From Lamorinda Sunrise Rotary:
Sacramento, CA, July 8, 2023 – Roberto Alvarez del Blanco, a distinguished resident of Moraga, has been honored with the esteemed “Service Above Self” award by Rotary International. Presented by Rotary International Board Member Vicki Puliz, this prestigious accolade is bestowed upon individual Rotarians who exemplify an unwavering dedication to serving others through their selfless volunteer work. Recognized as Rotary’s highest honor, this award acknowledges Roberto’s exceptional commitment to making a positive impact on his community and beyond.
Out of the 1.4 million members spanning 180 nations within Rotary International, only a select few individuals are chosen to receive the “Service Above Self” award. This year, a mere 101 recipients were recognized worldwide. Roberto Alvarez del Blanco stands among them, distinguished for his extraordinary contributions and steadfast dedication to making a difference in the lives of others.
Ms. Puliz acknowledged Roberto’s outstanding achievements: “Roberto is a remarkable individual who consistently steps up whenever there is a need. His involvement in establishing new clubs, organizing fundraising initiatives, empowering individuals, fostering development, and promoting health initiatives is truly commendable. In response to the scarcity of Spanish-language information during the COVID-19 pandemic, he initiated Hope Initiative COVID-19, offering vital scientific information to Latin American doctors and healthcare workers.”
Through Hope Initiative COVID-19, Roberto spearheaded the distribution of weekly publications via email and a dedicated website (hopeinitiativecovid.com). Over the course of 88 editions, his efforts reached more than 250,000 people, dedicating close to 5,000 hours towards this life-saving endeavor. Roberto humbly stated, “Even if it saved only one life, it was worth it.”
A dedicated member of Rotary for nearly four decades, Roberto’s journey with the organization began in Buenos Aires, Argentina. Later, he founded a Rotary club in Barcelona, Spain, before joining Lamorinda Sunrise Rotary in California. Throughout his extensive involvement with Rotary, Roberto has consistently demonstrated his unwavering commitment to service and inspiring others.
Roberto Alvarez del Blanco’s recognition with the Rotary International “Service Above Self” award is a testament to his remarkable contributions, selflessness, and unyielding dedication to bettering the lives of those in need. His exceptional efforts serve as an inspiration to the entire community, embodying the spirit of Rotary International’s core values.
