Since 2014, the Rotary Club’s 50/50 raffle has raised close to $10,000, benefiting various schools, organizations, and local causes. Partnering with community groups at sporting events and other gatherings, the Rotary Club has consistently used the raffles to help support those in need while also strengthening the Rotary’s presence and mission.
The raffle, which allows winners to keep half of the funds raised while the remaining half goes to a designated group that helps with the raffle sales, has become a staple of home football games. Over the years, it has had a lasting financial impact, totaling $9,626 as of September 2024. Despite a brief hiatus during the COVID-19 pandemic, the Rotary 50/50 raffle has bounced back, continuing to fundraise and provide much-needed support to local schools, clubs, and other organizations.
The highest fundraising years included 2017, when the raffle raised $1,868, and 2018, which saw $1,633 in total contributions. During these years, groups like the Color Guard, Middle School Boosters, National Technical Honor Society, and Band Boosters benefited from high attendance and generous raffle participation.
“We’ve always seen a great response from the community, especially when the funds go to support groups like school clubs and booster organizations,” said Greg Broadbent, current Rotary President. “It’s been incredible to see the lasting impact these raffles have had, from helping with scholarships to supporting school programs.”
Although 2020 and 2021 saw a sharp decline due to the pandemic, the Rotary Club resumed operations in 2023, raising $1,826.50 for causes like the Elementary PTOs and the Noah Marker Memorial Fund.
In 2024, the raffle has already raised $669, benefiting organizations like the Cornerstone Elementary PTO and Lewis Elementary. Events are planned for the remainder of the football season, with the funds expected to continue providing meaningful support to local causes.
One of the most significant moments in raffle history came in 2017 when the Cameron Color Guard fundraiser raised $722. However, no one claimed the winning ticket, which added a larger-than-expected donation to the group.
Through all the ups and downs, the Rotary 50/50 raffle has remained a reliable source of community support. By rallying around causes close to home, it’s clear that the Rotary Club’s efforts have not only raised essential funds but also fostered a sense of unity and collective goodwill across the Excelsior Springs community.
Their next event is the Grocery Grab, inspired by Supermarket Sweep! For $10, you could be one of five finalists selected to win prizes, with one lucky winner getting to run through the Excelsior Springs Price Chopper for five minutes, filling their cart with groceries paid for by Rotary. The event will be held at 9:00 AM on Saturday, October 12th. Tickets are available at ReeceNichols, Community Bank of Missouri, Family Wealthcare Center, Westlake Ace Hardware, or via Venmo (@esrotaryclub). Proceeds support student scholarships.
Rotary meets every Thursday from Noon-1pm at the Excelsior Springs Hospital, in the meeting room across from the cafeteria. Feel free to bring your lunch or pick one up in the cafeteria before joining the meeting. Rotary is open to all citizens to participate. For more information, email rotaryexcelsiorsprings@gmail.com.
Rotary International is a global humanitarian organization with over 1.4 million members across more than 46,000 clubs worldwide. Founded in 1905, Rotary brings together business and professional leaders to provide service to their communities, promote peace, fight disease, support education, and improve quality of life. Rotary is best known for its global effort to eradicate polio and continues to focus on addressing critical issues like clean water, maternal health, and disaster relief. Through their network of clubs, members work locally and internationally to make a positive and lasting impact.
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