Williamson County Rotary: A Guide to Local Service & Community Impact

Franklin / Courtesy of High Hopes Development Center

With six clubs across Williamson County, Rotary International’s guiding principle – service above self – is evident in the many charitable efforts made throughout the region. Local business and community leaders compose the groups, and they participate in service projects and provide resource assistance.

Each club has its own focus and signature events that raise funds for local organizations. “All of the events, service projects and volunteer work we do are done with the purpose of giving back to this community that we all love,” says Christina McClary, iPast president of Downtown Franklin Rotary Club.

Downtown Franklin Rotary Club

Each year, this club hosts two key events. Its Kentucky Derby-themed fundraiser in May, Jockeys & Juleps, brings Franklin together to watch the “Run for the Roses” with a high-energy party. All the proceeds go to nonprofits. Its second signature event is the Franklin Christmas Parade, which brings thousands of people to downtown Franklin. The club also partners with Rise Against Hunger to provide thousands of meals.

Rotary Club of Franklin at Breakfast

The club focuses on hands-on service activities, says President Cliff Wilson. Each year, 100% of proceeds from its signature golf outing are distributed to local organizations, such as Boys & Girls Clubs and High Hopes. The organization recently helped Rise Against Hunger with supply costs. “It’s important that we continue to keep our eye on the ball to serve those who need help,” Wilson says.

Darlena Roberts, 870 Sports

Franklin Noon Rotary

The club’s primary fundraiser, Franklin Rodeo, has been a staple in the community since 1949. It allows the club to distribute hundreds of thousands of dollars to support nearly 70 nonprofits, including One Generation Away, High Hopes, Williamson Health’s Turner-Dugas Breast Health Center, GraceWorks and Williamson County 4-H. “Investing in our community isn’t just a mission; it’s who we are,” says Meghan Guffee, iPast president.

Rotary Club of Brentwood

As part of its commitment to investing in the community, the club hosts two signature events each year – Pancake Day and Golf Classic. The community has held Pancake Day for over 40 years. The free community event partners with Kars4Kids to serve the community and raise funds for Tennessee Baptist Children’s Home.

The club’s main fundraising event is the annual golf tournament. Funds raised by the Golf Classic go directly to the Brentwood Rotary Club Charitable Foundation for local charities, nonprofits and college scholarships. Since its inception, the club has distributed more than $700,000 to over 30 nonprofits.

Brentwood Morning Rotary Club

The group focuses on supporting youth, education and literacy throughout Middle Tennessee. It holds an annual Spring Fling that raises funds for service efforts. Recent projects include donating books to Tusculum Elementary, providing college scholarships for Brentwood seniors, giving Christmas gifts at the Tennessee Baptist Children’s Home, and supporting local scout troops.

Rotary Club of Spring Hill-Thompson’s Station

Each year, the club hosts the Grey Ghost 5K/10K and a fun run. The event raises money to promote elementary school run clubs and physical education programs. President Rodney Holliman says the event returned over $7,500 to participating schools in 2024.