Montgomery Rotarians’ Thanksgiving Service

**Montgomery County Rotarians Cultivate Thanksgiving Spirit with Widespread Community Support**

**MONTGOMERY COUNTY, TX – November 28, 2023** – Rotary clubs across Montgomery County were beacons of community support and fellowship throughout November, dedicating their efforts to ushering in the Thanksgiving holiday with a focus on generosity and service. From festive luncheons to vital food drives and celebratory dinners, Rotarians demonstrated their commitment to enhancing the lives of their neighbors.

The Conroe Rotary Club kicked off the month’s major events with its “Giving Thanks” luncheon on Saturday, November 18, at Heritage Park of Conroe. The event gathered over 200 guests, including local leaders and dedicated community volunteers, to acknowledge their contributions and raise essential funds for educational opportunities. Spearheaded by Club President Mike Sproba and Rotary Assistant Governor Doris Ellis, the luncheon directed its proceeds to the Montgomery ISD Education Foundation, bolstering scholarship opportunities for local students pursuing higher education.

“Our ‘Giving Thanks’ luncheon is more than just a meal; it’s a celebration of the selfless individuals who make our community thrive and an investment in the future of our students,” said President Sproba. “The support from our members and guests ensures that the Montgomery ISD Education Foundation can continue its critical work in providing pathways to success for deserving youth.” (For more information on the Conroe Rotary Club or to support their initiatives, visit rotariansofconroe.org or montgomeryisdef.org).

Just days later, on Tuesday, November 21, the Rotary Club of The Woodlands hosted its Annual Thanksgiving Luncheon at a popular local venue. This significant gathering provided members with an opportunity to connect and, more importantly, to distribute various gifts and contributions to representatives from several local charities. Organizations such as Montgomery County Youth Services, Interfaith of The Woodlands, and the Crisis Assistance Center were among those recognized, reinforcing the club’s broad commitment to diverse community initiatives.

“Thanksgiving is a time to reflect on our blessings and extend a hand to those who need it most,” commented Sarah Thompson, President of the Rotary Club of The Woodlands. “Our luncheon underscores Rotary’s enduring promise to support the invaluable work of local charities that are making a tangible difference in the lives of our neighbors every day.” (Learn more about the Rotary Club of The Woodlands at thewoodlandsrotary.org).

Further west in the county, the Rotary Club of Montgomery sponsored a heartwarming Thanksgiving dinner for the residents of the Samaritan Women’s Shelter during the week leading up to Thanksgiving. This gesture, overseen by Club President Mike McDougal, provided a comforting and celebratory meal for women and children seeking refuge and support. The Samaritan Women’s Shelter offers a safe haven and comprehensive services for women in crisis, helping them rebuild their lives.

“Providing a warm, festive meal for the residents of the Samaritan Women’s Shelter is a small way we can show our compassion and solidarity,” stated President McDougal. “It’s about offering dignity and a moment of joy during a challenging time, reminding them they are not alone.” (Details on the Rotary Club of Montgomery can be found at montgomeryrotary.org).

Adding to the county-wide efforts, the Legacy Preparatory Christian Academy (LPCA) Interact Club, sponsored by the Rotary Club of Lake Conroe, spearheaded a substantial food drive throughout November. These high school students, embodying Rotary’s service-above-self motto, successfully collected an impressive 3,500 canned food items. The substantial donation was then delivered to the Montgomery County Food Bank, a leading hunger relief organization, to assist families struggling with food insecurity during the holiday season.

“Our Interact students truly embraced the spirit of giving,” said Emily Davis, LPCA Interact Club Advisor. “Their dedication to collecting such a significant amount of food will make a real difference for families relying on the Montgomery County Food Bank during this time of year.”

Kristine Newman, Director of Community Relations for the Montgomery County Food Bank, expressed profound gratitude: “The efforts of the LPCA Interact Club and the Rotary Club of Lake Conroe are invaluable. This generous donation helps us ensure that no family in Montgomery County goes hungry this Thanksgiving.” (For information on the LPCA Interact Club, visit legacyprep.org. To support the Montgomery County Food Bank, visit mcfoodbank.org. The Rotary Club of Lake Conroe can be found at lakeconroerotary.org).

These collective efforts by Montgomery County Rotarians highlight a deep-rooted commitment to service and fellowship, demonstrating the significant local impact of Rotary International’s mission to create positive and lasting change in communities worldwide.