The Avalon Rotary Club announces two new recipients of grant funds to support local community projects as part of its annual community giving campaign. The Avalon Rotary Club donated raised money to support the high school lacrosse team and the local VFW post.

The Avalon Rotary Club annually distributes funds to benefit local charities. This year a portion of the funding went to the Avalon School Varsity Lacrosse for new safety helmets. Dave Zeller, Avalon School Lacrosse coach appreciated Rotary's support. High school lacrosse now involves 24 students on the varsity and 30 6th graders.

The second grant went to the local VFW Post 4682 for a new flag for the newly formed Color Guard. Tony Cervantes accepted the check at a recent Rotary meeting.

Avalon Rotary actively contributes to the betterment of our Island community. Last September, Avalon Rotary hosted its annual charity auction and raised over $30,000 that primarily benefits local community charities. Avalon Rotary has previously announced that it will be funding the Catalina Island Museums Catalina History activities book, the refurbishment of the flooring at Tremont Hall and the purchase of special exercise mats. In past years donations include $8,000 towards updated equipment for the Catalina Island Medical Center and $10,000 in scholarships awarded to 2007 AHS graduates. Avalon Rotary also organizes and fundraises for the popular USC Trojan Marching Band's participation in Avalon's Fourth of July parade.

Avalon Rotary is just one of over 32,000 Rotary Clubs around the world in over 200 countries. All are dedicated to the creed of "service above self." Rotary International was founded in 1905 as both a business networking and community service organization. Avalon Rotary offers its membership a chance to network with local business leaders as well as offer community service opportunities for our Island, as well as projects such as feeding the hungry in Ensenada, Mexico or contributing to international efforts to eradicate polio. Avalon Rotary meets weekly on Wednesdays at 12:15 at the Country Club conference room. If you're interested in learning more about Rotary, contact Membership Chair Stacey Otte at 310-510-8387.