The Ripley Rotary Club marked its 100th anniversary on Monday with a special luncheon at the Fairplain Yacht Club, where current and former members gathered to reflect on a century of service in Jackson County, West Virginia. The event featured speeches, historical reflections, and the formal induction of two new members, as the club continues to thrive despite challenges faced by many service organizations nationwide.

Historic Milestone and Female Leadership

Among the highlights of the celebration was a speech by Marcie Weyer, the first female president of the Ripley Rotary Club and the first woman to hold that position in West Virginia. Weyer, who was nominated by Rob Fisher in 1986 to become the first female member of the club, recounted her unique experience as the first woman to serve as president in the state, and possibly the world, while pregnant with her child.

“In 1986, Rotary decided to let women join their population, and Rob Fisher nominated me to be the first woman in Ripley’s Rotary, and as a result of that, I was also the first president in West Virginia that was a woman,” Weyer said. “And, I was also the first president in West Virginia, maybe the world, to give birth while in office.”

Community Spirit and Continued Growth

Despite the national trend of declining membership in many service clubs, the Ripley Rotary Club has maintained a strong presence in Jackson County. Club President Erik McCullough attributed the club’s sustained success to the unique character of the community.

“I think it’s really the people are different here,” McCullough said. “It’s the community feel of a small town. It’s different here. The people are different here, and the community comes together a lot differently here.”

McCullough noted that the club has grown steadily over the years, with the addition of new members and the continued support of local initiatives. The club has been particularly active in the Sleep in Heavenly Peace program, which aims to provide beds for every child in Jackson County who lacks one. According to the club’s website, the initiative has already provided over 500 beds to children in need since its inception in 2015.

Looking Ahead: Future Projects and Community Engagement

As the club moves into its second century, officials have outlined plans to expand its community outreach efforts. A new initiative is currently in development that aims to address local food insecurity, with the club partnering with several local food banks and schools to distribute meals to families in need.

“We’ve seen a growing need in our community for basic necessities, and we want to ensure that we continue to serve those in need,” McCullough said. “The next five years are going to be about expanding our impact and making sure that every member of our community feels supported.”

The club also plans to host an annual centennial celebration in the future, with the first one in 2025 marking the 100th anniversary of its founding. This event will include historical exhibits, guest speakers, and community service projects to commemorate the club’s legacy.

As the Ripley Rotary Club enters its second century, the focus remains on community service, inclusivity, and the unique spirit of small-town cooperation that has defined its success for over a hundred years.