Rotary Club of Menlo Park brings art to life with “Art in Action” service day
Rotarians traded laptops for Q-tips, yarn, and art supplies at the Rotary Club of Menlo Park’s recent meeting, transforming their weekly lunch into a colorful afternoon of service, creativity, and connection.
President Ali Irturk, dressed as “Captain Rotary” for the Halloween-week gathering, reminded members that Rotarians are powered by service and fueled by hope. That message came to life through a special hands-on partnership with Art in Action, a Bay Area nonprofit that empowers students through arts education.
Mary Carbullido, Executive Director, and Monica Ross, Special Projects Coordinator, visited the club to share how Art in Action equips schools with the curriculum, training, and supplies needed to make art an essential part of every child’s education.
Their mission is simple but powerful to ensure every child has access to quality visual arts learning, nurturing creativity, confidence, and cultural understanding. Studies show that art education not only boosts critical thinking and problem-solving but also improves attendance and engagement, benefits that extend well beyond the classroom.
After hearing from Mary and Monica, Rotarians rolled up their sleeves to sort materials, cut yarn for weaving projects, and prepare classroom kits. Some wrote personal notes of encouragement for students who will soon use the supplies in their own art lessons.
In less than an hour, members completed enough kits to support 46 classrooms and 1,104 students, saving teachers valuable preparation time and ensuring children have access to creative, hands-on learning.
“This project perfectly captured the Rotary spirit,” said President Irturk. “It was joyful, collaborative, and impactful, the kind of service that connects us directly to the community we serve.”
Founded in 1947, the Rotary Club of Menlo Park continues to bring together service, learning, and fellowship. Most meetings are held at the historic Allied Arts Guild, 75 Arbor Road in Menlo Park, from 12:15 to 1:30 pm. Schedules may vary for holidays or special service events, so visitors are encouraged to check http://www.menloparkrotary.org for details.
Upcoming programs include:
November 12 – “Earthquakes and Tsunamis” with William Ellsworth, Stanford Professor Emeritus of Geophysics.
December 3 – “Generative AI: What It Is and Why It Matters to You”
with Susan Gonzales, AI expert and nonprofit founder.
January 21, 2026 – “The China–Taiwan Status”
with Kharis Templeman, Research Fellow at the Hoover Institution and Stanford lecturer.
Visitors are always welcome to attend a Rotary meeting, meet local leaders, and learn more about how service projects make a difference in our community and beyond.
More information available online.
Photos courtesy of Menlo Park Rotary Club
