Coronado Rotary Club has turned to Zoom video conferencing for its weekly meetings.  With 135 Rotarians in virtual attendance, donations for Coronado High School (CHS) Interact Club's service project at the Hacienda Orphanage came pouring in using the chat meeting option.  CHS Interact Co-President Brianna Heinken (first row, third from the right) spoke to the Rotarians about the technology and necessity needs (related to COVID-19) at the orphanage during this pandemic.  Rotarians learned about the orphanage's struggle in transitioning to virtual learning because they lack the technology needed.
 
With caring and generosity, 76 Rotarians responded giving $7,465 and an in-kind donation of five laptops for the students at the orphanage.  
 
The Coronado Interact Club, sponsored by the Coronado Rotary Club, is made up of 30 active CHS students.  Along with various service projects in the community, the Interact Club travels to the Hacienda Orphanage in Tijuana, Mexico three-to-four times each year to complete projects, bring donations, and spend time with the children there.  Cole Mullins, Interact Vice President, said, "After going to the orphanage for the last four years, I have loved meeting all the children and creating bonds with them.  It is very special and amazing experience that I have been able to have.  This gift will impact them greatly as it will help improve their living conditions and open new doors for them.  They are bright kids and thanks to gifts like this they have bright futures!"
 
Declan Dineen, Interact Co-President-Elect also commented, "Its been such a remarkable experience to give back to the orphanage in addition to making a positive impact on the children's lives.  I'm beyond thankful for having such giving and involved role models such as the Rotarians.  I'm excited to see what the children will be able to achieve and accomplish with your generous donation."
 
The Coronado Rotary Club also provides financial assistance to the orphanage throughout the year.
 
Photo: CHS Interact Students at the Hacienda Orphanage in Tijuana, Mexico
 
Photo:  CHS Interact Students conducting service project at the orphanage.