This week, our Club President Alex Russell proudly presented a donation to DASC Industries. Accepting the cheque was Henk van Leeuwen, Executive Director of DASC Industries — and a valued member of Rotary Halifax Harbour.
Each summer, our Club comes together with volunteers, partners, and thousands of visitors to make Harbourside Ribfest one of Halifax’s favourite community events. While the delicious barbecue draws the crowds, the real impact reaches far beyond the waterfront.
A Community Fundraiser in Every Sense
One part of Ribfest that deserves special recognition is the network of local nonprofit groups who volunteer at the festival gates.
Each day, different organizations greet guests, collect the $2 entrance fee, and in return, receive a portion of those funds directly to support their own programs.
This model ensures that Ribfest benefits many groups at once:
Nonprofits receive immediate financial support
Volunteers help make the festival possible
Visitors contribute to community impact simply by attending
Harbourside Ribfest isn’t just a Rotary fundraiser — it is a shared community project with far-reaching benefits.
About DASC Industries
DASC is a not-for-profit social enterprise in Dartmouth supporting over 200 persons with intellectual disabilities every year. Their programs include:
Inclusive community employment
Recreation and active living
Life skills development
Youth and adult support programs
Individualized services that foster independence and confidence
DASC’s long-standing work strengthens families and contributes to a more inclusive and vibrant community — values that resonate deeply with Rotary.
Your Ribfest Attendance Makes This Possible
Every purchase, every volunteer shift, every sponsor partnership, and every plate of ribs helps create these moments of impact. Because the community shows up for Ribfest, Rotary Halifax Harbour can show up for organizations like DASC — and many others across HRM.
Thank you for helping us continue to put Service Above Self into action.
If you’re interested in volunteering at Ribfest or learning more about how Rotary supports local organizations year-round, we’d love to connect.