When you follow a path of service and connection, the most meaningful moments often happen by chance.
While in Newark, Delaware, Julie Pile—President of ParentCamp and a member of the Rotary Club of Florence, Kentucky —arranged to meet Cheryl Ernst from the University of Delaware for lunch at the historic Deer Park Tavern. Cheryl, also a Rotarian with the Newark Morning Rotary Club, shares Julie’s passion for education and community-building. As they sat down to catch up, another familiar face appeared—Bill Sullivan of the Courtyard by Marriott, longtime Newark Rotarian and community leader, just happened to be walking by.
Naturally, one more chair was added to the table.
This impromptu Rotary reunion wasn’t just a coincidence—it was a reflection of what makes Rotary (and community engagement in general) so powerful. It’s about shared purpose, unexpected opportunities, and building relationships that support the greater good.
Julie often visits Newark to work with local schools through the ParentCamp model, a national framework for strengthening family-school-community partnerships. Her connection to the Newark Morning Rotary Club—and her frequent stays at Bill’s Courtyard by Marriott—are intentional steps to immerse herself in the communities she serves.
Visiting other Rotary clubs gives Julie a front-row seat to the heart of a town. It’s not just about attending meetings—it’s about listening, learning, and building trust with the people who live and lead there. Because when relationships grow, so does impact.
So here’s to the Deer Park Tavern magic—a simple lunch turned into a reminder that when service and connection are your compass, you’re always in the right place.
#RotaryConnects #ParentCamp #CommunityConnections #PeopleOfAction #BuildingTheVillage #NewarkDE #PowerOfRelationships #FloRo
