Redlands Rotary and the People Who Make Our Community Special

One of the things I like about Redlands is how many people seem to be involved in something beyond their day-to-day work. There are service clubs, local events and community projects, and people who give their time to keep those things going.

I've enjoyed becoming part of that through the Rotary Club of Redlands.

There's a lot happening outside the business community

It's easy to think about a city in terms of its restaurants, stores or homes, but community organizations are a big part of what makes a place feel connected. Redlands has that. Rotary is one of several groups where people from different backgrounds can get involved in service and local causes.

The Rotary Club of Redlands has been involved in scholarships, youth opportunities and community service. I appreciate that the focus goes beyond any one person's business. You can learn more about the club and its activities through its website.

One of the conveniences of working downtown

My office is at Sixth and State Street, and being able to walk a block or two to Rotary meetings is one of the things I enjoy about the location. I am already downtown throughout the week for client meetings and conversations with business owners, so community involvement is naturally part of that routine.

I also like having a reason to connect with people I might not otherwise get to know. You learn about their interests, the organizations they support and what's happening around the city. That's worthwhile whether or not we ever end up doing business together.

What I hope people notice about Redlands

Someone visiting for the first time might start with State Street, the Redlands Bowl or the A.K. Smiley Public Library. Those are great places to begin. But spend more time here and you start noticing the people and organizations behind the events, fundraisers, cultural programs and local traditions.

For example, Smiley Park is home to the library, the Lincoln Memorial Shrine and the Redlands Bowl, all in one part of town. It's a pretty good illustration of how much community life is concentrated in a walkable area.

Relationships can be useful in unexpected ways

My business happens to be mortgages, and most of my work comes through referrals. That's made me appreciate the value of getting to know people and what they are good at. Sometimes a conversation leads to a helpful introduction, whether someone needs a real estate agent, has a question about a property or is trying to find a specialized local professional.

I don't think every relationship needs to become a transaction. In fact, the most valuable part of being involved locally is often the simple act of showing up, learning about the community and getting to know people over time.

That's what I appreciate about Rotary and why I'm glad to be involved in Redlands.

Steven Burns | CrossCountry Mortgage | NMLS #1745403

My Rotary membership reflects personal community involvement and does not imply that the club endorses my business.