Bloomington-Normal Thrive Rotary

Leadership is often about stepping up when you’re needed most.

Congratulations to our own Julie Dobsk on being installed as District 6490 Vice Governor. While we continue to keep Incoming District Governor Deb West in our thoughts and prayers during her illness, Julie has graciously stepped into this important role until Deb is able to return.

A special thank you to Pat and Bev who worked so hard to organize a wonderful District Installation event. It was a great evening celebrating service, leadership, and the year ahead.

Congratulations, Julie! Your dedication to Rotary and “Service Above Self” continues to inspire us. 💙💛

Thrive Rotary had the privilege of hearing from Adam Carter with PATH, an organization that has been serving our community since 1971 by providing crisis support, information, resources and guidance.

PATH was founded in the early 1970s by volunteers committed
to addressing social issues like drug abuse, mental health, and
su***de prevention. Over the years, PATH expanded its services
to include specialized hotlines and after-hours support for
community agencies and, in the 1990s, played a pivotal role in
establishing the 2-1-1 service in Illinois to connect people with
health and human services. PATH also became a key part of the
National Su***de Prevention Lifeline, now 988, extending its
reach across most of Illinois. Today, PATH continues to provide
critical support to the community.

Today, Thrive Rotary had the privilege of hearing from Robert Bosquez, Director of Bed Blitz, an incredible local organization dedicated to ensuring that every child has a safe and comfortable place to sleep.

Bed Blitz provides beds at no cost to families in need, serving children ages 5–18 throughout our community. Each child receives a custom-built bed frame, new mattress (donated by Sherman's ), sheets, quilt, pillow, blanket, and even laundry detergent to help families get started. What may seem like a simple bed can make a tremendous difference in a child’s health, education, confidence, and overall well-being.

Thank you, Robert, for sharing the inspiring work of Bed Blitz and for the countless volunteers and donors who help make these life-changing deliveries possible. Together, we can ensure that no child in our community has to sleep on the floor.

To learn more, volunteer, or donate, contact Bed Blitz at 309-829-1200 or visit their website. [email protected]" rel="ugc" target="_blank">[email protected]

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Here is the pic of our very first monthly social gathering of the community service committee! First Thursday of the month, noon at Times Past Inn.

Our business meeting is the third Wednesday of the month, 430-6pm at Rob Dob's.

Both are open to the entire Club, of course!

Ron Slagel

Thrive members! This is our only evening service night with Midwest Food Bank. Hope to see you there!

We were Honored to march in today’s Memorial Day parade alongside our fellow Rotary members as we remember and honor the brave men and women who gave their lives for our freedom. 🇺🇸 Thank you to all who have served and sacrificed.

On Monday, Memorial Day, BN THRIVE Rotary members will march in the parade to support and remember the brave men and women who have served our country. Lineup is at 8:30 AM on the corner of Roosevelt and front Street 🇺🇸

Another great day of service with BN Thrive Rotary at Midwest Food Bank!

Our members rolled up their sleeves to help sort, pack, and prepare food for families in need — because making a difference in our community is what THRIVE is all about.

Thank you to everyone who volunteered their time and energy today. Small acts of service create a big impact. 💙

Support THRIVE by nominating us in the 2026 Readers’ Choice Awards Thank you!

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