April 21st Newsletter
Meeting Date: April 14, 2026
Reporter: Holly Applegate
Pledge
Sharon Garland led us in The Pledge of Allegiance.
Inspiration
We are sitting right in the heart of spring—a season defined by transition, renewal, and the quiet momentum of growth.
Here is a thought to carry with you through the day:
"The bloom doesn't rush the spring, and the tide doesn't race the moon. Today isn't a hurdle to get over; it’s the very ground where your next big thing is taking root. Trust the timing of your own unfolding.
Members on zoom
Barry Fain, Craig Creller, Tracy Boothman, Richard Applebaum
Guests
Tom May, Paula Jagemann (on Zoom)
Announcements
Bill Applegate announced our very first Sponsor for our 7th Legends for Literacy Gala is from The Squantum Charities Foundation for $10,000.
The upcoming District Conference is at Martha’s Vineyard on May 15-17th. You can sign up on line.
The Providence Rotary Installation of Liz Messier and officers is on Tuesday, June 30th at The Marriott at 11:30 am.
Happy Bucks
- Bill Applegate gave 20 happy bucks for the Summer-like day with temperatures in the 70’s!
- Anthony Hollingshead gave 3 happy bucks for the beautiful day outside and for Paula Jagemann who will be a member soon.
- Paula Jagemann is happy to bring a Starbucks gift card for all the happy bucks she has given.
- Sharon Garland gave a happy buck for the wonderful Literacy Committee with new members from the Providence Schools.
Speaker
Jane Berkowitz introduced the speakers. Hilary DiPina, Jessica Marcil, and Steven Wakely.
The North American Family Institute in Warwick, Rhode Island, is a non-profit human services agency providing community-based care for youth, families, and adults with mental health and behavioral challenges offering services like foster care and residential programs.
They are an innovative partnership of experienced agencies - NAFI Rhode Island, Child & Family, and Children's Friend - who specialize in Therapeutic Foster Care for children from birth through 21 living throughout Rhode Island.
Their treatment team is made up of highly trained and diverse professionals dedicated to partnering with foster families to create structured, nurturing environments that support the healthy growth and development of children and youth. With specialized expertise in serving the youngest and most vulnerable - from infancy through adolescence and into young adulthood- our collaborative is uniquely positioned to offer a comprehensive range of services and supports.
They spoke of the tremendous need for Foster Care. Every child should have a family. There are many requirements for foster care with background checks and comprehensive home visits. A vital requirement is that the home must have a separate bedroom for a foster child. There is significant oversight with assigned case managers and family therapists.
