The Freeport Rotary Club, a satellite group of the Mid-Bay Rotary Club in Niceville, has been making a significant impact on both local and global communities since its founding in 2021, by Mid-Bay Rotarian, and Retired USAF, David Underwood. The group is currently lead by long-time local, Hammock Bay resident, and 2024-2025 Club Chair, Michelle Jannazo. As part of Rotary International, a network of over 1.4 million leaders dedicated to service, Freeport Rotary embodies the organization's motto of "Service Above Self" through a range of impactful initiatives.

Rotary International spans 46,000 clubs in more than 200 countries, focusing on humanitarian service and fostering goodwill. Clubs are nonpolitical, nonreligious, and open to all cultures, races, and creeds. They strive to improve communities through a variety of service projects and contributions. Freeport Rotary, one of 50 clubs in the Panhandle and 500 in Florida, reflects this mission by addressing local needs and supporting global causes.

 

Freeport Rotary is deeply involved in the community. The club supports several local nonprofits, including Westonwood Ranch and Bed4Me, and has a special relationship with Freeport Elementary School, providing crucial donations for students and staff. Their annual sponsorship of the Freeport Mayor’s Ball and organization of food drives for local pantries highlight their commitment to community welfare.

 

In addition, Freeport Rotary aids incarcerated individuals by providing work boots for heavy equipment training, helping them secure jobs upon release. Last year, the club awarded a $1,000 scholarship to a graduating Freeport student, marking a significant step in their local educational support.

 

On the international stage, Freeport Rotary contributes to Rotary International’s Polio Plus program. Their efforts have helped vaccinate over 1,100 children against polio, showcasing their commitment to global health initiatives.

 

The Freeport Rotary Club is excited about their future projects, including a regional initiative to install rescue tubes at beach accesses in Walton County. This lifesaving project will benefit both residents and visitors by enhancing safety at local beaches. The club is also raising funds to expand their student scholarship program and support the Westonwood Ranch Rodeo.

 

Additionally, Freeport Rotary will be volunteering at Mid-Bay Rotary’s Oktoberfest in Niceville, further engaging with the community and supporting local events. Details about these and other fundraisers can be found on their Facebook page. https://www.facebook.com/FreeportFLRotary

 

The Freeport Rotary Club’s dedication to service illustrates the powerful impact of community-focused organizations and the difference they can make both locally and globally. Through their various projects and initiatives, they continue to strengthen and enrich the lives of those they serve.

 

The Freeport Rotary Club invites community members to learn more and get involved. They hold two formal meetings each month, with announcements and updates posted on their Facebook page. For those interested in participating or supporting their work, contact Freeport Rotary at (850) 543-8213 or via email at freeportflrotaryclub@gmail.com. More information about Rotary International can be found at www.rotary.org.