Ipswich-Rowley Rotary recently donated $10,000 to assist the summer camp program of the Ipswich Family YMCA. This donation is made annually in memory of Rotarian Gerry Beauchamp, founding Executive Director of the Ipswich Y. Receiving the donation on behalf of the Y were Chris Bevilaqua, current Executive Director and a Rotarian, and Andy Ellis, an Honorary Rotarian and the lead race coordinator of our annual Ipswich Ale Half Marathon fundraiser. Rotarians put in about 650 hours annually on the marathon, but it wouldn’t be possible without our sponsors and supporters. Speaking at our annual Passing the Gavel installation dinner, Chris thanked the club on behalf of the Y and the kids who enjoy the camp experience in Rowley.
The club also contributed $500 to support ‘The Memory Café’, a place where older adults with dementia meet to socialize and have fun without worrying about what others may think. Spouses and caregivers are invited to participate during monthly meetings at the Ipswich Council on Aging. Rotary Director Susanne Pedersen hosts the Memory Café, for which there is no separate funding. Our donation will assist Susanne in purchasing supplies and essential items, such as a new white board, games, decorations, snacks, and perhaps an outing or two. Making the presentation was fellow club Director Kathy Frederick.
Rotary – creating lasting change in our communities