Making a difference in the Tees Valley since 1968

Based at Acklam Rugby Club, the Rotary Club of Cleveland is a friendly, active group of people who enjoy using their skills, experience, and spare time to support our community. Founded in 1968, we meet Tuesdays from 12.15pm–2pm, making us an ideal club for those who want to stay engaged, purposeful, and socially connected.

What we offer

Our members enjoy the fellowship that comes from working together on projects that improve people’s lives. Whether it’s supporting young people, helping local charities, or contributing to international initiatives, we take pride in making a positive impact while enjoying good company.

Our members join because they want:

• A meaningful way to use their professional experience
• New friendships and social connections
• Opportunities to stay active and involved in the community
• A chance to share their networks, skills, and ideas
• A welcoming group where they can contribute at their own pace

We also welcome partnerships with local businesses who want to develop their staff through community engagement, organisational experience, and networking.

Who we’re looking for

We are currently inviting new members from across the Tees Valley and Cleveland area who want to make a difference as individuals, or through their business or organisation. If you’re recently retired, working part‑time, or simply looking for a new purpose, you’ll find a warm welcome and plenty of opportunities to get involved.

What we do

A selection of our recent and ongoing projects includes:

• Supporting young carers through The Junction Foundation, including fundraising for respite trips to Peat Rigg outdoor activity centre and helping with their Heart Awards.
• Helping local food banks by providing volunteer drivers for FareShare deliveries.
• Bringing joy to disadvantaged children through Rotary and KidsOut, including summer outings, winter pantomimes, and Christmas gifts.
• Developing young people by sponsoring local candidates for the Rotary Youth Leadership Award (RYLA), which builds confidence, teamwork, and leadership skills, while also offering occasional support to promising young athletes through the Future Champions initiative, where two previous participants have progressed to sports scholarships in the USA.
• Improving education overseas, particularly into The Gambia, where we help equip schools with second‑hand furniture, educational materials, and medical supplies. Much of this is funded through our annual charity golf day and generous in‑kind donations.
• Working with other Rotary clubs and community organisations to support local events and initiatives across the region.

Be part of something meaningful

New members are welcome to join existing projects or add new ideas and experience to the mix. People take part in ways that suit them best, offering their skills, helping with community work, or coming for the friendship and shared purpose that the club offers.

Contact us: secretary@rotarycleveland.co.uk