The night of March 31st brought severe storms and tornadoes to Northeast Illinois. A Category 3 tornado struck south of Robinson, killing three and destroying 25 homes, a college communications training center, the regional airport and hangers, and several million dollars of farm machinery and stored crops. State leaders in the region declared emergencies to respond to the damage.

The response in District 6490 has been heartwarming. Through an outreach to its clubs and members it has raised and sent $4,000 in cash to the Robinson Rotary Club. Funds have been received from as far away as Florida, and more donations are on the way. The club there is teaming with the Robinson Community School District No. 2 to support those schoolchildren in need of temporary housing, clothing, meals, transportation, school supplies, etc. Those interested in contributing to relief efforts and forward their donations to Mattoon Rotary Charities Foundation in care of:
Mike Martin, DGN
3121 Oak Ave.,
Mattoon, IL  61938-4825

Following on the heels of the Zones’ recent Disaster Preparation workshop, DGN Mike Martin has offered to chat with you if you want to talk about the needs and response in his district.