In his February 10th RGG Business Journal article, Hidalgo County Judge Richard Cortez aptly observed that “RGV cities are like stores in a mall. They are not the mall itself.” His metaphor captures a fundamental truth: the Rio Grande Valley’s strength lies not in isolated municipalities, but in our collective regional identity, shared destiny, and capacity to collaborate.
As a Rotarian and District Governor of Rotary District 5930 in South Texas, I applaud Judge Cortez’s words and the efforts of business leaders—many of whom are both Rotarians and members of RioPlex—who are working to “Unite for Good” across our shared border and among our communities in the Rio Grande Valley and Tamaulipas. Their vision reflects what Rotary has long embodied: that relationships, trust, and cooperation are the foundation of sustainable development.
At the border, Rotary District 5930 (South Texas) stands in solidarity with District Governor Alma García Betancourt of Rotary District 4130 (which includes Tamaulipas). Together, we are addressing the social and economic challenges facing our binational communities.
Through strategic, locally driven action—often in partnership with nonprofits, faith-based organizations, academic institutions, and local governments—we strive to improve the well-being of vulnerable families. Our approach is rooted in practical compassion: sometimes, progress happens “one starfish at a time.”
Yet Rotary’s impact extends far beyond local service projects. Rotary International is a global network of 1.2 million business leaders and professionals across 46,000 clubs, 516 districts, and 200 countries. This worldwide connectivity is one of our region’s most powerful, yet underutilized, assets.
Through initiatives such as Rotary Friendship Exchanges and International Youth Exchange, Rotarians build personal and professional relationships that transcend borders. These programs foster peace and mutual understanding while connecting local leaders to international business networks, including chambers of commerce and industry associations. Over time, these relationships can—and do—translate into trade partnerships, investment opportunities, and collaborative innovation that benefit our binational region.
Importantly, just as our cities should not compete against one another for regional prosperity, neither should our Rotary Clubs. We share a common vision: a thriving Rio Grande Valley and Tamaulipas where people joyfully combine their talents, time, and treasure for the greater good.
Our “mall” is strongest when every “store” is flourishing—and when we invite partners from both sides of the border to walk its halls together.
Editor’s Note: The above guest column was penned by Dr. Elaine Hernandez, District Governor 2025–2026, Rotary District 5930.
