About Us
Who Are We?
Where Kindness Takes Flight:
The First Rotary Club Dedicated to Mental Health & Wellness
The Rotary Club of Mental Health & Wellness (Club ID: 224383) was officially chartered on May 24, 2022, during a time when the world was just beginning to emerge from the challenges of a global pandemic. It was clear to us—now more than ever—that mental health and emotional well-being needed to be at the heart of meaningful community service.
With the support of District Governor Guity Javid and under the leadership of our Charter President, Dr. Maribel “Bella” Khoury Shaar, our club was born as the first cause-based Rotary club in the world dedicated specifically to mental health and wellness. We began with 28 passionate members and continue to grow as more people join our mission.
Inspired by Dr. Bella’s Butterfly Effect vision—where small acts of kindness can create powerful ripple effects—our projects focus on promoting awareness, acceptance, hope, and healing. From local initiatives to global partnerships, we believe in the power of service to nurture well-being in all its forms.
You don’t need to work in the mental health field to join us. Mental health affects all of us, and everyone has something meaningful to contribute. Whether you're a helper, a listener, an advocate, or someone who simply cares deeply—we welcome you to be part of our growing Rotary family.
Vision
Mission
Values
In the news
Eng, D. (2023, April). Called by a cause: Rotary Club of Mental Health & Wellness. Rotary International. Retrieved July 23, 2025, from https://www.rotary.org/en/called-cause-rotary-club-mental-health-wellness