Rotary Club Of Grand Rapids

1.22.26 - Donna Murray-Brown - President & CEO, Inforum
2026-01-22 12:00 - 13:15 (America/Detroit) | Aquinas – Wege Ballroom, 1700 Fulton St E., Michigan, 49506, United States
Speaker: Donna Murray-Brown – President & CEO, Inforum
Speaker Topic: Empowering the Next Generation of Leaders in Our Community
Bio:
Donna Murray-Brown is President and CEO of Inforum and a nationally respected leader in the nonprofit and philanthropic sectors. With more than 25 years of experience spanning banking, philanthropy, and nonprofit leadership, Donna is known for guiding organizations through growth, transition, and transformation. At Inforum, she leads efforts to advance women’s leadership by supporting women across all career stages and partnering with companies that understand women’s leadership is critical to performance, innovation, and long-term success.
Donna previously served as the inaugural Vice President of Strategy and Development at the National Council of Nonprofits and as President and CEO of the Michigan Nonprofit Association, where she led statewide initiatives including Michigan’s Census 2020 complete count and COVID-19 response efforts. Her leadership has been recognized nationally, including being named twice to the NonProfit Times Power & Influence Top 50 list and receiving Crain’s Detroit Business Most Influential Women in Michigan honor. Donna is based in Farmington Hills, Michigan

1.29.26 - Cathy George - Vice President & Head Coach, Grand Rapids Rise
2026-01-29 12:00 - 13:15 | Aquinas – Wege Ballroom, 1700 Fulton St E., Michigan, 49506, United States
Speaker: Cathy George – Vice President & Head Coach, Grand Rapids Rise
Speaker Topic: The Evolution of Grand Rapids Rise Professional Volleyball
Bio:
Cathy George serves as Vice President and Head Coach of the Grand Rapids Rise (professional volleyball), bringing strong leadership, strategic vision, and a deep commitment to athlete development to the organization. In her dual role, she oversees both the competitive direction of the team and key organizational initiatives that support the Rise’s growth, culture, and community presence.
As Head Coach, Cathy is known for her emphasis on excellence, accountability, and team connection. She is dedicated to building a high-performance environment where athletes can compete at their best while developing as leaders on and off the court. Her coaching philosophy centers on discipline, teamwork, and continuous improvement—values that shape the Rise’s competitive identity.
In her Vice President role, Cathy collaborates with organizational leadership to strengthen community partnerships, fan engagement, and long-term program development. She plays a vital role in establishing the Rise as a premier women’s volleyball organization in West Michigan and works to advance opportunities for athletes, staff, and the broader community to connect through sport.
Cathy’s leadership reflects her passion for elevating the sport of volleyball and fostering a culture of growth, respect, and competitive spirit. Through her work with the Grand Rapids Rise, she is helping to build a strong foundation for professional volleyball in the region and inspire the next generation of athletes.

2.5.26 - CLUB 77 @ Home Repair Services
2026-02-05 16:30 - 18:00 | Home Repair Services, 1100 South Division Ave, Grand Rapids, MI, 49507, United States

2.12.26 - Tony Gerheiser - Executive Director, American Red Cross - West Michigan Chapter
2026-02-12 12:00 - 13:15 | Kent Country Club, 1600 College Ave NE, Grand Rapids, 49505
Speaker: Tony Gerheiser – Executive Director, American Red Cross – West Michigan Chapter
Speaker Topic: American Red Cross – Making Communities More Resilient
Speaker Bio:
Tony Gerheiser is the Executive Director of the American Red Cross West Michigan Chapter, leading humanitarian services across 12 counties in the region. He assumed this role in September 2023, bringing a passion for community service and extensive experience within the Red Cross.
Tony began his Red Cross career in 2015 with the Service to the Armed Forces program, where he supported military members, veterans, and their families through vital workshops and outreach. He later served as an account manager for biomedical services, overseeing more than 100 blood collection accounts at community, business, and educational organizations throughout West Michigan.
Before joining the American Red Cross, Tony served as a squad leader in the Michigan Army National Guard, with service overseas in Afghanistan, Germany, and Poland. He holds a bachelor’s degree in public health from Central Michigan University.
In his capacity as Executive Director, Tony acts as a key community liaison and advocates for Red Cross programs — including disaster relief, blood services, volunteer engagement, and support for military families — helping strengthen the chapter’s impact throughout West Michigan.

2.12.26 - Galentine's Gathering - Women In Rotary Affinity Group
2026-02-12 17:00 | Marcie Lewis Home, 2027 N Terrace Ln NE, Grand Rapids, MI, 49505, United States
The Women In Rotary Affinity Group invites you to a relaxed evening to connect, unwind, and celebrate friendship. Enjoy delicious chocolate and cheese fondue as well as a fun game of “Friendly Feud”!
Date: Thursday, February 12th
Time: 5:00 PM
Address:
2027 N Terrace Ln NE
Grand Rapids, MI 49505
RSVP Deadline: February 8th
Sign Up Here: https://m.signupgenius.com/#!/showRSVPSignUp/10C0B4EA8A823A0FD0-61786604-galentines

2.19.26 - Service Above Self (SASy) Community Engagement Luncheon
2026-02-19 12:00 - 13:15 | Kent Country Club, 1600 College Ave NE, Grand Rapids, 49505
Each year, the Rotary Club of Grand Rapids comes together for a meaningful and hands-on service project at theService Above Self (SASy) Luncheon. Dedicated to making a tangible difference in our community, Rotarians will support the impactful work with local organizations Samaritas & Emmanuel Hospice!
Service Project Details:
Samaritas – Decorating and writing notes to foster kids and their families, providing encouragement and cheer.

Emmanuel Hospice – Two projects: we will fill lotion cups for their massage therapists to use when working with those under their hospice care, and we will create individual essential oil bottles for staff to use with patients and families

2.21.26 - Joint Service Project & Social Gathering @ Feeding America West Michigan - Volunteer Opportunity
2026-02-21 09:00 - 13:30 | Feeding America West Michigan, 3070 Shaffer Ave SE, Kentwood, Michigan, 49512
President Shannon Kolarik and the Community Engagement Committee are excited to invite you to a Joint Service Project and Social Gathering at Feeding America West Michigan.
Join us for this rewarding volunteer opportunity with the Rotary Club of Muskegon as we come together to support our community and make a meaningful impact.
If you are signing up, please contact the Rotary office for the Liability Waiver that needs to be signed and taken to the event.
Sign Up Here: https://www.signupgenius.com/go/10C0B4EA8A823A0FD0-61640271-joint
Volunteers Needed: 70
Age Requirement: Youth ages 16 and older are welcome to participate

2.26.26 - Dave Logan - Content Strategist, Logan Media Consulting
2026-02-26 12:00 - 13:15 | Kent Country Club, 1600 College Ave NE, Grand Rapids, 49505
Speaker: Dave Logan – Content Strategist, Logan Media Consulting
Speaker Topic: Launching Satellite Radio
Bio:
Specialist in new product start-ups and turnarounds of underachieving media properties. Able to quickly and clearly define team goals and produce forward motion on complex creative projects. Hands-on nurturing of creative talent through motivational leadership. As a Content Manager with over 30 years of experience in media, with a proven track record of success in developing and executing content marketing strategies that drive traffic, engagement, ratings, and revenue.
Skilled in all aspects of content creation, from ideation to execution. In previous roles, was responsible for developing and executing the company’s content and marketing strategy while working closely with product teams to create engaging and informative content. That included helping users understand and favor our products. Also managed a team of writers and editors and oversaw the production of a wide range of broadcast content, including on-air programming, blog posts, white papers, and social media posts.

3.5.26 - CLUB 77 Hosted by Guiding Light
2026-03-05 16:30 - 18:00 | Guiding Light, 255 Division Ave S., Grand Rapids, MI, 49503, United States

3.12.26 - Jon Ippel - Executive Director, Amplify GR
2026-03-12 12:00 - 13:15 | Kent Country Club, 1600 College Ave NE, Grand Rapids, 49505
Speaker: Jon Ippel – Executive Director, Amplify GR
Speaker Topic: What is a Purpose Built Community
Speaker Bio:
A Grand Rapids native, Jon Ippel serves as the Executive Director of Amplify GR. Jon comes to the organization with 15 years of community development experience. Before joining Amplify GR, he worked in local government in the areas of city administration, sustainability, and community development. In those capacities, Jon launched a nationally-recognized and award-winning environmental sustainability program, developed several public-private partnerships that created over 300 affordable housing units, coordinated over $1 billion in City infrastructure projects, and served as the city director for the 2012 NBA All-Star Weekend.
Jon feels passionately about the momentum in Grand Rapids and is committed to ensuring more residents in our community benefit from community growth through a holistic approach focusing on education, housing, jobs, entrepreneurship, and community wellbeing.
Jon is proud of the partnerships Amplify GR has formed with neighbors, nonprofits, and local businesses alike. These relationships allow Amplify GR to provide additional resources to both residents and businesses in the community.
Outside of work, Jon enjoys spending time with his beautiful wife and two kids.
For more information on Amplify GR and work in the community, visit: https://amplifygr.org/

3.19.26 - Troy Thrash - President & CEO, Kalamazoo Air Zoo
2026-03-19 12:00 - 13:15 | Kent Country Club, 1600 College Ave NE, Grand Rapids, 49505
Speaker: Troy Thrash – President & CEO, Kalamazoo Air Zoo
Speaker Topic: Kalamazoo Air Zoo Impact on our Region & Inspiring the Next Generation Through Aviation, Space, and STEM
Bio:
Troy Thrash is the President and CEO of the Kalamazoo Air Zoo, one of the nation’s premier aerospace and science museums. Since joining the Air Zoo in 2014, Troy has led significant growth in attendance, educational programming, and community impact, while overseeing major capital projects and nationally recognized exhibits. With a background in nonprofit leadership, aviation education, and strategic development, Troy is passionate about inspiring future generations through aviation, space exploration, and STEM learning. Troy is also a proud Rotarian and a member of the Rotary Club of Kalamazoo.
To learn more about the Kalamazoo Air Zoo, visit: https://www.airzoo.org/

3.26.26 - Carla Moore - CEO, United Methodist Community House (off-site luncheon)
2026-03-26 12:00 - 13:15 | United Methodist Community House, 904 Sheldon Ave. SE, Grand Rapids, MI, 49507, United States
Join us for an off-site luncheon at United Methodist Community House!
Speaker: Carla Moore – CEO, United Methodist Community House
Speaker Topic: Expansion of UMCH’s Space and Resources in 2026
Bio:
Carla Moore serves as CEO of United Methodist Community House in Grand Rapids. In this role, she leads one of the community’s longstanding neighborhood-based nonprofits dedicated to empowering children, youth, and families through education, enrichment, and support services.
With a strong commitment to equity and opportunity, Carla oversees programs that provide early childhood education, after-school support, workforce development, and family assistance — helping neighbors build stability and achieve long-term success. Under her leadership, the organization continues to strengthen partnerships and expand its impact across the southeast side of Grand Rapids.
Carla is passionate about collaborative community work and believes lasting change happens when organizations, businesses, and civic leaders come together in service.

4.2.26 - CLUB 77 - Hosted by Gerald R. Ford Presidential Foundation
2026-04-02 17:00 - 18:30 | Gerald R. Ford Presidential Museum, 303 Pearl St NW, Grand Rapids, Michigan, 49504, United States
Join us for our monthly Club 77 social event hosted by the Grand Rapids Presidential Foundation!
The event will be held at the Gerald R. Ford Presidential Museum.

4.9.26 - NO LUNCHEON - SPRING BREAK
2026-04-09 | MI
There will not be a luncheon on April 9th for Spring Break

4.16.26 - Interact Luncheon
2026-04-16 12:00 - 13:15 | Kent Country Club, 1600 College Ave NE, Grand Rapids, 49505
Join us for our annual Interact luncheon, where our Interact students lead the luncheon, and we celebrate all the exciting things they have done this year!
More about Interact:
A Rotary Interact Club is a service and leadership club for students, typically ages 15–18, sponsored by a local Rotary club. Interact clubs empower students to develop leadership skills, build friendships, and make a positive impact in their school and community through hands-on service projects.
Supported by Rotary International, Interact members learn the value of “Service Above Self” while gaining real-world experience in teamwork, organization, and community engagement.

4.23.26 - STRIVE Luncheon
2026-04-23 12:00 - 13:15 | Kent Country Club, 1600 College Ave NE, Grand Rapids, 49505
Join us for our annual STRIVE luncheon, where we meet all the STRIVE students and mentors, and they share their experiences with our club!
More about STRIVE:
STRIVE (Students Taking a Renewed Interest in the Value of Education) is a Rotary mentoring program designed to support high school seniors in achieving academic and personal success. Sponsored by a local Rotary club, STRIVE pairs students with Rotarian mentors who provide encouragement, accountability, and guidance throughout the school year.
Through goal-setting, consistent check-ins, and recognition of achievement, the program helps students strengthen attendance, improve performance, and build confidence as they prepare for graduation and future career or educational opportunities.

4.30.26 - Steve Tibbe - Grand Rapids Business Broker & Entrepreneur
2026-04-30 12:00 - 13:15 | Kent Country Club, 1600 College Ave NE, Grand Rapids, 49505
Speaker: Steve Tibbe – Grand Rapids Business Broker & Entrepreneur
Speaker Topic: TBA
Speaker Bio:
Steve Tibbe is a respected business and community leader based in Grand Rapids, Michigan. With decades of experience in the manufacturing and automotive industries, Steve has built a career focused on innovation, operational excellence, and strategic growth.
Throughout his professional journey, he has been committed not only to business success but also to community engagement and leadership development. Steve is passionate about strengthening West Michigan through collaboration, mentorship, and service.
In his presentation, Steve will share insights from his leadership experience, lessons learned in business growth and innovation, and perspectives on the importance of community involvement in driving long-term impact.

5.2.26 - Greenwood Cemetery Annual Spring Clean-Up (Volunteer Opportunity)
2026-05-02 09:30 - 12:00 | Greenwood Cemetery, 1373 Leonard St NW, Grand Rapids, MI, 49504, United States
Our Community Engagement Committee is pleased to offer the following volunteer opportunity for our Rotarians and friends for a Cemetery Clean-up on May 2nd
Dates:
Saturday, May 2nd
Time: 9:30 AM – 12:00 PM
Volunteers Needed: 15
Location:
Greenwood Cemetery
1273 Leonard St. NW
Grand Rapids, MI 49504
Sign Up: https://www.signupgenius.com/go/10C0B4EA8A823A0FD0-63464289-greenwood

5.13.26 - 2026 Frederik Meijer Service Above Self Award Dinner - Honoring Andy DeVries
2026-05-13 17:30 - 21:00 | Goei Center, 818 Butterworth St SW, Grand Rapids, MI, 49504, United States
Tickets are now on sale for the 2026 Frederik Meijer Service Above Self Award Dinner, honoring this year’s recipient and fellow Rotarian, Andy DeVries.
Please join us for an inspiring evening celebrating leadership, service, and community impact.
Event Details
Date: Wednesday, May 13, 2026
Location: The Goei Center – 818 Butterworth SW, Grand Rapids, MI 49504
Doors Open: 5:30 PM
Event Time: 6:00 – 9:00 PM
Ticket Price: $100 per person
Purchase tickets here: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/1982391881482?aff=oddtdtcreator
We encourage members to secure tickets early and invite guests to help us recognize Andy DeVries and the values of Service Above Self that this award represents.
We look forward to celebrating with you!
