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COLUMBIANA -- The city's Rotary Club will celebrate 100 years this year, and its longstanding service to the community has been recognized at both the county and state level.
The Columbiana County Commissioners recently issued a proclamation recognizing the impact the organization has had over the years.
Likewise, the Ohio House of Representatives 135th General Assembly issued a resolution honoring the club on its upcoming anniversary.
House Resolution 53 was represented by Representative Monica Robb Blasdel and "affords the opportunity to acknowledge the remarkable philanthropic work done by the Columbiana Rotary Club."
The resolution by the House and the proclamation by county commissioners both outlined the work done by the club over the years.
Specifically, the club's work to help children with challenging issues through the March of Dimes and Easter Seals over the last 75 years was recognized by county commissioners as the longest standing project of the club since its inception on April 5, 1923.
That effort also evolved into a foster children's picnic at Firestone Park with help from the Columbiana County Jobs and Family Services.
According to the club's history--and also outlined in the proclamation--was the fact that the club was chartered with 14 members in 2023 and has since gone on to assist in constructing facilities at Firestone Park in addition to undertaking several other community projects in the city over the years.
The club has also supported several youth learning opportunities through its Rotary Exchange Program in which local students have the opportunity to learn abroad or are able to meet students from other countries who opt to learn in the local school districts.
Club members also install U.S. flags on federal holidays as a fundraiser which "encourages Columbiana citizens to show their patriotism," the proclamation stated.
Furthermore, the club has handed out various awards to citizens and youth as well, honoring the service of others.
"The diligent efforts of people such as those affiliated with the Columbiana Rotary Club, both past and present, are one of many reasons that the State of Ohio continues to grow and prosper," the House General Assembly resolution stated.
The resolution also stated that those who have supported the Columbiana Rotary Club are to be commended for their "foresight, dedication, and selfless donations of time, energy and ability beyond what was required or expected" and that members of the group have not only had the chance to express their personal talents and skills, but have also helped to better the lives of those around them.
"These fine Ohioans have displayed initiative and concern for others, and they have left a lasting impact on the area," the resolution stated.
Columbiana Mayor Rick Noel said the club has played a "key role" in making the community a great place to live for 100 years.
A celebration to mark the centennial anniversary is scheduled for April 4 in Columbiana for a formal recognition of the club's contribution to the city of Columbiana, he added.