Rick Steves Service Above Self 2024 Recipient

The Rotary Club of Edmonds is proud to announce the recipient of the 3rd annual “Rick Steves Service Above Self” award. The inspiration for this award is Rick Steves, who models Rotary values through exemplary citizenship in his personal, business, community, and global service to others.

The recipient of this year’s award is Tana Axtelle. Tana has been the manager of the Harbor Square Athletic Club for 25 years. Her sense of service in her work extends beyond the gym walls and deep into our local community.

As a professional, she takes deep care of our senior population, teaches swimming to the under-privileged, and has been an activist in promoting health awareness in Edmonds.

Tana is an advocate for common-sense gun laws, volunteers her time and expertise for sustainable and inclusive affordable housing and is deeply involved in animal welfare.

Tana is also a connected and thoughtful global citizen who volunteers actively to respond to the ongoing crisis occurring in Ukraine. Tana works in rescue efforts for dogs and cats impacted by the conflict and collaborates with international organization to find shelter, care and support for displaced animals. Her work mitigates the impact of war on human and animal lives.

Her nominator phrases it best: “Tana exemplifies the profound influence that individuals can have when they lend their time, skill, and passion to causes that contribute to the well-being of society at large”.