This week, the Rotary Club of Norfolk had the pleasure of hearing from two longtime members whose service and wisdom run deep: John Padgett and Sigur Whitaker. Their presentation was not only informative but a heartfelt reminder of the power of Rotary to change lives—both here at home and around the world.
John, recent chair of the District Foundation Committee, reflected on the Rotary Foundation’s beginning more than a century ago with a small donation from Arch Klumph. It has since grown into a global force for good. Today, the Foundation supports Ambassadorial Scholars, Rotary Peace Centers, Rotary Youth Exchange, and countless other programs that touch communities worldwide.Sigur, chair of our club’s Foundation
Committee, reinforced how every contribution comes back to fuel meaningful work. After a few years, a portion of the funds we give returns to the District to support local grants, including projects championed by our own club. Other funds help power global grants, such as the international clean water initiative in Ethiopia, currently paused due to regional conflict.
John also shared stories that brought our club’s legacy to life—from early trips to Haiti that became Physicians for Peace to the “Paint Your Heart Out” project that began in 1996 and completed home projects and painting for people in need. He recalled efforts supporting the Hunton YMCA, building reefs, and delivering books to New Orleans after Hurricane Katrina.
Both speakers emphasized the trustworthiness of the Rotary Foundation, which consistently earns a four-star Charity Navigator rating and stewards 88% of donations directly into service. Sigur also highlighted our Norfolk Rotary Endowment and the impact of becoming a Charles Woodard Fellow.
John shared that our local Rotary district has a handful of Arch Klumph Society donors and has recently grown by one - Sigur Whitaker. Appreciation for her generosity was celebrated with a standing ovation.
In closing, Sigur reminded members that Giving Tuesday is December 2, 2025. This is a perfect time to advance toward Paul Harris Fellow recognition, with matching points available for qualifying gifts.
Thank you, John and Sigur. When we give through Rotary, our generosity grows far beyond what we can imagine.
