Rotary Club of
Manhattan Beach

  • Website | Social

    rotary5280.org | @manhattanbeachrotary

  • Left:

    Rotary members for 3+ years, L to R, top: Kelly Stroman, Monica Bringleson, Nina Patel, Lisa Hemmat, Wimberly Meyer, Rita Crabtree-Kampe, Nancy Vrankovic, Patricia Panucci | Bottom: Shannon Ryan, Sue Vogl, Barbara Matles, Kathleen Terry, Loli Ramezani, Sandesha Singh

  • Special Section

    Women of the South Bay

The Rotary Club of Manhattan Beach, chartered in 1950, has brought together generations of local leaders who share a commitment to “Service Above Self.” Through hands-on service, charitable giving and partnerships, Rotary members support local families, youth and education; recognize those who serve the community; and help address global humanitarian needs around the world. Rotary creates lasting friendships and connections among members who want to make a meaningful difference and have fun doing it.

What is your current passion project?

Our passion project is our community—both at home and around the world. Last year, Manhattan Beach Rotary supported 35 service projects and 12 programs, contributing nearly $192,000 to causes ranging from local youth and scholarships to hunger relief, education and clean water initiatives around the world. What makes it meaningful is that our members don’t simply write checks; we roll up our sleeves and serve.

How can we support other women in business?

Invite women into the rooms where relationships, ideas and opportunities are created—and then make sure their voices are heard. More than 35 women now represent 31% of Manhattan Beach Rotary’s membership, bringing their leadership, professional experience and perspectives to every area of our club. As that number continues to grow, so does the strength of our organization and our impact.

Speak about the importance of community.

Community is at the heart of Manhattan Beach Rotary. Our members bring different professions, experiences and perspectives to the table, but we’re united by a desire to make our community stronger—from supporting students and teachers to helping veterans, seniors and families in need. Those shared experiences create genuine friendships and connections among the people doing the work.

How does rotary mix service and friendship?

Our members accomplished 35 service projects last year, but we also came together for 36 social events—from book clubs and outdoor activities to dinners and wine gatherings. Rotary is a place to make a difference, build meaningful friendships and have a lot of fun along the way.

Photographed by Fabien & Laura Castro