crystal City-Pentagon Rotary Club (CCPRC) held its annual installation ceremony for our incoming 2024-2025 Club President and officers at the Columbia Island Marina.

The event began with CCPRC presenting two $5,000 scholarships to outstanding Wakefield High School seniors who have demonstrated dedication to public service.

Outgoing President Joe also awarded the 2023-2024 Club Rotarian of the Year award to Bonnie Crouch for her outstanding service as club Secretary and her support to numerous other organizations in the community.

District 7610 Governor Amelia Stansell installed incoming CCPRC President Dr. Marina Theodotou. Dr. Theodotou then installed board officers for the new Rotary year. Service focus areas for the upcoming year include veterans, education, arts and culture, and the environment.

There was food galore, great fellowship, and a good time had by everyone!

 

The Crystal City-Pentagon Rotary Club (CCPRC) closed out the 2023-2024 Rotary year in June 2024.
CCPRC offers our sincere thanks to everyone – members, friends, family, community partners – for showing up this year and dedicating resources, time, and energy to help make our community stronger.
We had a number of significant accomplishments this year, including:

1. CCPRC launched an effort to support Ukrainian refugee orphans. This was in collaboration with the Rotary e-Club Poland and aimed to support the mental health of 50 Ukrainian refugee orphans living in two refugee camps in Poland.

2. CCPRC supported students at Wakefield High School through scholarships and support for the school’s Community Closet.

3. CCPRC engaged in numerous avenues of service and fellowship by:

• Volunteering for AFAC, Arlington’s MLK Day of Service, and the HIBS school in Honduras;
• Spreading the word about our small business resources at community events;
• Celebrating our club’s 40^th anniversary;
• Hosting a women’s brunch;
• Engaging in service to District 7610 and supporting youth exchange programs;
• Visiting the Black History Museum of Arlington and the National Gallery of Art;

Thanks to all those who donated to the CPETS Hygiene Products project last month!

CPETS attendees assembled over 2,000 hygiene kits. Over 52 Rotary Clubs in District 7610 then distributed these kits to local organizations in need.

As part of this initiative, Crystal City-Pentagon Rotary Club’s President-Elect, Dr. Marina Theodotou, donated 33 hygiene kits to Carpenter's Shelter. Carpenter's Shelter is a nonprofit organization in Old Town Alexandria supporting people experiencing and at risk of homelessness to achieve sustainable independence through housing and shelter placement, guidance, education, and advocacy.

Crystal City-Pentagon Rotary Club has been invited to tour Carpenter’s Shelter and discuss opportunities for donations and service projects in the next Rotary year.
 

At Arlington’s Feel the Heritage Festival in February, a team from Crystal City-Pentagon Rotary Club (CCPRC) spread the word on free small business resources. The well-attended annual festival featured dozens of exhibitors and fabulous live entertainment. Among them, CCPRC members worked to support local economic development by speaking with prospective entrepreneurs and sharing flyers with free resources for local small businesses. CCPRC greatly appreciated this opportunity to connect with our community and support entrepreneurship.

On Monday, January 15th, six members and two family supporters of the Crystal City-Pentagon Rotary Club participated in Volunteer Arlington’s MLK Day of Service.

Their work supported efforts to engage and inspire girls in STEM.



Working together with other volunteers, CCPRC members packed 2,800 hands-on STEM kits for local schools and community partners.

The STEM kit packing event was organized by the Rosie Riveters, a nonprofit that engages preschool to high school girls in STEM and equips them with an enduring growth mindset. The organization offers interactive, hands-on programs that give girls from diverse backgrounds a fun space to imagine, learn, and play. 

 

In June 2023, the Crystal City-Pentagon Rotary Club (CCPRC) and the eClub Poland launched a rapid fundraising effort to support 50 Ukrainian orphan refugees living in two refugee camps in Poland.

In collaboration with Rotary e-Club Poland, the project aims to support the mental health of 50 Ukrainian refugee orphans (ages 7-16). Building on Rotary e-Club Poland's ongoing efforts to support Ukraine, the project will give these children the opportunity to attend an 11-day mental health and cultural immersion camp on the Baltic Sea coast this summer. They will receive psychological therapy sessions, study the Polish language and culture in an informal setting, take part in sports, and engage in social integration activities with Polish peers.

In June 2023, the Crystal City-Pentagon Rotary Club launched a successful rapid fundraising effort to send 26 refugees to this cultural immersion summer camp. Rotary e-Club Poland will fund the remaining 24 youths. We are grateful to all our donors for making this project a reality.

A team from the Crystal-City Pentagon Rotary Club will travel to Poland to meet our counterparts and visit the cultural immersion camp in late July-Aug. 2023. Our team is also exploring avenues for future support. 
 

Congratulations to the Rotary Club of Crystal City-Pentagon for recognition at the District 7610 Awards on July 22, 2023.

Our club and club members were honored for their dedication, service, and hard work in support of Rotary's ideals. We are grateful to be part of such an outstanding group.

• District Governor’s Citation in honor and recognition of the club’s dedication to service, completing 19/23 goals and its commitment to Rotary.
• Certificate of Recognition for active and cooperative participation in the “One New Member Challenge” for adding 8 new members between April and June 2023.
• Rotarian of the Year 2022-2023, Peter Anderson, in appreciation and recognition of distinguished service, loyalty, and devotion to the ideals of Rotary.
• Citizen of the Year 2022-2023 (runner up), in special recognition of Wakefield High School's Interact Club Sponsor.
• Golden Rotarian, Neal Davidson, in appreciation of 50 years of dedicated Rotarian service, devotion, and commitment to the community and world.