• May 27: Memorial Day Program with El Ahlwardt

    May 27: Memorial Day Program with El Ahlwardt

    Join us Tuesday for our annual Memorial Day Program, organized by our History Committee.

    We are honored to welcome Commander El Ahlwardt as our speaker. Though he originally planned a career in business management, El shifted course after his junior year of college and joined the U.S. Navy. Over the next 21 years, he and his family served in 13 different locations before settling in Fishers. His final military assignment brought him here, where he served as the officer in charge during a joint post at the Department of Defense Information School at Fort Harrison. He retired in 1994, the same year Fort Harrison was decommissioned.

    Since then, Commander Ahlwardt has continued to serve—this time by honoring others through his active involvement in the City of Fishers ceremonies commemorating military service.

    We encourage you to invite a service member or guest to attend, and please remember to wear your RED, WHITE, and BLUE as we come together to honor and remember.

    All are welcome at Rotary programs. If attending in-person at The Rathskeller, reservations and prepayment are appreciated, but not required. Register on Square at https://rotary-club-of-indianapolis.square.site/. If registering on site we accept Visa, MasterCard, Discover and American Express.

    Lunch and networking start at 11:45 a.m. and the program runs 12:15 p.m. – 1:15 p.m.

    To join our meeting via Zoom starting at 12:15 p.m. go to https://zoom.us/j/710170874?pwd=bFE4ejJTc29IMlNzVmx1Wlg4MTA1UT09. While our Tuesday programs via Zoom are free to attend a suggested donation of $3 – $5 is appreciated in lieu of the typical room fee. These contributions help defray the cost of our hybrid meetings. Please note that donations to the Rotary Club of Indianapolis are not tax deductible. You can support our hybrid meetings at https://rotary-club-of-indianapolis.square.site/.

    Meeting ID: 710 170 874
    Password: 821795

    If joining via a mobile phone for audio only click one of the following numbers:
    +13126266799,,710170874#,,#,821795# US (Chicago)
    +19292056099,,710170874#,,#,821795# US (New York)

    You can also join us from a landline phone.
    +1 312 626 6799 US (Chicago)
    +1 929 205 6099 US (New York)

    Meeting ID: 710 170 874
    Password: 821795

  • May 20: Dave Miner

    May 20: Dave Miner

    Join us Tuesday for a powerful and thought-provoking program with Dave Miner, a retired executive from Eli Lilly and a passionate advocate for ending hunger in Indiana.

    Dave is the producer of two impactful documentaries, The Working Hungry and Food, Insecure, which shine a light on the harsh but often hidden truth: more than 700,000 Hoosiers – many holding one or more jobs – face food insecurity. These films not only debunk persistent myths about hunger, but also offer practical and hopeful pathways forward.

    With a BS and Ph.D. in Chemistry, Dave spent 28 years at Eli Lilly and Company, concluding his career as a senior executive at Elanco. But for the past 17 years, he has dedicated himself as a full-time volunteer, providing leadership to numerous organizations focused on ending hunger.

    All are welcome at Rotary programs. If attending in-person at The Rathskeller, reservations and prepayment are appreciated, but not required. Register on Square at https://rotary-club-of-indianapolis.square.site/. If registering on site we accept Visa, MasterCard, Discover and American Express.

    Lunch and networking start at 11:45 a.m. and the program runs 12:15 p.m. – 1:15 p.m.

    To join our meeting via Zoom starting at 12:15 p.m. go to https://zoom.us/j/710170874?pwd=bFE4ejJTc29IMlNzVmx1Wlg4MTA1UT09. While our Tuesday programs via Zoom are free to attend a suggested donation of $3 – $5 is appreciated in lieu of the typical room fee. These contributions help defray the cost of our hybrid meetings. Please note that donations to the Rotary Club of Indianapolis are not tax deductible. You can support our hybrid meetings at https://rotary-club-of-indianapolis.square.site/.

    Meeting ID: 710 170 874
    Password: 821795

    If joining via a mobile phone for audio only click one of the following numbers:
    +13126266799,,710170874#,,#,821795# US (Chicago)
    +19292056099,,710170874#,,#,821795# US (New York)

    You can also join us from a landline phone.
    +1 312 626 6799 US (Chicago)
    +1 929 205 6099 US (New York)

    Meeting ID: 710 170 874
    Password: 821795

  • May 13: Rick Graef

    May 13: Rick Graef

    Join us Tuesday to hear from Richard Graef – a tenured musician with the Indianapolis Symphony Orchestra and an accomplished competitive sailor. While Rick is well known for his musical talents, he’s also a seasoned sailor who has competed in numerous long-distance ocean races, including the renowned Transpacific race from Los Angeles to Hawaii.

    Rick will share the incredible story of his 2024 race from Newport to Bermuda. During this grueling event, his crew diverted course to assist nine fellow sailors in distress – 350 miles from the finish line. Hear firsthand about their heroic rescue efforts and how, remarkably, they still completed the race and placed third.

    All are welcome at Rotary programs. If attending in-person at The Rathskeller, reservations and prepayment are appreciated, but not required. Register on Square at https://rotary-club-of-indianapolis.square.site/. If registering on site we accept Visa, MasterCard, Discover and American Express.

    Lunch and networking start at 11:45 a.m. and the program runs 12:15 p.m. – 1:15 p.m.

    To join our meeting via Zoom starting at 12:15 p.m. go to https://zoom.us/j/710170874?pwd=bFE4ejJTc29IMlNzVmx1Wlg4MTA1UT09. While our Tuesday programs via Zoom are free to attend a suggested donation of $3 – $5 is appreciated in lieu of the typical room fee. These contributions help defray the cost of our hybrid meetings. Please note that donations to the Rotary Club of Indianapolis are not tax deductible. You can support our hybrid meetings at https://rotary-club-of-indianapolis.square.site/.

    Meeting ID: 710 170 874
    Password: 821795

    If joining via a mobile phone for audio only click one of the following numbers:
    +13126266799,,710170874#,,#,821795# US (Chicago)
    +19292056099,,710170874#,,#,821795# US (New York)

    You can also join us from a landline phone.
    +1 312 626 6799 US (Chicago)
    +1 929 205 6099 US (New York)

    Meeting ID: 710 170 874
    Password: 821795

  • May 6: Jenni Browning

    May 6: Jenni Browning

    Join us Tuesday as we welcome Jenni Browning, CEO of the American Dairy Association Indiana, for a timely and inspiring presentation: “Why Winners Drink Milk!”

    While millions recognize the tradition of drinking milk in Victory Circle at the Indianapolis 500, there’s much more behind this iconic moment. Jenni will share unique month of May insights into what makes this tradition so special and why milk continues to be a champion-worthy drink for all.

    As CEO, Jenni represents nearly 700 Indiana dairy farm families, leading efforts to build trust in dairy and promote its nutritional value. A registered dietitian, she believes dairy is one of nature’s most perfect foods and advocates for real, simple, and wholesome eating.

    Jenni is also a passionate advocate for agricultural education, committed to connecting people with where their food comes from and strengthening communication between farmers and consumers.

    A proud Ball State University alumna, Jenni was honored with BSU’s Outstanding Alumnus Award in 2018 and named Outstanding Dietitian of the Year in 2020 by the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics.

    All are welcome at Rotary programs. If attending in-person at The Rathskeller, reservations and prepayment are appreciated, but not required. Register on Square at https://rotary-club-of-indianapolis.square.site/. If registering on site we accept Visa, MasterCard, Discover and American Express.

    Lunch and networking start at 11:45 a.m. and the program runs 12:15 p.m. – 1:15 p.m.

    To join our meeting via Zoom starting at 12:15 p.m. go to https://zoom.us/j/710170874?pwd=bFE4ejJTc29IMlNzVmx1Wlg4MTA1UT09. While our Tuesday programs via Zoom are free to attend a suggested donation of $3 – $5 is appreciated in lieu of the typical room fee. These contributions help defray the cost of our hybrid meetings. Please note that donations to the Rotary Club of Indianapolis are not tax deductible. You can support our hybrid meetings at https://rotary-club-of-indianapolis.square.site/.

    Meeting ID: 710 170 874
    Password: 821795

    If joining via a mobile phone for audio only click one of the following numbers:
    +13126266799,,710170874#,,#,821795# US (Chicago)
    +19292056099,,710170874#,,#,821795# US (New York)

    You can also join us from a landline phone.
    +1 312 626 6799 US (Chicago)
    +1 929 205 6099 US (New York)

    Meeting ID: 710 170 874
    Password: 821795

  • April 29: Fifth Tuesday Service Project

    April 29: Fifth Tuesday Service Project

    Join us Tuesday for our Fifth Tuesday program—a special time we set aside for community service. This time, we’ll be packing care packages for seniors at Fairway Village, Bethany Village, and Brickyard Healthcare nursing homes.

    Our service projects during weekly programs are not only incredibly rewarding, but also a lot of fun—with plenty of chances to network and connect with fellow Rotarians and guests.

    A big thank you to the Indianapolis Rotary Foundation for generously funding our Fifth Tuesday service initiatives.

    All are welcome at Rotary programs. If attending in-person at The Rathskeller, reservations and prepayment are appreciated, but not required. Register on Square at https://rotary-club-of-indianapolis.square.site/. If registering on site we accept Visa, MasterCard, Discover and American Express.

    Lunch and networking start at 11:45 a.m. and the program runs 12:15 p.m. – 1:15 p.m.

    To join our meeting via Zoom starting at 12:15 p.m. go to https://zoom.us/j/710170874?pwd=bFE4ejJTc29IMlNzVmx1Wlg4MTA1UT09. While our Tuesday programs via Zoom are free to attend a suggested donation of $3 – $5 is appreciated in lieu of the typical room fee. These contributions help defray the cost of our hybrid meetings. Please note that donations to the Rotary Club of Indianapolis are not tax deductible. You can support our hybrid meetings at https://rotary-club-of-indianapolis.square.site/.

    Meeting ID: 710 170 874
    Password: 821795

    If joining via a mobile phone for audio only click one of the following numbers:
    +13126266799,,710170874#,,#,821795# US (Chicago)
    +19292056099,,710170874#,,#,821795# US (New York)

    You can also join us from a landline phone.
    +1 312 626 6799 US (Chicago)
    +1 929 205 6099 US (New York)

    Meeting ID: 710 170 874
    Password: 821795

  • May 7: 5:31 Club

    Join the Rotary Club of Indianapolis 5:31 Club at the Decorators’ Show House and Gardens on May 7. This year’s beautiful home is located in Meridian Keller neighborhood. Tour the home and stick around for drinks and conversation in the party tent!

    The St. Margaret’s Hospital Guild organizes the Decorators’ Show House and the proceeds benefit Eskenazi Health.

    Who: Rotarians, friends, guests, and anyone wanting to learn more about Rotary.

    What: No agenda, just the regular monthly social get-together.

    When: May 7, from 5:31 pm till 7:00 pm, or whenever you can be there.

    Where: Decorators’ Show House and Gardens, 5676 N. Pennsylvania St., Indianapolis. Parking will be available on the street and in the surrounding neighborhood.

    Notes: Entrance fee is $30 when using the discount code rotary5. Tickets can be purchased at https://showhouseindy.org/product/2025-dshg-ticket/.

  • April 22: David Van Gilder

    April 22: David Van Gilder

    Join us Tuesday for our Annual Arbor Day Program, hosted by the Environment and Beautification Committee. We’re excited to welcome David Van Gilder, Senior Policy and Legal Director with the Hoosier Environmental Council, as our featured speaker.

    David brings a wealth of knowledge and a lifelong commitment to environmental protection, natural resource stewardship, and humankind’s relationship with the natural world. With decades of experience in environmental law, education, and advocacy at the local, state, and federal levels, David’s insights are sure to inspire and inform.

    He holds a Bachelor of Science in Environmental Studies from Bowling Green State University and a Juris Doctor from American University, Washington College of Law. David is also a partner at Fletcher Van Gilder LLP in Fort Wayne, Indiana.

    As a special thank you, everyone in attendance will receive a plant from the Environment and Beautification Committee to take home and grow in honor of Arbor Day.

    All are welcome at Rotary programs. If attending in-person at The Rathskeller reservations and prepayment are appreciated, but not required. Register on Square at https://rotary-club-of-indianapolis.square.site/. If registering on site we accept Visa, MasterCard, Discover and American Express.

    Lunch and networking start at 11:45 a.m. and the program runs 12:15 p.m. – 1:15 p.m.

    To join our meeting via Zoom starting at 12:15 p.m. go to https://zoom.us/j/710170874?pwd=bFE4ejJTc29IMlNzVmx1Wlg4MTA1UT09. While our Tuesday programs via Zoom are free to attend a suggested donation of $3 – $5 is appreciated in lieu of the typical room fee. These contributions help defray the cost of our hybrid meetings. Please note that donations to the Rotary Club of Indianapolis are not tax deductible. You can support our hybrid meetings at https://rotary-club-of-indianapolis.square.site/.

    Meeting ID: 710 170 874
    Password: 821795

    If joining via a mobile phone for audio only click one of the following numbers:
    +13126266799,,710170874#,,#,821795# US (Chicago)
    +19292056099,,710170874#,,#,821795# US (New York)

    You can also join us from a landline phone.
    +1 312 626 6799 US (Chicago)
    +1 929 205 6099 US (New York)

    Meeting ID: 710 170 874
    Password: 821795

  • 2025 Celebration Event & Fundraiser

    2025 Celebration Event & Fundraiser

    It’s time to celebrate! Every year the Rotary Club of Indianapolis reflects on our impact over the prior year with a celebration! 

    What to expect:

    • Camaraderie
    • Fun
    • Food
    • Silent auction
    • Reflections on our community impact, community beautification, world community service over the last year
    • Installation and celebration of our new president and board
    • Celebration of President Marie! 

    Event Info:
    June 24th, 2025
    The Columbia Club
    5:30 pm – cocktail hour
    6:30 pm – dinner & program


    Cost: Early Bird $65/per person, $75/per person starting June 1 – register at rotary-club-of-indianapolis.square.site/

    *Please note: all contributions to this event (ticket price, silent auction, and sponsorships) go to benefit the club. The club is not a 501(c)3 and thus gifts made are not tax deductible.

    Sponsorship Opportunities

    We hope you or your business will consider sponsoring the dinner. Multiple sponsorships are available if you’re interested in supporting your club in this way. 

    This fundraiser helps to support our club’s bottom line so we can provide better experiences for Rotarians as we learn about and support our community. Thank you for your consideration. 

    Contact the office at info@indyrotary.org if you’re interested in this opportunity or go to rotary-club-of-indianapolis.square.site/ to reserve your sponsorship today.

  • May 3: Helpings of Hope Farms Volunteer Opportunity

    May 3: Helpings of Hope Farms Volunteer Opportunity

    Join us on Saturday, May 3 at 10:00 am for a morning of hands-on service at Nora Community Garden, where we’ll be planting a native pollinator habitat to support local bees and butterflies!

    We’ll kick off the day with a tour of Helpings of Hope Farms—including a look at their brand-new beehives—before we dig in to plant a variety of native flowers that help our ecosystem thrive.

    Meet behind First Baptist Church
    8600 N. College Avenue, Indianapolis
    Start time: 10:00 AM
    Running late? Call Lindsay Maliqi at 317-766-3448 and she’ll help you catch up.

    What to Bring/Wear:

    • Closed-toed shoes and long pants
    • Rotary Volunteer Shirt
    • Gloves 
    • Gardening tools if you have them (trowels, shovels, rakes, etc.)
    • Hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen

    Please note: There are no restroom facilities on-site—plan accordingly.

    Questions? Contact Rotarian Lindsay Maliqi at 317-766-3448.

  • April 15: Rebecca Joniskan

    April 15: Rebecca Joniskan

    Join us Tuesday to hear from Rebecca Joniskan, the President of the Indiana Poultry Association.

    Rebecca brings a wealth of knowledge and experience in agricultural leadership, and she’ll be sharing insights on the critical role Indiana’s poultry industry plays locally, nationally, and globally. She will address some of the pressing issues facing the poultry industry today, including avian health and key policy matters.

    A graduate of the University of Notre Dame with a Bachelor of Science in pre-professional science and business studies, Rebecca continued her leadership development through AgrIInstitute’s Agricultural Leadership Program. Her global perspective was further shaped by a 2023 international study tour to South Korea and Laos.

    Before assuming her current role, Rebecca served for 16 years with the Indiana Department of Natural Resources. Since joining the Indiana State Poultry Association, she has traveled internationally to promote policy initiatives benefiting the poultry industry. Her leadership and expertise were recently recognized with her appointment to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s Animal Agriculture Water Quality Subcommittee, nominated by the United Egg Producers.

    All are welcome at Rotary programs. If attending in-person at The Rathskeller reservations and prepayment are appreciated, but not required. Register on Square at https://rotary-club-of-indianapolis.square.site/. If registering on site we accept Visa, MasterCard, Discover and American Express.

    Lunch and networking start at 11:45 a.m. and the program runs 12:15 p.m. – 1:15 p.m.

    To join our meeting via Zoom starting at 12:15 p.m. go to https://zoom.us/j/710170874?pwd=bFE4ejJTc29IMlNzVmx1Wlg4MTA1UT09. While our Tuesday programs via Zoom are free to attend a suggested donation of $3 – $5 is appreciated in lieu of the typical room fee. These contributions help defray the cost of our hybrid meetings. Please note that donations to the Rotary Club of Indianapolis are not tax deductible. You can support our hybrid meetings at https://rotary-club-of-indianapolis.square.site/.

    Meeting ID: 710 170 874
    Password: 821795

    If joining via a mobile phone for audio only click one of the following numbers:
    +13126266799,,710170874#,,#,821795# US (Chicago)
    +19292056099,,710170874#,,#,821795# US (New York)

    You can also join us from a landline phone.
    +1 312 626 6799 US (Chicago)
    +1 929 205 6099 US (New York)

    Meeting ID: 710 170 874
    Password: 821795