We are a vibrant and diverse group of professionals dedicated to creating a positive impact not only in our Hilo community but also across the state, nation, and around the world.  By teaming up with over 1.4 million Rotarians, we infuse leadership, education, and enthusiasm into projects that enhance the quality of life for people everywhere.   Join us in making a difference!

Registration for the 2026 Hilo Huli Luau is now open!

The Rotary Club of South Hilo invites all to support our signature fundraising event, the Hilo Huli Luau!  This event will feature a delectable buffet of Hawaiian delicacies, an assortment of non-alcoholic beverages, no host bar, headlined by local entertainment and a hula floor show.

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Celebrating Leadership & Creating Lasting Impact

Dear Rotary members and friends, we are honored to share this special and momentous occasion with you.  One of our own, Benson Medina, is stepping into the role of District Governor for Rotary District 5000, and this achievement reflects the dedication, integrity, and steady leadership that have long distinguished his service.  We take great pride in celebrating this milestone with him, and we are equally excited for what his leadership will mean for our club, our district, and the year ahead.  As we look forward, we do so with gratitude, optimism, and a renewed sense of purpose.

Welcoming Our District Governor: Benson Medina

Benson Medina has always led with steady service, a generous spirit, and a real commitment to helping others.  Through his time with our club, he has shown what it means to show up, work hard, and lead by example.  As he takes on the role of District Governor for Rotary District 5000, he brings that same energy and experience to the year ahead.  The theme Create Lasting Impact sums it up well: focus on meaningful service, strong partnerships, and results that last.  We are excited to support Benson in this next chapter and to keep building momentum together.  It is a proud moment for our club, and we look forward to seeing what we can accomplish side by side.

Looking Ahead: A Year of Impact

This year presents meaningful opportunities to turn ideas into action and to deepen the impact of our service at both the local and global level.  Under Benson's leadership, we are especially encouraged by the chance to strengthen the work we do, extend our reach, and build on the values that define Rotary.  With that spirit in mind, we are focusing on priorities that support sustainable progress and lasting good in our communities.

  • Community service initiatives that address local needs with practical, compassionate action

  • Youth leadership and mentorship programs that help the next generation grow in confidence and service

  • Global grant projects that extend our reach and support meaningful work internationally

  • Membership growth and engagement strategies that welcome new voices and strengthen participation

  • Strategic partnerships with local organizations that multiply our impact through collaboration

  • Environmental sustainability and conservation projects that protect the places and resources we value

  • Leadership development opportunities that equip members to serve with greater confidence and effectiveness

Join Us in Creating Lasting Impact

We invite every member and friend to join us in supporting District Governor Medina and the vision he brings to the year ahead.  Your participation in upcoming service initiatives will help strengthen our club, our district, and the communities we serve.  Thank you for your continued dedication to Rotary's mission of service above self, and for the many ways you help make our work meaningful.  Together, we can bring energy, kindness, and purpose to the work we do and the lives we touch.

In Service,

Rotary Club of South Hilo

 

 

July: New Leadership Month

July is Rotary’s transition month, the time when new club officers step in and a new year of leadership begins. It’s a moment that honors both what’s come before and what’s ahead, bringing last year’s hard work together with a fresh sense of purpose.  For clubs everywhere, it offers a natural reset — a chance to refocus, recharge, and look ahead with energy and optimism.  As new leaders take their places, Rotary communities get ready for another year of meaningful service.

The Significance of Transition

July is a big moment because new presidents, board members, and committee chairs are all stepping into their roles at once. At the same time, outgoing leaders are handing things over with care, sharing the experience, momentum, and lessons they’ve picked up along the way. It’s not just a change of names on a roster — it’s a fresh commitment to Rotary’s mission and a chance to take stock of where the club is headed.  Many clubs use this period to revisit their priorities, set a few clear goals, and make small adjustments that fit the year ahead.  When that handoff is done well, the club keeps its sense of continuity while opening the door to new ideas.  That’s what makes July feel like such an important bridge between what’s already been accomplished and what’s still possible.

Passing the torch isn’t just a formality — it’s a chance to appreciate what was built, learn from it, and carry it forward with fresh energy. The best transitions leave room for both gratitude and new ideas.

Key Responsibilities for New Leaders

  • Get familiar with Rotary’s mission and values — The more you understand what guides the club, the easier it is to make steady, thoughtful decisions.

  • Build good relationships early — A little time spent connecting with fellow officers, committee chairs, and members goes a long way toward trust and teamwork.

  • Set a few clear goals — Focus on priorities that make sense for your club and fit the bigger Rotary picture too.

  • Stay in touch with district leadership — Regular check-ins can help you stay informed, supported, and pointed in the right direction.

  • Keep members involved — Invite participation, celebrate what people contribute, and help everyone feel part of the club’s momentum.

  • Plan service projects with purpose — Choose projects that feel meaningful, practical, and visible in the community.

Supporting the Transition

The smoothest transitions usually happen when the whole club helps, not just the people moving in or out of office. Outgoing leaders can make a huge difference by offering guidance, sharing what they’ve learned, and being available during those first few months. It also helps to pass along the practical stuff clearly — records, calendars, contacts, and notes on projects that are still in motion. A good orientation can give new officers a clearer picture of their responsibilities and the support around them.  District training can add even more confidence and help leaders feel ready to step into the year.  When a club treats transition as a shared effort, everything tends to feel a little easier, a little smoother, and a lot more welcoming.

Looking Ahead

New leadership brings a real opportunity, not just for the people stepping into office, but for the whole club.  Fresh eyes can spark new ideas, deepen engagement, and uncover better ways to serve. And with the support of experienced members, new leaders don’t have to figure everything out alone — they can grow into the role with confidence.  Rotary is at its strongest when steady experience and new energy move forward together. As July begins a new chapter, clubs can welcome it with hope, unity, and a genuine excitement about the difference they’ll make.

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This video highlights the activities of the Rotary Club of South Hilo for Rotary Year 2025-2026 under the presidency of Zeda Medina.  Take a walk down memory lane with us as we highlight a year of community involvement, service, and friendship.

SERVE WITH US

Rotary focuses on seven key areas to create lasting change: Peacebuilding and Conflict Prevention, Disease Prevention and Treatment, Water, Sanitation and Hygiene, Maternal and Child Health, Community Economic Development, and Protecting the Environment.  We would love to have you join us.
We work with our local groups, businesses and non-profits to develop strategic alliances that benefit our entire community.  Follow the Link above for more information.

JOIN A PROJECT

RCSH is involved in major projects all over Hawai'i Island (like the IRONMAN World Championships).  You can be a part of it!