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Make new friends while doing fun, community service projects that benefit the Village and beyond - become a Rotarian! 

Visitors welcome!

Call 928-235-6008
Meeting First & Third Thursdays
at the Village Library
25 W. Saddlehorn, Sedona AZ
7:00 am  Coffee and Chat
7:30 am  Club Meeting
 
 
Club News
 
 
Ben Lee, Head of School at Verde Valley School:
A Legacy of Education and Global Citizenship
 
 
 
     Ben Lee, the current Head of School at Verde Valley School (VVS) in Sedona, continues to build upon the school’s rich history, which dates back to its founding in 1946. Nestled among the stunning Red Rocks near what is now the Village of Oak Creek, the school has long been recognized for its innovative approach to education, particularly for international students.
   Founded by Hamilton and Barbara Warren, Verde Valley School was established with the vision of fostering not just academic excellence but also a sense of global responsibility and environmental stewardship. Over the years, the school has embraced five core principles: Academic Excellence, World Citizenship, Environmental Stewardship, Service to Others, and the Value of Physical Labor. These guiding values continue to shape the school's curriculum and student experience today.
    Under Ben Lee’s leadership, Verde Valley School maintains its strong focus on these principles. The school’s curriculum is designed to challenge students intellectually while preparing them to be responsible global citizens. Lee has played a key role in maintaining and enhancing the school’s commitment to diversity and inclusion, as reflected in its international student body.
   Currently, Verde Valley School has a student population of 105, with learners coming from both the local area and various countries around the world. This blend of local and international students creates a vibrant learning environment where cultural exchange is an integral part of everyday life.
  Lee is deeply committed to upholding the school’s traditions while also embracing innovation in education. His efforts ensure that Verde Valley School remains a leader in fostering environmental consciousness, global citizenship, and academic rigor among its students, continuing its legacy as a pioneer in education.
 
 
 
 It was with a mixture of appreciation and sadness that the members of our Club recognized Mark von Hoetzendorff as The Rotarian of the Year for 2023-24.  Mark passed away last May and left a remarkable legacy exemplifying  Rotary's 4 Way Test.   
Mark was known for his unwavering commitment to volunteering in local and international Rotary clubs for over 40 years. He dedicated himself to serving through various Rotary clubs, including Chico and San Ramon, CA, ending his service after co-founding the Rotary Club of Sedona Village in Arizona. He was president of the Rotary Club of San Ramon in 1994-95 and served as District 5160 Governor in 2002-03.
Mark von Hoetzendorff's memory will live on in the hearts of his family, friends, and the hundreds of lives he touched. His legacy will be remembered by his dedication to making a positive impact in the world, his optimistic outlook and love for family and friends.  
 

We were delighted to host Ivy Chamberlin from MatForce Youth Services at our recent Rotary meeting. Ivy provided valuable insights into MatForce's mission to combat substance abuse through education, focusing on K-12 drug prevention programs in the Verde Valley.  She highlighted the critical role mental health plays, noting that anxiety and depression among young people often lead to substance use if not addressed with appropriate tools and strategies.

In light of these pressing issues, Carol introduced the Rotary International Mental Health Initiative Rotary Action Group (RAG). Our District and local Rotary Clubs have recognized the urgent need for community support in this area.

The Rotary Club of Sedona Village is spearheading an initiative to address this need. We are collaborating with all Rotary Clubs in Sedona and the Verde Valley to offer a comprehensive full-day training on Saturday, February 1, 2025. The training will commence at 9 AM, and participants will be required to complete an hour of pre-training homework to prepare effectively.

For additional details about the training, please contact Ivy at 928-708-0100 or Carol Hess at 916-690-7085.

 
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We work with groups and organizations of all sizes to accomplish even more. Learn more about our Charitable Fund and how you or your organization can contribute.
Charitable Fund
 
 
All funds paid through this link are TAX DEDUCTIBLE.
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Mailing Address
PO Box 21479
Sedona AZ 86341
 
For more info, email: President@sedonavillagerotary.org
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