On December 16th, thirty guests attended Rotary Club of Ashburn's first annual Guest Day.  Identifying a specific day to invite guests, afforded members a focused opportunity to think about active and involved members in the community who would also be enthusiastic Rotary members.    

The meeting's agenda for Guest Day showcased the great programs and activities that Ashburn Rotary supports.  The club recognized its Citizen of the Year nominees including Loudoun County Circuit Court Clerk Gary Clemens, Ashburn Rotary Citizen of the Year and nominee at the district level.  Jon Gonzales shared his "Rotary Story" with guests, fondly telling tales of growing up around Rotarians and even better days of finding cash under his dinner plate when Jon's father won the 50/50 drawing at Rotary that day.  And the service committee awarded the last two Bowl-a-Thon awards for the highest and lowest scores presenting the opportunity to talk to the group briefly about the Polio Plus Project.   

Finally, it just wouldn't be the holiday season at Ashburn Rotary without a group activity. To provide some support to local students in need, members and guests had the opportunity to stuff stockings with candy and write notes to the students.  The stockings will go into a drawstring back pack that contains toiletries, snacks, and small toys.  The back packs will be distributed throughout the holiday season.  Group activities like stuffing back packs are a fun and easy way to get everyone involved and gives the guests a tangible example of what Rotary is all about.

By all accounts, the first annual Guest Day was a success.  The club is looking forward to leveraging this ongoing opportunity to raise Rotary awareness in the greater Ashburn community and attract great new members.