I have known Amanda Kourafas since I was in School at IC in Marlborough. My Dad and Kevin worked at State Mutual together. I have been to many Holiday get-togethers at their house. I always knew that Amanda was involved with Rotary; she spoke of it often in conversations. When I was younger I did not really understand what it was all about. Even when my Sister and I won the Rotary Scholarships I still had only a basic knowledge of the organization. I thought it was just a community organization. I did not really grasp the international scope of Rotary. When I worked at the Holiday Inn I got to know the group better and heard about some of the projects such as Polio Plus, the dictionary project and the food baskets for the Holidays. I also observed the friendship and respect in the group, it was professional but also fun while doing good for others.
Last year I was looking for something in my life. My job was going well, my family was going well but I wanted to do something more with myself and my time. I had to go to Rotary to do a presentation for the Hotel, I felt so welcome from the moment I walked into Coral that day. Over the next few weeks I attended more meetings and got more information about Rotary and realized that this was what I was looking for in my life. I really wanted to do something to give back and the friendship and fellowship is an additional bonus.
I was inducted last June and I have been enjoying it ever since. I was told to “Jump In” and I did, with both feet. I am glad I did, it got me very involved and invested right from the start. As with most things, as much as you put into it, you get out of it! I truly value all the friends I have made. Also, I am proud to have helped Marlborough. I grew up in Marlborough and it is a great City. I am glad that we were able to give dictionaries to the students, food to families for the holidays, scholarships for our graduating seniors, leadership training for high school sophomores and monetary support to worthy organizations in Marlborough. As I begin my second year as a Rotarian I am looking forward to more great projects and more fellowship.