The Rotary Club of Santa Barbara Sunrise is proud to partner with Scouting America’s Troop 26, an organization that reflects many of Rotary’s own values of service, leadership, and community.
Our relationship began three years ago, when Troop 26 volunteered at the Dolphin Derby by running a face-painting booth. Since then, their involvement has grown tremendously. This year, 14 Scouts and adult leaders gave their time and energy to support the event set-up, breakdown and cleanup. Their dedicated service embodied the Rotary spirit of “Service Above Self.”
Beyond their work at our fundraiser, the Scouts demonstrate the importance of training and preparedness in real life. Just recently, Troop 26 made headlines for their
heroic rescue of a stranded hiker in the Sierra Nevada, a story that illustrates how Scouting builds confidence, character, and a commitment to helping others.
Sunrise Rotary has also provided grants to fund scholarships to Scouts with financial need, giving them the chance to attend summer camps and high-adventure activities that foster leadership, teamwork, and personal growth. As a small token of appreciation for their help at the Dolphin Derby, each Scout received a Rotary dolphin pin at a recent troop meeting. Scoutmaster M-J Hey expressed deep appreciation for Rotary’s support and shared his enthusiasm for continuing to build this partnership.
We’re also proud that one of our own, club member and Past President Bruce Belfiore, serves as an assistant scoutmaster with Troop 26.
By supporting Troop 26, Sunrise Rotarians are helping shape the next generation of community leaders!
