The Rotary Club of Simcoe is wrapping up a milestone year after celebrating its 100th season of service in the community.
Past president Tom O’Neill and current president David Ferris say the centennial year was marked by strong community support, successful fundraising, and plenty of fun along the way.
O’Neill said the year began with a 100th anniversary dinner.
One of the biggest highlights of 2025 has been the ongoing Catch the Ace draw, which launched in April as a centennial project and continues to build excitement. The Ace remains unclaimed which O’Neill and Ferris says works to their advantage.
The jackpot has now grown to more than $16,000, plus 20 per cent of weekly ticket sales. Funds raised support local causes including the Norfolk General Hospital Foundation, local hospice care, and Rotary scholarships.
Another major achievement came this fall through a matching campaign supporting new hospital beds.
The funds will help purchase advanced hospital beds that are fully integrated into the hospital’s care systems, with each bed costing about $17,000.
Rotary also marked its centennial during the Civic Holiday weekend at its annual Pancakes in the Park fundraiser, giving away 800 free pancakes on the Monday as a thank-you to the community.
Ferris says looking ahead to 2026 the club hopes to continue to grow.
The club also hopes to revive popular events such as the Christmas House Tour while continuing to support both local and international causes.
With a century of service behind it, the Rotary Club of Simcoe remains dedicated to making a positive difference in the community.
Written by Jeremy Hall