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TRYON—The Rotary Club of Tryon is gearing up to celebrate its 97th anniversary on September 2. While no celebrations are planned, they are ramping up for a historic 100th anniversary in a few years. Since its charter in 1927, the Rotary Club has been an integral part of the Tryon community, making a significant impact with its emphasis on the motto, “Service above self.”

“The Tryon Chapter began only 22 years after the original Rotary Club was founded,” said member Dave Scherping. “It shows how well our little community was connected to the world around it.”

With about 65 dedicated members, the club meets weekly at the Tryon Presbyterian Church to discuss and plan service projects and events that benefit the local community. The Rotary Club of Tryon Foundation is crucial in providing grants, donations, and scholarships to support various initiatives.

Among the numerous projects and events organized by the Rotary Club, the upcoming Shrimpfest, scheduled for September 20 at the Landrum Farmers Market, stands out as the largest annual fundraiser. This event serves as an opportunity for community members to come together and support the club’s impactful work. This year, Shrimpfest will feature music and storytelling by Honeylicious and an auction for donated items headed by auctioneer Michael Baughman. 

The club’s contributions extend beyond fundraising events. The Rotary Club of Tryon Foundation provides scholarships to college or trade school students, with an impressive $40,000 in college scholarships awarded each year.

The club extends its support to various service organizations, both local and international. Projects range from providing free books to elementary students through the Reading Is Fundamental program to supporting wildlife education programs in local schools. It also contributes to global initiatives such as the fight against polio and provides aid to regions in need, such as the Philippines and Bolivia.

The Rotary Club of Tryon has been involved in initiatives such as the Tryon Film Festival youth program, establishing little libraries for children, contributing $150,000 to constructing the new YMCA facility and supporting various healthcare and research programs, including Alzheimer’s research and St. Luke’s Hospital outreach. The club also donated the Tryon Clock Tower to celebrate Rotary International’s 100th anniversary in 2005. 

If you would like to donate items for the auction, contact Dave Scherping at scherpd@gmail.com or by phone at 828-917-2094. To purchase a ticket for Shrimpfest, visit rotarycluboftryon.com or buy it directly from a Rotary member.