Featured Images: John and Karen ElChaar president of the club. (left image) John and Rosaria Stoops Assistant District Governor of Rotary (right Image)
John Hrebek Recognized for 47 Years of Dedicated Service to Allentown’s Children
ALLENTOWN, PA – The Rotary Club of Allentown proudly announced that John from Allentown Parks and Recreation has been awarded the prestigious Paul Harris Fellowship, Rotary’s highest honor, in recognition of his extraordinary 47 years of service to the children of Allentown.
The Paul Harris Fellowship is named after Rotary’s founder and is presented to individuals who have demonstrated exceptional service to their community, embodying Rotary’s motto of “Service Above Self.”
John has spent nearly five decades directing and organizing the Allentown Summer Playground program, creating comprehensive educational and recreational activities that serve children of all ages and abilities. His unwavering commitment has touched countless young lives throughout the Allentown community, providing safe, engaging, and enriching summer experiences for generations of local families.
“John’s dedication to our community’s children is truly remarkable,” said a spokesperson for the Rotary Club of Allentown. “For 47 years, he has been a constant source of joy and learning for Allentown’s youth. His work through the Summer Playground program has created lasting memories and positive impacts that extend far beyond the summer months.”
The Summer Playground program under John’s leadership has been instrumental in providing structured activities, educational opportunities, and recreational fun for children across Allentown, ensuring that every child has access to quality programming regardless of their background or abilities.
The Paul Harris Fellowship award was presented during a recent Rotary Club of Allentown meeting, celebrating John’s nearly half-century of community service and his ongoing partnership with organizations like Friends of Allentown Parks.
About the Rotary Club of Allentown
The Rotary Club of Allentown is part of Rotary International, a global network of volunteer leaders dedicated to tackling the world’s most pressing humanitarian challenges. Through service projects, fellowship, and professional development, Rotary connects leaders to exchange ideas, take action, and create lasting change in communities around the world.
About the Paul Harris Fellowship
The Paul Harris Fellowship recognizes individuals who contribute to the Rotary Foundation or who are recognized for their outstanding service to the community. Named after Rotary’s founder, Paul P. Harris, the fellowship represents the highest honor a Rotary club can bestow upon an individual.
Information provided to TVL by:
Rotary Club of Allentown
Rosaria M Stoops – Assistant District Governor
