"Service Above Self" is Rotary’s principal motto, which means that every Rotarian is responsible for finding ways to improve the quality of life in his or her community and in those around the world through service.

The role of the service projects committees is to help develop and implement educational, humanitarian, and vocational service projects that help the community and communities in other countries.

The responsibilities of the service projects committees are summarized below:

• Develop committee goals to achieve club service project goals for the coming year.

• Conduct service projects that include assessments, planning, and evaluation.

• Create a balanced program of service.

• Work with other organizations, volunteers, and committee members to maximize the impact of the projects.

• Lead fundraising efforts to fund projects.

• Understand liability issues that affect club projects and activities.

Committees:

• Bike Rodeo – The bike rodeo is held each July in concert with the Maine Potato Blossom Festival™. The committee schedules the specific date and time with the festival organizers, and coordinates the route and safety considerations with the local police department. Arrangements are also made for a hotdog roast, and bikes and helmets availability.

• Community Thanksgiving Dinner – The dinner is held on Thanksgiving Day and provides a full dinner to Fort Fairfield-resident senior citizens. The committee coordinates the dinner with other local service organizations, businesses and volunteers, and tasks remaining club members as necessary.

• Scholarship – Coordinates the club’s annual scholarship program for graduating Fort Fairfield High School seniors.

• Rotary Spirit Student Award – The program recognizes student achievement across grades 9 through 12. The committee oversees all program aspects including recipient selection.

• Paul Harris Dinner – The dinner recognizes community and Rotary members. The committee is comprised of Paul Harris recipients who determine honorees and organize the event including location and meal plans. Planning begins in March/April.

• Fundraising – The committee, together with the club’s Board of Directors (BOD), reviews club financial needs and the committee recommends new fundraising ideas to the BOD and membership.

  • Cash Draw – The Cash Draw is the club’s premier fundraising activity. Planning begins in the spring with the event being held in October. The committee is responsible for event primary over site and directs the remaining club members concerning required tasks and develops sub-committees as necessary.

  • Vidalia Onion Sales – Supplemental fundraising activity held annually in May. The committee is responsible for onions purchase and delivery, and coordinates member sales efforts.