Our Impact

Our Impact: 2026 Fiscal Year in Review

At First Coast Rotaract, we believe that true impact is measured not just by the hours we give, but by the community we build. In a fast-paced, digital world, our members are showing up for Jacksonville and for each other IRL.

Cultivating Connection: Fighting the Loneliness Epidemic

In an era dominated by screens and remote work, modern young adults are facing an unprecedented loneliness epidemic. There is a deep yearning for genuine, in person interaction and a sense of belonging. At First Coast Rotaract, we are realizing that to have a village, you must be a villager.

For the 2026 fiscal year, we hosted 23 organized social events, giving our members a consistent, welcoming space to unplug, step away from the office, and build lifelong friendships. From casual happy hours to structured group outings, we are proving that professional drive and deep social connection go hand in hand.

Professional Growth: Local Insights & Leadership

We believe that to impact a city, you first have to understand it. Our monthly meetings (the 2nd Thursday of each month at Ruby Beach Brewing) serve as a launchpad for professional development and civic education. Over the past year, our speaker series has provided invaluable insights into our community:

  • Civic & Urban Innovation: We gained a front-row seat to the future of our city’s skyline through presentations by DT-Vision Jax, exploring the strategic initiatives revitalizing downtown Jacksonville.
  • Social Advocacy: We deepened our understanding of local crisis intervention and community care by hearing directly from the leadership at Hubbard House.
  • Entrepreneurial Inspiration: We regularly host local entrepreneurs who share their triumphs, failures, and masterclasses in navigating the Jacksonville business ecosystem.

Hands-On in the Community: 500+ Hours of Service

Our passion for the Bold City is reflected in our volunteer work. For the 2026 fiscal year, our members dedicated over 500 community service hours across 24 distinct events. We believe in diverse, localized action, and our efforts this year spanned across the cultural and structural fabric of Jacksonville:

  • Environmental Stewardship: Maintaining and revitalizing our community spaces through our adopted local park (learn more on our Partnerships Page) .
  • Advocacy & Support: Partnering with Hubbard House, a local domestic violence charity, to support survivors and provide essential resources.
  • Housing & Hunger: Building homes with HabiJax, feeding our unhoused neighbors, and regularly volunteering at our local food bank.

The First Coast Standard: 24 service projects. 23 social connections. 10 local leaders presenting at our meetings. Over 500 hours given back. We are more than a club, we are a community driving progress in Jacksonville.