A deep commitment to Youth Services inspired the highly successful inaugural District Oktoberfest.
Through the exceptional leadership of Maryzella Juarez-Uribe and the Oktoberfest Committee—Chany Martinez, Tonie Andrade, Chris Keyes, Bill Jensen, Krystina Torres, Dave Tweedy, Nil Saric Koksal, Roshanak Clune, Miriam Gonzales, and PDG Luis Carranza—the event raised in excess of $20,000 to directly support District 5340’s Youth Service programs. Funds are used to help supplement programs such as RYLA, LEAD, Music Competition, Four-Way Test Contest and Model UN.
The generosity, enthusiasm, and community spirit of Rotary clubs, businesses, and individual Rotarians generated vital support for youth programs that empower the next generation of leaders across our region. The San Diego Downtown Evening Rotary Club sponsored the venue, chairs, and tables and contributed $2,300 in sponsorships. Many Rotary clubs also contributed $500 each, and approximately 200 people purchased event tickets.
Rotaract clubs played an essential role in keeping the event’s activities running smoothly. Rotaractors arrived at 1:00 p.m. to assist with setup, staff several booths, support the entertainment, and bring youthful energy to the festivities. Their service reflects the reason for Rotary’s strong commitment to developing young leaders. Contributors included Nicholas Camacho, Sophia Ceci, Aribella Farrell, and Rachel Rowin from SDSU; Aracely O, Lara Oca, Rashmi Narayanan, Robyn Matsumoto, Smriti Nanayanan, Faith Anderson, Paula Sanchez, Kelly Sellman, and Fiona Janik from UCSD; and Chidalu Ezeora from USD.
Our heartfelt thanks go to everyone who attended, volunteered, sponsored, or otherwise supported the inaugural District Oktoberfest. Your generosity and enthusiasm made the event a success and strengthened District 5340’s Youth Service programs, helping create meaningful opportunities for young leaders throughout our region. We look forward to building on this remarkable beginning in the years ahead.
