Rotary’s Big Night supports child abuse prevention efforts

Tickets are available now for the Rotary Club of Davis’ 12th annual Big Night fundraiser for the club’s Child Abuse Prevention Program. The event — a black-tie-optional dinner, dance, silent and live auction — takes place Saturday, Feb. 9, at the El Macero Country Club.

Funds raised at Big Night go to local nonprofit organizations that are engaged in primary child abuse prevention. About $30,000 is available each year for donations. Since its inception in 1999, the event has raised more than $250,000.

Through the efforts of Rotarians Bud Wolf and his wife Judy, public awareness and education about child abuse prevention has extended well beyond the borders of Davis and Yolo County. A key piece of the program is education about shaken baby syndrome.

The club has purchased shaken baby syndrome simulator dolls for donation to Yolo County schools, the Yolo Children’s Alliance, the Yolo Crisis Nursery and the Sexual Assault and Domestic Violence Center. This year, dolls will be taken to Kenya and Ecuador as well.

The Wolfs regularly speak at Rotary clubs throughout Northern California, and have inspired about 50 clubs to purchase the simulator dolls for use in their areas.

Tickets for Big Night are $75 per person, and table sponsorships are available. For tickets or to donate an auction prize, contact Bud Wolf at bud3239@sbcglobal.net.

The Rotary Club of Davis meets weekly at noon and has served the Davis community since 1926. It provides funding and public service for Davis and numerous international Rotary projects. The club is conducting a membership drive, seeking active men and women interested in serving their community. For membership information, contact Andrew Dowling at andrewdowling@comcast.net.