Local Rotarians responded immediately, focusing on supporting our community during the pandemic. The club has been busy applying for relief grant funds, baking for the Patagonia Youth Enrichment Center, learning how to use Zoom meetings, assembling and passing out grocery supplies to needy families, donating fabric to local masks makers, all the while continuing to support our local youth.

Rotary Students of the Months (March,April,May) at PUHS were Nick Botz, Jose Santos, and Emma Young; each were introduced at a club meeting and awarded a crisp $100 bill. Two local students were awarded a $1,000 Scholarship: Arriana Ochoa Tovar and Jose Santos, both of PUHS. There were five excellent applicants who we are confident will make our community very proud with their continued successes. Six 8th Graders were awarded $100 each for their outstanding merits; from Patagonia Elementary: Hailey Mihai, Janelle Valenzuela, Angelina Bonell; from Elgin Elementary: Brett Gronlund, McKenzie Beyer, and Cason Scouten. These students were selected by the staff at their respective schools for demonstrating leadership in citizenship and academics. 

The club received two grants from Rotary District 5500, one for $500 which was donated to the Patagonia Youth Enrichment Center in support of preparing meals for students’ families; and $300 which was split between two projects. The club donated $150 to Elen Kentnor and Mimi Henley who have made 3,000+ reusable fabric protective face masks that they have donated. $150 was used to purchase several hundred books to be distributed to students so they can continue reading through the summer while the library and schools are closed. 

We’re very pleased to see that many folks have been enjoying our Rotary Park in Sonoita. We have terrific projects coming up and would enjoy more good folks joining our worthy and active club … People of Action, Making a Difference! Please contact Susan Scott, SusanScott15@msn.com if interested