Home Page | Rotary Club of Castro Valley

"You don't 'go to' Rotary like you go to the cinema, where you sit and watch other people doing something,

Rotary is something you do."

Francesco Arezzo

President, Rotary International

Click here to read President Misti Short's 2025-2026 Club Goals

From Drops to Legacy: Dwight Perry and the End Polio Now Journey

From Drops to Legacy: Dwight Perry and Rotary’s End Polio Now Journey

How one Rotarian’s experience brings the global fight against polio closer to home

When Dwight Perry spoke to the Castro Valley Rotary Club on October 28, 2025, he didn’t just give a presentation—he shared a deeply human story of service, courage, and global connection.

Dwight recounted his emotional trip to Africa, where he joined local health teams administering polio vaccine drops to children. He described the moment when a mother’s anxious face softened into relief as her child received protection against a disease that once paralyzed millions. It was, he said, “the moment service became personal.”

Dwight also reminded us that Rotary’s landmark PolioPlus campaign, launched in 1985, built far more than a polio vaccination network. The same infrastructure later supported the global COVID vaccine rollout. “PolioPlusPlus,” Dwight called it, showing how the ripple effects of Rotary’s vision continue to save lives.

It was a perfect evening for community and nostalgia as more than 400 residents gathered for Rotary’s Movie Night in the Park to enjoy the beloved classic The Sandlot under the stars. Families and friends spread out on the grass, sharing laughter, snacks, and a sense of togetherness that truly captured the spirit of Castro Valley. “The turnout tonight reminds us just how special this community is,” Misti said. “It’s wonderful to see neighbors coming together to laugh, relax, and celebrate what makes Castro Valley such a great place to live.”

Click here to read more about Movie Night in the Park.

Highlights from October 14th Lunch Meeting

Carol Bigelow describes upcoming opportunities to serve lunch at the Castro Valley and Hayward Senior Centers.

President Misti Short recognizes Jim Negri as the October Rotarian of the Month. Read Misti's

presentation here.

Randy Vanderbilt describes the success of the 1st Annual Castro Valley History Museum Gala. Read more about the Museum here.

Castro Valley USD Superintendent Dr. Nia Rashidsci presents and update on the District.

Update from Sacramento - State Senator Tim Grayson

The Rotary Club of Castro Valley hosted State Senator Tim Grayson (Senate District 9) on September 30^th for an “Update from Sacramento.” The lunch meeting attracted business leaders, engaged community members, and Rotarians interested in learning more about current developments in State government.

Senator Grayson was elected to the Senate in 2024 following previous service in the Assembly, as well as holding positions as a City Council Member and Mayor of Concord. Due to the latest redistricting, Castro Valley, San Leandro, San Lorenzo, Cherryland, and Ashland were incorporated into Senate District 9, which also encompasses Contra Costa County. Senator Grayson introduced his District Representatives and described his efforts to serve this new part of SD 9.

Click here for more information from Senator Grayson's presentation.

Rotary Supports CHP 345 Squad with Donation

On September 30^th, the Rotary Club of Castro Valley donated to the CHP 345 Squad Club in support of the dedicated personnel of the California Highway Patrol, Castro Valley Area. The donation, funded by proceeds from the 2025 Taste of Castro Valley community fundraiser, demonstrates Rotary’s ongoing commitment to fostering collaborative relationships with local first responders and to supporting individuals who serve and safeguard our community. CHP Officer Daniel Rodriguez accepted the donation on behalf of the 345 Squad.

As Rotary President Misti Short noted, “This donation represents Castro Valley Rotary Club in action!”

Click here to learn more about the CHP 345 Squad.

Rotary Donates to Alameda County Sheriff's Office

(L-R): Aaron Lewis, Chair Taste of Castro Valley; ACSO Deputy Heidi Burbank; ACSO Deputy Markita Sayles; and

Rotary Club President Misti Short. Photo by Jim Negri

On September 9, the Rotary Club of Castro Valley acknowledged the Alameda County Sheriff’s Office (ACSO) for its continued support of and involvement with Rotary by donating $500 to CALICO (Child Abuse, Listening, Interviewing, and Coordination Center - https://www.calicocenter.org/) and $500 to the George Mark Children’s House (https://georgemark.org/). The donation was presented in acknowledgement of the support provided by ACSO for the Rotary-sponsored Taste of Castro Valley event, which contributed to a very smooth and enjoyable evening for the community. Deputy Markita Sayles (Community Outreach) and Deputy Heidi Burbank (Crime Prevention Unit) accepted the donation on behalf of ACSO.

Click here to read more about the presentation.

Recent ClubRunner Stories

Click on story title to read a story.

President Misti Short being interviewed during KTVU's Zip Trips to Castro Valley on August 1. Photos by Ken Carbone.

Rotarian Ye Ye, owner of Beard Papa's in the Castro Valley Marketplace, being interviews on KTVU Zip Trips.

Rotary Club

of Castro Valley

Chartered

June 16, 1953

Misti Short, President

“At Every Sunrise, a New Day to Serve”

This emblem features Lake Chabot at sunrise, with the Rotary wheel as the sun. On the shore stand a veteran and his service dog—two powerful symbols of strength, sacrifice, and purpose.

Together, they embody Service Above Self: the veteran who served our country, and the dog who now serves him. Both still willing to serve others—selflessly, humbly, and with heart.
Let this emblem be a daily reminder that each sunrise brings a new opportunity to serve with compassion, courage, and connection.

Contact information

https://castrovalleyrotary.org/

President@castrovalleyrotary.com

510.500.5667

Mailing Address

P.O. Box 2117

Castro Valley, CA 94546

Hybrid Lunch Meetings

Tuesdays at 12:00-1:30 pm