By L. Parsons The Rotary Club of Winslow had a productive year serving the community. Last year members of the organization took on a major food distribution project in partnership with St. Mary’s Mobile Food Bank and distributed food to anyone in need once a month. They also spearheaded a food program in the schools that sent food home with children in need for the nights and weekends. Incoming President Jimmy Atha said, “We have done so much and have so much momentum. My goal is to continue that this year.” It appears the momentum will continue indeed as Atha’s son and wife will be taking part in an international service project entitled “Crutches for Africa.” Jessica Cox-Atha, who is also the newly installed vice president of Rotary of Winslow, will be heading to Kenya to distribute crutches, walkers, wheelchairs and other mobility aids to those in need. Her son Jackson Cox will do the same in central Mexico. The program, started by polio survivor David Talbot is funded by Rotary clubs, individual fundraisers and other donations. The mobility aids are all donated throughout the year to Rotary members who then store them in a facility in Phoenix. “Then,” according to Cox-Atha, “we put them in a shipping container and send them around the world.” This year, Cox-Atha has been attending virtual training sessions on Kenyan culture, food, etiquette and more in preparation for the trip. She said, “There won’t be much of a language barrier because most people in Kenya speak the Queen’s English. I am worried a little bit about the food though,” she added in jest. “I am looking forward to doing the service that Rotary encourages. This time, it’s just across the globe.” Cox-Atha’s son, Jackson Cox will be taking the same sort of trip in to central Mexico beginning July 12. The 18-year-old incoming high school senior is excited and nervous. “This will be the first time a Crutches for Africa program has sent a team to Mexico. I was selected as an ambassador for the team out of many that applied around the state. I was the only one from our region that is going to go. The whole group is people my age, so it will be an adventure. When I get to Mexico, I will be fixing wheelchairs to give to people in the area who are in need. The service aspect of the Rotary Club is the most important to me, but I do like the idea of traveling and learning about another culture,” he said, adding that he is also serving as President of the Interact Club this year. The Interact Club is the youth version of the Rotary Club. It consists of junior high and high school students interested in service and community projects. To become part of the Rotary Club of Winslow, or to volunteer alongside them, visit their Facebook page at Rotary Club of Winslow Arizona.
