CLEMSON — On the morning of June 6, at the breakfast meeting at Sole on the Green in Clemson, the Clemson Sunrise Rotary gathered not just to celebrate service, but toput it into action — disbursing $8,900 in support of local 501(c)(3) organizations whose missions touch lives across the Upstate.

In an inspiring show of generosity and civic spirit, the Rotary awarded donations to 13 deserving charities. These included Wild Hearts Equine Therapy, Refugee Hope Partners, Old Stone Church Preservation, Helping Hands of Clemson, Clemson Community Care (CCC), Chapman Cultural Center, Blue Ridge Community Center, Upstate Warrior Solution, Friends of Internationals, Keese Barn/Semper Fi Barn, Clemson Free Clinic, Humane Society of Pickens County and Red Hill Baptist Food Mission.

Each of these organizations addresses unique and pressing needs — from serving veterans, children and refugees, to offering cultural enrichment, health care, shelter and compassion to the most vulnerable among us.

“We believe in service above self,” said a Clemson Sunrise Rotary representative. “This is more than a donation — this is a commitment to our neighbors, to hope, and to the values that strengthen our community.”

One of the local charity beneficiaries said the donation “fills an gap to help the underserved, especially in the summer, when donations are down due to school holidays and vacations.”

According to a news release, in a time when challenges can feel overwhelming, this act of giving serves as a powerful reminder — when people come together with purpose, kindness can ripple far and wide. The Clemson Sunrise Rotary continues to lead with heart, inspiring others to do the same, the release said. “Clemson Sunrise Rotary Club is a voluntary member-focused, service-driven organization that creates lasting, positive change in the world, our community and within ourselves,” the release said. “Bring your passion to our club!”

For more information about joining the club, call 561-512-3032 or email clemsonsunriserotary@gmail.com.