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.

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. 

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!"
 

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.