As the saying goes, “The show must go on.” And, during a pandemic, “The show must go on with some modifications.”
In previous years, Rutland South Rotary Club held its annual fundraising raffle at Spartan Arena with cash and door prize giveaways. This year due to the prohibition on large gatherings, the club had to get creative.
Amid the pandemic, many travelers have chosen outdoor activities closer to home and the popularity of camping, hiking, and boating has skyrocketed. So, the Rutland South Rotary has decided to give away a brand new 25’10’’ Riverside Retro Travel Trailer from Dan Kearney’s RV and Lightweight Towable as the big prize. The trailer is worth nearly $34,000, sleeps four, and is fully self-contained with full-size bathroom, gas/electric refrigerator, microwave, and queen size bed. It also boasts an outdoor shower and awning.
The second prize is $1,500, third prize is $1,000, and fourth prize is $500.
Over the past 40 years, Rutland South Rotary has been a generous benefactor to youth programs in the community. They have raised thousands of dollars for scholarships, dictionaries for 3rd graders, outdoor recreational equipment for schools, laptops, and iPads.
Members have also distributed over 7,000 face masks to area schools and non-profits and built an outdoor play area for students at Northwest School.
“Our community has a big heart and has always rallied to support our fundraising events,” said Rutland South Rotary President Caitlin Perry. “The money raised will help us ensure every child has the same opportunities to learn and engage whether it is in school or remotely.”
Rutland South Rotary is prepared to do whatever it takes to make the fundraiser a huge success. This year the raffle is adding a humorous touch. RSR Rotarian Roger Louiselle, on a dare, agreed to dress up as “Cousin Eddie” from the movie “Christmas Vacation” and posed in front of the travel trailer. The photo, along with the “Bernie Sanders” meme, posted on the club’s Facebook page has attracted lots of attention.
Tickets are $100 each and can be purchased from a rotarian, at rutlandsouthrotary.org, or by calling 802.236.7713. Drawing is March, 17, 2021.