Rotary Club focuses on service, growth, community
By Debbie L. Sklar
With an emphasis on service, connection and community impact, the Poway-Scripps Rotary Club continues to expand its reach while staying grounded in Rotary’s long-standing mission of giving back.
Led by President Kristin Rayder, the club brings together members from Poway and Scripps Ranch who are committed to supporting local causes, mentoring youth and organizing large-scale community events.
“It’s all about giving back,” said Rayder, who also heads up her own law practice. “We’re not there to solicit business. We’re there to serve.”
The club, which evolved from the original Rotary Club of Poway, has grown over time to include members from neighboring Scripps Ranch. Rayder, who has been involved for nearly two decades, said the group has adapted to reflect the communities it serves.
Members range in ages from young professionals to retirees in their 80s. The group meets four times a month, typically on Wednesdays for lunch at 11:45 a.m. at Kaminski’s BBQ, 12735 Poway Road, combining business discussions, guest speakers and community planning. Instead of a fourth formal meeting, members often gather for social outings.
Beyond meetings, the club’s work centers on hands-on service and local outreach. One of its newest initiatives is a scholarship program for high school students, which has grown significantly in just one year.
“The whole motto of Rotary is ‘service above self,’” Rayder said. “We wanted students to think about what they’ve done to give back and what they plan to do going forward.”
After receiving a handful of applications in its first year, the program saw 29 applicants this year, with multiple scholarships awarded. Rayder said the essays revealed meaningful and often inspiring efforts by local students.
“These were kids doing amazing things,” she said. “It was really exciting to see.”
In addition to youth programs, the club regularly takes on service projects throughout the community. Members recently helped transform a storage space at a local school into a functional food pantry for students facing food insecurity.
“They can come in and get food and take it home,” Rayder said. “We helped build it out, paint it, put in cabinets – everything to get it ready.”
Other projects have included delivering Thanksgiving meals, assisting residents with home maintenance, and supporting local nonprofit efforts. The club also partners with organizations such as Support The Enlisted Project (STEP).
While smaller service efforts happen throughout the year, the club’s largest undertaking is the annual Poway Rotary Parade, now in its 61st year. The event draws thousands and requires months of planning, coordination and volunteers. For more information on the parade or to register, visit powayrotaryparade.com.
“It’s huge,” Rayder said of the event coming up on Sept. 12. “We have marching bands, cars, horses – it takes a lot to put together.”
The parade is also a major fundraising and community engagement opportunity. Organizers are currently seeking sponsors and participants.
Rayder said the club is also focused on growth, particularly attracting younger members and offering more flexible ways to get involved.
“We want to change with the times,” she said. “Not everyone can come to every meeting, so we’re finding new ways for people to participate.”
The club offers an open invitation to attend a meeting and learn more for those interested.
“We always love new people,” Rayder said. “We’re a welcoming group, and it’s a great way to give back.”
Visit powayscrippsrotary.org.