Serving Clifton Park Since 1958

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1958 – A Rotary Legacy Begins

The Shenendehowa Rotary Club was chartered on March 11, 1958, with the support of the Burnt Hills, Ballston Lake Rotary Club. Charter Night was held at the Edison Club in Rexford, New York, marking the beginning of Rotary service in the Shenendehowa and Clifton Park community.

Under the leadership of the first president, Fred Droms Jr., the club quickly established a tradition of service, fellowship, and youth recognition that continues to this day.

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1959–1965 – Building a Community of Service

During its early years, the club launched projects that addressed education, youth development, and families in need:

• 4-H agricultural projects, including the donation of baby chicks and seed potatoes

• School and youth support through awards, scholarships, and Christmas programs

• Donations to emergency services, scouting organizations, and health initiatives

• Community events such as music festivals, ladies’ nights, and youth dances

These efforts laid the foundation for Rotary’s long-standing presence in the community.

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1966–1979 – Lasting Community Investments

The club expanded its impact with projects that continue to shape Clifton Park today:

• Assistance in securing land for what became a Town Park

• Completion of the Shenendehowa Public Library project. Today it’s called the Clifton Park – Halfmoon Library

• Ongoing youth programs, cultural events, and community celebrations

• Early participation in international youth exchange initiatives

Rotary had become a trusted partner in community development.

 

1980s–1990s – Growth, Fellowship, and Inclusion

As Clifton Park grew, so did Rotary’s role:

• Community fundraisers such as steak roasts, Halfmoon Days, and special events

• Adoption of local roadways and parks for cleanup and beautification

• Hosting visiting youth athletic teams and sponsoring career awareness programs

• 1995: Anne Cargile became the first woman to serve a full term as club president

These years reflected Rotary’s adaptability and expanding leadership.

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2000–2003 – Expanding Horizons

The club broadened its reach both locally and internationally:

• School supply backpack programs and international aid initiatives

• Hosting the Kelly Miller Circus and other large community events

• Launch of the Dictionary Project for local third-grade students

• Planting of a Liberty Elm Tree at Collins Park​

 

2004 – Growth Through Collaboration

Recognizing changing work schedules and lifestyles, the club proudly
co-sponsored the formation of a lunchtime Rotary club, now known as Twin Bridges Rotary Club.

This collaboration expanded Rotary’s accessibility and strengthened service throughout the Clifton Park area, united by shared values and mission.

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2005–2015 – Global Service & Local Impact

Projects during this period included:

• Clean water initiatives in Honduras and Haiti

• International service trips to Zimbabwe, Honduras, and Brazil

• Tree plantings and memorial projects at Collins Park

• Scholarships, road rallies, and creative fundraising events

 

2016–Present – Serving Today, Shaping Tomorrow

Today, the club continues its commitment to Service Above Self through:

• Scholarships and youth programs

• Bountiful Backpacks and dictionary distributions

• Chicken BBQs and food pantry support

• Environmental projects and park cleanups

• Outhouse Races and community fundraisers

• Partnership with Interact and local organizations​

 

2025 – A New Name, the Same Mission

To better reflect the community we serve, the Shenendehowa Rotary Club proudly became the Clifton Park Rotary Club, honoring our history while strengthening our future.

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Neighbors Serving Neighbors