Local Rotary clubs have collaborated for years to help keep residents safe during the holiday season through the Designated Driver button campaign. The recent holidays marked the 15th straight year that the Miami County area did not have an alcohol-related death, thanks, in part, to the program.

Dr. Michael Pope is the chairman of the Designated Driver program that is led by Troy Rotary. He works with the Miami County Sheriff, Ohio Highway Patrol and other local Rotary clubs to distribute thousands of gold and blue Designated Driver buttons through local banks, bars and state liquor stores. “The goal of our program is to help people stay safe as they celebrate during the holidays, not to stop them from having fun,” said Pope. The buttons are a visual reminder to make plans to have a designated driver before leaving home. Pope’s mantra each year is “Be safe, safe, safe when you celebrate.”

Troy Rotarians, and the Troy Rotary Foundation, support several community projects annually. In 2014-15, more than $16,000 in scholarships and community aid was distributed from the fund, including the annual Shoe Project, Troy After Prom, and sponsorships to summer camps at Brukner Nature Center and Waco Air Museum. The Troy Rotary Club is a member-involved, goal-oriented service club focused on socio/economic issues that have an impact both locally and internationally. Follow their activities on Facebook at Troy Rotary Club. To learn more about Rotary and membership, please visit www.troyohiorotary.org.