We just entered the second quarter of this Rotary Year. This is for sure not what I expected how I would be visiting clubs. Thank you to all of our Area Governors who are working hard on arranging my official visits to clubs, whether they are in-person or virtual. So far, I have visited 21 clubs that are Rotary and Rotaract, some in person, and some virtually. I have also participated in community and environmental events. I am learning more about our clubs and what we do for our communities.
The work of Rotary begins in the community, and every community has its own unique needs and concerns. While we serve in countless ways, we’ve focused our efforts in six key areas to maximize our impact. These areas encompass some of the world’s most critical and widespread humanitarian needs. Rotary members planning new service projects are encouraged to consider these areas and the many opportunities for innovative projects within them. Rotary International and The Rotary Foundation have adopted six areas of focus as organizational priorities:
- Peace and conflict prevention/resolution
- Disease prevention and treatment
- Water and sanitation
- Maternal and child health
- Basic education and literacy
- Economic and community development
This year Rotary has added the Environment as the seventh area of focus. I have been encouraging clubs to participate in environmental projects. Many clubs have made it a priority this year and have been involved in several environmental projects. I participated in parks and rivers cleanups. We also planted 200 trees. This is part of many other projects and activities that clubs in our district are taking part in.
I attended virtually the presentation that the Rotary clubs in Kingston presented in celebration of 100 years of Rotary in Kingston. The FAR project is to support Pathway to Education high school graduates. This project is the product of financial support from the local Kingston Rotary clubs, D-7040 Passport Club, and international partner clubs from India (Madras State) and a global grant from Rotary International.
Renfrew Rotary had a successful Bacon on a Bun fundraiser. This project was planned with COVID precautions in mind. See the article in this bulletin. A gentleman came through after they were sold out and just made a generous donation. This netted a profit of $10,000. These funds were part of a $30,000 commitment to local community groups.
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For our Canadian members, I want to wish everyone a very happy and safe Thanksgiving. Enjoy your time with your family, it is a beautiful time of year. Let's share the joy and the fun and share with us your favorite photo you have taken while you are out enjoying nature. How about you share with us your favorite fall/Thanksgiving recipe? Post them to our district's Facebook Page. Post them so we can all try them https://www.facebook.com/rotary7040
Finally, I would like to remind you that the District Conference is coming up in two weeks. We have great keynote speakers, not to be missed. You can enjoy it from the comfort and safety of your home. Register here for free. Don't forget to check out the Online Silent Auction to benefit the Rotary Foundation.