Legacy Lights Rotary Foundation Dinner Was a Sold-Out Celebration of Hope in Action!
On Thursday, February 12, 2026, Rotary District 5340 welcomed a sold-out crowd for our Legacy Lights Rotary Foundation Dinner, held at The Secret Garden at Rancho Santa Fe. It was an evening filled with gratitude, fellowship, and a shared commitment to doing good in the world through The Rotary Foundation. Guests enjoyed a memorable night of connection and inspiration, along with powerful reminders of how Rotary giving changes lives locally and around the globe.
We extend our sincere thanks to our Featured Speaker, Johrita Solari, Past Rotary International Director and Vice President, whose message reminded us that generosity becomes hope in motion. Thank you to our Global Project Presenters Judy Rowles, Karol McClelland, and Fary Moini for bringing our work to life with such heart and clarity. We were also honored to recognize Laura Mello with the Citation for Meritorious Service, a meaningful moment that reflected the very best of Rotary leadership and service. Our appreciation also goes to our Master of Ceremonies, Scott Carr, and to SDSU Rotaract President Peyton Schoen for representing the next generation of Rotary service.
To every volunteer who helped make the evening welcoming and seamless, thank you. We are deeply grateful to our Legacy Lights Committee co-chairs Heather Manion and Chany Martinez, and to our committee team and volunteers, including the tremendous support from the Rotary Club of Rancho Santa Fe.
With heartfelt appreciation, thank you to our Title Sponsor Steven Jones of Alvarado Veterinary Hospital, and to our additional sponsors Marty Peters, Paul Marcus, David Castillejos, and Brent Bennitt. Your generosity helps turn compassion into action, and action into lasting change.
Finally, to every member and supporter whose generosity fuels the work of the Foundation, thank you. Your consistent commitment, year after year, is what makes the miracles possible, clean water, education, peacebuilding, disease prevention, and stronger communities. We are grateful for you, proud of you, and honored to serve alongside you.