Written by Jacob DePietto, a member of the Scarsdale Youth Business Alliance and Edgemont Phaedrus • Scarsdale Business Beat, April 2025 • VOL. 2, No. 3
The Scarsdale Rotary Club is a dedicated group of community members who share a passion for service, leadership, and making a difference both locally and globally. Founded as part of Rotary International, the club’s mission is to foster goodwill and provide humanitarian aid to those in need. It was started over 100 years ago by Paul Harris in 1905; however, he first began in the city of Chicago, and the Rotary Club quickly found its way to Scarsdale. To this day, the Rotary Club still operates with the same core beliefs and mission that Paul Harris envisioned.
What is the Scarsdale Rotary Club?
The Scarsdale Rotary Club is part of Rotary International, a global network of 1.4 million members working together to create lasting change. The club operates with the motto “Service Above Self,” striving to improve lives through various projects, fundraising efforts, and partnerships. Members come from diverse backgrounds, including business, education, healthcare, and local government, all united by a commitment to service.
How Does It Work?
The club meets regularly to discuss ongoing initiatives, plan community service projects, and host guest speakers who provide insights into important issues. Members contribute through volunteering, fundraising, and networking, ensuring that the club remains a strong force for positive change. Some key activities include community service projects, such as organizing food drives, educational support programs, and environmental initiatives. Fundraising events include hosting annual galas, benefit dinners, and charity auctions to support local and international causes. The club also offers youth programs, sponsoring scholarships, mentoring students, and supporting leadership programs for young people. Lastly, international outreach involves partnering with global organizations to provide disaster relief, medical aid, and clean water initiatives.
Notable Projects & Partnerships
Over the years, the Scarsdale Rotary Club has led numerous impactful initiatives, such as the following: The Thanksgiving Basket Program, which provides holiday meals to families in need within Westchester County. The Children’s Village Initiative supports at-risk youth through mentorship and holiday celebrations. The Dreams from the Slum Foundation Partnership assists underserved communities through education and development programs abroad. Lastly, the Local School Scholarships award annual scholarships to high-achieving students committed to community service.
Why Join the Scarsdale Rotary Club?
Being a member of the Scarsdale Rotary Club offers a unique opportunity to give back to the community while building meaningful connections. Whether you’re looking to volunteer, support charitable causes, or network with like-minded individuals, the club provides an engaging and fulfilling experience. A quote from Jeanine Rosenthal, the President-Elect of the Scarsdale Rotary Club, states, “It’s incredibly exciting to be able to collaborate with neighbors in Scarsdale from all walks of life and people throughout the world who want to make the world a better place.”
If you are interested in learning more or becoming a member, visit scarsdalerotary.org to get involved.