October 24 was no ordinary Thursday night in South Georgia. The Rotary Club of Americus held a Networking Event and used the event to court prospective members, as well as share information about World Polio Day and explain Rotary’s involvement in the eradication of the disease. The event was a registered World Polio Day event and the Americus club pledged $5 for every Rotarian registered for the social to go toward Polio Plus. That money, plus an additional $100 member donation, totaled $200 and translated to a $600 impact in the fight against polio with the 2:1 match by the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation.

The networking event, prompted by the District 6900 Club Social Grant, drew nearly 50 people, including 16 special guests. “We are thrilled that this event not only functioned as a networking social for Rotarians and prospective members, but also served to raise awareness regarding World Polio Day, the End Polio Now campaign, and Rotary’s involvement in the eradication of the disease,” stated Rene Smith, President of the Club. “It was a great way to build those better friendships and serve as a foundation for introducing Rotary and its values to others within the Sumter County community,” said Smith.

The event was held in Downtown Americus at the Windsor Hotel in a venue space overseen by Steve Miller, owner of Little Brother’s Bistro and Toboggan Steve’s. Miller also catered the event which was held from 6:30-8:30 pm. While Rotarians and guests socialized, a PowerPoint presentation ran on a loop inside the room. The presentation included pictures of and highlighted information on the club’s service projects, monthly Thirsty Thursday socials, annual events, as well as, the two events hosted in Americus for District 6900 – the annual Sheffield Gala and the Rotary Youth Leadership Awards.