Doing Good 6220!

Part 1 Jerry Stepaniak is a member of the Rotary Club of Milwaukee and Chair of the clubs World Community Services Committee, and Laura Johnson is a Senior majoring in Environmental Engineering at Marquette University and a member of the university's Engineers Without Borders program. In this episode, we talk with them about the collaboration that's delivering clean water to the mostly-indigenous Mayan people living in the Guatemalan Highlands - projects District 6220 has supported with funding for many years. Part 2 We get to know more about Jerry and Laura, including Laura's plans as she graduates with a degree in Environmental Engineering.    Resource Links Video about the club's water projects in Guatemala  Information about Guatemala Highlands Trip Opportunities - Each year, the Rotary Club of Milwaukee organizes trips to visit sites where projects have been completed or are in progress. Members of supporting clubs and districts (including District 6220) are welcome to participate. Trip opportunities open up in the fall/winter. Current Opportunities for Project Support - Link takes you to the Rotary Club of Milwaukee website. Click on the "Making a Difference Globally" tab and then click on Partner Appeal.  

Part 1 We interview Sarah Diller - Regional Membership Development Officer with Rotary International about what she's learned from working with clubs and districts on membership growth. It is a conversation loaded with practical insights to promote growth and member retention. Sarah shared a number of helpful resource links, which we've included below.  Part 2 We learn more about Sarah and how she ended up working with Rotary International. Resource Links Hosting a Prospective Member Event Finding People to Invite: A Prospective Member Exercise Managing Prospective Member Inquiries Rotary Club Health Check Membership Assessment Tools ...and additional resources can be found at www.rotary.org/membership

Part 1 We talk with Scott Foster about the Dolly Parton Imagination Library and the role that the Rotary Club of Eagle River has played in getting the program going in Vilas County. The Imagination Library program mails one age-appropriate book each month to any family that signs up from birth to five years old. A great way for clubs to work with partners such as libraries and schools to promote literacy in their communities. Part 2 We learn about Scott's background, how he joined Rotary, and his Rotary journey.  Resource Lins Dolly Parton's Imagination Library Imagination Library Impact Model and Research  News story about Imagination Library launching in Vilas County

Part 1 We talk with people involved with Rotaract Club at Northern Michigan University - Paul Hein, Liaison from the Rotary Club of Marquette Harbor; Carol Johnson, Faculty Advisor; and Halle Johnson, student and club Vice President. Listen and learn how the club got started, what attracted students join and what they get out of membership, the challenge of sustaining a club amidst student turn-over, and how the club is benefiting its community while creating a valuable experience for its members. Part 2 We learn more about Paul, Carol, and Halle. Resource Links Rotaract NMU Instagram Page Information about Rotaract on Rotary International website Tips for Starting a Rotaract Club on a College Campus

In this interview, we learn about Rich Lepping and how he has been applying the skills and experience gained through his successful career as a successful Taco Bell franchisee to leading the Rotary Club of Lakewood (Minocqua). Rich's story is a great example not only of how to live out Rotary's 2nd Avenue of Service (Vocational Service) in the world, but how to translate business experience to club leadership.  Resource Links Helpful article on history and purpose of Rotary's 2nd Avenue of Service - Vocational Service

Part 1 As District Governor, I (Chuck) travelled to Escanaba to volunteer for their Vino at the Casino fundraiser. I took away at least three great ideas and a huge amount of respect for the team that put on such a fun and profitable event. In the first part of the interview Club President Sarah Slagstad and event leader Dough Leisenring talk about their club, Vino at the Casino, and what they do to make the event better and more successful every year. You will get some great ideas from this podcast, we're certain.   Part 2 We get to know Sarah and Doug as they talk about their careers and Rotary experiences.  

Tom Boldt is Chairman of The Boldt Group, a $1.5Billion 100% employee-owned family of companies specializing in construction management, general contracting, and real estate development. Talking with Tom, it's clear that what sets Boldt apart is its culture which is at the root of their employee experience, strategic adaptibility, and how they treat their customers, suppliers and labor partners. It is no accident that the Boldt family has been deeply involved in Rotary and that there are many parallels between the values of the Boldt Group and Rotary.  A truly informative, interesting and entertaining discussion.  Resource Links Boldt Group Website Boldt Group Values Bold Group on LinkedIn  

Part 1: We talk with Houghton Club members Greg and Ann Campbell about their club, including: The impetus for developing a Companion Club How the Board decided to launch the club the club How the club operates (meeting times, place, agenda, etc.) The types of projects it has completed already The club's relationship to its host club  Impact on club growth and culture Part 2: We learn more about Greg and Ann and their Rotary journeys. Resource Links Blog Post on Service Companion Clubs Fact Sheet from DACdb  

The five Rotary Clubs in the Fox Cities are collaborating on an event where professionals in the community will be able meet, network, and learn about Rotary. In this brief episode, we learn how Garrett Singer got involved with Rotary and about this membership event, the theme of which is Friendship, Service, Fun.     Find event details on this event registration page.   

Part 1: A wide-ranging and fun discussion with Tom covering his career, how he became involved in Rotary, how he led strong membership growth at his club in the Twin Cities, and his experience as a leader in Rotary International.  Part 2: Tom talks about how Minneapolis landed the RI International Convention in 2028, what to expect, and how - as a neighboring district - we'll be able to get involved in making the convention a great success. Resource Links Tom was kind enough to share a number of links to helpful Rotary resources.  Membership strategies guide - Practical tactics for recruiting and retaining members (e.g., referral campaigns, information hours, classification gap analysis) that help clubs grow and deepen engagement.  Opportunities beyond the club - District posts highlighting fellowships, partnerships (e.g., Habitat for Humanity), and international service trips as ways Rotarians can engage outside regular club activities. Creating an engaging experience - District guidance on improving the member experience at meetings, events, and projects so members stay active and take on district or international roles. Guidance on alternative club models - examples from zones that have successfully launched new clubs. Practical tactics from membership toolkits - run a “Who Do You Know?” campaign, host service‑first events to recruit, and create a simple online onboarding flow. Rotary International’s host announcement - explains that Minneapolis was selected to host the international convention and gives the official dates and expected scale, which frames all local planning and volunteer needs.

Part 1: Chuck Blaksmith and Joe Meyskens of the Rotary Club of Marquette tell us about their partnership to run a monthly mobile food pantry for Feeding America - what it entails, how the opportunity came about, and how the club made the bold decision to commit to the partnership.  Part 2: We learn more about Chuck and Joe - their careers, how they joined Rotary, and their Rotary experience. Resource Links  Rotary Club of Marquette website Rotary Club of Marquette Facebook page Feeding America - West Michigan Contact Doing Good 6220! with your comments, suggestions, and guest ideas at [email protected]

Part 1: We interview Wes Klages, President of the Rotary Club of Waupaca and lead for the club's Education Grant Program. Learn how the program got started, hear about the types of classroom innovations it's made possible, and the nuts and bolts of implementation.  Part 2: Learn more about Wes, his career, how he became a Rotarian, and his Rotary experience. Resource Links Education Grant Application (online form) Education Grant Application (pdf) How the Rotary Club of Waupaca Supports Education Contact Doing Good 6220! with your comments, suggestions, and guest ideas at [email protected].  

Part 1: Rob Moore and Nancy Loberger, Co-Chairs of the District 6220 Ukraine Reliefe Task Force (UARTF) provide task force updates and talk about how members and clubs can get involved. Rob talks about his recent trip to Ukraine, the people he met, and opportunities to help.  Part 2: We learn more about Rob and Nancy. Resource Links UARTF Website Buy a Pin to show your support Learn abour Project Cure Kits Website for Rotary District 2232 in Ukraine Social Media Facebook:  https://www.facebook.com/uartf Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rotary6220.uartf   Contact Doing Good 6220! with your comments, suggestions, and guest ideas at [email protected].

Part 1: Bob Shogren, member of the Rotary Club of Sturgeon Bay Breakfast, mentor to the club's Interact club, and champion/guide to clubs across the District seeking to start or energize Interact clubs reviews his background as an educator and involvement with Interact. We then talk with Bob about:  Interact clubs - what they are and how they impacts students and clubs How a club can get Interact clubs going in their community Tips for working with students to grow and support clubs over time Bob's philosophy for working with students Part 2: We learn more about Bob's life and Rotary journey.  Resource Links Useful info from the Sevastopol High School Interact Club that Bob mentors Sevastopol - Organizational Meeting Agenda Sevastopol Constitution Sevastopol Bylaws Member Agreements  Relevant links from Rotary International Interact Club Constitution Interact recommended Bylaws Interact Guide for Club Sponsors and Advisors If your club would like guidance or would just like to be connected with other clubs in District 6220 that are working to establish or enliven their Interact clubs, you can reach Bob Shogren at [email protected].    Contact Doing Good 6220! with your comments, suggestions, and guest ideas at [email protected].

Part 1: Roger talks about how he became District Governor, the role of the DG, and his experience serving the District. He also talks about opportunities for members and clubs to engage with Tribal Nations in our district in an effort to promote goodwill and understanding. Roger's passion for Rotary and the opportunities Rotary membership and leadership provide for us to make an impact is inspiring.  Part 2: We learn more about Roger's life, career, and Rotary journey.   Resource Links Rotary's Seven Areas of Focus Wisconsin First Nations Education Resources Michigan Indigenous Education Resources Native American Education and Tourism - Wisconsin Native American Education and Tourism - UP of Michigan Land Acknowledgment Statement  Contact Doing Good 6220! with your comments, suggestions, and guest ideas at [email protected].

Part 1: Scott Knaffla, District Finance Chair who works as a financial advisor reviews a number of giving strategies. Much of the conversation focuses on giving strategies that reduce one's tax liability, such as giving appreciated shares of stock or giving directly from your individual retirement account. Of course, members should consult their accountant or financial advisor for specific advice regarding giving strategies that are best for them. Part 2: We learn more about Scott - his life, career, and Rotary journey.   Resource Links 2025 Tax Brackets and Federal Income Tax Rates | Tax Foundation The Rotary Foundation | Rotary International Ways to Give | Rotary International Paul Harris Society | Rotary International Rotary endowment | Rotary International Arch Klumph Society | Rotary International 2024 Publication 526 Publication 590-B (2024), Distributions from Individual Retirement Arrangements (IRAs) | Internal Revenue Service Contact Doing Good 6220! with your comments, suggestions, and guest ideas at [email protected].

Part 1: Rotary Club of Waupaca member Tim Neuville talks about two low-effort/high-yield fundraising programs he introduced to the club. Topics discussed include: The Rotary Club of Waupaca’s traditional, labor-intensive fundraisers – benefits and drawbacks. Ambassador Program – Raising money by simplifying club/event sponsorship for area business and other supporters. Tauck River Cruise – Raising money by having members and friends enjoy bucket-list travel experiences. Part 2: We learned about Tim’s career and experience with Rotary. Resource Links Ambassadors page on the Rotary Club of Waupaca Website Ambassador program invite letter (includes program details) River Cruise information/invite letter (includes trip details and links) Tauck Group Travel web page (other travel companies will offer similar sorts of deals to enable your club to make money on travel excursions. Contact Doing Good 6220!with your comments, suggestions, and guest ideas at [email protected].

Part 1: Rotary Club of Wausau member Kathryn Halvorsen talks about how clubs can get their message out and improve their public image through traditional media. Topics discussed include: The role of traditional media Making your story attractive to traditional media Creating a good press release for different channels (print, radio, television) Breaking through by thinking like a story-teller Building relationships with local media decision-makers Importance of identifying a critical point to emphasize in coverage Part 2: We get to know Kathryn's story - where she grew up, her professional career path, and her Rotary journey.  Resource Links How to write an effective press release Press release templates and examples Rotary Brand Center (source for images, videos, logos, and more) Contact Doing Good 6220! with your comments, suggestions, and guest ideas at [email protected].

Part 1: District Public Image Chair Bryson Bernarde talks about how clubs can establish and grow awareness of their club and the good they do through social media. Topics discussed include: The advantages of social media Different social media channels Putting together a social media team Coming up with ideas for posts Creating events Tips for use of photos and videos The importance of story-telling Building your follower base Part 2: We learn more about Bryson, how he started his business, United Social Media while he was a Freshman in high school, how he joined Rotary, and how Rotary has played a role in his professional development. Resource Links How to create a Facebook Page Facebook Best Practices for Non-Profits Canva - Easy Design Tool for Creating Content Rotary Brand Center Contact Doing Good 6220! with your comments, suggestions, and guest ideas at [email protected].

Part 1: District Membership Chair Brian Monroe talks about the importance of growth and how clubs can succeed in growing their membership. The discussion touches on goal-setting, new member engagement, tips for sponsoring new members, and things that set growing clubs apart. Growth through the development of satellite clubs is also discussed.  Part 2: We learn more about Brian's life, career, and Rotary journey. Resource Links Member Satisfaction Survey - An easy-to-use guide that enables you to download and modify a survey using Google Forms. New Member Orientation Guide Examples of Up-To-Date and Welcoming Club Websites Door County North - message appears in the rotating banner, so you may have to wait for it to come up. Green Bay  Iron Mountain-Kingsford - Welcome letter from club president Merrill  Scroll down to the bottom of page. Waupaca Wausau After Hours Examples of Up-To-Date and Welcoming Facebook Pages Greater Portage County Iron Mountain-Kingsford Kewaunee Lakeland-Minocqua Sturgeon Bay Breakfast Contact Doing Good 6220! with your comments, suggestions, and guest ideas at [email protected].

Part 1: Learn about Rotary Youth Exchange - what it is, how students, host families, and clubs experience the program, and the impact of RYE on students, host families, clubs, and communities. Also learn about resources District 6220 has available to help clubs start, revitalize, or grow their RYE program.  Part 2: Learn more about Ellen, and how her own RYE experience inspired her involvement with Rotary. Resource Links District 6220 RYE Website  Friends of Exchange Satellite Club Facebook Page Host Family Experience - Videos Rotary International RYE Web Page RYE Video Contact Doing Good 6220! with your comments, suggestions, and guest ideas at [email protected].

Part 1: Richard talks about the 4-Way Test and how it can be used to guide ethical decision-making in business and in life.  Part 2: We learn more about Richard's professional background and his experience in Rotary. Resources and Links Figure of 4-Way Method of Ethical Decision-Making Richard Kyte's website Books by Richard Kyte Contact Doing Good 6220! with your comments, suggestions, and guest ideas at [email protected].

Part 1: Lisa talks about her role as the Executive Assistant for District 6220. Part 2: We learn more about Lisa's background, battle against cancer, and experience with Rotary. Contact Doing Good 6220! with your comments, suggestions, and guest ideas at [email protected].

Part 1: Jim talks about the International Service Committee, projects our district and clubs support, and how individuals and clubs can become involved in doing good around the world.   Part 2: We learn about Jim, his career, and his Rotary journey.    Info and Resource Links Newsletter article detailing project opportunities as of August 2025 Video about water projects District 6220 supports in Guatemala Learn about Rotary International's 7 Areas of Focus Contact Doing Good 6220! with your comments, suggestions, and guest ideas at [email protected].

Part 1: Chuck talks about the state of the district, how many clubs are adapting to the moment to revitalize and grow, and what's behind his message for the year: Vibrant clubs help their communities thrive! Part 2: We learn more about Chuck, his career, why he joined Rotary, and is Rotary experience. Contact Doing Good 6220! with your comments, suggestions, and guest ideas at [email protected].

Part 1: Adam, District 6220's RYLA (Rotary Youth Leadership Awards) Program Chair describes RYLA, the impact it has on youth, and how clubs can build successful RYLA programs.  Part 2: We learn more about Adam and how his own RYLA experience translated into a passion for helping to revitalize RYLA in District 6220 after the pandemic.  Info & Resource Links District RYLA Web Page - Includes information and links to forms to help clubs start or expand their RYLA program District RYLA Facebook Page RYLA Student Participant Testimonial Video Contact Doing Good 6220! with your comments, suggestions, and guest ideas at [email protected]    

Part 1: Victor Ogunyemi inspires us his story - how he contracted polio as a child, the impact it had on his early life, and how the support of his parents and years of physical therapy helped him regaine use of his polio-paralyzed legs and right arm. Victor is our District Polio Plus Committee Co-Chair and Global Scholar Grantee. Randy Winter, District Governor Elect and Polio Plus Committee Co-Chair updates us on Rotary's fight to eradicate polio and reviews ways members and clubs can support the effort. Part 2: We learn more about Victor's graduate studies and aspirations related to the development of energy solutions using biomass. Info and Resource Links District 6220 Polio Plus Society Application Form Rotary's End Polio Now website Polio Fundraiser Ideas for Clubs Questions or suggestions? Contact Chuck Reynolds at [email protected].