Following the damage caused by Hurricane Katrina the members of the Rotary Club of Park Ridge were moved to offer assistance to those affected by this massive storm. Rotary District 6440 appealed for donations and many in our club responded; however, club members wanted to be more directly involved.

Through the efforts of Rotarian Joe Dickerson we established a relationship with the Rotary Club of Laurel, Mississippi. Laurel, population 18,881, is located 100 miles from the gulf coast. The Rotray Club of Laurel identified the need for school uniforms for children of their town, and the Rotary Club of Park Ridge raised $3,000 to purchase those uniforms. Additionally, Rotarians Joe Dickerson and David Holland appealed to District 6440 for additional funds to support ongoing relief efforts in Laurel. District 6440 thoughtfully honored the request with an additional $20,000.

Joe and Dave traveled to Laurel to present the $23,000 gift to the Rotary Club of Laurel, Mississippi. They also toured the areas surrounding Laurel and the photographs of their trip are shown below.
Joe and Dave presenting check to Randy Bicker