North Fulton Rotary's 24th Annual Interfaith Prayer Breakfast
Submitted by Jonathan Stelling, Prayer Breakfast Committee Chair
On Thursday, May 7th, North Fulton Rotary gathered for our 24th Annual Interfaith National Day of Prayer Breakfast, one of the most meaningful traditions of our Rotary year. More than 300 community members came together in fellowship, including Rotary leaders, elected officials, first responders, faith leaders, nonprofit partners, and Rotarians from clubs across North Fulton and Rotary District 6900, including Rotary Club of Alpharetta, Roswell Rotary Club, Johns Creek - North Fulton Rotary Club, and many others.
This year's theme:
"Glorify God Among the Nations: Seeking Him in All Generations"
"Tell of His glory among the nations, His wonderful deeds among all the peoples." -1Chronicles 16:24 (NASB)
We were honored to welcome Kirk Driskell, Founder of Vision Warriors and a City of Alpharetta Councilman, as our keynote speaker. Kirk shared a deeply personal story about reaching a place of brokenness, pain, and ultimately surrender. What stood out most was how a simple act of kindness changed the trajectory of his life: a Rotarian who welcomed him, took an interest in him, and met him with compassion instead of judgment.
The encounter became a model for how he now serves others.
Several messages from Kirk will stay with me long after the breakfast:
- We all have something to offer someone else.
- Our stories are not ours to keep. The are meant to be shared.
- We are called to show up and serve.
His three practical takeaways were equally powerful:
- Seek God earnestly every day.
- Share your story, not only when life is polished and perfect, but from where you are today.
- Intentionally intersect with others and look for opportunities to serve.
And one finally reminder that captured the spirit of the morning:
"The only way to keep what I have is to give it away."
The ripple effect of 300 people carrying out this message back into their homes, workplaces, and into the community is impossible to measure, but incredibly inspiring to imagine!
Grateful to everyone who helped make this special morning possible.
April 28, 2026 Meeting Recap
What an exciting celebration at our meeting on April 28th! District Governor Steve Ivory visited to help recognize our club's extraordinary showing at the District Conference under the steady leadership and guidance of President Erik Bykat. DG Steve Ivory gave a champagne toast to our club and there was also a decadent chocolate cake to enjoy!
A special highlight of the meeting was seeing PDG/ DRFC (Foundation Chair) Bob Hagan proudly honor Mike Mudd for receiving Rotary International’s prestigious Citation for Meritorious Service—an award reserved for Rotarians whose sustained service has created lasting impact far beyond their own club.
PDG Hagan also had the privilege of recognizing extraordinary generosity to The Rotary Foundation by presenting Major Donor Level 2 honors to Mike Mudd and his spouse Rachel, as well as Doug Higgins and his wife Michelle. These gifts represent a deep commitment to Rotary’s mission of changing lives around the world.
The meeting was capped off by an outstanding and fascinating program from Dr Greg Coffman, who educated everyone on the rapidly advancing world of robotic surgery and the life-changing impact technology is having on patient care.
The Sandwich Project with Cambridge High Interact Club
On April 22nd, we had the privilege of spending an incredible afternoon with the Cambridge High Interact Club, partnering with The Sandwich Project to make a real difference in our community. Together, we prepared and packaged 200 sandwiches for individuals and families facing food insecurity.
What makes this effort so meaningful is more than the meals—it’s the connection. The Sandwich Project brings students and community leaders side by side, creating an opportunity to serve, collaborate, and lead with compassion. It’s inspiring to see young people step up, work as a team, and contribute to something bigger than themselves.
Grateful for the energy, heart, and dedication everyone brought to this effort. Small acts, when done together, can create a powerful impact.
Red Cross Blood Drive with Roswell Rotary
We were proud to lend a hand alongside our friends at the Roswell Rotary Club during the American Red Cross Blood Drive at Roswell Junction on April 29th. 
Did you know there’s currently a critical need for blood donations to help replenish depleted supplies? Someone in the U.S. needs blood every two seconds.
The Roswell Rotary Club regularly hosts blood drives—their next one is June 24 from 8:00 AM to 2:00 PM at Roswell Junction. If you’re able, consider donating and making a lifesaving difference.
Thanks to Mark Hutchins for leading this effort on behalf of our club.
Companion Club Update
Reminder that our companion club meeting is May 21st at Thrive, 44 Milton Avenue, Alpharetta (located above Minnie Olivia Pizza) at 6:30 pm.
The Guest Speaker for this month's meeting will be Dan Jenkins, President Elect.
The Companion Club is organizing a service project to gather household items for individuals who are transitioning from temporary housing into a more permanent situation. Stay tuned for further details.
If you have any questions, please reach out to Joseph Powell, (912) 662-2246.
Membership Minute: Service Impact
Submitted by Jeffrey Esterkes, Membership Chair
Membership multiplies our ability to serve. One new member means more hands, more ideas, and more lives touched. Who can you invite this month?
First Tuesday Social: June 2nd
Please join us at our First Tuesday Social at Central City Tavern, 19 Academy Street, Alpharetta, on June 2nd from 6:00 to 8:00 pm. If you have any questions, please reach out to Mark Hutchins.
Steve Cory has graciously agreed to run another round of Trivia for us and we can also play cornhole if weather permits.
Women in Rotary
The next quarterly Women in Rotary event will be sponsored by Rotary Club of North Fulton on June 16th from 5:30 to 7:30 pm at:
Brimstone Restaurant & Tavern
Appetizers will be provided and guests will purchase their own beverages.
Please bring a $5.00 or $10 gift card for Publix/Kroger/Walmart to support Children's Development Academy.
Please RSVP at: Women in Rotary
Gentlemen - please let your significant others know about this!
Any questions, please call Joy at (770) 715-5422
