• January 13: Cliff Chapman

    January 13: Cliff Chapman

    Join us Tuesday to hear from Cliff Chapman, President and CEO of the Central Indiana Land Trust, Inc. (CILTI).

    Cliff has worked in land conservation since 1997 and brings decades of experience protecting and restoring natural areas. He earned a BA in Geography from Indiana University and began his career as an ecologist with The Nature Conservancy in Olympia, Washington, and later with the Indiana Department of Natural Resources, Division of Nature Preserves, where he planned, protected, restored, and managed natural landscapes.

    Since joining CILTI, Cliff has led the creation of a strategic conservation plan for Central Indiana that has guided the protection of more than $35 million in land since 2009. His leadership extends beyond CILTI. He has founded a land trust, served on several nonprofit boards, and is a past president of both the Natural Areas Association and the Indiana Land Protection Alliance. He currently serves on the boards of the Natural Areas Association and the Indiana Conservation Fund.

    Cliff will highlight the natural wonders that surround us in Central Indiana and share how CILTI is working to protect them. Through its conservation efforts, the Central Indiana Land Trust preserves exceptional natural areas, safeguarding plants and animals so Hoosiers can experience and enjoy the state’s rich natural heritage.

    📌 Register online
    💳 On-site payment options: Visa, MasterCard, Discover, American Express

    Schedule:

    • 11:45 am – Lunch & Networking
    • 12:15-1:15 pm – Program

    Join via Zoom (12:15 pm start):
    Meeting ID: 710 170 874
    Password: 821795
    🔗 https://zoom.us/j/710170874?pwd=bFE4ejJTc29IMlNzVmx1Wlg4MTA1UT09

    Join by Mobile (Audio Only):

    • +13126266799,,710170874#,,#,821795# US (Chicago)
    • +19292056099,,710170874#,,#,821795# US (New York)

  • Long Time Rotarian, Jerry Clifford Passes Away

    Long Time Rotarian, Jerry Clifford Passes Away

    February 26, 1947 – January 2, 2026

    Jerry Thomas Clifford, passed away peacefully leaving a legacy of leadership, community service, devotion to family and love for flight.

    Born February 26, 1947 in Denver, Colorado, he never tired of visits to the Rockies throughout the years. He was raised in Indianapolis proud of large paper routes managed from an early age that provided the foundation for a career in sales.

    Jerry attended the Latin School of Indianapolis where he built a faithful brotherhood in the Class of 1965 that lasted his lifetime. He attended Saint Meinrad Seminary from 1965-1966 and the institution was a sacred place his entire life.

    In 1967, he married Mary Ellen Martin in Indianapolis. Their marriage was the foundation of his life and he cherished her deeply in the everyday moments they spent together and in the strength in her presence.

    He served in the U.S. Army Reserves from 1967-1973. He began his work career at Graybar Electric in 1967. He then devoted 30 years to Indiana Bell/AT&T consistently achieving top sales awards in service to customers. In 1979, Governor Otis Bowen presented him with the Sagamore of the Wabash for his dedication to the telecommunication needs of the State of Indiana. He was most proud of his volunteer service to others in the community during retirement including: Service Corps of Retired Executives (SCORE), AARP Foundation Tax Aide IRS-certified volunteer, Fort Harrison Reuse Authority Commissioner, City of Lawrence Redevelopment Commission Commissioner, and The Fort Golf Resort Volunteer Starter. Equally, he enjoyed the best of friends through hobbies including the Experimental Aircraft Association at Mt. Comfort Airport, the Rotary Club of Indianapolis for 38 years, the Indianapolis Athletic Club for 30 years, and a certain early Friday morning coffee club.

    He was preceded in death by his parents Jeremiah Francis Clifford and Mary Elizabeth Clifford. He is survived by his wife Mary Ellen and his three children: Christopher T. Clifford (Stephanie) of Zionsville, Suzanne M. Taylor (Dana) of Fort Thomas, KY & Colleen M. Starkey (Nickolas) of Colorado Springs, CO. His beloved grandchildren include Katherine Clifford, Benjamin Clifford, Nicholas Clifford, Matthew Clifford, Evan Taylor, Andrew Taylor, Anna Starkey, and Steel Starkey. He also relished and was blessed by extended family and friends beyond measure.

    Visitation for Jerry will be held on Wednesday, January 14, 2026 from 4 – 7 p.m. at Oakley-Hammond Funeral Home, 5342 E. Washington St., Indianapolis, IN 46219. Mass of Christian Burial will 11 a.m. on Thursday, January 15, 2026 at Our Lady of Lourdes Catholic Church, 5333 E. Washington St., Indianapolis, IN 46219. Interment will follow at Oaklawn Memorial Gardens.

  • January 6: Thomas M. Fisher

    January 6: Thomas M. Fisher

    Join us Tuesday to hear from Thomas M. Fisher, Executive Vice President and Director of Litigation for EdChoice.

    Fisher served 22 years as a Deputy Attorney General and was Indiana’s first Solicitor General (2005–2023), arguing five cases before the U.S. Supreme Court and handling major constitutional litigation for the State. A two-time NAAG Best Brief Award recipient, he is a Fellow of the American Academy of Appellate Lawyers and a Sagamore of the Wabash honoree.

    He will discuss EdChoice, its mission, and current legal efforts. This includes EdChoice Legal Advocates and the Partnership for Educational Choice, initiatives focused on defending parents’ rights and expanding access to high-quality educational options for children.

    📌 Register online
    💳 On-site payment options: Visa, MasterCard, Discover, American Express

    Schedule:

    • 11:45 am – Lunch & Networking
    • 12:15-1:15 pm – Program

    Join via Zoom (12:15 pm start):
    Meeting ID: 710 170 874
    Password: 821795
    🔗 Zoom Link

    Join by Mobile (Audio Only):

    • +13126266799,,710170874#,,#,821795# US (Chicago)
    • +19292056099,,710170874#,,#,821795# US (New York)

  • January 7: 5:31 Social Event

    Join the 5:31 Club for our monthly social gathering on Wednesday, January 7, at Seasons 52!

    Who: Rotarians, friends, guests, and anyone interested in learning more about Rotary.

    What: No agenda – just a relaxed evening of fellowship, conversation, and connection.

    When: Wednesday, January 7, from 5:31 pm to 7:00 pm (or whenever you can drop by!)

    Where: Seasons 52, 8650 Keystone Crossing, Indianapolis

    Come enjoy great company, good food, and the spirit of Rotary in a casual setting. Happy Hour is 3-6 pm!

  • December 23 & 30: No Program

    December 23 & 30: No Program

    Please note that the Rotary Club of Indianapolis office will operate on modified hours over the next few weeks. There will be no Rotary programs on December 23 or December 30. We look forward to welcoming everyone back on Tuesday, January 6.

    As the year comes to a close, there is still time to make your year-end, tax-deductible contribution to the Indianapolis Rotary Foundation and The Rotary Foundation. Gifts may be made online or mailed to the Rotary Office at 133 W. Market Street, Suite 232, Indianapolis, IN 46204.

    Thank you for your continued support and commitment to Service Above Self.

  • January 31: Volunteer Opportunity

    January 31: Volunteer Opportunity

    The Community Service Committee is excited to announce a service opportunity with Gleaners Food Bank. They are looking for 20 volunteers to help serve on Saturday, January 31, from 8:30 am to 12:30 pm. Friends and family ages 13+ are welcome to attend. To sign up to volunteer, please complete the online form.

    What to expect during your shift:
    • Want a sneak peek of our volunteer project? Check out this video.
    • Volunteers will be loading cars, directing traffic, and bagging bulk food items for the food pantry drive-thru distribution
    • The majority of this project does take place outdoors.
    • Why is this important? During the shift, we will help to provide up to 25,000 meals.
    This project does require repetitive light lifting (think loading your groceries in the car) and bending, but some accommodations can be made. Please let Gleaners know prior to signing up or when you arrive if you need light-duty accommodations.

    Questions? Contact Community Service Committee Co-Chairs Autumn Bryant and Paul Sammons.

  • December 16: Annual Holiday Program

    December 16: Annual Holiday Program

    Join us Tuesday for our Annual Holiday Program benefiting the Indianapolis Rotary Foundation. This festive event will celebrate the incredible work of the organizations supported by our Foundation and help raise additional funds to ensure the continued success of our Club’s philanthropic efforts.

    We’ll enjoy special entertainment by Charlie’s Pocket featuring Kimble Richardson, along with a small live auction. Items include Indianapolis Colts suite tickets, tickets to Indiana Fever and Indiana Pacers games, and a special gift basket.

    We’re also excited to share that an anonymous donor will be matching gifts made to the Indianapolis Rotary Foundation during the program, providing an amazing opportunity to double your impact.

    We hope you’ll join us for this wonderful chance to celebrate the season, make a difference, and support our community.

    Can’t Attend but Still Want to Contribute?
    If you’re unable to join us for the program but wish to support the Indianapolis Rotary Foundation, you can make a tax-deductible contribution online or by mailing it to:

    Indianapolis Rotary Foundation
    133 W. Market Street, Suite 232
    Indianapolis, IN 46204

    📌 Register online
    💳 On-site payment options: Visa, MasterCard, Discover, American Express

    Schedule:

    • 11:45 am – Lunch & Networking
    • 12:15-1:15 pm – Program

    Join via Zoom (12:15 pm start):
    Meeting ID: 710 170 874
    Password: 821795
    🔗 Zoom Link

    Join by Mobile (Audio Only):

    • +13126266799,,710170874#,,#,821795# US (Chicago)
    • +19292056099,,710170874#,,#,821795# US (New York)
  • 2025-2026 Indianapolis Rotary Foundation Community Grants

    2025-2026 Indianapolis Rotary Foundation Community Grants

    The Rotary Club of Indianapolis Foundation has awarded $140,000 in Community Grants to eight Indiana nonprofit organizations for the 2025–2026 funding cycle. The grants support programs addressing youth wellbeing, foster care, housing stability, cultural preservation, and workforce development across Central Indiana.

    The Community Grants program is part of more than $260,000 in annual charitable support funded by the Foundation’s nearly $9.5 million endowment, one of the largest Rotary club foundations in the United States. Established in 1947 and supported by more than a century of Rotary leadership in Indianapolis, the Foundation provides stable, long-term investment in the region’s most critical community needs.

    2025–2026 Community Grant Recipients

    $10,000 Grants
    • Indiana Historical Society – Supporting a major exhibition commemorating the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence.
    • Jameson Camp – Funding summer programming for youth ages 7–17, emphasizing confidence, belonging, and outdoor experiences.
    • KIC-IT – Furnishing transitional homes for youth and young adults experiencing or at risk of homelessness in Johnson County.
    • The Milk Bank – Launching a volunteer initiative to expand awareness and support for milk donation across Indiana.

    $25,000 Grants
    • Foster Success – Supporting LEAD, a civic engagement program empowering young adults with foster care experience to develop and present policy recommendations to Indiana lawmakers.
    • Happy Hollow Children’s Camp [happyhollowcamp.org] – Providing scholarships for summer camp and leadership programs for families facing economic hardship.
    • Isaiah 117 House – Restocking essential clothing, hygiene items, and care supplies for children entering foster care in Marion County.
    • Latinas Welding Guild – Expanding advanced welding courses to increase access to skilled-trades training for Latina women and other underrepresented groups.

    These grants reflect the Foundation’s commitment to strengthening multiple community sectors, including youth development, food access, cultural preservation, foster care, housing stability, environmental initiatives, and the arts.

    The Indianapolis Rotary Foundation is a private, stand-alone corporation that serves as the community charitable arm of the Rotary Club of Indianapolis. Each year, the Foundation generously donates over $260,000 annually to projects and organizations in the Central Indiana Area that promote the Rotary motto of “Service Above Self.”

    Want to contribute to the Indianapolis Rotary Foundation? Donate here.

    The Rotary Club of Indianapolis is one of the largest and most active Rotary Clubs in the world. Founded in 1913, the club has compiled an extensive record as one the leading supporters and contributors to the quality of life in Indianapolis. For further information about the Rotary Club of Indianapolis, visit indyrotary.org

  • December 9: World Community Service Panel

    December 9: World Community Service Panel

    December is Indianapolis Rotary Foundation Month, and this Tuesday we’re highlighting the global impact of our Foundation through the work of the World Community Service Committee.

    We will welcome a panel of international partners whose projects have been supported by our local Indianapolis Rotary Foundation, including:
    • Deborah Payne, CoCoDa
    • Audrey Jones, Natun Guatemala
    • Princess Telo, Garmbo Care for Kids
    • Alyson Small, Sustainable Connexions International
    • Nikki Garland, Indianapolis Public Schools, Education Project in Senegal

    Our discussion will be moderated by Nick Reich, Past President of our Club and Co-Chair of the World Community Service Committee.

    Join us at the Rathskeller to hear firsthand how your support of the Indianapolis Rotary Foundation is making a meaningful difference around the world.

    📌 Register online
    💳 On-site payment options: Visa, MasterCard, Discover, American Express

    Schedule:

    • 11:45 am – Lunch & Networking
    • 12:15-1:15 pm – Program

    Join via Zoom (12:15 pm start):
    Meeting ID: 710 170 874
    Password: 821795
    🔗 Zoom Link

    Join by Mobile (Audio Only):

    • +13126266799,,710170874#,,#,821795# US (Chicago)
    • +19292056099,,710170874#,,#,821795# US (New York)
  • December 2: Mario Rodriguez

    December 2: Mario Rodriguez

    Join us Tuesday to hear from Mario Rodriguez, Executive Director and CEO of the Indianapolis International Airport. A nationally respected aviation leader with more than 30 years of global experience, Rodriguez will take us “behind the gates” for an inside look at IND’s growth, operations, and community impact.

    Under his leadership, IND has earned recognition as one of North America’s best airports, driven record-breaking economic impact, and invested heavily in local businesses and workforce pathways. His vision positions airports as vital public assets that fuel opportunity, innovation, and community pride.

    We hope you’ll join us for an engaging and inspiring program with one of Indiana’s most visionary leaders.

    📌 Register online
    💳 On-site payment options: Visa, MasterCard, Discover, American Express

    Schedule:

    • 11:45 am – Lunch & Networking
    • 12:15-1:15 pm – Program

    Join via Zoom (12:15 pm start):
    Meeting ID: 710 170 874
    Password: 821795
    🔗Zoom Link

    Join by Mobile (Audio Only):

    • +13126266799,,710170874#,,#,821795# US (Chicago)
    • +19292056099,,710170874#,,#,821795# US (New York)