I am Jean Loo-Russo, Chief Philanthropy Officer for the Elizabeth Hospice in Escondido, CA. My involvement with nonprofit organizations began 26 years ago with The Parent Connection, a Scripps Health organization. First as a volunteer and then as a contractor, it was my privilege to produce a 36 page newsletter each month for them. Since then I have served on various nonprofit boards eventually becoming the Director of Development for the Escondido Humane Society and then for the San Diego Humane Society. I’ve been fundraising for the past 16 years. Making an impact in the community by helping those who are facing tremendous challenges has been a passion of mine for all these years. It’s the reasons I enjoy Rotary and in particular, the RB Sunrise Rotary.
With more than 35,000 clubs around the world, it is only natural that each Rotary club has its own culture. It took me a while to find a club culture that fit my needs. I decided to join the Rancho Bernardo Sunrise club at the end of 2014 for several reasons. One, I’m a morning person and what better way to start a Tuesday? My fellow RB Sunrise Rotarians are a lively group with a dry sense of humor. Second, community projects are many and they are met with enthusiasm and compassion. Third, many of these projects give you an opportunity to meet the people who benefit from them so you get a sense of accomplishment. Fourth, we find friendship through “Service above Self.”
If you are looking for a club where you can be with others who care deeply about their community and who put their words into action, then RB Sunrise is the club for you. Come to a meeting and experience what I am talking about.