Rotary Club of Clayton
Weekly Newsletter
Week of January 22nd, 2026
Recap from Our January 15 Meeting
Guest Speaker
Our guest speaker, John Wilkinson, President of North Georgia Technical College, gave us an excellent and timely insight into what the technical college system is all about and how it prepares students for today’s workforce. John highlighted how North Georgia Tech equips students with practical, in-demand skills—many of which cannot be replaced by artificial intelligence—ensuring graduates are ready to succeed in a rapidly changing job market.
His presentation highlighted the vital role the college plays in creating opportunity, supporting employers, and improving the quality of life in our communities. We are especially fortunate to have this outstanding educational resource so close to us in Clarkesville, and it aligns perfectly with Rotary’s commitment to education, economic development, and Service Above Self.
See our Facebook post:
https://www.facebook.com/share
This Week’s Meeting
Thursday, January 15 | 11:45 AM
Food Bank of Northeast Georgia – Clayton
Program Speaker
GRSP Student Gustav Aili with introduction from Bob Watt
Come and hear from our GRSP student, Gustav Aili from Sweden, who is currently attending Young Harris College on a Georgia Rotary Student Program scholarship. Gustav will share his journey, his educational experience in Georgia, and the impact Rotary has had on his life through this unique program.
The Georgia Rotary Student Program (GRSP) was founded in 1946 by Will Watt, Sr., a Rotarian from the Rotary Club of Atlanta, with the vision of promoting international understanding through education and cultural exchange in the years following World War II. GRSP is one of Rotary’s oldest and most respected international scholarship programs, bringing outstanding students from around the world to Georgia colleges and universities for a year of study.
Unlike traditional exchange programs, GRSP students live with host families, participate actively in Rotary clubs, and build lifelong relationships that foster goodwill, peace, and global citizenship. For nearly 80 years, GRSP has been a shining example of Rotary’s commitment to Service Above Self and international fellowship.
Gustav will be introduced by Big Bob Watt, whose uncle was instrumental in creating the GRSP program many years ago—making this presentation especially meaningful to our Rotary family.
This Week’s Menu
Hearty Pot Roast slow-cooked to tender perfection with potatoes and carrots, served with a fresh salad and a sweet dessert to finish the meal.
Impact Club Update
Next Meeting: Tuesday, January 27 | 6:00 PM
Food Bank of Northeast Georgia – Clayton
Upcoming Service Events
Meal Packing — Immediately following this week’s meeting
Foxfire Cleanup — Friday, January 30 | 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM
Foxfire Museum
Help us keep one of Rabun County’s treasured landmarks beautiful. Wear work clothes and bring gloves if you have them.
Upcoming Social Events
Comfort Crawl — Fifth Thursday Social
Thursday, January 29 | 5:30 – 8:30 PM
Rabun County Civic Center Diner
Sign up: https://forms.gle/3ejfUiMF
Next Club Meeting — Rotary Around the World
Thursday, February 5th | 11:45 AM
Rotary Community Room, Food Bank of Northeast Georgia
Guest Speaker: Come and hear how Rotarians travel the world while building friendships and advancing Rotary’s mission. Amy and Gerald Hulett will share highlights from their recent trip to Italy, Elizabeth Gill will take us along on her journey through Switzerland, and Laura Seberg will give us an inside look at what it’s like to attend a Rotary International Convention, including the one she attended in Calgary.
There is no meeting January 29th due to it being a Fifth Thursday and we will be having a Comfort Crawl Social instead.
Service Above Self
The Rotary Club of Clayton put Service Above Self into action this past Saturday by participating in the food distribution at Rabun Gap Presbyterian Church. Despite 35-degree temperatures and snow on the ground, Rotarians and volunteers came together to load 116 vehicles, helping provide food to 410 community members.
Among those served were 65 seniors age 65 and older and 111 children under the age of 18, underscoring the critical need for this outreach and the meaningful impact Rotary continues to have in Rabun County—no matter the weather.
See our Facebook post:
https://www.facebook.com/share
Important Dates
- January 29 — Comfort Crawl
- January 30 — Foxfire Cleanup
- February 29 — District Governor Visit
- April 2 — Rabun County Special Olympics
- April 25 — Murder Mystery Gala Fundraiser
- April 30 – May 3 — District 6910 Conference
- May 28 – May 31 — RYLA
- June 25 — End-of-Year Celebration
Announcements
2026 Rotary Club of Clayton Annual Fundraiser Gala
- Date: Saturday, April 25, 2026
- Location: Rabun County Civic Center Ballroom
- Theme: Roaring 20’s Murder Mystery
- Fundraiser: $10,000 Reverse Raffle
Committees Needed:
- Marketing / Promotions
- Donors / Sponsors
- Decorations
- Auction
- Logistics
- Finance
All Rotarians are expected to participate in what is always our biggest event of the year.
Contact: Laura Seberg — 941-799-9393
Sign up:
https://docs.google.com/forms/
Rotary Youth Leadership Awards (RYLA)
May 28 – 31 | Tallulah Falls School
Rotarians, we need your energy and leadership! RYLA is one of Rotary’s signature youth programs, helping high school students develop leadership, teamwork, and a service mindset through hands-on activities, outdoor experiences, and meaningful conversations rooted in Rotary values.
We’re seeking Rotarian volunteers as counselors, support leaders, and activity helpers. Whether you can serve a few hours or all four days, meals, lodging, and activities are provided.
Email: RYLA6910@gmail.com
Learn more: www.ryla6910.com
District 6910 Conference
April 30 – May 3 | Harrah’s Cherokee
Service projects are now available for sign-up
https://myrotaryconference.co
Food Bank Donations
Most-needed items:
Peanut butter & jelly • Cereal • Soups • Crackers • Rice • Chili & beans • Pasta • Spaghetti sauce • Beef stew • Canned meats • Fruits & vegetables
Cash donations welcome
Checks payable to: Food Bank of Northeast Georgia
Memo: For Rabun County
