When devastating floods swept through our region on July 4th, the damage to first responders’ equipment, gear, and personal resources was immediate and overwhelming. But just as quickly, support began to flow in, thanks in large part to the leadership of Kristi Shepherd, Immediate Past President of Rotary Kerrville.
Monetary donations began to pour in to Rotary District 5840 from across the nation and around the world. Kristi stepped in without hesitation, reaching out to Kerr County First Responders, discussing their immediate needs, and writing Disaster Relief Grants to meet those needs at both the Rotary District level and through Rotary International. Because of her coordination, equipment used, damaged, or lost while protecting our community can be replaced. These disaster relief funds have become a lifeline, a tangible reminder that the good that Rotary does reaches far beyond county lines.
The ambitious grant initiative to support local fire departments secured funding for a specialty washer and 2 specialty dryers for firefighter bunker gear, 3 ATVs, 8 sets of Swift Water Rescue Equipment, 8 EMS StatPacks and 4 Intubation Rolls, along with 75 pairs of tactical boots. She is currently in the process of purchasing a tactical drone for the Kerr County Sheriff's Department. Through money donated to the Rotary Club of Kerrville's 501c3, she is purchasing EMS medical bags and necessary supplies for many agencies. Over the course of this effort, she has written numerous more grants, amplifying the presence and impact of Rotary throughout every affected area.
Kristi’s dedication reflects the very best of Rotary: service above self, action over words, and compassion backed by real support. Her leadership ensured that in a moment of crisis, our community wasn’t alone, it was surrounded by the strength of Rotary clubs across the world