GUSTINE — For Cindy Jamero, becoming a Rotarian was more than joining a service organization. It was a way to continue a family legacy rooted in community, generosity and a deep love for Gustine.
Her father, Ceferrino Jamero Jr., became a Rotarian after retiring as the longtime band director for Gustine Elementary, the junior high and the high school, where he served students for more than 30 years. He was invited to join Rotary by former band students, teachers and community friends who knew his dedication to Gustine extended far beyond the classroom.
Jamero said she always admired her father’s commitment to the community. After he died in 2008 and she moved back home to Gustine, she found herself drawn to the Rotary Club, where she saw the same spirit of service her father had shown throughout his life.
“Throughout the years I saw Dad and his fellow Rotarians dedicate themselves to help the citizens of Gustine young and old,” Jamero said.
Now, after 18 years as a Rotarian, Jamero continues to be part of that mission through the Gustine Rotary Club. The local club is part of Rotary International, a global organization built around volunteer service, community support and the motto “Service Above Self.”
For Jamero, that motto is not just something spoken at meetings. It is something lived out through each project, each fundraiser and each quiet act of service.
“We look around in our community and see what the needs are that are not met, and we come up with creative ways to raise funds,” she said. “We meet those needs.”
One of the projects closest to her heart is the Rotary’s food distribution program. Twice a month on Mondays, Rotary members help distribute food boxes to community members. Jamero said the need has grown during difficult times, and she is grateful to be part of something that helps families make ends meet.
“Times are tough, and I am happy to give out food to those having difficulty making ends meet,” she said.
The work is supported not only by club members but also by volunteers who may not be official Rotarians yet still show up with dedication and a willingness to serve. Jamero said those extra hands are essential to keeping projects running and reaching the people who need them.
Another meaningful Rotary tradition is giving dictionaries to third-grade students at Gustine Elementary, Romero and Our Lady of Miracles. For Jamero, watching students receive their own dictionary is a reminder that even a simple gift can leave a lasting impact.
“Just watching the faces of the students as they receive their dictionary is a joy,” she said. “I have many students who have told me they still have their dictionaries and share with family members.”
While many people see Rotary members out in the community during events, Jamero said the work often depends on a larger circle of support. Family members, friends and volunteers all help make the club’s projects possible.
“Our club also depends on family members and friends to help with our projects,” she said. “Without their help we may not be able to give back to the community.”
From distributing food boxes to cooking linguica on the Fourth of July, serving coffee and cocoa, and supporting youth through dictionary giveaways, the Gustine Rotary Club continues to play a steady role in the community.
Jamero said Gustine may be a small town, but its spirit remains strong. She encourages residents to say hello when they see Rotary members serving in the community, ask questions and even consider attending a meeting.
For her, Rotary is not just about projects. It is about neighbors helping neighbors, honoring those who came before them and making sure the needs of the community are not forgotten.
