Since 1905, Rotary clubs have been built on the idea of service above self. As a global humanitarian organization with more than 32,000 clubs, over 1.2 million volunteer members work together to serve their local communities, and improve the world. For the Fanwood-Scotch Plains Rotary Club, that idea has grown into something deeply rooted in the impact that comes from care. They are the self-proclaimed “Greatest Rotary Club in the Universe,” a title claimed not in pride, but in purpose.
For nearly 90 years, the Fanwood-Scotch Plains chapter has shown up where it matters most whether it's supporting neighbors at home or reaching those in need around the world. Club President Julie Murphy describes how the Club’s work spans both the everyday and the extraordinary from providing basic necessities to neighbors in need to playing a role in the global effort to eradicate polio. “Locally, we’ve promoted mental health awareness, raised nearly $50,000 each year for local scholarships and another $70,000 to protect women in Uganda.” Each effort reflects a simple love for community. It’s hard to believe so much impact can come from just four meetings a month, but “it’s the people behind the mission who make it possible,” says Julie.
The Rotary also connects the community through events like Trunk or Treat and their regular food drives as well as popular fundraisers like Dueling Pianos, Casino night and their annual luminary sales. Today, with 55 members, the Fanwood Scotch-Plains Rotary Club continues to serve with the same heart it always has.
Looking ahead, the club believes its future depends on the next generation. That belief comes to life through the Interact Club at Scotch Plains–Fanwood High School, where 50 student members bring fresh ideas, energy, and passion for service. Deanna Dell Bene, a natural fit for the role, leads the Interact Club. Once the youngest president in Fanwood–Scotch Plains Rotary Club history, Dell Bene’s connection to service began long before leadership titles. One afternoon at the Stage House Tavern, a simple flyer caught her eye with the message “Service Above Self” and she immediately sought out membership. A decade later, she has found a home in Rotary and a way to give back to the town that had already given her so much.
Steve Goldberg, the club’s active membership chair, understands the challenge of attracting younger members, but remains optimistic when he hears innovative ideas from younger voices in the community. A proud Rotarian for 17 years, Goldberg believes listening to the next generation is key to sustaining the club’s future and welcomes their membership. “When you join FSP Rotary and get involved in the amazing work that our club does, you have the opportunity to develop lifelong friendships while doing great things in our community and throughout the world. What can possibly be better than that?” Goldberg shared.
For a glimpse of the impact the younger generation can have through Rotary, look no further than Dell Bene. She leads the club’s annual holiday toy drive. In 2025 Dell Bene collected toys, funds and sponsorships to bring joy to 43 local families in need. “We’ve made children’s wish lists come true. I could not be more grateful to this amazing community,” she gushes. Deanna understands that generational differences are no matter when they all share the common love for community and helping others. “Rotary gives young people a place to grow while giving back. Through service, I’ve expanded my own work, contributed to meaningful projects, and built relationships that truly last a lifetime,” she said.
Dell Bene’s Rotary journey was initially sponsored by former Scotch Plains Mayor Al Smith, who has spent the past 11 years with the club and is a two-time past president. While serving as Mayor, Smith often turned to Rotary not just as an organization, but as a partner working side by side to support neighbors in need and help shape the Scotch Plains community. Smith leaned especially on the Rotary Club during the pandemic, working alongside members to make masks and support the community through an uncertain time that earned the mayor the nickname “Mr. Essential.”
Nearly a century of service has shaped lives locally and around the world. Guided by longtime members and energized by young leaders, the Fanwood Scotch-Plains Rotary Club lives up to its bold claim of being the “Greatest Rotary Club in the Universe,” showing that dedication and heart can leave a lasting legacy.
To learn more about the Fanwood-Scotch Plains Rotary and inquire about membership, visit their website at FSPRotary.Org;
Eric Kautz is a Scotch Plains resident and intern for Scotch Plains City Lifestyle Magazine. Currently a Junior at St. Joe’s Highschool in Metuchen, Eric hopes to study journalism in college and pursue a career in sports broadcasting. Eric’s previous work can be seen in TheTap, as he has served as a writer and photographer.