New South Shore NC Eco Rotary Club aims to lead environmental action in Freeport

In the village of Freeport a dedicated group of individuals is working to create a new force for environmental action called the “South Shore NC Eco Rotary Club”.

This initiative is the brainchild of a passionate Rotarian, Christopher McBride, who is also a member of Friends of Brookside Preserve and a Freeport resident, inspired by his experiences with an eco-club in California during the pandemic.

McBride shared the inspiration behind him joining that eco-club by explaining that “(It) stems from a rotary Eco Club that I was a member of through the pandemic, actually in California, but a hybrid.” He continued by saying, “I attended virtually for a couple of years.”

His journey and vision for the club mark the beginning of a significant environmental movement on Long Island. The idea for the ECO Club began during the pandemic when McBride joined the Solana Beach Rotary ECO Club in California virtually.

“I actually did go out there in person to meet the members face to face. That was really fun.” He expressed. “But when the pandemic was over, being a true-blue rotary guy, I still wanted the face-to-face experience, so the virtual thing wasn’t completely fulfilling for me.”

Despite the challenges of virtual participation, he found immense fulfillment in the club’s activities and eventually traveled to California to meet fellow members in person. However, as the world began to return to normal, McBride yearned for the face-to-face interactions that had initially drawn him to Rotary.

McBride recalled “At that point, I went to the club in California, which was called the Solana Beach Rotary Club, I told them I am going back to New York, and going to join the club in New York, that was the Freeport-Merrick Rotary Club, and through them, I would eventually (form an) East Coast rotary Eco Club, and they were excited for me, and I’m still in touch with them, and they’re very supportive.”

“Since then, (after returning to New York and joining the Freeport-Merrick Rotary) I’ve been introduced to a network of rotary eco clubs.”

He shared his vision of starting an ECO Club dedicated to environmental causes on Long Island. The idea was met with enthusiasm, and he began laying the groundwork for what would become the first Rotary ECO Club in Nassau County.

His first step was to connect with local environmental efforts. He has a long history of volunteering at the Brookside Preserve, where he planted trees and participated in annual cleanups.

Recognizing the potential for a more organized and impactful approach, Christopher saw an opportunity for the Rotary ECO Club to contribute significantly to the preserve’s upkeep and improvement.

One of the first major projects for the newly formed ECO Club is the Brookside Preserve. The preserve, which had suffered from neglect and misuse, was in dire need of regular maintenance and improvement.

The club’s plans include organizing monthly cleanups, repairing fences, installing gates, and setting up park benches to create a more welcoming environment for visitors.

“Rotary Eco Club will offer not just assistance in projects, although the next Nature Preserve project will be in Roosevelt, I’m thinking we have a member coming on board who’s a teacher in Roosevelt, and she has cleanups and activities there as a teacher, I think that’s got potential for the next project.” McBride explained.

While the Brookside Preserve is a key focus, the ECO Club has broader ambitions. McBride envisions the club becoming a hub for environmental education and action. Plans include hosting speakers on topics such as zero waste, global warming, and sustainable living.

By providing a platform for learning and discussion, the club hopes to inspire more community members to take an active role in environmental stewardship.

Currently, the South Shore NC Rotary Club is in the recruitment phase. McBride has already secured 10 committed individuals and is actively campaigning for more to get 20 members to officially start the club.

The mix of Rotarians and non-Rotarians joining the effort reflects the inclusive and community-oriented spirit of the club.

McBride stated, “(There are) currently seven non-Rotarians”. “But little by little, each one of them is coming aboard.” he added.

As McBride continues to gather support, he remains optimistic about the club’s future. He has the backing of the Rotary district and is confident that once the membership requirement is met, the club will be officially recognized and chartered.

With the first project underway and a clear vision for future initiatives, the South Shore NC Rotary Club is poised to make a significant impact on Long Island’s environmental landscape.

Through dedication, collaboration, and a shared passion for the environment, the new Rotary Eco Club embodies the spirit of community-driven change. As they work towards their goals, they are not only improving local natural spaces but also fostering a culture of sustainability and stewardship that will benefit future generations.

He hopes to have the club fully operational by January. In the meantime, he encourages anyone interested in joining or supporting the effort to reach out via his Rotary email, rotary.mcb@gmail.com