Last Thursday, September 17th, Brawley Rotarian Carter Taylor was the honored recipient of the Brawley Chamber's Branding Iron Award given out during the Branding Iron Gala Casino Royale at the Stockmen's Club.
The Prestigious Branding Iron Award, first established in 1976, serves as a timeless symbol of exceptional leadership and unwavering dedication to the community of Brawley. Reserved for individuals who exemplify outstanding leadership qualities and a deep commitment to the betterment of the city, this award celebrates those who go above and beyond in their service to the community. Nominees for this honor must be active Brawley Chamber members in good standing, embodying the values of integrity, innovation, and community spirit. Presented annually at The Chamber of Commerce for Greater Brawley Annual Dinner, the Branding Iron Award recognizes and applauds the extraordinary contributions of its recipients in shaping a brighter future for Brawley and its residents.
According to nomination papers, Carter truly embodies the spirit of philanthropy, generously giving his time, resources, experience, and talents to support others.
When a local businessman was tragically murdered, he stepped in without hesitation—personally covering the restaurant’s payroll for an entire month. At a time when the community was in shock and uncertain about the future, his compassion and leadership provided much-needed stability and support. Additionally, he has given friends more than $5,000 to make sure their bills were paid.
Carter donated a high-end computerized stationary bicycle training system to the Brawley Fire Department.
He has been a long-time supporter of Brawley Rotary Club and The Rotary Foundation. He is considered a “major donor,” having contributed over $15,000 to The Rotary Foundation. He is also a benefactor, which means he has a life insurance policy naming The Rotary Foundation as a beneficiary. He has earned the distinction as a 9+ Paul Harris Fellow.
Besides being a Rotarians, Carter's volunteerism spills over into the community where is a past president and supporter of the Pioneers Memorial Hospital Foundation, both financially and as a volunteer. He has participated in the Imperial Regional Alliance Internship-to-Career Program, hiring interns and teaching them valuable career skills.
He is a member of the Brawley Elks Club, where he contributes to their fundraisers, including charity golf tournaments. He also contributes to The Brawley Boys and Girls Club, where he has served as an Auctioneer.
District 5340 Governor Jeb Bakke and his lovely wife Evan played a vital role in the evening's events - they were asked by Carter's wife Sandra to convince him to attend the gala. He was unaware he was the recipient of this award.
The generosity of Rotarian Carter Taylor is remarkable and most certainly worthy of this recognition from the Brawley Chamber of Commerce.