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Founding member, Rebecca Anwar, received the prestigious District Governor's Award for outstanding service to Chestnut Hill Rotary and the SE PA area. The award was presented at the recent Breakfast Program meeting by Rotary International District Governor Carol Lerner.
“Rebecca Anwar embodies the welcoming and hospitable spirit at the heart of this club's culture,” said Lerner. Since 2018, Anwar has been hosting Chestnut Hill Rotary’s Lobster Fest— which draws nearly 250 people — at her home in East Mt. Airy. The annual popular event is the top fundraising event, organized by club leaders, requires dozens of Rotary volunteers to plan, set up, serve, and clean up every year. Funds raised go back into the local and international community.
Nearly ten years ago, the club was looking for a new venue to hold the annual fundraiser. Anwar recalls “I looked at my yard and my house, and I decided, I can do that.” She also hosts the annual holiday party for Chestnut Hill Rotary members and friends.
“One of three remaining members since the Rotary Club of Chestnut Hill was chartered 30 years ago, she was club president in 2007-08 and remains the driving force behind one of our longest-running grant recipients, Hope Children's Home in Guyana,” said Lerner. “Her generosity remains central to allowing the Chestnut Hill Rotary to thrive.”
Pictured above, Rebecca Anwar at Hope Children’s Home in 2011.
Founded in 2001, Hope Children’s Home provides care to abused and neglected children in Guyana from infants to 18 years of age. Many of the children have suffered severe abuse and/or molestation while others are had left alone for days with no one to care for them. Chestnut Hill Rotary has provided donations of clothing, school supplies, bedding and household supplies. The club’s foundation awarded grants to purchase appliances, tables and other furnishings, and emergency electrical generators.
In past years, she went to Guyana—with other Rotary volunteers—to support the home’s education and operations from art, music and financial literacy programs to helping with infrastructure projects such as plumbing and sanitation.
District Governor Lerner went on to say, “In short, her generosity remains central to allowing the Chestnut Hill Rotary to thrive.” Anwar received a standing ovation from members and guests.
