Service That Transforms Lives with Tom Kelchner

What if making the world a better place was more than just a dream - and became your purpose? Dr. Tom Kelchner joins Mary Ann Faremouth on this episode of Career Can Do to share how a lifelong commitment to service led him from classrooms to community leadership, and now, to his newest role as District Governor for Rotary District 5890. After 33 years in public education, Tom found a new mission through Rotary - one that aligned perfectly with his passion for helping others. “Why do I serve? Because it’s needed,” he says. For Tom, service isn’t a side project. It’s a way of life. Rotary’s reach is massive, with 1.4 million members worldwide and initiatives that span from eradicating polio to addressing food insecurity and mental health. But the power of Rotary, Tom explains, is also local. Whether it’s mentoring students, helping veterans, or improving access to clean water, the impact is real and personal. Tom also highlights Rotary’s work with youth through programs like Interact and youth exchange, showing how service can start early and last a lifetime. Under his leadership, he hopes to grow membership, amplify support for veterans and trafficking awareness, and make Rotary more visible to the wider community. This episode is a powerful reminder that service isn’t just noble - it’s necessary. And joining an organization like Rotary might just be the start of something much bigger than yourself. Resources:Tom Kelchner on Rotary District 5890 | LinkedIn Mary Ann Faremouth on the Web | X (Twitter)