World Polio Day, on October 24, is a special day for Rotary and Rotaract clubs worldwide. It's a chance to unite with our partners, supporters, and public health advocates to raise awareness and funds, with the heartfelt goal of ending polio forever. We've made a promise to the children of the world: no child should have to suffer from this preventable disease. 

Here's how you can be part of this important mission: 

• Your $25 quarterly donation to Rotary International, billed on this month's invoice, will go directly to the PolioPlus Fund.
• On Monday, October 5th, we'll be distributing the famous white take-out boxes. Please fill them with loose change or write a check to the Rotary Club of Ames, and return them on October 19th so we can collect and donate the funds to the RI PolioPlus Fund.
• Bring your cash and your Brags to our Monday meeting (October 5th). Every dollar collected through The Brag Bucket will help us fight polio and will be generously donated to PolioPlus.

Under beautiful autumn skies on September 23 and 24, 2026, the Rotary Club of Ames put service into motion during the Ada Hayden Golf Car Tours. Over 14 dedicated Rotarians contributed more than 100 volunteer hours guiding free, 90-minute accessible tours for about 140 community members—primarily senior citizens and individuals with mobility impairments. As true People of Action, these volunteers ensured everyone in our community could experience Ada Hayden Park's natural beauty. Equipped with audio sound systems, experienced drivers navigated the carts through the park. At the same time, local experts shared commentary on native ecology, park history, and wildlife preservation, answering questions along the way.

Rotarian Jim Patton (in photo) led the event's seamless execution, organizing complex logistics and driver schedules. Keeping the volunteer crew fueled and energized, Jim’s wife, Diane Patton, generously organized lunch for all the drivers throughout the two-day initiative.

The Rotary Club of Ames extends its deepest gratitude to the 14 club members who volunteered their time and skills to make this year's tours a memorable success. Allyson Walter, Sheila Schofer, Tom Snyder, Jon Christy, Jamie Courtney, Jim Baker, Mike Roof, Kent Frankenfield, Maynard Hogberg, Glen Rippke, Louie Banitt, Roger Maharry, & Doug Timmons.