By Joel Langton
The 830 Times
Del Rio’s Rotary Club sponsored an event, Rotary Rally for Relief at the Whitehead Museum Saturday, that raised more than $14,300 to support flood victims in Kerrville and surrounding areas.
Cheryl Simmons, Rotary president and one of the event’s organizers, said every dollar will go toward projects that offer immediate, meaningful impact for families impacted by the flood.
Rotary Club of Del Rio officials said the funds will be distributed in coordination with the Rotary Club of Kerrville and other trusted local partners to ensure support reaches those most in need.
“These funds will be distributed thoughtfully and with care,” Simmons said. “We’re focused on delivering help that truly matters.”
Simmons and former Rotary President Abram Rodriguez watched the news reports July 4 about the devastation Mother Nature wrought 153 miles away and knew they had to do something.
“We knew we needed to help,” Rodriguez said. Within days, local businesses and individuals offered support, from food donations to auction items, and they were raising relief dollars.
Other club members secured silent auction items, and the community responded in force—donating, attending and rallying behind the cause in less than a week.
Another Rotarian, musician Clifton Castle, stepped up to organize the entertainment, assembling a lineup of fellow musicians to perform at the benefit. Madison Hailey and Abram Ortiz joined Castle and helped provide an evening of entertainment as people bid on auction items, visited and enjoyed food.
“We are incredibly grateful to everyone who came out, donated and supported this cause,” said Simmons. “This rally was not only a fundraiser—it was a powerful demonstration of community solidarity and Rotary’s mission in action.”
Simmons said she was amazed by everyone’s effort. “Everyone came together in less than 10 days and raised almost $15,000.”
The writer can be reached at JoelALangton@gmail.com .
