The COVID-19 coronavirus is affecting every aspect of our lives in real time, and this puts Rotarians in an unfamiliar place. As People of Action, we are most comfortable when we are fully engaged in the world – moving freely, meeting openly, and offering helping hands. These are very difficult times for people who, like us, are at our best when we are learning, growing, and serving—together.
As we celebrate the 115 birthday of Rotary this month let us focus on World Understanding/Peace Building and Conflict Prevention which is one of the cornerstones of Rotary International. Let us also remember the 75th Anniversary of the United Nations and if possible, plan to attend the Pre-Rotary International Convention event, “Rotary and the United Nations: Celebrating a 75 Year Legacy” on Friday 5th June 2020.
It has been said that poverty, inequality, ethnic tension, lack of access to education, and unequal distribution of resources are some of the triggers of conflicts in our world. Thankfully, through the many service projects, as well as through Peace Fellowships and scholarships The Rotary Foundation and Rotary Clubs around the world are taking action to address these issues. Also, very importantly, fellowships, the diversity of our clubs and working on projects beyond our borders are great opportunities for Rotarians and Rotaractors to promote peace.
As PAG Audley and I near the completion of our official club visits we were pleased to note that all our clubs focused on relieving needs in at least one of the triggers of conflict. I therefore wish to commend you my Fellow Rotarians and Rotaractors on making a difference. Some commendable recent, upcoming or ongoing intentional peace and conflict prevention programmes include The Rotary Club of St. Thomas weekend workshop themed: “Building Peace Through Service”, as well as the upcoming workshop to address domestic violence on March 10th by the Manor Park Club, the ongoing support by the Rotary Club of Tortola for the Youth Empowerment Programme – an after school programme that regularly caters to approximately 135 students and 180 students during the annual summer programme, and the anti-bullying campaigns by Rotaractors to name a few.
I wish to also commend clubs that are actively engaged in mentoring their sponsored Rotaract, Interact and EarlyAct members. These clubs present an excellent opportunity for us to promote and encourage peace and to break barriers of hatred amongst our young people. RYLAs are also encouraged and I am pleased to congratulate the Rotary Clubs of Sint Maartin, St Martin and Anguilla on their recent RYLA event.
On our recently concluded tour of Haiti we were pleased to see many needed water projects, support of schools, orphanages, clinics, home for the disabled and much more undertaken by Rotary and Rotaract Clubs there. Additionally, I wish to mention how proud we are of the resiliency and creativity of our twenty-two Rotary Clubs, as well as the Rotaract Clubs in Haiti. They demonstrated their commitment to service despite the unrest experienced in their country where all but one or two clubs were unable to meet in person for several months. Their creativity and ability to adopt included regular meetings via Whatsapp and other unconventional means, which meant they were able to launch into action in January, immediately after stability was restored. However, on a sad note I ask that you remember the family of Past President Jocelyne Louis Dubuisson of the Rotary Club of Mirebalais who passed during the unrest. I also encourage you to continue to lift up our Haiti Rotary Family and the people of Haiti. Pray that they will continue to have stability and grow in prosperity, and as far as possible support our HANWASH programme as we believe that a successful HANWASH programme is a key component for transformational change in this island nation.
In conclusion at a time when the world seems to be on edge, I again thank our clubs for promoting peace and conflict prevention and I encourage all our Clubs to be intentional in building peace through service. To support and strengthen your resolve I invite you to take the course “Essentials of Understanding Conflict” on the Rotary Learning Center
Message du gouverneur du District Delma Maduro Février 2020
Alors que nous célébrons le 115e anniversaire du Rotary ce mois-ci, concentrons-nous sur la compréhension mondiale/la consolidation de la paix et la prévention des conflits, qui est l’une des pierres angulaires du Rotary International. Souvenons-nous également du 75e anniversaire des Nations Unies et, si possible, prévoyons d'assister à la manifestation internationale pré-Rotary, "Le Rotary et l'ONU : Célébration d'un héritage de 75 ans" le vendredi 5 juin 2020.
On a dit que la pauvreté, l'inégalité, les tensions ethniques, le manque d'accès à l'éducation et la répartition inégale des ressources sont quelques-uns des déclencheurs des conflits dans notre monde. Heureusement, grâce à de nombreux projets de services, ainsi qu'à des bourses et bourses d'études pour la paix, la Fondation Rotary et les Rotary clubs du monde entier prennent des mesures pour résoudre ces problèmes. De plus, les bourses, la diversité de nos clubs et le travail sur des projets au-delà de nos frontières sont de grandes occasions pour les Rotariens et les Rotaractiens de promouvoir la paix.
Comme PAG Audley et moi-même avons presque terminé nos visites officielles au club, nous avons été heureux de noter que tous nos clubs se sont concentrés sur la satisfaction des besoins dans au moins un des déclencheurs de conflit. Je tiens donc à vous féliciter mes collègues Rotariens et Rotaractiens d'avoir fait une différence. Parmi les programmes de prévention de la paix et des conflits récents, à venir ou en cours, on peut citer l'atelier du week-end du Rotary club de St. Thomas : "Consolider la paix par le service", ainsi que le prochain atelier sur la violence domestique organisé le 10 mars par le Manor Park Club, le soutien continu apporté par le Rotary club de Tortola au Programme d'autonomisation des jeunes - un programme post-scolaire qui accueille régulièrement environ 135 étudiants et 180 étudiants pendant le programme annuel d'été, et les campagnes anti-brimades menées par les Rotaractiens pour en nommer quelques-personnes.
Je tiens également à féliciter les clubs qui s'emploient activement à encadrer leurs membres Rotaract, Interact et EarlyAct parrainés. Ces clubs nous offrent une excellente occasion de promouvoir et d'encourager la paix et de briser les barrières de la haine chez nos jeunes. Les RYLA sont également encouragées et je suis heureux de féliciter les Rotary clubs de Saint Martin, St Martin et Anguilla pour leur récente manifestation RYLA.
Lors de notre récente visite en Haïti, nous avons été heureux de voir de nombreux projets d'approvisionnement en eau nécessaires, le soutien des écoles, des orphelinats, des cliniques, des foyers pour handicapés et bien plus entrepris par les clubs Rotary et Rotaract. En outre, je tiens à souligner à quel point nous sommes fiers de la résilience et de la créativité de nos 22 Rotary clubs, ainsi que des Rotaract Clubs en Haïti. Ils ont démontré leur engagement à servir malgré les troubles dans leur pays où tous les clubs, sauf un ou deux, n'ont pas pu se réunir en personne pendant plusieurs mois. Leur créativité et leur capacité d'adoption comprenaient des réunions régulières par Whatsapp et d'autres moyens non conventionnels, ce qui signifie qu'ils ont pu se lancer dans l'action en janvier, immédiatement après le rétablissement de la stabilité. Je vous demande toutefois de vous souvenir de la famille de l'ancien président Jocelyne Louis Dubuisson du Rotary club de Mirebalais qui est décédé pendant les troubles. Je vous encourage également à continuer à élever notre famille et le peuple haïtiens. Priez pour qu'ils continuent d'avoir la stabilité et de grandir dans la prospérité, et, dans la mesure du possible, soutenez notre programme HANWASH, car nous croyons qu'un programme HANWASH réussi est un élément clé du changement transformationnel dans ce pays insulaire.
Pour terminer, à l'heure où le monde semble être à la pointe, je remercie une fois de plus nos clubs de promouvoir la paix et la prévention des conflits et j'encourage tous nos clubs à être intentionnels dans la construction de la paix par le service. Pour soutenir et renforcer votre détermination, je vous invite à suivre le cours " Principes fondamentaux de la compréhension des conflits " sur le Centre de formation du Rotary
District Governor Delma Maduro's Message for February
Please join us in congratulating the Rotaract Club of Port-au-Prince Champ de Mars for their winning entry to the Rotary eClub of the Caribbean's R.O.A.R Competition!
If you missed what R.O.A.R. is about, it means Rotaract Orators Addressing Rotary. It is an oratory competition designed to support and encourage Rotaractors in public speaking. This year's competition asked Rotaractors to discuss how they would approach a critical issue that affects one of the target groups from the Rotaract District Project - T.E.A.M. (teens, elderly, adults (young) and mothers).
Hosted by The Government of the Bahamas and the UNDP was a success. Some information that came from the conference is as follows:
1.7 million metric tons of debris need to be dealt with
29,472 persons were affected
Of the $3.4 billion in damages, 87% was in Abaco and 13% in Grand Bahama and 91% affected the private sector while 9% in the public sector
Major problem was not with the building code but with low lying buildings and non-compliance with the building code
The country lost 18% of the GDP due to Hurricane Dorian
Still 70 confirmed dead but hundreds still missing
Priority list of projects is drafted and should be released soon
They have spent $4.5 million on dome houses to get residents a temporary place to stay. Still months from being finished.
They need $26 million for the schools
While they said the building code is fine, they also said they are working on the next edition of the building code
The code says you have to build 18 inches above the known flood level. However, the known flood level has now changed and is higher than it was
Many organizations (I counted 26) stood up, out of the 300 to 400 people in the room, and pledged support in cash and in-kind as well as services. The P3 group pledged almost 1 billion
Estimated pledges to be between $1.5 and $2.0 billion
PRIP Barry Rassin was in attendance and was able to tell the crowd about Rotary and what Rotarians have already done and plan to do going forward.
Items before the Hurricane Recovery Committee
The committee needs to review the following and approve if in support. Some we have already discussed, and some is new:
Schools are still our priority. We should have the list of schools with who is doing what by the end of the month. We could then take on one or more schools than are not yet committed. Maybe one at a time?
We have agreed with the Bahamas Chamber of Commerce to partner on a program to help small business. No details as yet but we need to meet with them again and develop this.
The water plant from H2O and Rotary should be there in two weeks.
We had approved the two TAC (Technical Assistance Centers) units (one for each island). We have reached out to Florida but got no takers on helping us with two similar RV’s for this purpose. We should proceed with the purchase.
MSC has donated and is sending 38 20-foot containers of tiles. They will send to Freeport, but the Grand Bahama team will determine how much they need. Any they don’t need could be sent to Abaco.
In meeting with the Salvation Army, we are developing a plan to build an NGO building in Abaco. This would be used for a number on NGO’s to have an office as well as to have a space for storage of emergency supplies and a space for a shelter. It would be ideal as the emergency control center. The Minister for Recover, etc. has agreed with the concept and is working to find us land for the purpose. I am meeting again with the Salvation Army this week to confirm their commitment, but they are sure they want to have a permanent presence there. We could get some other partners to work with us so it becomes a true partnership of those who live in this sector.
Two Volunteer weeks. UNDP is helping us coordinate these two weeks. They have suggested we take on the cultural parks in Abaco as these have not been handled by any other group. They are putting all the details together as to what they need and will provide us with a detailed list. I suggest we purchase the materials and let the volunteers rebuild the parks as Rotary parks.
UNDP is working on the logistics. They may find us houses to rent which we can set up as dorms, maybe three or four house we would rent for the two weeks. The benefit over tents is that they have bathrooms and showers
They are also working on getting some local females to cook for us
Rotary will send information out to the Rotary world to get the volunteers and help organize the flight into The Bahamas
We will need to approve this expenditure for rental property, food and supplies
District Governor Delma Maduro's Message for January
January 2020 Message
District Governor Delma Maduro
Vocational Service Rotary RAGS and Fellowships
The ideal of service is at the Core of Rotary and as Rotarians we should consider ourselves fortunate to be linked with a diverse group of some 1.2 million Rotarians and hundreds of thousands of Rotaractors in 134 countries around the world. This brings with it invaluable diversity through our cultural differences, languages, and very importantly our vocations, as well as great strength and the ability/capability to undertake the many challenges and needs within our community. And very importantly the ability to make major life changing connections.
As we reflect on Vocational Service Month we are reminded that the object of Rotary is to encourage and foster the ideal of service as a basis of worthy enterprise and in particular.
Firstly as the development of acquaintance as an opportunity for service. The networking potential is astounding as Rotarians have the opportunity to create relationships with many business, professional and community leaders and quite honestly this is one of the reasons why persons are drawn to Rotary.
Secondly High Ethical Standards in business and profession; the recognition of the worthiness of all useful occupations; and the dignifying of each Rotarian’s occupation as an opportunity to serve society
We know that maintaining high Ethical standards is another core value of Rotary. We cannot compromise on this. We have seen overtime in our own communities, in our district and globally that we are able to mobilize resources for small and large projects all because Rotary is known for integrity. Integrity is strictly linked to our vocation as without that our successes in business and as Rotarians can be marginalized, We must remain vigilant and guard our personal and professional integrity as well as that of Rotary and encourage others to do likewise.
The importance of diversity of vocation in our clubs is also significant. Sometime clubs may deviate from this very instructive guiding principle but I encourage you to review your needs from time to time and as this can add value and strengthen our collective ability to effectively carry out your community service and make a difference in our communities. Also, very importantly please reflect on how we are honoring the various vocations of our Fellow Rotarians and Rotaractors, Also this is a good time to reflect on the mentorship programmes in place to help change the course of a young person’s life.
In his January 2020 Message President Mark Maloney reminds us that, “Throughout the world, Rotary is admired for its vocational service and for the time-honored values we instill in all business relationships. As we continue our work to grow Rotary, let us remember that vocational service remains a crucial selling point to potential members.
Let us also remember that we can use our vocation to enhance our Rotary experience well beyond our Club and our District by joining a Rotary Action Group a Rotary Fellowship. These RAGS offer a wide range of topics such as economic development, environment, health, water and sanitation and the list goes one join today and share your expertise and change lives.
We have the Rotary Fellowships which is a wonderful way to connect with other who share the same passion in a mired of Fellowships. Simply connect on Rotary.org.
Let us use our vocation to connect the world and to serve humanity, secure our future.
L’idéal de service est au cœur du Rotary et, en tant que Rotariens, nous devrions nous considérer chanceux d’être liés à un groupe diversifié d’environ 1,2 million de Rotariens et de centaines de milliers de Rotaraciens dans 134 pays à travers le monde. Cela nous apporte une diversité inestimable grâce à nos différences culturelles, nos langues et, très important, nos vocations, ainsi qu'une grande force et la capacité d'entreprendre les nombreux défis et besoins de notre communauté. Et très important, la capacité de faire des connexions importantes qui changent la vie.
En réfléchissant au Mois du service professionnel, nous nous souvenons que l'objectif du Rotary est d'encourager et de promouvoir l'idéal du service en tant que base d'une entreprise digne de ce nom, et en particulier.
Premièrement, le développement de la connaissance en tant qu'opportunité de service. Le potentiel de réseautage est étonnant, car les Rotariens ont la possibilité de nouer des relations avec de nombreux chefs d'entreprise, professionnels et communautaires, et c'est en toute honnêteté l'une des raisons pour lesquelles les Rotariens sont attirés par le Rotary.
Deuxièmement, des normes éthiques élevées en matière d'affaires et de profession; la reconnaissance de la qualité de toutes les professions utiles; et la reconnaissance de l’occupation de chaque Rotarien comme une opportunité de servir la société.
Nous savons que le maintien de normes éthiques élevées est une autre valeur essentielle du Rotary. Nous ne pouvons pas faire de compromis à ce sujet. Nous avons vu des heures supplémentaires dans nos propres communautés, dans notre district et dans le monde entier que nous sommes en mesure de mobiliser des ressources pour des projets de petite et de grande envergure, tout cela parce que le Rotary est connu pour son intégrité. L’intégrité est étroitement liée à notre vocation, car sans cela nos succès dans les affaires et comme les Rotariens peuvent être marginalisés, nous devons rester vigilants et préserver notre intégrité personnelle et professionnelle ainsi que celle du Rotary et encourager les autres à faire de même.
L'importance de la diversité de la vocation dans nos clubs est également importante. Parfois, les clubs peuvent s'écarter de ce principe très instructif, mais je vous encourage à revoir vos besoins de temps à autre et, dans la mesure où cela peut ajouter de la valeur et renforcer notre capacité collective à exécuter efficacement votre service communautaire et à faire une différence dans nos collectivités. De plus, il est très important de réfléchir à la manière dont nous honorons les différentes vocations de nos collègues Rotariens et Rotaraciens. C’est aussi un bon moment pour réfléchir aux programmes de mentorat mis en place pour aider à changer le cours de la vie d’un jeune.
Dans son message de janvier 2020, le président Mark Maloney nous rappelle que, "Dans le monde entier, le Rotary est admiré pour son service professionnel et pour les valeurs que nous inculquons dans toutes les relations d’affaires. Alors que nous poursuivons notre action en faveur de la croissance du Rotary, rappelons-nous que le service professionnel reste un point de vente crucial pour les membres potentiels.
N'oublions pas que nous pouvons nous servir de notre vocation pour améliorer notre expérience au-delà de notre Club et de notre District en rejoignant un Groupe d'action du Rotary en tant que Bourse du Rotary. Ces RAGS offrent un large éventail de sujets tels que le développement économique, l'environnement, la santé, l'eau et l'assainissement et la liste va rejoindre aujourd'hui et partager votre expertise et changer des vies.
Nous avons les Bourses du Rotary, qui sont une façon merveilleuse de connecter avec d'autres personnes qui partagent la même passion dans un bourbier de Bourses. Connectez-vous simplement le site Rotary.org.
Utilisons notre vocation pour connecter le monde et servir l'humanité, assurer notre avenir.
Will you help Interactors learn new skills and spread “Kindness”?
We are exciting to launch our newest project PICS - Promoting Interact Creative Skills.PICS gives Interactors an opportunity to explore the world of photography and to win prizes. We hope you’ll consider partnering with us by encouraging your local interactors to participate!
Interactors can
- Submit photographs illustrating Kindness
- Win cash and participate in a humanitarian service project
- Enjoy seeing their photos displayed on the web and social media, as well as at the 7020 DIstrict Conference
Une nouvelle opportunité passionnante pour les Interactors!
Voulez-vous aider les Interacteurs à cultiver de nouvelles compétences et à répandre la gentillesse?
Vous trouverez votre invitation en pièce jointe
Nous sommes heureux de lancer notre nouveau projet PICS - Stimuler des compétences créatives d'Interacteurs. PICS donne aux utilisateurs une opportunité d’experimenter la photographie et de gagner des prix. Nous comptons sur votre participation en encourageant vos Interacteurs à participer!
Les acteurs peuvent
- Soumettre des photographies illustrant Gentillesse
- Gagnez de l'argent et participez à un projet de service humanitaire
- Profitez de voir leurs photos affichées sur le Web et les médias sociaux, ainsi que lors de la conférence 7020 District
A collaboration between Rotary, Pure H2O and Critical Path Foundation, of approximately USD$110,000 portable Reverse Osmosis system is being constructed for deployment in Abaco initially but wherever required in future disasters. It is a sea water RO system housed in a 20ft specially outfitted container with a generator, holding tanks and pumps.
The Rotary Clubs of The Bahamas have established partnerships to begin planning projects with:
Lyford Cay Foundation
Bahamas Striping Group of Companies
IDEA Organization
United Nations Development Programme (UNDP)
Royal Caribbean Cruise Lines sent Relief supplies for distribution.
The Rotary Clubs have started distribution to where needed.
Rotary District 6960 supplies another container to Abaco
Shipment includes $60,000 of generators (60), saws, drills and other construction tools plus an additional 12 pallets of food and water. Thank you to Sunshine Ace Hardware for their “less than wholesale prices” and The Rotary Club of Naples
Supplies & Toiletries have arrived and are being sorted and distributed to evacuees in Eleuthera. The Rotary Clubs of Nassau and New Providence sorted and readied the shipments sent to the Rotary Club of Eleuthera as follows:
26 pallets (across two shipments) to Governors Harbour.
12 pallets to Rock Sound.
The Rotary Clubs of St Croix Donated over USD$25,500 for Dorian Relief
The Rotary Clubs in St Croix, USVI came together to help in the recovery efforts after Hurricane Dorian.
Portable Solar Systems help families
30 Portable Solar Systems from Mr. Marc Lapata (CEO of Azimuth Energy LLC, and Mr. Godfrey Thomas (Founder of Bahamas Energy and Solar Supplies - BESS). Mrs. Yvette Ferguson (Executive Sales Representative) facilitated the donation at Nassau Agencies Ltd. (Pictured L-R: Rotarian Stephen Dean, Mr. Thomas, Mrs. Ferguson, Rotarian Ken Strachan.)
Report on This Week’s Progress in The Bahamas
In our continued effort to support and provide assistance to those affected, we have worked recently to:
Continue the operation of the Rotary Water Plant in Grand Bahama including:
Daily pumping for distribution across the island to residents, schools, medical facilities, and businesses. The plant is now approaching 230,000 gallons pumped!
Working to install an additional water pumping system to increase pumping capacity.
Facilitating 24 Hour Access to site.
Receiving a donated 4WD Truck from the Rotary Club Perine-Cutler Ridge/Palmetto Bay to deliver water and supplies across the island.
Update from Grand Bahama Island
More Tents are needed. People in the east (of GBI) don't want to leave their land and will live in a tent until rebuilt. 61 Tents have been setup so far.
Inflatable air mattresses needed as people refuse to throw out their moldy mattresses and bring them into the tents to sleep on.
Water Plant
The Rotary Club of Cutler Ridge/Palmetto Bay have donated a 2018 Toyota Hilux 4 wheel drive for water plant operations. Once we can coordinate with the club and others we will have a "Just over 200,000 gallons pumped" celebration.
The new system arrives this weekend or early next week. Waugh Construction has been contracted to plumb the well into the plant as well as the electrical work. Once they are done the tech from Watermakers Inc. will come over and hook up the machine with some of the Water Plant operators assisting as a learning exercise.
The second machine will take us to 15,000 GPD.
The plant is open 24/7 self service walk up to outside fill stations.
Food and clothing distribution
We are using the YMCA gymnasium as a sort and distribution center for food, water, clothing, baby everything and health and hygiene items. It is open 7 days a week. Mercy Corp has a water point bladder set up there as well.
TEAM SEAGRAPE
Three days after the storm a small group of us went into the settlement of Seagrape in 8 Mile Rock which had no effects from the storm.
We rounded up 20 young men and put them to work cleaning up. From there they went onto tarping roofs and in some cases fixing them. We then moved them onto mucking out houses and cutting out sheetrock.
All of us took a mold remediation course and we equipped the Team with the proper personal protection equipment and teamed with a local contractor they went to work treating homes and businesses.
When the moisture levels are acceptable they will learn how to install sheet rock up to the primer coat, again supervised by a licensed contractor. They work six and half days a week and are paid $650
What we have accomplished here is we have taken at risk youths and are giving them not only a salary but a trade. They are doing great work and they really feel proud to be part of the recovery process.
Rotary Club House
Land was applied for and granted to the water plant with the intention of building a Rotary Club House where the clubs can meet and also function as a feeding center in times of need. A third RO system may be installed in the facility. More on funding and Global Grant possibilities to follow.
Rotary Transforms your gifts into service projects through its charitable arm … The Rotary Foundation. As we celebrate Foundation and Public Image month in November let us reflect on the year 1917 when President Arch Klumph made an audacious proposal for an endowment fund to do good in the world! Yes, that proposal and a contribution of $26.50 evolved into The Rotary Foundation which is making a profound impact in our world.
On a global scale millions have been vaccinated against Polio and Rotary will be part of the history when it’s eradicated. Health care has been provided to millions. Basic education and literacy projects continue to change lives, Over 41,000 Peace scholars have graduated, and much more….
District 7020 has been a beneficiary as well as a contributor to the Rotary Foundation.
Significant projects that were supported by the Foundation in collaboration with other partners such as the $400,000 grant for the Bustamante Children’s Hospital Cardiac Scan in Jamaica, the $388,0000 grant for the Saint Marie Laurence school in St. Martin, and the $115,000 grant for the mobile Dental Clinic in Jamaica, just to name a few.
Last Year our District gave a historic $508,175 to Foundation and our Zone 34 was Number 1 in 2018 Giving Tuesday with the Rotary Club of Central Cayman being the number 2 contributor in our Zone.
On 3rd December 2019 we will celebrate Giving Tuesday which we hope will inspire giving, even as we continue to support The Bahamas Hurricane Dorian Recovery efforts. On this note, I am happy to share that the Rotary Club of St. Baths has an aggressive fundraising target in mind to go towards a specific project to be identified, and that the BVI Rotary Family telethon netted $175,000 though the generosity of the BVI community and the BVI Rotary Family. I remain grateful to the entire District Rotary Family and to all other Districts and communities who have shown their love for our Rotary Family and neighbours in the Bahamas.
Let me remind our Clubs that Reporting to the Foundation and to the District is an important aspect of good stewardship, and I am thrilled to share that our District’s reporting increased from 73% in July to 80% in October. Thank you and let’s get to 100% to avoid unnecessary delays with the grant application approval process.
I am also pleased to announce that we will be giving away a total of 25,000 points to go towards a Paul Harris Fellow. 10,000 are District Points and another 15,000 are through the kind generosity of PDG Haresh Ramchandani. We will match on a first come first served basis your dollar contributions with up to 500 points per Rotarian or Rotaractor from 10th November 2019 to 30th January 2020. Details to follow.
At this point I want to say that our Official Visits with our Clubs continue to be inspiring. PAG Audley and I were in St. Martin/Sint Maarten, Anguilla and St. Baths. Collaboration with and other partners is excellent there And in fact we were privileged to be there to help welcome District Governor, Bob Artist of District 7090, the RI President Representative PRID Bob Menconi and Mrs Menconi and about 50 Rotarians for the opening of their “Sailabration” District Conference and to participate in their joint projects with the Rotary Club of St. Maarten and The Rotary Club of St. Maarten Mid Isle.
Finally, I wish to remind Clubs to embrace Public Image and share the excellent work that you are doing. Also remember to participate in Zone 34 Public Image two-minute Video Competition – How your Rotary Club Connects the world
Thank you and have an awesome Foundation and Public Image Month.
Message du Gouverneur du District Novembre 2019
Salutations à ma famille Rotary
Le Rotary transforme vos dons en projets de services par l'intermédiaire de son organisme de bienfaisance... La Fondation Rotary.Alors que nous célébrons le mois de la fondation et de l'image publique en novembre, réfléchissons à l'année 1917, lorsque le Président Arch Klumph a fait une proposition audacieuse pour un fonds de dotation pour faire le bien dans le monde!Oui, cette proposition et une contribution de 26,50 dollars sont évolués la Fondation Rotary qui a un impact profond sur notre monde.
A l’échelle mondiale, des millions de personnes ont été vaccinées contre la polio et le Rotary fera partie de l’histoire lorsqu’il sera éradiqué. Des millions de personnes ont bénéficié de soins de santé. Les projets d'éducation de base et d'alphabétisation continuent de changer la vie, plus de 41000étudiants ont obtenu leur diplôme, et bien plus encore.
Le district 7020 a été bénéficiaire et a contribué à la Fondation Rotary. D’importants projets soutenus par la Fondation en collaboration avec d’autres partenaires, comme la subvention de 400 000 $ pour le Bustamante Children’s Hospital Cardiac Scan en Jamaïque, la subvention de 388 000 $ pour l’école Saint-Marie Laurence à St. Martin et la subvention de 115 000 $ pour la clinique dentaire mobile en Jamaïque, nommez-en quelques-uns...
L'année dernière, notre district a accordé un montant historique de 508 175 dollars à la Fondation et notre zone 34 était numéro 1 en 2018, donnant mardi au Rotary Club de Cayman Central le numéro 2 dans notre zone.
Le 3 décembre 2019, nous célébrerons le "Giving Tuesday", qui, nous l'espérons, inspirera
les dons, alors même que nous continuons à soutenir les efforts de reconstruction de l'ouragan Dorian aux Bahamas. Sur ce point, je suis heureux de partager le fait que le Rotary club de St. Baths a un objectif de collecte de fonds ambitieux en vue d'aller vers un projet spécifique à identifier, et que le téléthon de la famille BVI Rotary a rapporté 175 000 dollars grâce à la générosité de la communauté BVI et de la famille BVI Rotary. Je suis reconnaissant à toute la famille du Rotary de district et à tous les autres districts et communautés qui ont montré leur amour pour notre famille et nos voisins des Bahamas.
Permettez-moi de rappeler à nos Clubs que la présentation de rapports à la Fondation et au District est un aspect important de la bonne gestion, et je suis ravi de vous dire que le taux de déclaration de notre District est passé de 73 % en juillet à 80 % en octobre. Merci et passons à 100 % pour éviter des retards inutiles dans le processus d’approbation de la demande de subvention.
J'ai également le plaisir d'annoncer que nous allons accorder un total de 25 000 points pour aller vers un boursier Paul Harris. 10.000 sont des points de district et 15.000 autres sont par la générosité de PDG Haresh Ramchandani. Nous vous offrirons une contribution de 500 points par Rotarien ou Rotaractien du 10 novembre 2019 au 30 janvier 2020. Détails à suivre.
À ce stade, je tiens à dire que nos visites officielles avec nos clubs continuent d'être une source d'inspiration. PAG Audley et moi étions à St. Martin/Sint Maarten, Anguilla et St. Baths. La collaboration avec et avec d'autres partenaires est excellente et nous avons eu le privilège d'être là pour accueillir le Gouverneur du district, Bob Artist du district 7090, le Représentant du Rotary, Bob Menconi et Mme Menconi, ainsi qu'une cinquantaine de Rotariens pour l'ouverture de leur conférence de district "Sailabration" et pour participer à leurs projets conjoints avec le Rotary club de St. Maarten et le Rotary Club de St. Marten Mid Isle.
Enfin, je voudrais rappeler aux Clubs d'embrasser Public Image et de partager l'excellent travail que vous faites. N'oubliez pas de participer au concours vidéo de deux minutes Zone 34 Image publique - Comment votre Rotary club connecte le monde
Merci et ayez un excellent Mois de la Fondation et de l'Image Publique.
The Rotary Club of St Thomas II Donates USD$20,000 for Dorian Relief
Rotary Club of Nassau Sunrise Shelter Clean-up
The Rotary Club of Abaco restarts meeting again!
The Rotary Clubs of The Bahamas annual Foundation Gala Dorian Relief Recognition
Report on This Week’s Progress in The Bahamas
We continue to work as clubs and individuals to assist the communities affected, which has enabled us to:
Increase donations across our multiple local and international funding channels to $1.6 million.
Receive a $20,000 donation from the Rotary Club of St. Thomas II, half of which is to be used specifically for Rotarians directly affected.
Continue the operation of the Rotary Water Plant in Grand Bahama including:
Daily pumping for distribution across the island; over 190,000 gallons have been pumped already. Water goes to residents, schools, medical facilities, restaurants, and other facilities in need.
Working to install an additional water pumping system to increase pumping capacity.
Facilitating 24 Hour Access to site.
Successfully set up 61 Disaster Aid Tents across affected areas in Grand Bahama, allowing residents to remain on their property to clean up and begin rebuilding.
Receive and begin preparing for distribution:
14 pallets of hand towels donated by Royal Caribbean Cruise Lines.
Two trailers of supplies including soap, shampoo, lotion, wash cloths, towels, sheets, blankets, and pillow covers donated by Sysco International Food Group (Florida).
Coordinate shipments of various sizes and items from multiple companies and groups directly to survivors in Abaco, Eleuthera and Grand Bahama.
Continue to support the Hurricane Dorian Relief Initiative (partnership with New Providence Community Church and others) with supplies receiving and collection, sorting, and distribution.
Foundation Gala Humanitarian Award Recipients
These persons were recognized by Rotary Clubs during the Annual Foundation Gala held at Government House for their efforts following Hurricane Dorian.
District 6990 Past Assistant Governor Mike Stafford
Rotary Has Heart (Rotary Club of Nassau)
ENRCCT Sir Durward Humanitarian Award (Rotary Club of East Nassau)
Rotaract Club of Eight Mile Rock President Solandka Julien (Rotary Club of East Nassau)
Steven Kelly (Rotary Club of Nassau Sunrise)
Dr. Graham Cates (Rotary Club of Old Fort)
Captain Stephen Russell (Rotary Club of South East Nassau)
The awards at the gala were presented by His Excellency C.A. Smith, Governor General of The Bahamas.
Rotary Club of Abaco:
Had their first physical meeting since the passing of Hurricane Dorian.
Rotary Club of Old Fort:
Continuing to support the Kendal G.L. Isaacs Gymnasium shelter.
Facilitating the shipment of requested food and other items from the Bahamas Rotary Clubs Supplies Network to the Rotary Club of Eleuthera.
Rotary Club of East Nassau:
Continuing to check in with shelters and work to meet requested needs.
Facilitating the delivery of blankets to shelters.
Rotary Club of Eleuthera:
Continues to support the 300 evacuees across Eleuthera with food and other necessities (sourced from multiple agencies and groups).
Continues to support displaced students in Eleuthera to ensure they are attending school and have the necessary supplies.
Is working alongside many partners to assist with job and more permanent housing placement.
Rotary Club of Nassau Sunrise:
Receive a $1,420 donation from The Goochland Rotary Club for the Disaster Relief Fund.
Donating various medications and supplies (including pain relievers, gauze, bandages, dressings, tape, and more) to Accident & Emergency and the Intensive Care Unit at Princess Margaret Hospital to help with continuing providing healthcare for evacuees.
Partnering with students of C.C. Sweeting Senior High School on their Character Day to clean the Pilgrim Baptist Church grounds since it is no longer being used as a shelter, and sort donated clothing to be transported and distributed at another housing center.
Providing resume writing support for evacuees at the “Sustainable Employment - the Aftermath of Dorian Job Fair” event hosted by Breezes Bahamas and Courtyard by Marriot.
Rotaract Club of South East Nassau Centennial:
Continuing to support the Bahamas Academy Gymnasium shelter.
Globus Medical, a leading global musculoskeletal solutions company, is driven to improve lives, but this passion goes beyond just their patients.
Last year, Globus Medical hosted their annual sales meeting at Atlantis Paradise Island in the Bahamas. The company had an enjoyable time and plans have begun for their return in 2020. After hearing of the damage caused by Hurricane Dorian, Globus Medical decided to give back and help the impacted islands. They chose to forgo their event attendee gift and instead donate this money to a great cause - helping the Bahamians recover from the hurricane. The hope is this donation blesses many and gives promise for a restored Bahamian future.
SOUNDWAVES Event Raises USD$22,000. $15,000 goes to Dorian Relief
When entering the grounds of the Bahamas National Trust’s Retreat Gardens on Village Road on October 5th it was impossible not to feel the energy surrounding the SoundWaves Festival for Hurricane Dorian Relief. The event successfully captured the full fledged festival atmosphere like nothing The Bahamas has experienced before, whilst raising more than $22,000 total, and giving $15,000 for Hurricane Dorian relief efforts.
The Rotary Club of Homosassa Springs in D6950 raised $5000 for Dorian Relief
The Rotary Club of St Thomas East FUNdraises for Bahamas Recovery
Report on This Week’s Progress in The Bahamas
During the last week, your collective work has enabled us to:
● Continue to receive donations across our multiple local and international funding channels.
● Continue pumping water daily at the Rotary Water Plant in Grand Bahama for distribution across the island.
● Make provisions to increase pumping capacity through an additional system and needed facility repairs.
● Receive donated shoes and slippers from Mall at Marathon.
● Confirm access to 4 containers of various goods at Coca Cola Head Office.
● Continue to support the Hurricane Dorian Relief Initiative (partnership with New Providence Community Church and others) with supplies collection, sorting, and distribution.
We have seen individual efforts from Clubs that include:
Rotary Club of East Nassau:
● Raising over $15,000 for the Bahamas Disaster Relief Fund through partnership with the Bahamas National Trust in hosting “SoundWaves”.
● Providing and delivering supplies (water, diapers, female sanitary items, baby wipes, soap, juices) requested by the Rotaract Club of South East Nassau Centennial to the Bahamas Academy Gymnasium Shelter.
Rotary Club of Eleuthera:
● Working alongside the Rotary Club of Old Fort and the Bahamas Rotary Clubs Supplies Network to:
o Receive and begin the distribution of 18 pallets of requested supplies and mattresses to the 350 evacuees across Eleuthera.
o Receive food items specifically for families housing evacuees in Harbour Island.
o Receive school lunch items specifically for displaced students in Harbour Island.
● Continuing to support evacuees with accommodations, food, water, and school supplies.
● Coordinating job opportunities for evacuees in Eleuthera alongside Rotary Club of Old Fort.
Rotary Club of Nassau Sunrise:
● Continuing to support the Pilgrim Baptist Church Shelter, plus the evacuees being housed by IPP Leroy by delivering needed supplies sourced from the Bahamas Rotary Clubs Supplies Network. Supplies included laundry and cleaning supplies, rubbing alcohol and peroxide, drinking water, and snacks.
Rotary Club of Old Fort:
● Continuing to support the Kendal G.L. Isaacs Gymnasium shelter.
● Facilitating the shipment of requested supplies and food items from the Bahamas Rotary Clubs Supplies Network to the Rotary Club of Eleuthera.
● Coordinating job opportunities for evacuees in Eleuthera alongside Rotary Club of Eleuthera.
Rotaract Club of South East Nassau Centennial:
● Facilitating the delivery of requested supplies (water, diapers, female sanitary items, baby wipes, soap, juices) provided by the Rotary Club of East Nassau to the Bahamas Academy Gymnasium Shelter.
The Lyford Cay International School Interact Club donated $1,465 raised through a school fundraiser. The entire school community had the opportunity to dress in Bahamian colours to recognize families affected by Hurricane Dorian. Participants donated funds to the relief effort. Members of the Interact Club also assisted with coordinating the Vision Board Party at the Ranfurly Home. The funds were donated to RC Old Fort.
Report on This Week’s Progress in The Bahamas
Rotary Club of Eleuthera:
Continued to support evacuees with accommodations, food, water, and school supplies.
Helped evacuees to settle into more permanent housing and jobs.
Enacted the Bahamas Rotary Clubs Supplies Network to begin receiving various food supplies, housewares, and hygienic items for the more than 350 evacuees across Eleuthera.
Rotary Club of Nassau Sunrise:
Continued to support the Pilgrim Baptist Church Shelter, plus the evacuees being housed by IPP Leroy by compiling updated needs listing and working with Rotary Clubs Supplies Network to secure items for delivery.
Rotary and Rotaract Clubs of East Nassau:
Partnered with the Bahamas National Trust to host ‘Sound Waves’ with part proceeds benefiting the Bahamas Disaster Relief Fund. ‘SoundWaves’ is an all-encompassing festival that includes music, art, poetry, food and 14 different musical acts on two stages. It was the first of its kind in the Bahamas.
Rotary Club of Old Fort:
Continued to support the Kendal G.L. Isaacs Gymnasium Shelter by delivering needed supplies.
Finalized the opening of two new collection and distribution sites (Airport Industrial Park and Old Fort Shopping Center) in partnership with the Hurricane Dorian Relief Initiative group led by New Providence Community Church (NPCC).
Worked with Rotary Club of Eleuthera to get needed supplies available in the Rotary Clubs Supplies Network readied for shipment.
Received donation from RMS Insurance Agents & Brokers for the Bahamas Disaster Relief Fund.
Hosted Vision Board Party and Fun Day for 60 displaced children at the Ranfurly Home for Children. The club collaborated with Hadassah's Helping Hands and other community partners to help coordinate a Vision Board Party for children at the Ranfurly Home. Some children at the Home have been displaced by Hurricane Dorian, but enjoyed participating in the inspiring activity. After learning what could be included on the board, the children used their creative skills to share their dreams and aspirations.
Our total funding is now approaching $1.5 million! We have been overwhelmed with the support we have received from individual members of the Rotary family as well as the many clubs and districts which have made donations both financial, in pledges and with supplies.
The sheer volume of donors means that we are often unable to include everyone in our news updates. Our donors, too numerous to mention, each receive an acknowledgement personally and please be assured you are all very much appreciated.
The Recovery Phase
Rotarians in the Bahamas were guided by the first responders who arrived in the immediate aftermath of the hurricane. This enabled Rotary to be involved in the first stage of relief and support of those most in need. Past Director John Smarge in Florida was in close contact with our Bahamas team and through his professional expertise was able to assist with shipments of supplies. This phase is now under control by local agencies and Rotary can now move into the next phase.
As John Smarge says, ‘Rotary is not a great first responder to natural disasters. Organizations like The Red Cross, Disaster Aid and Shelter Box are better set-up for those things. With that said, because we deal Rotarian-to-Rotarian, we are the best at determining actual needs, day by day, as we talk with our local Rotarians who are part of the affected communities. Though we are certainly sending supplies, as requested, cash is always best.
What Rotary does best is rebuild communities. Rotary remains after the initial disaster aid organizations have completed their efforts and after the news crews leave. We enable children to go back to school, we help with ongoing medical clinics, we provide micro loans for women to earn an income and support their families… With this, cash is also best. At that time, we will also strongly encourage personal interaction, connections and hands-on involvement.’
Interact Club Raises Funds in Sint Maarten
The Interact Club of St. Dominic began their project on September 3rd, when the idea of bringing in monetary donations was announced to the Interact club and then to the rest of the school. Throughout the following two days, money was collected.
In addition, the school held a white shirts day when everyone was encouraged to wear a white shirt and ‘pay a fine’ of $1. Many people participated and some donated even if they did not wear the shirt. The total raised by Interact in these initiatives was $1152 and this was presented to their sponsors, the Rotary Club of St. Maarten Mid Isle to be sent on to the district.
Report on This Week’s Progress in The Bahamas
Team Bahamas: During the last week, your collective work has enabled us to:
See an increase in donations across our multiple funding channels now totalling $1.416 million.
Continue pumping water (daily capacity of 6,000 gallons) at the Rotary Water Plant in Grand Bahama for distribution to the hospital, clinics, feeding centers, shelters and the community at large.
Continue engaging officials from the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) plus other international and local private and corporate partners to discuss ways Rotary can assist in the immediate and long-term building efforts.
Provide a Communications Specialist team to the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) to support with internal and external communications.
Erect 31 tents (able to house up to 150 persons) from Disaster Aid International in partnership with the Bahamas Scouts Association at their Headquarters, a National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) approved Temporary Shelter Area.
Erect Disaster Aid International Tents in Grand Bahama to residents on their property.
Facilitate donation of mattresses for tents at Bahamas Scouts Association Headquarters.
We have seen individual efforts from Clubs that include:
Rotary Club of East Nassau:
Increasing the total donation amount for the Bahamas Disaster Relief Fund to $353,277.
Assisting with setting up tents at the Bahamas Scouts Association Headquarters.
Rotary Club of Eleuthera:
Increasing number of persons being supported with accommodations, food, and water to 35.
Assisting with setting up tents at the Bahamas Scouts Association Headquarters.
Participating in the Rotaract Club of South East Nassau Centennial’s ‘Paint Da Streets Pink’ Fun Run Walk with part proceeds benefiting the Bahamas Disaster Relief Fund.
Rotary Club of New Providence:
Assisting with setting up tents at the Bahamas Scouts Association Headquarters.
Rotary Club of Old Fort:
Continuing to support the Kendal G.L. Isaacs Gymnasium Shelter by delivering needed supplies.
Collecting and delivering seven tons of goods donated by the Bahamas AIDS Foundation to Bahamas Rotary Hurricane Relief to the collection warehouse for the NPCC/RCOB Disaster Relief Partnership.
Collecting and delivering nine pallets of water donated by Aquapure to the warehouse for the NPCC/RCOB Disaster Relief Partnership.
Sponsoring a displaced family with a new baby with a medical checkup for mother and infant.
Volunteering at "United in Paradise' - fundraising event at Philosophy Smokehouse in aid of the NPCC housing initiative for displaced evacuees.
Three Interactors from the Interact Club of Lyford Cay joined the seven Rotarians from the club for this initiative.
Participating in the Rotaract Club of South East Nassau Centennial’s ‘Paint Da Streets Pink’ Fun Run Walk with part proceeds benefiting the Bahamas Disaster Relief Fund.
Rotary Club of South East Nassau:
Participating in the Rotaract Club of South East Nassau Centennial’s ‘Paint Da Streets Pink’ Fun Run Walk with part proceeds benefiting the Bahamas Disaster Relief Fund.
Assisting with setting up tents at the Bahamas Scouts Association Headquarters.
Rotaract Club of East Nassau:
Continuing with supporting the Salvation Army Shelter by:
Donating clothing.
Sorting and boxing donated items at the facility.
Rotaract Club of South East Nassau Centennial:
Hosting 7th Annual ‘Paint Da Streets Pink’ Fun Run Walk with part proceeds to benefit the Bahamas Disaster Relief Fund.
District 7020 Champions for Change welcomes you to the launch of our Diabetes Prevention and Awareness Program for a Healthy Lifestyle.
Program: My Health, My Life, Stop Diabetes Now!
Program Objective:
The program aim is to become a sustainable resource for all participants working towards becoming healthier individuals. By increasing awareness of wellness concerns (education) supporting health management (personal change) and setting goals (self-help), individuals can create the perfect formula for successful results. This Healthy Life-Style program offers District 7020 Rotarians the opportunity to empower themselves, along with their communities and to leverage the knowledge and resources available to optimize their total well-being.
The Program is designed to:
●Heighten educational awareness opportunities
●Provide exposure to self-help tools
●Facilitate access to resources available in this program.
District 7020 stewardship of its wellness journey begins with the launch of It’s My Life, My Health, Stop Diabetes Now! In taking this first step together, we are on our way, not only to reducing chronic diseases, but also to improving the quality of life for our families and the communities in which we live. Making a lasting impact will be the focus for change to benefit generations to come!
October is Economic and Community Development Month in the Rotary World, so what better time to launch, as a major focus for this program is to promote community wellness and ultimately regional wellness.
Follow us on social media, get program updates on our District website and Blog with us as we journey together to a healthier lifestyle!
Calling all Earlyactors, Interactors, and Rotaractors. Are you a creative song writer? Because we need a jingle for this Program. Help us connect Rotary, District 7020 and the world with your song. See rules for the Jingle Contest on District 7020 website below.
We are just over a month since Dorian devastated Abaco and Grand Bahama Islands in the Bahamas, And Absolutely Heartwarming is the best way I know how to describe the outpouring of love and support shown for the Bahamas by Rotary Clubs and communities in our District 7020, District 6990 of which Grand Bahama is a member, our neighboring Puerto Rico - District 7000, as well as District 7030 which is the rest of the English and French speaking Caribbean, as well as many more Districts, Clubs, Rotary Partners and others. Yes, Fellow Rotarians, persons across the globe have been moved to support the Relief and Recovery efforts in the Bahamas. And for that they are grateful and as a District we too are pleased for the support being given.
As we celebrate Economic and community Development month, and as additional support is given to the Bahamas, I just wish to remind everyone that Cash is the most pressing requirement right now. In addition to the direct relief/recovery for the victims, cash donations will help to stimulate more economic activity in the country of the Bahamas which is needed right now.
At this time, Let us also keep our Rotary Family in Haiti , and the people of Haiti in our thoughts and prayers giving the protests that are taking place there, which would have interfered with their travel, with school as well as their economic activity, and very sadly have resulted in a few deaths.
At this time I wish to mention that PAG Audley and I are about halfway with our official visits and it has been an amazing experience. It has highlighted the strength of our Clubs, and the great projects in areas of focus- from support of Hospitals seen in St. Croix and in Mandeville, Health Fairs, Dental Fairs, support of our schools, scholarship programmes, provision of water and sanitation, Peace Gardens, economic activity such as St. Croix West End Community Gardens, Sewing Lessons for students at a School for the deaf, and the list goes on. Clubs are definitely having a positive impact in our communities and I applaud all of you for the difference you are making every day.
Even with the tremendous successes, it also became obvious that we have a number of small clubs in our District that need to be strengthened through growth and through more engaged members.
Clubs are there encouraged to ensure that members are engaged. Stronger clubs can give smaller clubs a boost in the arm by working together on joint projects. Likewise members are encouraged to get more involved in the projects that are being done, join a committee in your club, participate in the fellowships, and beyond your club join a Rotary Fellowship or a Rotary Action Group, and very importantly enhance your Rotary knowledge by taking on line courses at the Rotary International Learning Center, by participating in Zone and District webinars, as well as by participating in RLI training and Guess what the knowledge gained is very often transferrable to your professional and personal life.
Have a Great Economic & Community Development Month.
Message du Gouverneur du District d’Octobre 2019
Nous sommes un peu plus d'un mois depuis que Dorian a dévasté Abaco et les îles Grand Bahama aux Bahamas, Et le réchauffement du coeur absolu est le meilleur moyen pour moi de décrire l'afflux d'amour et de soutien manifesté pour les Bahamas par les Rotary clubs et les communautés de notre District 7020, District 6990, dont Grand Bahama est membre, notre voisin Puerto Rico - District 7000 ainsi que le District 7030, qui est le reste des Antilles anglophones et francophones, ainsi que de nombreux autres districts, clubs, Rotary Partners et autres. Oui, mes collègues Rotariens, des personnes du monde entier ont été déplacées pour soutenir les efforts de secours et de reconstruction aux Bahamas. Et pour cela, ils sont reconnaissants et en tant que District nous sommes également satisfaits de l'appui fourni.
Alors que nous célébrons le mois du développement économique et communautaire, et que nous apportons un soutien supplémentaire aux Bahamas, je tiens tout simplement à rappeler à tous que l'argent en espèce est la condition la plus pressante en ce moment. Outre les secours et le relèvement directs pour les victimes, les dons en espèces contribueront à stimuler une plus grande activité économique dans le pays des Bahamas, ce qui est nécessaire pour le moment.
En ce moment, gardons aussi notre famille du Rotary en Haïti , et le peuple haïtien dans nos pensées et nos prières sur les protestations qui se déroulent là-bas, ce qui aurait gêné leur voyage, leur école et leur activité économique, et a très tristement fait quelques morts.
Je tiens à mentionner que le PAG Audley et moi sommes à peu près à mi-chemin de nos visites officielles et que cela a été une expérience extraordinaire. Il a souligné la force de nos clubs et les grands projets dans les domaines prioritaires, allant de l'appui aux hôpitaux de Sainte-Croix et de Mandeville, aux salons de la santé, aux foires dentaires, à l'appui de nos écoles, aux programmes de bourses, à la fourniture d'eau et d'assainissement, aux jardins de la paix, à l'activité économique comme les jardins communautaires de St. Croix West End, aux cours de couture pour les élèves d'une école pour les sourds, et la liste continue. Les clubs ont certainement un impact positif dans nos communautés et je vous félicite tous pour la différence que vous faites tous les jours.
Même avec les énormes succès, il est devenu évident que nous avons un certain nombre de petits clubs dans notre district qui doivent être renforcés par la croissance et par des membres plus engagés.
Les clubs sont encouragés à s'assurer que les membres sont engagés. Des clubs plus forts peuvent donner un coup de pouce aux clubs plus petits en travaillant ensemble à des projets conjoints. De même, les membres sont encouragés à s'impliquer davantage dans les projets en cours, à se joindre à un comité de votre club, à participer aux bourses, et au-delà, à rejoindre une bourse du Rotary ou un groupe d'action, et, ce qui est très important, à enrichir vos connaissances en suivant des cours en ligne au Centre d'apprentissage international du Rotary, en participant à des séminaires en ligne dans les zones et les districts, ainsi qu'en participant à des formations RLI et en devinant ce que les connaissances acquises sont très souvent transférables à votre vie professionnelle et personnelle.
Ayez un grand mois du développement économique et communautaire.
The citizens and Rotarians of Puerto Rico continue to rebuild after the island was devastated in 2017 as a result of hurricane Maria. Many still live under the cover of flimsy tarpaulins. Despite their own difficult conditions, the Rotary leaders have received support from the local community and approved a total contribution of over $20,000 to Rotary Bahamas relief. We are very appreciative of such a generous gesture.
District 7030 Pledges US$110,000
Rotary Clubs in District 7030 have together pledged just under US$110,000 to the Hurricane Dorian relief efforts in The Bahamas. DG Trevor Blake in proposing a US$10,000 cash response from the District Disaster Fund, also encouraged clubs in the District to support the response with their own cash contributions to the Bahamian Rotary Disaster Relief Fund’s account. District Disaster Chair PDG Stephen Ramroop, also joined the appeal, stressing to his team that “cash is now required for cleaning up the debris and battered homes and washing off the dirt and leaves from homes”.
Clubs have contributed/pledged funds from their disaster relief accounts and collected donations from their members. Some have held, or plan to hold, radio-thons, tele-thons, and are partnering with local businesses to raise funds towards the cause. Clubs and members are encouraged to send their contributions directly to the Bahamian Rotary Relief Fund’s bank account, and report it to the District.
At 24 September 2019, 9 clubs in the district have already wired funds totaling US$19,345 to the Bahamian relief fund. An additional 26 clubs have also pledged US$90,402 to the fund, which should be sent shortly. To date, four weeks after Hurricane Dorian hit the Bahamas, clubs in the District have donated or pledged US$109,747, and the efforts still continue. Of special mention, although the country is still on the road to recovery from the devastating impact of a major hurricane two years ago, the Rotary Club of Dominica has pledged US$29,815, from member contributions, club contribution and partnering with a local radio station to do a radio-thon. One club has indicated they would donate two shelter boxes. Several clubs are still to report their contributions.
Funds wired to the Bahamian Relief Account - US$19,34
Rotary Club of Antigua - US$1,000 Rotary Club of Antigua Sundown - US$1,615
Rotary Club of Arima - US$1,000 Rotary Club of Aruba - US$2,000 Rotary Club of Barbados South - US$2,500 Rotary Club of Chaguanas - US $2,200
Rotary Club of Willemstad - US$3,030 Rotary Club of Penal - US$1,000
Rotary Club of Paramaribo Residence - US$5,000
Further pledge - US$90,402
Barbados Rotary clubs- US$27,500 Rotary Club of Curacao - US$2,500
Rotary Club of Dominica - US$29,815 (Club contribution - USD$16,852; Radio-thon - US$12,963)
Rotary Club of Felicity/Charlieville - US $700 Rotary Club of François - US$550
Guyana Rotary clubs (with Civil Defense Commission and the National Communications Network) public Tele-thon - US$4,400
Rotary Club of Gross Islet - US$2,960 Rotary Club of Maracus/St Joseph - US$2,075
Rotary Club of Point-a-Pierre - US$500 Rotary Club of Princes Town - US $1,500
Rotary Club of San Fernando - US$2,000 Rotary Club of San Fernando South - US$1,000
Rotary Club of San Juan - US$700 Rotary Club of Schoelcher - US$550
Rotary Club of St Augustine - US$4,000 Rotary Club of St Augustine West - US$1,000
Rotary Club of St Kitts - US$5,000 Rotary Club of Saint Lucia - US$1,852
Rotary Club of St Vincent - US$1,000 Rotary Club of Southwest-Tobago - US$800
In addition, the Rotary Club of Saint Pierre has pledged 2 Shelter Boxes.
BVI Telethon receives additional $10,000
Thanks to the nation-wide telethon we reported in our earlier news updates, One Mart supermarket in Tortola donated a further $10,000.00 bringing the total for the event to over $160,000!
Hon. Mark Vanterpool, member of BVI House of Assembly, his wife Judith Vanterpool and the staff of One Mart Supermarket present check to Rotary
Thank You!
To Districts and Clubs in Great Britain & Ireland
Rotary GBI’s Disaster Recovery Trust raised over $25,000 so far.
Just days after the hurricane hit the Bahamas, thanks to Rotary GBI President Donna Wallbank and Past RI Director Brian Stoyel, an appeal was launched using the Disaster Recovery Trust so that clubs across the UK could donate through the Trust and qualify for additional Gift Aid funds.
Rotarians in Dorset held collections
The Dorset Echo reported the Melcombe Regis Rotary Club held a collection at Morrisons supermarket and Weymouth Rotary Club in the town centre and at Goulds Garden Centre.
Maryport Club arranged a film night
The Cumberland News reported that Maryport Rotary held an event at the local Theatre Royal. The film, Definitive Therapy, is based on a short story by F Paul Wilson and was adapted, directed and produced by Workington Playgoers member, Ben Brinicombe.
Support from Wales
The Cardiff Bay Club has pledged funds which will be sent directly to the Bahamas for immediate availability.
Rotary in North Cotswolds held Collection
According to the Cotswold Journal, North Cotswolds Rotary organised a store collection outside the Co-op in Bourton-on-the-Water, raising, with gift aid, £450. The club added money from their emergency reserves and have donated £1000 to help alleviate the situation on the ground. Rotary clubs around the world have been taking similar action and will be working with local Rotary clubs in the area – an important part of belonging to Rotary’s international family.
“We were fortunate to have detailed information on the conditions in the Bahamas from Diana and Roger White from the Rotary e-Club of the Caribbean, who are currently in Stow-on-the-Wold and who have been visiting our club,” said North Cotswolds Rotary president John Barber.
Diana explained that as aid comes in, Rotary in the Bahamas is beginning to move to longer-term strategies in preparation for helping their economies to recover. “It will take time,” she said, “but that is what Rotary is best at.”
Another relief initiative has been taken by a former member of the North Cotswolds Rotary, David Rogers from Upper Rissington, who is currently in Florida. Along with a friend who has been flying supplies into Grand Bahama, David has been helping to organise urgently needed relief supplies for desperate survivors. David has linked up with members of Rotary in Sarasota to organize larger container shipments.
Thank You!
To Districts and Clubs in the USA
The Rotary Club of Sarasota Foundation has received a $30,000 anonymous donation which in support of Rotary’s efforts in the Bahamas.
The Rotary Club of Sarasota Foundation is donating $15,700 in support of the Hurricane Dorian Relief effort. This is the result of a $10,000 grant from our Foundation funds, coupled with an additional $5,700 from members who supported the effort.
Rotary Districts on the west coast of the United States formed The White Hat Society in September 2004 at the Rotary Institute in Scottsdale, Arizona to promote regular, significant, annual giving to the Rotary Foundation
The society has opened the White Hat Society Recognitions to the Bahama Relief. Any Rotarian contributing to the Bahama relief may count that towards White Hat Society recognition.
Membership in this Society requires a donation to the Rotary Foundation of $5,000 US in a single Rotary year. Our Members receive a White Hat Certificate, a White Hat pin marked with a Southwestern Concho provided at no cost by Russell-Hampton, an email subscription to the White Hat newsletter, and an invitation to the annual White Hat celebration held in major cities around the world.
Donations on behalf of the White Hat Society must be made directly through the member’s own Club, District, or Foundation account in the usual manner. No funds should ever be sent to the Society. Donations must represent new contributions to the Foundation and not ‘Points’. Once the $5,000 level has been reached in a Rotary year, simply notify the Society to receive the membership kit. Donors should notify The White Hat Chairman, PDG Ed Mullen of District 5870, ed.mullen@taptrain.com, 254-698-2304. We operate on the principles of the Four-Way Test, so your word is good enough.
Women of Rotary District 6950
The women in District 6950 are planning a Holiday Basket Event in November. Rotarians and friends in D6950 continue to work together to fill containers bound for Grand Bahama Island.
Thank You To Our Incredible Donors Around The Globe
Fund in Rotary Bahamas $800,000+ RI DAF $86,000
DNA-RAG $56,000 UK Disaster Recovery Trust £22,000
Bahamas News How You Can Help the Bahamas Economy to Recover
The Bahamas has 16 tourist destinations. Two were impacted by Hurricane Dorian but the other 14 islands are undamaged and open for business. Listen to Tourism Minister as he explains to Global News in Canada the best way to help the economy recover.
Update From Our Team in Nassau
Thank you, Rotary Family
for your dedication to supporting our islands and residents affected by Hurricane Dorian!
During the last week, your collective work has enabled us to:
● See an increase in donations across our multiple funding channels to approximately $940,000.
● Receive, pack, and sort (alongside other partners) supplies for distribution to Abaco, Eleuthera, Grand Bahama, Shelters, and private accommodations.
● Continue pumping water (daily capacity of 6,000 gallons) at the Rotary Water Plant in Grand Bahama for distribution to the hospital, clinics, feeding centers, shelters, and the community at large. More than 120,000 gallons have been pumped since the passing of the storm.
● Continue engaging officials from the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) plus other international and local private and corporate partners to discuss ways Rotary can assist in the immediate and long-term building efforts.
● Begin erecting tents from Disaster Aid International in partnership with the Bahamas Scouts Association at their Headquarters, a National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) approved Temporary Shelter Area.
● Deliver over 750 meals prepared by Mercy Chefs to persons in temporary private housing.
Clubs’ Activities
Rotaract Club of East Nassau:
● Delivering meals on Saturday and Sunday to persons in temporary shelters.
● Continuing to support the Salvation Army Shelter by visiting and making a supplies donation for the evacuees.
● Sorting and packing supplies at the Bahamas Red Cross.
● Packing meals at Life Empowerment Church and delivering to persons in temporary shelters on Saturday and Sunday.
Rotaract Club of Nassau Sunset:
● Partnering with the Rotary Club of West Nassau to have donated items delivered to the Rotaract Club of Freeport.
● Donating clothing to displaced family of 15 being privately housed in New Providence.
Rotaract Club of the University of The Bahamas:
● Delivering meals on Sunday to persons in temporary shelters.
Rotary Club of East Nassau:
● Increasing the total donation amount for the Bahamas Disaster Relief Fund to $351,497.
● Continuing with daily check ins of the Fox Hill Community Center Shelter and donating needed toiletries.
● Delivering meals on Saturday and Sunday to persons in temporary shelters.
● Assisting with setting up tents and the Bahamas Scouts Association.
Rotary Club of Eleuthera:
● Assisting 25 persons with charter service out of Abaco, furnished accommodations, clothing, food and water.
● Supporting 17 children and providing backpacks, books and other school supplies.
● Continuing to assist with providing housing to evacuees.
● Preparing to provide requested items - sandwich meat, reading books, hair trimmers, DVDs.
Rotary Club of Nassau:
● Delivering meals on Saturday and Sunday to persons in temporary shelters.
Rotary Club of Old Fort:
● Assisted with the collection of good donated by the Bahamas AIDS Foundation to Bahamas Rotary Hurricane Relief.
● Organized and boxed goods at Caribbean Landscape Ltd. Warehouse for distribution through Bahamas Rotary and Rotaract Clubs.
● Securing pledges from multiple corporate entities for monetary donations to Bahamas Hurricane Relief Fund.
Rotary Club of South East Nassau:
● Delivering meals on Saturday and Sunday to persons in private temporary shelters.
● Assisting with setting up tents at the Bahamas Scouts Association.
Rotary Club of Nassau Sunrise:
● Providing care packages and meals to evacuees being housed by IPP Leroy Archer.
● Continuing to support the Pilgrim Baptist Church Shelter by:
o Assembling and personally delivering care packages that addressed the express need for soap, toothpaste and brushes, deodorant, laundry detergent, dishwashing liquid, creamer, blankets, various clothing for adults and children.
o Checking in with evacuees during delivery of packages, taking time to speak with them to understand their needs and sharing a time of conversation and fellowship.
● Delivering meals on Saturday and Sunday to persons in private temporary shelters.
● Assisting with setting up tents and the Bahamas Scouts Association.
Rotary Club of New Providence:
● Facilitating the delivery of meals to persons in temporary private housing during the week in partnership with Kiwanis.
● Delivering meals on Saturday and Sunday to persons in temporary shelters.
● Assisting with setting up tents and the Bahamas Scouts Association.
Prepared by the Rotary Clubs of The Bahamas Disaster Relief Committee Communications Team.
Tent cities to be ready in weeks
The Nassau Guardian reports: Dozens of tents, donated from Rotary Canada and DisasterAid Canada, are currently being erected by volunteers from various New Providence Rotary clubs, members of the Governor General’s Youth Award program, and the Scout Association of The Bahamas. Thirty tents are expected to be initially constructed and will aid in housing families and evacuees from Abaco and Grand Bahama who were displaced due to the devastation of Hurricane Dorian. Photos: AHVIA J. CAMPBELL
Last week, the Prime Minister reported that the tents will include basic facilities. “We must also have what you call a tent city. It’s not like the standard tent that you would be familiar with, but a tent city would have bathroom facilities,” he said at the time. “Each unit would have two-bedroom facilities and you have recreational facilities. You have facilities for police and you have dining facilities and cafeteria facilitie s; so it’s really a city.”
Thank you, Rotary Family, for your dedication to supporting our islands and residents affected by Hurricane Dorian! We have seen individual efforts from Clubs that include:
Rotary Club of East Nassau:
Hosting an Uncle Lou’s Ice Cream Treat at The Ranfurly Home for Children
Raising $301,097 for the Bahamas Disaster Relief Fund.
Adopt the Fox Hill Community Center Shelter with activities including:
Partnering with Bahamas Waste to donate a dumpster, hand-wash sink, and five portable toilets.
Deliver pots, utensils, and large electric water dispenser for tea and coffee.
Providing coloring books for the children.
Hosting Ice Cream Treat.
Providing two printers to assist in preparing resumes and completing job applications.
Rotary Club of Eleuthera:
Assisting with the screening of evacuees arriving and departing Eleuthera.
Assisting with providing accommodations for families.
Partnering with the Cancer Society of Eleuthera to provide clothing items to evacuees.
Partnering with Men of Faith to provide food items to evacuees.
Providing beds, school books and bags, and financial support to evacuees.
Early Act Club at Genesis Academy: Collect, pack, and delivered almost 50 boxes of water, food, and clothing.
Rotary Club of Nassau:
Committing to adopting the Kendal G.L. Isaacs Gymnasium Shelter in partnership with The Rotary Club of Old Fort.
Rotary Club of Nassau Sunrise:
Assisting with registration of evacuees and donation sorting at Odyssey Aviation.
Housing evacuees; IPP Leroy Archer and Rotarian Archdeacon James Palacious hosting in their homes.
Delivering meals to persons housed by Rotarians as well as to shelters.
Donating $700 to purchase books for a displaced student.
Donating six standing fans, plus various clothing and underwear to multiple shelters.
Rotary Club of New Providence:
Delivering various donated supplies to New Providence Community Church (NPCC).
Committing to adopting the Calvary Baptist Church Shelter in partnership with The Rotaract Club of Nassau Sunset.
Rotary Club of South East Nassau:
Donating $10,000 to the Bahamas Disaster Relief Fund.
Rotary Club of Old Fort:
Committing to adopting the Kendal G.L. Isaacs Gymnasium Shelter in partnership with the Rotary Club of Nassau.
Assisting The Rotary Club of Weston with getting supplies into New Providence which were directed to evacuees in both New Providence and Grand Bahama.
Delivering hand written cards from The Rotary Club of Weston (Florida) to children at the Kendal G.L. Isaacs Gymnasium Shelter.
Rotaract Club of East Nassau:
Committing to adopt the Salvation Army Shelter.
Rotaract Club of Nassau Sunset:
Committing to adopt the Calvary Baptist Shelter in partnership with The Rotary Club of New Providence.
Executing a members only supplies drive that resulted in the collection of over 400 items (baby food, canned foods, personal and feminine hygiene products, water). Supplies will be shipped specifically for the use of Rotaractors (and their families) of The Rotaract Club of Freeport.
Donating cleaning supplies to the Children’s Emergency Hostel.
Rotaract Club of South East Nassau Centennial:
Assisting with the registration of evacuees arriving at Odyssey Aviation.
Donating Care Packages to the Children’s Emergency Hostel where 50 children from Abaco and Dorian are now being housed.
During the last week, your collective work has enabled us to:
Raise $509,404 across our multiple funding channels.
Receive, pack, and sort (alongside other partners) supplies for distribution to Abaco, Eleuthera, Grand Bahama, Shelters, and private accommodations.
Commit to adopting Shelters around New Providence.
Secure 150 tents from Disaster Aid International to be erected at two locations alongside the Bahamas Scouts Association. These tents can house up to 750 persons and have been approved by the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) to be official Shelter Areas for evacuees.
Receive 113 tons of goods in Grand Bahama.
Pumped (under the direction of President Solanka of The Rotaract Club of Eight Mile Rock) more than 90,000 gallons of water at the Rotary Water Plant in Grand Bahama which has been distributed to the hospital, clinics, feeding centers, shelters, and the community at large.
Meet with officials from the National Emergency Management Agency to discuss ways Rotary can assist in the immediate and long-term building efforts.
Prepared by the Rotary Clubs of The Bahamas Disaster Relief Committee Communications Team.
The Rotary Clubs of St Maarten/St. Martin, Anguilla and St. Barth's, along with our Interact Clubs and Friends of Rotary quickly came together, even while the Bahamas was still enduring the wrath of Hurricane Dorian, to establish a campaign to assist the Bahamas. It was determined the best approach to assist, after consultation with Rotarians in the Bahamas, was raise funds to assist with the immediate needs of those affected by Dorian. To date, a total of $14,848.15 has been pledged and/or collected. A special thank you goes to Rick Cassidy, a friend of Rotary, and the owner of Fat Tony's Steakhouse in Cupecoy Sint Maarten, who quickly organized an event with students from the American University of the Caribbean which raised $1,080.
The Rotary Club of Sint Maarten is serving as the facilitator and collected donations are being transferred to the Rotary Clubs of Bahamas Disaster Relief Fund on a weekly basis. The first transfer was sent on Monday, September 9, 2019 and the second transfer sent early this week.
(Sint Maarten Rotarians join Donor Rick Cassidy – back row in turquoise shirt, with check presented to RC President, Sherrylle Horsford)
10 United States Virgin Islands Clubs Raise Funds
Four Clubs Set Goal to Raise $50,000 in St. Croix
The four Rotary clubs have already raised $10,000 and Rotarians from all clubs have been out in the busy shopping areas Christiansted and Frederiksted collecting monetary donations for the Bahamas.
AG Sweeney Toussaint explains ‘The Bahamas are part of our Rotary District and we have been there many times for conferences and meetings and they have been over here. Over the years, we have developed deep, lasting friendships with Bahamian Rotarians and their families. Our hearts are broken for all the Bahamian people’. The St. Croix clubs are working closely with the clubs in Nassau where the relief efforts are based and are planning long term recovery efforts with an overall goal of raising $50,000.
$32,000 Pledged by Six Clubs in St. John and St. Thomas
Although many are still in the recovery stage from the double whammy of hurricanes Irma and Maria in 2017, St. Thomas and St. John Rotarians have opened their hearts and wallets in support of the people of the Bahamas that have endured the catastrophic destruction of lives and property from hurricane Dorian,.
As of September 12, the Members of the six Rotary Clubs of USVI North have raised or pledged upwards of $32,000 with plans to raise significantly more through a variety of fundraising efforts; including a Telethon/Radiothon, Walk-a-Thon, Raffles, Game night “Funraisers” and other events that engage the general population of St. Thomas/St. John.
(L-R: St. Thomas, St. Thomas II, St. Thomas East, Charlotte Amalie, St. Thomas Sunrise, St. John, AG Al LaBorde)
Rotary District 6950 Packs 100,000 Meals!
The Rotary Club of Clearwater East in Florida in cooperation with community and corporate volunteers as well as Rotarians from clubs throughout Rotary District 6950 packaged 100,000 meals for shipment to the Bahamas.
One Rotarian reports that, not only did they pack the meals, they had a wonderful time doing it! There were so many different church groups, civic organizations, companies, Interactors, Rotaractors, RYE kids and many people who just showed up to help and do something for those in need. Rotary Connected the World with this project.
Despite the struggle of Virgin Islanders who continue to rebuild in the aftermath of hurricane Irma, the BVI Rotarians almost tripled their goal to raise $50,000 in their recent telethon!
The BVI Telethon Team reports: The extent of "Service above self" continues to be an action mantra of the Rotary family around the world but with the microscope on the Bahamas which was devastated by Hurricane Dorian, the outpouring of support is limitlessness. In 2017 the BVI was hit by what was dubbed the strongest hurricane out of the Atlantic. The territory experienced catastrophic destruction and the aftermath was nothing anyone residing in the territory was prepared for. Two years later, they have rebounded significantly. The experience put the community in a unique position of experience and knowledge to deal with such disasters. However, the three days Hurricane Dorian hovered over the Bahamas far outweighed the 17 hours of Hurricane Irma on the BVI.
Under the leadership of Assistant Governor Lorna G. Smith and District Governor Delma Maduro, a telethon was organized, and executed on Tuesday September 10, 2019. Each Rotary club in the BVI; Tortola, Road Town and Rotary Club Sunrise of Road Town pledged $5,000 each as a starting seed. An unexpected gift of $50,000 came from a private donor provided a real kickstart to the event. By the 10.00pm over $140,000 was committed to aid the Bahamas. Before close of September 11, Rotary BVI raised $145,000.
AG Lorna Smith and her team expressed heartfelt gratitude to the many donors. In particular, AG Lorna said ‘I was particularly touched by the funds from children. There were children who called in $5 and $20 and we were so grateful for that’.
Relief Agencies News
Disaster Aid Canada reports: Disaster Aid Canada is working with our partners, Disaster Aid USA & Disaster Aid UK & I, to quickly deploy supplies to the Bahamas. Luckily, some tents were pre-positioned and have already been set up. DARTS are already on the ground setting up water filtration systems and handing out tarps. This week we have been putting tents, bed packs and hygiene items on pallets. Last night we were contacted by Rotary International to triple the number of items we were sending. WOW! This is a tall order but we know we can do it! Together, with your support, and amazing partners we can make an even bigger impact in helping those that have lost everything in the Bahamas. The Disaster Relief tents, bed packs and hygiene items are being flown to Nassau. They will be set up at the Scout Camp by local volunteers and DARTS. Already on this site, we have set up the pre-positioned tents, water filtration systems, cooking facilities and sanitation areas. Thousands of evacuees have already arrived so all these supplies are very much needed.
When UPS offers to fly our disaster relief supplies (as a corporate donation), it means that the donations that YOU make all go towards the supplies not shipping. Working together, with everyone doing what they are good at, also means more people are helped! Thank you, UPS for the wonderful gift of transportation! You are fantastic to work with; fast, efficient and thorough. We appreciate it!
Rotary Club and District Support
We are sincerely grateful for the continued offers of assistance both in kind, in cash and pledged.
100% of Rotary Clubs in Haiti contributed to provide a total of $23,000 for immediate use
PRID John Smarge in District 6960, west Florida is organizing 400,000 meals for shipment
Pledges of funds towards future Global Grants have been received from:
District 9211 in Tanzania and Uganda, East Africa
District 4895 in the Buenos Aires area of Argentina
Rotary Club of Saint Barthelemy in the French West Indies
Bahamas Rotary Clubs Action Report
Prepared by the Rotary Clubs of The Bahamas Disaster Relief Committee Communications Team
As of September 10, the collective work of Members of the Family of Rotary has enabled us to:
Purchase 29 Bunk Beds for The Ranfurly Home for Children. These beds were still being erected and placed up to yesterday evening.
Receive, register, and transport (alongside other partners) 5,684 evacuees to safe shelter.
Place 557 persons into private homes and hotels.
Support the transport of 2,043 persons into Government Shelters.
Receive, pack, and sort (alongside other partners) supplies for distribution to Abaco, Eleuthera, Grand Bahama, Shelters, and private accommodations.
Provide countless hugs, kind words, and acts of reassurance and hope to evacuees and their families.
As Clubs, we have seen individual efforts that include:
Rotary Club of East Nassau:
Raising $190,000 for the Bahamas Disaster Relief Fund.
Supporting the purchase and delivery of bunk beds to the Ranfurly Home for Children.
Rotary Club of Nassau Sunrise:
Cooking and distributing a hot breakfast at Odyssey Aviation for evacuee arrivals.
Rotary Club of Old Fort:
Leading the coordination of volunteers at Odyssey Aviation.
Providing legal drafting and technical expertise for application and licenses for people occupying private homes, printed all application forms, and provided home owners with licenses for signature.
Delivery of truckloads of supplies to various shipping ports and shelters.
Coordinating the opening of donation drop off spot in western New Providence at Caribbean Landscape and Old Fort Bay Club.
Sending letters to all members of Lyford Cay, Albany and Old Fort Bay Communities requesting donations to Bahamas Disaster Relief Fund.
Coordinating the shipment of 10 pallets of goods to the Rotary Club of Lucaya in Grand Bahama.
Coordinating with Shedd Aquarium to provide and transport relief supplies to Nassau for Abaco and to transport relief supplies from Nassau to Grand Bahama.
Reporting over 2,000 hours of community service since September 5, with 309 volunteer hours specifically at Odyssey Aviation (from 32 members of the Rotary Family and 10 other partners up to September 9).
Rotary Club of West Nassau:
Donation solicitation with items being collected at Poop Deck Sandyport.
Monetary donations directly to the Bahamas Red Cross, Salvation Army, and National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA).
Rotaract Club of East Nassau:
Commitment to adopt (through the RCOB Shelter Support Program) the Salvation Army shelter.
Rotaract Club of Nassau Sunset:
Massive support of the supplies collection and distribution point at New Providence Community Church, seeing almost all of the members working at one time.
Bahamas Recovery Team reports: As significant donations of supplies come in for those in need, Bahamas Rotary is planning to move to its longer-term strategy in preparation for helping the economies to recover. As soon as access is possible, we will get in to do a needs assessment and we will work in coordination with the government. We also plan to raise impactful funding to bring these communities back. It will take time but that is what Rotary is best at.
In Grand Bahama, the water plant in Freeport undertaken as a global grant ten years ago was the first water available in Freeport after Dorian. A much needed and lifesaving project.
Commitments to Aid Recovery
Who
What
UN Central Emergency Response Fund (CERF)
USD 1 million
Inter-American Development Bank
USD 100 million
Caribbean Development Bank
USD 1 million
UK government
GBP 1.5 million
Caribbean Catastrophe Risk Insurance
USD 11 million
IOM
‘IOM will focus especially on the needs of displaced persons in terms of food, shelter, water, medical and psychosocial support etc.’
Already distributed unknown number of tarps and NFIs including tents.
Will distribute additional 1000 tarps for roofing on Grand Bahama and Abaco.
IFRC / Bahamas Red Cross
Tarps and Shelter Tool Kits to 500 HH from pre-positioned stock
DfID
Unknown number of ‘DfID shelter kit’
Hope Worldwide
Unknown number of ‘shelter supplies’
Rotarians in Nassau Report: To date, due to our collaborative efforts we have rescued, registered and sheltered more than 3300 evacuees in New Providence and Eleuthera.
We are working to find and secure temporary housing for displaced evacuees. The influx of evacuees has caused new shelters to be identified and utilized in Nassau. Through the receiving and registration process at the airport’s main staging site, we collect information on those needing housing. We are constantly working to assess needs and fill the gap by providing resources, even working to provide non-governmental controlled shelter in private homes and vacant rental spaces. So far, we have been able to place 153 persons in hotels and private homes. We have many Rotarians and Rotaractors who are working at kiddie play area, helping to facilitate expedited processing for those with babies or in wheelchairs.
We have joined in a massive partnership with New Providence Community Church and multiple non-profits and corporate entities for the collection, sorting, and distribution of all manner of donations for those affected. These include food items, drinking water, clothing and shoes, towels, blankets, generators, portable stoves and cooking utensils, radios, flashlights, tarps, rope, and many more items.
We were able to purchase eight bunk beds for The Ranfurly Home for Children to assist in preparing a room that will now be home to 17 children evacuated from the Grand Bahama Children's Home.
More First Responders Arriving
Disaster Aid Canada reports it is working with partners, Disaster Aid USA & Disaster Aid UK&I, to provide shelter and comfort to people in the Bahamas desperately needing our help. Tents that were pre-positioned in Nassau have already been set up for evacuees. This was done by Rotarians from the Rotary Clubs of Bahamas.
Currently we are sending an additional 50 to 100 tents, tarps, water systems, bed packs, and hygiene items. Their partners will be on the ground distributing and helping during this horrific time.
The hurricane has left about 76,000 people in need of help. With no water, no power, and no food; people are scared, hurt, and fearful of what to do next.
In partnership with Disaster Aid International, our Rotarians have erected 16 ShelterBox Tents at the main receiving site for evacuees. In the near future, international volunteers will utilize these as their living quarters as they give their time to support national relief efforts.
Cleveland Clinic Offers Support
Cleveland Clinic management foresees a critical need for clinical relief teams on the ground and would like to identify clinical team members interested in volunteering their personal time for potential future efforts. In addition they have also set up a fundraising arm to support the recovery efforts.
Rotary Club and District Support
We are sincerely grateful to the clubs and district which are sending and pledging support
The Rotary Club of Rio Piedras in Puerto Rico has donated $5,000
Rotary District 6960 in Florida are remitting $10,000
Thanks to Rotarians in District 6990, Florida, 23 tons of much needed supplies arrived in Freeport.
Tortola Clubs Plan Telethon with Goal of $50,000
Following an emergency meeting held on September 3rd to coordinate a response for disaster victims in the Bahamas, the Rotary Family of the BVI, under the leadership of current Governor, Delma Maduro, will be launching a major fundraising effort to help victims of Hurricane Dorian in the Bahamas. This will include a live telethon to be held on Tuesday, 10th September 2019.
Rotary clubs in these British Virgin Islands has a proven track record of raising funds for disaster relief. In 2004-2005 in South East Asia, they raised substantial funds through a telethon and helped support the affected community through Rotary clubs on the ground. Together with the Lions and Red Cross they held a telethon for victims of Katrina in Louisiana, USA. A further telethon was organized after the massive earthquake that rocked in Haiti in 2010.
***Hurricane Dorian Rotary District 7020 Summary Report #2***
Rotary Clubs of the Cayman Islands Pledge $25,000
AG David Kirkaldy in Grand Cayman reports: Cayman Islands President’s Council met on Monday and agreed to contribute in excess of US$25,000 to the fund. Contributions have come from all Rotary and Rotaract clubs in Grand Cayman and Cayman Brac.
First Responders Act Immediately
ShelterBox representative Tim Hedges reported on Tuesday: So far,
International Red Cross has released 250,000 Swiss francs from their Disaster Relief Fund to support the efforts of the Bahamas Red Cross.
Bahamas Red Cross are planning to support 500 families with emergency shelter support, including tarpaulins, blankets, and kitchen sets from stocks prepositioned in country. They are also planning to support these families with unconditional cash grants to help them rebuild and recover. It should be noted this is all just planned activity at the moment, and exact numbers might be different.
IFRC also deployed a disaster management Coordinator to the Bahamas ahead of Dorian making landfall.
The Caribbean Disaster Emergency Management Agency (CDEMA) have deployed a team to support the response.
A British Royal Navy, RFA Mounts Bay arrived in the Bahamas on 2 September carrying aid (including carriers, hygiene kits, and shelter kits), building materials, a helicopter, and specialist transport and surveying equipment. The ship will be on standby and ready to help as soon as an official request is made by the authorities.
DFID have also deployed a team of 3 humanitarian experts to the Bahamas, who will work alongside the Bahamas Government and CDEMA.
ShelterBox has carried out some initial investigations around logistics and importation procedures with the understanding that damage to both communications and transport infrastructure will make detailed assessment difficult in the first few days. Rotarians in the Bahamas will continue to monitor and advise on current situations.
Dr. Farhan Siddiqi of Florida Advanced Spine & Sports Trauma Centers reports he is in contact with coordinators at Solrelief.org who are flying in supplies and support staff to Nassau. There are also nurses who are willing to go to Nassau or the outer islands for medical assistance if needed.
Donate Online
Donate to The Bahamas Hurricane Recovery via Credit Card/ PayPal through the Disaster Network of Assistance Rotary Action Group. The Disaster Network of Assistance is a Rotary International US registered 501c3 US tax-exempt charity. All donations are tax-deductible. Your donation will go directly to the District 7020 Hurricane Dorian Disaster Relief Fund.
Click the buttons below to donate with PayPal or GoFundMe:
Bahamas Fund Details
Please ensure you advise in advance, the following details of funds being remitted to the Bahamas:
For UK donors who would prefer to take advantage of Gift Aid, Rotary in Great Britain and Ireland Disaster Trust has set up a Caribbean Hurricane Fund
For US donors wishing to benefit from donating to a US tax exempt charity, Rotary in Florida District 6990 may donate to The Robbins Fund
For contributors wishing to send funds Directly to Bahamas Rotary Disaster Committee should ensure they advise in advance, the following details of funds being remitted to the Bahamas:
Through Rotary International at The Rotary International Disaster Response Fund where your gift helps Rotary clubs provide disaster recovery and support rebuilding efforts where the need is greatest. Contributions are combined into one fund and made available through Rotary Disaster Response Grants; they cannot be directed to a specific disaster.
Rotary DAF #574 for donations to assist with recovery efforts in all affected territories.
A 501(c)3 US Tax Exempt Foundation
Hurricane Dorian Rotary District 7020 Summary Report #2
As Hurricane Dorian was raging through Abaco yesterday, leaders of District 7020, the Disaster Network of Assistance Action Group and neighbouring Rotary Districts in Zone 33-34 gathered to formulate plans for the recovery efforts they knew would be needed the very next day.
The team is on alert and will be meeting on a very regular basis, confirming the status of Rotarians and clubs and monitoring the immediate and longer-term needs. Our experience of the storms of 2017 will serve us well as we head into another year of returning these islands to their former beauty.
Although the brunt of the storm was borne by the northern islands of the archipelago, much of the area, including Nassau, New Providence, continues to experience heavy rainfall and flooding.
Funds to aid The Bahamas specifically may be send directly to the Bahamas Disaster Fund.
Donations to assist with recovery efforts in all territories affected may be donated through DAF #574 at Rotary International
Donate Online
Donate to The Bahamas Hurricane Recovery via Credit Card/ PayPal through the Disaster Network of Assistance Rotary Action Group. The Disaster Network of Assistance is a Rotary International US registered 501c3 US tax-exempt charity. All donations are tax-deductible. Your donation will go directly to the District 7020 Hurricane Dorian Disaster Relief Fund.
Click the buttons below to donate with PayPal or GoFundMe:
Bahamas Fund Details:
Please ensure you advise in advance, the following details of funds being remitted to the Bahamas:
• Name of Sender
• Amount of Remittance
• Notify frankmcgwier@coralwave.com
Bank of America N.A., Miami branch
Miami, A/C 1901009680
ABA#026009593
FOR CREDIT TO: COMMONWEALTH BANK, LTD
S.W.I.F.T. CODE: COMWBSNS
FOR FURTHER CREDIT TO: ROTARY DISASTER RELIEF FUND
Through Rotary International at The Rotary International Disaster Response Fund where your gift helps Rotary clubs provide disaster recovery and support rebuilding efforts where the need is greatest. Contributions are combined into one fund and made available through Rotary Disaster Response Grants; they cannot be directed to a specific disaster.
Rotary DAF #574 for donations to assist with recovery efforts in all affected territories.
Les îles des Bahamas ont besoin de votre aide Alors que l'ouragan Dorian faisait rage sur Abaco hier, les dirigeants du district 7020, du groupe d'action du réseau d'assistance en cas de catastrophe et des districts voisins du Rotary dans la zone 33-34 se sont réunis pour élaborer des plans pour les efforts de redressement dont ils savaient qu'ils seraient nécessaires le lendemain. L’équipe est en alerte et se réunira très régulièrement pour confirmer le statut des Rotariens et des clubs et contrôler les besoins immédiats et à long terme. Notre expérience des tempêtes de 2017 nous sera très utile alors que nous entamons une autre année au cours de laquelle nous redonnerons à ces îles toute leur beauté. Bien que les îles du nord de l'archipel aient essuyé le plus gros de la tempête, une grande partie de la région, y compris Nassau, New Providence, continue de connaître de fortes précipitations et des inondations. Les fonds destinés à aider les Bahamas peuvent être envoyés directement au Bahamas Disaster Fund. Les dons destinés à soutenir les efforts de relèvement dans tous les territoires concernés peuvent être versés via DAF # 574 au Rotary International. VEUILLEZ VOIR LES DÉTAILS CI-DESSOUS
Bahamas Fund Details. Assurez-vous d’avertir à l'avance que les fonds suivants sont versés aux Bahamas: Nom de l'expéditeur Montant de l'envoi Notifier frankmcgwier@coralwave.com
All six of Rotary's six areas of focus directly relate to the environment: promoting peace, fighting disease, providing clean water and sanitation, saving mothers and children, supporting education and growing local economies. Past Rotary International President, Barry Rassin said our environment is the 'ultimate mission’.
What can Rotarians in District 7020 do for our environment?
The Rotary Club of St. Thomas East initiated the call last year for each club in the district to form an Environmental (EPRS) Committee/Team. District Team Leader for EPRS Corrine Van Rensselaer again echoed the call and The Rotary Club of West Nassau heeded the call and set up their ‘Environmental Protection, Regeneration & Sustainability Committee’ and held their first committee meeting on Monday July 8th, 2019. The paramount job of their committee is to concentrate its work to educate young generations on the responsibility of a clean and sustainable environment. The Rotary Club of East Nassau have also heeded the call and have an active environmental committee.
As a Rotarian you can consider joining a fellowship group or Rotary Action Group.
The Environment Fellowship of Rotarians (EFR) unites all Rotarians, their spouses, and Rotaractors who are very interested and/or have a vocation related to the Environment - http://bubo.envirorotarians.org/.
The Environmental Sustainability Rotarian Action Group (ESRAG). They assist Rotary clubs, districts and multi-districts in planning, implementing and evaluating service projects, building awareness, and inspiring action - https://www.esrag.org/
What can your club do to help with the environment?
Do not use plastic straws and other plastics at your meetings or events.
Rather than use Styrofoam to take home food bring you own reusable containers from home.
Promote and encourage recycling where possible.
Set up your own environmental committee and reach out to your members, Rotaractors, Interactors and Earlyactors and see what environmental projects or ideas they can suggest.
Join with other clubs in your area to plant trees, clean beaches, set up disposable bins, educate and encourage others that when they go to the beach pick up three pieces of garbage and dispose of them correctly.
Each year Worldwide Earth Day and World Environment Day are celebrated. Earth Day will be observed on April 22, 2020. It is a day held to demonstrate and promote environmental awareness and calls for the protection of our planet. Earth Day is celebrated in more than 193 countries each year. World Environment Day (WED) will be celebrated on the 5th June, 2020, and is the United Nation's principal vehicle for promoting awareness and action to protect the environment. It began in 1974 and is a well-known global platform for positive change that is celebrated in over 100 countries.
District 7020 let us work together and share our ideas of how we can celebrate Earth day and World Environment Day in 2020, so that we can help save our Planet for the Generations to come.
Rotary International District 7020 is comprised of over 2,400 Rotarians in 86 Clubs from 10 countries or territories in 16 islands, and is led by District Governor Delma Maduro from the British Virgin Islands for the term 2019-2020. Learn more at www.7020.org
In response to the devastation caused by Category 5 Hurricane Irma throughout District 7020’s many islands, the District has set up a Disaster Recover Fund.
The fund will be managed by Rotary’s DNA-RAG Rotarian Action Group, a 501(c)3, in cooperation with District 7020’s Disaster Relief Committee.
For Online Donations
To contribute please wire funds to:
Name of Account: Disaster Network of Assistance - Rotarian Action Group, Inc. dba “DNA-RAG”
Account #: 12 1682 8928
Swift Code: PNCCUS33
Physical address of Bank: PNC Bank, 9033 Glades Rd, Boca Raton, FL 33433
We hope you consider the content on our Awards Page both informative and useful. We will update the documentation as the various deadlines approach and this will include specific Application Forms for each of the various awards.
District Governor Haresh has been true to his promise of Be the Change and has created awards which give every club the opportunity to shine and to achieve. No matter if your club is large or small, strong or struggling you can achieve recognition for your efforts. You are Rotary Serving Humanity!
Please make sure your activities are recognized – don’t miss the deadlines for submission!
We look forward to honouring all of you at the District Conference on board the Enchantment of the Seas in May, 2017.
Dear fellow Rotarians, Rotaractors and Family of Rotary,
Family of Rotary - Who are our Rotary Family?
Michelle and I have just returned from two contrasting but equally fulfilling visits to the tremendous Rotary Clubs of The Bahamas and North/North West Haiti. Here, as always, we were made to feel totally at home and part of our unique Caribbean Rotary Family that spreads across 10 countries and 16 Islands and 83 clubs we call our District. Everywhere we went it became clear to us that there is a deep passion for Rotary and clubs and members working closely together delivering much needed service to the community, especially during these difficult economic times.
December is “Family Month” for Rotary International and appropriately so at this most family focused time of year, where we celebrate together with those closest to us. Family however is at the very cornerstone of what we do year round so whllst we pay special recognition to it this month the concept of the “Family of Rotary” is one that we are encouraged to recognise and value all year round. Although the concept is a fairly recently introduced one to our vocabulary, it is a very valuable and appropriate one for our great organisation. In these three simple words it sets out a number of points:
Firstly ”Family of Rotary” emphasizes that we are, or should be, than just a random group of individuals serving above self – we are bonded, if not genetically or by blood with common aims and goals, with a common philosophy that we exemplify by our behavior and standards in our day to day lives. We also have a responsibility to support each other especially in our times of need just as we would a family member. In this way Rotary gives us an opportunity for us to developer deeper, longer lasting relationships – Rotarians become our brothers and sisters, there is the opportunity for our more seasoned Rotarians to take on paternal/maternal roles as mentors to our less experienced and younger members. We have the opportunity to build and nurture just as we would expect in the typical family environment.
Of course, just like families we may not always see eye to eye! Rotary brings our strong feelings and rightly so. Many Rotarians are passionate about what we stand for as well as about the causes they feel should be given most attention and sometimes this can cause rifts within our family. However we are also good at rising above this and as all good families should, resolving our differences in the best interests of our wider goals, to ensure that our internal issues do not distract from our primary focus of Service Above Self.
On another level the term “Family of Rotary” enables us to understand that Rotary is wider than just our members. We have a wide array of sons, daughters and grandsons and daughters that we’ve given birth to over the years and remain responsible for: Starting with the Rotary clubs we’ve most recently sponsored, who need our support especially during their sensitive first three to four years of existence. It’s simply not good enough to form these clubs then walk away. They too need careful nurturing if they are to have a good chance of success.
Then of course there is our “New Generations” or “Youth Service” family of Rotaract, Interact and Earlyact Clubs, as well as programmes such as RYLA. As a district we can be tremendously proud of these younger family members and for risk of further that well-worn phrase, these young people really are our “Future”. As tremendous energetic group ranging from 5 to 30 in age who understand and respect the value of Service above Self and the essence of what we do, having grown up with it around them. In our District we have one of the high ratios of Rotaract and Interact Clubs to Rotaract Clubs in the world so this bodes well for our future. Regardless of whether their members will eventually transition into Rotary, our hope is that they will remain a member of our Family and keep with them the spirit of what we do which one day may be reactivated with their reengaging as a full fledged Rotarian.
Another group that we as a District are focusing on bringing into our extended family are those who have the spirit of Rotary, who help our clubs deliver projects but either are not necessarily ready or qualified to become full-fledged members. We all have these individuals around our clubs and whether or not they are potential members they have great value to us and we need, especially at this time of year, to make sure that we properly recognise their contribution and that they are indeed still part of our Rotary Family. These of course include Community Corp members or perhaps “Friends of Rotary” groups as some clubs have smartly named these important individuals, giving them a sense of belonging and significance, inviting them to meetings as guests and making them know that they are also an important part of our family.
We have all heard the argument that Rotary needs to grow and you will know that I agree with that, but only if we do so with quality new members. In fact I would rather see our clubs become stronger than larger and the two do not necessarily go hand in hand. Part of the push for an increase in membership comes from the argument that Rotary has stayed the same size at 1.2m members for the past decade. Whilst there is some validity in this, I would argue that Rotary as a whole has become significantly larger and, from what I see as I travel from club to club, more effective in what we do. If we count the members of our Family of Rotary then I have no doubt we are much more substantial organisation than we were 10 years ago. We are also a stronger one, with greater depth through our extended family and I would argue one that is closer to and has a better understanding of our community needs because of it and a better ability to serve than ever before. So let’s use our Family or Rotary to strengthen our clubs. Work with them, support them and build so we can all Serve above Self better than ever before.
Michelle and I wish you all a joyous Christmas, one where your family circle will be wide enough to include your Rotary Family as we together we celebrate and give thanks for the year we have just enjoyed and fortify ourselves for the busy year to come.
Hard to believe the year is almost ended, and the spirit of Christmas and the bringing of a new year and new hope is near upon us. We start December with lots of activities to plan and this is the right time to include in that planning the Biggest Rotary Celebration of the year - The International Convention in SYDNEY, AUSTRALIA June 1-4, 2014. I'm providing for your planning some relevant information which I hope you will use to guide you in arriving there for this not-to-be-missed event!
Booking: http://www.riconvention.org/en/2014/Pages/ridefault.aspx - At this site you will be able to register; make hotel bookings, and book local host events. We have NOT selected an official hotel for 7020 this time as the disparity of rates is too vast and none of the hotels I contacted are willing to hold a block of rooms for any period of time. But the transportation system in Sydney is great and any of the downtown area hotels should suffice just fine. It is important to note that, apart from the events on this site, there will be at least 2 events you want to make note of.
1. Zone 33/34 Southland Reception which will take place on Saturday May 31, 2014, 5:30 – 7:30PM at the Powerhouse Museum in downtown Sydney, amidst the main hotels and restaurants. Cost is USD$50.
2. The District Social is planned for the evening of the Opening ceremony (Sunday June 1, 2013) at 7pm, right after the second plenary session. Details of this venue will be circulated closer to the time.
I'm attached 2 files which speaks to more information on the above.
And finally, There are several pre-convention tours and events and post convention tours taking place. Coming from so far you should take advantage of all that Australia has to offer. Here are two rotary recommended ones that have offerings: www.howardtours.net & www.pacificholidaysinc.com
Wish you and your loved ones a Very Merry Christmas and a Prosperous and Peaceful New Year. And, as always, of you have any questions or queries feel free to contact me.
Yours in Rotary
Rtn. Haresh L. Ramchandani, PRF (Permanent Rotary Fan)
Dear fellow Rotarians, Rotaractors and Family of Rotary,
Is there a better return on investment?
If someone offered you a One Thousand Percent return on investment, you’d be right to be suspicious, especially in this economy! Well, as Rotarians in District 7020, we have a unique opportunity – probably one that very few of our Fellow Rotarians have the chance of experience anywhere else in the Rotary World. Analysis shows that for every dollar we contribute – we get a massive ten times back to our District in terms of Grants (especially from the former Matching Grants – now known as Global Grants) through the generosity and unique mechanism of our Rotary Foundation.
Matching with International partner clubs and Districts, using their cash and DDF – (District Designated Funds https://www.rotary.org/myrotary/en/annual-fund-and-share), combining these with our cash District 7020 DDF and then matching with the Foundation World Fund turns the US$200,000 - US$250,000 we contribute as a District each year into US2m to US$3m in grants three years later!
This money funds schools, orphanages, and water projects in Haiti; medical equipment at hospitals such as the Mandeville Regional in Jamaica; dialysis machines in places like Cayman; computer labs and reading programmes in St. Thomas USVI; an emergency oxygen generator in St. John; a new school playfield in Port Antonio, Jamaica; as well as numerous other projects throughout our District. As Michelle and I continued our travels across the District in October to the USVI and North West and North East Jamaica clubs, we were again in awe of the tremendous work being done by our clubs and Rotarians, often through our Foundation. When adding the local multiplier effect of our expertise and sweat equity to the equation, the return is even greater!
Of course, an essential component is the international clubs we work with; and if we are to maintain and increase their support we need to continue to show that we can be strong and reliable partners for them. With the successful roll-out of the New Grants Model in our District (96.4% of our clubs are certified), we have taken a strong step forward; however, what else can we do to make sure? Well it’s a lot easier if we can look our partners in the eyes as a 100% giving district – with every club giving what they can afford to our Foundation. Last year only 75% of our clubs gave to the Annual Fund and this is simply not good enough. As a beneficiary of 10x what we give annually, nothing less than our being a 100% giving district is “fair to all concerned.”
This year, I have challenged each of our Presidents to give “something” to the Annual Fund, as well as clubs to give at least US$12 per annum per member (many of course will give much, much more - and do). This year, District 7020 will be a 100% giving district. Our Presidents will also be recognised at the 2014 District Conference as the “FIRST CLASS” of Presidents ever, 100% of whom will have contributed to our Foundation.
So, when your President and Foundation Chair asks you to contribute something to our Foundation for the first time, to become a Sustaining Member, or, if your club aims to be achieve EREY status this year; if you’ve been asked to contribute for your first Paul Harris Fellow or your 10th as a Major Donor; Remember – whatever you can give – will come back as grants three years later as at least ten times the amount – and that can do a lot of good.
Show your support for our Foundation by clicking the “Give” button on the welcome page of the www.rotary.org website. It’ll be the best investment you’ve ever made!
Have a great November as we strive to Engage Rotary - Change Lives through our Foundation!
Yours in Rotary Service,
Jeremy Hurst, Governor 2013/14
District 7020 -Rotary International
New Generations Month……a celebration of all Rotary’s youth programmes : Rotaract,Interact,EarlyAct, RYLA, Youth Exchange.
Rotaractors can really be looked at as “Rotarians in Training” and we are able to provide enthusiasm and motivation for our Rotarians.
I encourage you all to make an effort, especially during this month, to reach out to your various New Generations programmes, and in doing so, bring together the members of the Rotary Family.
Some suggestions of what you can do during this month with Rotaract :
Visit your (or any) Rotaract club meeting
Invite a Rotaractor to be a Guest Speaker at one of your meetings for the month
Join forces to plan a community service project for the month or simply attend one of theirs that are already planned
Invite your Rotaract President to chair one of your club meetings
Support a Rotaract fundraiser
Speak with your Rotaract President and Secretary about attending PETS in October and see how you can encourage their attendance
Work with a Rotaract club outside of your immediate area to plan an International Service project
Plan a social with Rotaractors, or invite them to attend one of yours, and make them feel welcomed to attend
Ensure that the New Generations Chair of the club is up to date on all activities of the Rotaract club(s), and keeps your club informed of such
Let us work together to celebrate all our New Generations for this month!
“Each generation goes further than the generation preceding it, because it stands on the shoulders of that generation” – Ronald Reagan
Allow us the opportunity to stand on your shoulders and be your Partners in Service!
The Rotary Club of Grand Cayman Central (Rotary Central) was proud to sponsor five students at the Rotary Youth Leadership Awards (RYLA) in St. Augustine, Florida from June 27 to 30, 2013. The aim of RYLA is to launch already talented young people back into their communities, inspired and provided with fresh ideas, understandings, and skills. RYLA also seeks to send students back to their communities better equipped to become leaders of tomorrow and prepared to apply what they have learned at the conference.
The students participating at this year’s event were: Antony McFarlane, Aolani Watson, Mikayla Wilson, Katelyn Bush and Lauren Williams. In addition, Rotary Central sponsored Romario Nathan to attend as one of the Junior Counselors at the event, an opportunity to learn skills in planning and co-ordination.
“The organizers of the RYLA in St. Augustine have been welcoming Cayman Islands students to their event for the past three years”, said Rotarian Martin Ruben, who leads the RYLA program for the club. “Each year the event gets better and better and offers students an amazing opportunity to learn personal, business and community leadership concepts in a very unique setting.”
There were approximately 100 students participating at this year’s event and the rest of the students were from areas around St. Augustine and Jacksonville, Florida. For the first time since attending the event, one of four major awards was given to Antony McFarlane for demonstrating respect, a key element of leadership.
About Rotary Central
Rotary Central is part of Rotary International, a global association of Rotary clubs, with a common mission to provide service to others, to promote high ethical standards, and to advance world understanding, goodwill, and peace through its fellowship of business, professional, and community leaders.
Rotary Central received its charter from Rotary International on October 30 1986. Since then the club has established an impressive track record of service in Cayman’s community, which has included assistance with housing, the building of the T.E. McField Centre, the restoration of the Mastic Trail, the Science Fair, Literacy Hurricane relief and a wide range of youth programmes. Rotary Central currently has over 70 members ranging across various sectors of the community. More information is available at www.rotarycentral.ky
Rotary Central’s inducts 4 new Rotarians at Changeover Night
Rotary Central held its Change Over on Friday evening, 28th June 2013 at Ristorante Papagallo. The evening saw the induction of 4 new Rotarians.
From l to R: IPP Ravee Kapoor, Rot. Zelta Gayle (Sponsor) and new Rotarians Vinton Douglas, Tunde MacDonald, Trudy-Ann Scott, Rot. Sheraim Mascall (Sponsor) and new Rotarian Dannel Rahamut with President Naude Dreyer (Sponsor)
Rotary Central welcomes these new Rotarians, three of which have made the transition from Rotaract Blue to the Rotary Club.
President Naude Dreyer expressed his appreciation to the new members and urged them to embrace the ideals of Rotary “Service Above Self” and above all to engage in the activities of the Club and support the theme of Rotary 2013-14 “Engage Rotary – Change Lives”
About Rotary Central
Rotary Central Grand Cayman is part of Rotary International, a global association of Rotary clubs, with a common mission to provide service to others, to promote high ethical standards, and to advance world understanding, goodwill, and peace through its fellowship of business, professional, and community leaders.
Rotary Central received its charter from Rotary International on October 30 1986. Since then the club has established an impressive track record of service in Cayman’s community, which has included assistance with housing, the building of the T.E. McField Centre, the restoration of the Mastic Trail, the Science Fair, Literacy Hurricane relief and a wide range of youth programmes. Rotary Central currently has over 65 members ranging across various sectors of the community. More information is available at www.rotarycentral.ky
Dear fellow Rotarians, Rotaractors and Family of Rotary,
Welcome to the start of the 2013/14 Rotary year! PDG Vance and Monica have passed the mantel to Michelle and I, after a highly successful year, taking the district to new heights and in only 12 short months we will be doing likewise to DGN Paul and Kay! So what can we achieve in the 365 days in between?
The answer of course is plenty and the great news is that your District and your Club Leadership Teams have had the plenty of opportunities to prepare thoroughly for the coming year. I want to congratulate and thank each of you for the time, effort and energy that you've invested as you’ve prepared your plans for the coming year. It is essential now, however, that we implement these plans and carry them through. If not, all of our training and preparation will have gone to waste and we can’t afford that to happen - nor will we let it!
One thing for sure is that the 8,760 short hours that make up the 2013/14 Rotary year will be gone before we know it. So we can't afford to wait - let's put our plans in action from the very first day of this Rotary year. If we invest the time now, then the rest of the year will go well for us. The next two months are therefore the key to our success!
RI President Ron Burton has challenged each of us to Engage Rotary, Change Lives and the best way for us to achieve this, is for every last one of us to get actively involved in at least one area of our club that we enjoy and where we can best put your skills and vocation to good use. Regardless whether you are the newest or most experienced Rotarian, you have significant value to offer your club and community, whether it is in humanitarian, club service, youth service or our Rotary Foundation. It is your responsibility, as a Rotarian, to contribute your time and talent and it’s your President and Committee Chairs’ responsibility to ask you to get involved! So please make their life easier by smiling and saying yes when they do and if they don't – remind them that you’re ready and willing!
I’ve also challenged your board to make your club meetings as vibrant and enticing as possible - well organised with strong guest speakers and programmes. We all need to enjoy Rotary to stay engaged and strong weekly meetings and regular fellowship events are common threads that run through the most successful Rotary clubs.
2013/14 is an exciting year for Rotary. We are “This Close” to eradicating Polio and can be rightly proud of our Foundation and its successes, which will only be strengthened as we roll out the new grants model. Our District theme this year, Building our Future with Vision, embraces the need for us to continue to build and plan for the future. However more than anything, 2013/14, is the opportunity for you to make your personal mark as a Rotarian.
So let’s make 2013/14 the best year yet for our Clubs, the communities we serve and our District as we Engage Rotary, Change Lives.
We are quickly approaching our 200 registration mark. This number will be increased shortly as we finalize travel and registration details of over 100 Haitian Rotarians and finish our BVI Club registration drive. This will mean that by March 15, our projected registration number will be 400 registrants with only 2 months remaining before the highly anticipated District Conference 7020 in the BVI. This is exciting!
Therefore, if you have not registered you must register now to be a part of this amazing experience. Please visit our website at www.rotary7020conference.com and register online using a quick process. Our registration experts can be reached by emailing business.servicesbvi2013@gmail.com They are ready to answer all of your questions.
Here are a few facts about conference registration.
1. The main conference activities will take place on Tortola at the H. Lavity Stoutt Community College.
2. Maria's by the Sea is our conference hotel where our main hospitality lounge will be housed. You must book your hotel separately and directly with the hotel. There are other hotel choices where transportation will be provide to the conference site at H. Lavity Stoutt Community College.
3. In order to attend the events that are Free, you and your family must be registered for the conference. (PETS only, Assembly and Conference only, or PETS/Assembly/Conference). The Partner Program (for guests)is $70 dollars.
4. The BVI has an entry visa requirement for some county nationals in our district, which are Jamaica and Haiti. If you reside in one of the other district islands but you are a national of another country please email us at bvi2013@gmail.com to ascertain if you need a visa for the conference. We have made the entry visa process very easy:
1. Register for the conference
2. Email your passport page fact page and conference registration number.
3. Get your Visa within two weeks.
The deadline for this process is March 15, 2012
5. Once you have registered for the conference you will receive an email confirmation number at your email address. You can update your registration details at any time after using your confirmation number. Ensure that your travel details are accurate so that we can ensure that you are collected at all ports of entry. If you already registered, please modify your registration to include travel information.
We have an amazing conference planned under the theme "Experience the Passion of Rotary”. If you have never been to the BVI you must come to experience the culture, food, people and simply amazing vistas.
See you at District Conference 7020 May 13-18 2013. BVI Mehson!
YIRS,
Conference Chairman
David B D Archer Jr
"Experience the Passion of Rotary
Registration Information for PETS & District Conference 2012-2013
Merry Christmas and a Happy, Healthy and Prosperous New Year
A message from the District Governor:
During this Festive Season, the meaning of Peace through Service will be shown in countless ways by thousands of Rotarians the world over. With the Christmas message of 'Peace & Hope' in our thoughts, we will be able to look back on the opportunities where we have given someone, somewhere, the opportunity to live and enjoy life, without having to fight to survive. We will also be able to anticipate further opportunities to serve during the New Year.
As 2012 draws to an end, I would like to extend my thanks to everyone, everywhere who has made this year a tremendous success. Thank you for all your efforts!
As Monica and I have traveled across the District it has offered us the opportunity to see the marvelous work carried out by our clubs. Along with enthusiasm, commitment and an understanding of local needs, I realize that in our District, no project is too big or too small for a Rotary club to undertake. By giving of their time, energy and creative thinking, Rotarians in District 7020 achieve a great deal and I invite the clubs to share with the public the news of what they are doing and see how it will make a positive difference in membership growth.
As we are aware, we are now down to less than 250 new cases of polio in the last year, but the battle is far from over. The political and financial obstacles to full eradication remain significant, therefore it is essential that we continue to build awareness, raise funds, and encourage advocacy.
As we reflect on the year that has passed and approach a new year, let’s ponder on what we can do to continue to make a difference in our community. As Gandhi said, “you must be the change you want to see in this world”. What changes do you personally plan to make in 2013?
We hope that the New Year brings everyone health, happiness and joy, wherever you are. Once again, thank you for all your efforts during 2012.
Monica & I wish you all, a very Happy Christmas and a prosperous New Year!
D uring the Age of Discovery, Portuguese explorers landed in places that are now home to many Rotarians who will attend the 2013 RI Convention in Lisbon, 23-26 June. (Register by 15 December to enjoy the best rate).
Prince Henry the Navigator, son of King John I, paved the way for Portugal’s dominance in exploration by sponsoring excursions that crept southward along the coast of Africa in the early 15th century. (In 1484, Christopher Columbus approached King John II with a proposal to sail west in search of the Indies, but it was rejected. Spain got the credit for that famed journey.)
Among the great Portuguese explorers was Bartolomeu Dias, who in 1488 sailed around the Cape of Good Hope, the southernmost tip of Africa, ultimately proving to Europeans that it was possible to reach the Indies (and their valuable spices) by sea. In 1497, Vasco da Gama went farther, sailing up the eastern coast of Africa and across the Arabian Sea to reach India. Three years later, Pedro Álvares Cabral, en route to India, first sailed southwest to what is now Brazil.
In 1519, Ferdinand Magellan led the first expedition to circumnavigate the globe – although Magellan himself perished in a battle in the Philippines and did not complete the trip. Magellan was Portuguese, but because he’d fallen out of favor in his home country, his fleet sailed under the Spanish flag.
You can see evidence of Portugal’s prosperity during this era at some of Lisbon’s most beautiful sites, including the Jerónimos Monastery, which houses da Gama’s tomb, and Belém Tower, built to defend the mouth of the Tagus River.
The month of November in our Rotary calendar is celebrated as Foundation month. Our Rotary International President Sakuji Tanaka in his monthly message reminds us of our Foundation’s motto: “Doing Good in the World”. He also reminded us that we can do so much more good through The Foundation than we could ever do alone in order to continue to help people – people just like us.
I would like to reiterate to Rotarians that it is incumbent on us, Rotarians, to ensure that our Foundation remains a strong and viable entity if we are to continue to change people’s life and circumstances. To support our Foundation there is no donation of time and resources too small. Each combines to result in an ocean of help for humanity. We can guarantee the future success of our Foundation by each contributing what we can to the various funds of the Foundation. There are many ways to do this, but at this time I wish to focus on one of the ways of giving.
One of our goals for our District this year, and for the foreseeable future, is to encourage every Rotarian to give something to our Annual Fund. This concept is known as Every Rotarian Every Year (EREY). Many persons in our regional communities and beyond, whose lives we have changed through our Rotary Foundation make sacrifices every day just to make ends meet. As Rotarians, it’s incumbent on us to give up a little to ensure the future viability of the Foundation.
If each of us makes a small sacrifice, then together, we can make a much greater impact than if we tried alone. If we choose to make that sacrifice by giving to the Foundation, then as a District, for the first time ever, we would have 100% of our clubs contributing to our Foundation! Wouldn’t that be a powerful statement by all of our collective voices? It would also mean an organization in which every single member is supporting, and is invested in, the Foundation’s success – making The Rotary Foundation truly Our Foundation; through the magic of collaboration.
I conclude my message by appealing to every Rotarian in this District and elsewhere to change the world a little bit at a time by ensuring that through our individual sacrifices, we can become a collective giant. If we do, we will truly be living the words of the motto of our Rotary Foundation: “Doing Good in the World”.
On November 17, General Secretary John Hewko and his wife will be riding 111 miles in the El Tour de Tucson Ride where they hope to raise $111,000 for polio eradication as a tribute to all of the Rotarians worldwide who have helped push polio to the brink of eradication.
Between now and then, Rotarians can log into Member Access at www.rotary.org and contribute to GS Hewko – Ride to End Polio.
Past RI Vice President Eric Adamson from District 7570 will also be traveling to Arizona to ride in the El Tour de Tucson Ride and help raise money for the eradication of Polio in memory of Bill Orndorff, Rotarian and avid cyclist. Eric plans to ride 85 miles with a goal to raise $85,000. You can support Eric by making a contribution to The Rotary Foundation for Polio Plus. Email the amount of your contribution to Eric at eric.adamson@earthlink.net so that he can track the progress toward his goal.
Contributions supporting John and Eric receive Paul Harris credit and will be credited toward your club and district.
With the passing of September, we are now into the fourth month of this Rotary year. In the past 3 months, Monica and I have visited Rotary, Rotaract, Interact and EarlyAct Clubs in Anguilla, St Martin/St Maarten & St Barths, the USVI(N & S) and Jamaica. We have been enthusiastically received and have witnessed the great work that is being done by Clubs in all communities. Needless to say, we feel humbled by the stories and the projects that we have heard and seen.
October is Vocational Service month; those of you who have read President Tanaka’s message for this month will I hope, excuse me for using a part of his message here, but I think there is a message here for all of us, (here he is talking of his first experiences as a new member of Rotary) and I quote “for the first two years, we didn’t do much. Every week, I came to my meeting, I ate lunch, and I listened to a speaker. I paid my dues, and I gave money to The Rotary Foundation. But I wasn’t involved in any service. I didn’t know what Rotary service was supposed to be. That all changed one week, when we had a speaker who talked about vocational service. This was a new idea to me. Until then, I had never thought much about the purpose of my life, or why I was in business. I was too busy working. I was always focused on my business, and on how to make it larger and better. I never stopped to consider any deeper purpose of my work.”
Step back and take a few moments to reflect on this. Can you see yourself here? Or maybe you experienced a “Rotary moment” when a light came on and you came to understand the true purpose of being a Rotarian.
So what is Vocational Service? To get a full perspective on this I went to the RI web site. I learnt that Vocational Service provides the opportunity for Rotarians to help those less fortunate in the world, in our communities, to escape poverty and regain a measure of self respect. As Rotarians, we have a responsibility to promote high ethical standards through our vocations, and we use our professional skills and expertise to address problems and needs in our societies. One way we can promote high ethical standards is to quote Rotary’s Four Way test at every opportunity.
Vocational Service is one way that sets Rotary apart from other service and humanitarian organisations as it is unique to Rotary. Through our Classifications lists, we ensure that Club membership properly represents the professional vocations within our communities. So how can your clubs do your part in promoting Vocational Service? Here are some suggestions:
Ask members to speak about their vocations at Club meetings
Extend this to presentations to Rotaract, Interact and EarlyAct Clubs, and also to students in local secondary schools
Invite young persons to your place of work, explain what you do and emphasise the high ethical standards that exist
Promote the Four Way Test, by including on business cards, posters displayed in the work place, in schools
Promote an essay competition where participants describe how the Four Way Test has impacted their lives
Vocational Service is one of the 5 Avenues of Service within Rotary. It demonstrates how by using our skills and expertise we make the lives of others better, which leads to a better, kinder world, where citizens can live in Peace, not fear, can live with dignity, not desperation. Its just another way Rotarians can exemplify our Motto for 2012/13 – Peace though Service.
Good luck to you all! I look forward to hearing about all the great and imaginative activities that you engage in this month of Vocational Service as Monica and I continue our visits to Clubs in Haiti, seeing at first hand further evidence of the great work we all continue to do.
Every Rotarian is different. Every Rotarian was drawn into Rotary for different reasons, and many vividly remember their first “Rotary Moment” – the moment when they went from being members of their Rotary clubs to being committed Rotarians.
I love hearing these stories and learning about what drew each Rotarian into Rotary. For some, it was a Rotary office, a particular project, or a convention. For me, it was a speaker at an ordinary weekly meeting of the Rotary Club of Yashio, about two years after I’d joined.
I am a charter member of my club, and I was invited to join by the charter president. I had never heard of Rotary, and at the time, I didn’t really know what service meant. But I was new to Yashio. I had just moved there from Tokyo, and I didn’t know many people. I thought Rotary would be a good way to make friends and to help my business, and I respected the person who invited me, so I joined.
But to be honest, for the first two years, we didn’t do much. Every week, I came to my meeting, I ate lunch, and I listened to a speaker. I paid my dues, and I gave money to The Rotary Foundation. But I wasn’t involved in any service. I didn’t know what Rotary service was supposed to be.
That all changed one week, when we had a speaker who talked about vocational service. This was a new idea to me. Until then, I had never thought much about the purpose of my life, or why I was in business. I was too busy working. I was always focused on my business, and on how to make it larger and better. I never stopped to consider any deeper purpose of my work.
Understanding the idea of vocational service completely changed my attitude toward my work, and toward my own purpose in life. I realized that the goal of a person doing business is not only to earn a living. The purpose is to be a contributing member of the community, to make the community stronger, and to help make other people’s lives better. When I understood this, and understood the concept of Service Above Self, it changed my life – and set me firmly on the path to a life of Rotary service. That is my Rotary Moment.
Portugal is home to 0.15 percent of the global population – a fact that belies the country’s outsize influence. Portuguese ranks seventh in the world in the number of native speakers and is an official language in nine countries. Rotarians who attend the 2013 RI Convention in Lisbon, 23-26 June, will likely meet Portuguese speakers with a variety of accents, from Angola to Brazil to Macau to Mozambique.
In tourist areas, you will also find it easy to communicate in English, but if you can speak a bit of the local language, you’ll better appreciate Lisbon and all it has to offer. Here’s a primer to get you started.
Hello!Olá!
Pleased to meet you.Muito prazer.
Good morning/afternoon/evening!Bom dia/Boa tarde/Boa noite!
Please.Por favor.
Thank you.Obrigado (women say obrigada).
My name is …O meu nome é … or Chamo-me …
I don’t speak Portuguese. Do you speak English?Desculpe, não falo português. Fala inglês?
RI President Sakuji Tanaka is encouraging all Rotarians to focus on advancing Peace Through Service in 2012-13. You can help put the president’s theme into action by encouraging Rotarians in your district to consult the Rotary Global Peace Forums brochure and participate in recommended peace activities throughout the year.
Three Rotary Global Peace Forums will be held during 2012-13 to engage and inspire Rotarians and community leaders to further Rotary’s peace-building efforts. The location, theme, and date for each forum are listed here for your reference, along with websites where you can find further details:
Berlin, Germany
Peace Without Borders
30 November - 2 December 2012
http://www.rotary-global-peace-forum-berlin.de/en/
Honolulu, Hawaii, USA
The Green Path to Peace
25-27 January 2013
http://www.peaceforumhawaii.com/
Hiroshima, Japan
Peace Begins with You
17-18 May 2013
http://www.info-hiroshima.co.jp/peace/index_e.html
For additional information about the peace forums, please watch a Rotary Global Peace Forums promotional video.
President Tanaka also encourages clubs to conduct their own local peace forum or a service project focused on peace this year. Accomplishing this goal will help clubs qualify for the 2012-13 Presidential Citation. Find specific ideas for club-level peace activities in the Rotary Global Peace Forums brochure.
Best regards,
Jesse Allerton
Supervisor, Rotary Service
Rotary International
rotary.service@rotary.org
As DG Vance starts his travels throughout the 10 countries that make up District 7020, all Rotarians now have great ways of following him as he visits Rotary Clubs and our islands.
You can:
1. Follow-up him on Twitter @Rotary7020DG to read his Tweets. (There is a direct link on the left of this homepage)
AND
2. To read about his visits and see pictures, please visit his blog at http://rotary7020dgvance.blogspot.com/. For a direct link to DG Vance's blog, click at the menu option on this home page titled: DG's Blog
These are some great ways to follow DG Vance's travels, learn more about the Rotary Clubs in our diverse District 7020, and share some Rotarian Fellowships!
It’s a great honor to serve as your 2012-13 RI president and represent you in Rotary. Since joining this organization in 1975, it has changed my life and given me more than I ever anticipated. I look forward to sharing some of that with you.
Through Rotary, I learned the purpose of my life wasn’t to earn more, but to help others. Through our service, we learn that the problems that may seem large to us are really very small.
I also learned that through Rotary, we could build peace. As part of the first generation to grow up in Japan after World War II, I understand the importance of peace and its connection to our well-being.
Peace can mean many things for many people, but however we understand peace, Rotary can help us achieve it. Rotary helps us meet the basic needs of health care, sanitation, food, and education. These can bring peace. In addition, we need peace as well for vaccinators to go into countries such as Afghanistan to prevent children from getting polio. It is through our work as Rotarians that we help to build the foundation for a more peaceful world.
Through service, we can bring peace. This is why our 2012-12 Rotary theme is Peace Through Service.
I wish to thank you for the confidence that you have placed in me by electing me as your District Governor for 2012 -2013. On behalf of Monica and myself, I would like to congratulate all newly elected officers at Club and District level in D7020.
Out Rotary International theme for 2012 -2013 – Peace Through Service - offers us an insight into the thinking of our RI President, Sakuji Tanaka. He has asked us to focus on peace in all the different ways that we understand it and to make service a priority. By doing this, we place the needs of others above our own and soon we begin to understand and respect each other while learning from one another. As we put Peace Through Service at the forefront of our Rotary work this year, we commit to a Rotary goal of a more peaceful world.
In District 7020, we must develop our clubs’ strategic plans and implement the various aspects with an emphasis on maintaining our strengths and improving our areas of weaknesses.
In the area of membership, we should work to increase diversification to become representative of our local communities, keep our membership engaged which will improve our attractiveness and have relevant service projects which will act as a membership retention mechanism.
For 2012 -13, I am asking all Rotarians to ensure that they contribute to The Rotary Foundation (TRF). My aim is to have zero non-contributing clubs to TRF in D7020. We can achieve this in a variety of ways but whichever way you can, please ensure that you make a meaningful contribution. When we look at the good work done through TRF, I’m sure that you will agree that D7020 has been a huge beneficiary and if this trend is to continue, then we must do our part. We must also continue to support the eradication of polio from the face of the earth.
As we follow our Rotary calendar, there will be opportunities for increased collaboration in a variety of ways to keep your club strong and vibrant and for the ultimate improvement of our various communities.
Finally, as this is the first of my monthly messages, I am asking all Presidents to ensure that your Semi Annual Returns (SAR) are completed on time and that all District and RI dues are paid up before the end of July 2012.
As Monica and I visit your clubs over the next few months, we will be exploring new options (some untraditional) of how we can work with you to support and strengthen all clubs in the District while ensuring that we enjoy great fellowship with you. Together we will Experience The Passion of Rotary, (our 2013 District Conference theme) throughout the year and in Tortola, BVI at D7020’s 39th District Conference between May 14 – 18th.
District 7020 has adopted a Strategic Plan in line with RI's Strategic Plan and is now encouraging all clubs to implement their own. This will help your club strengthen, grow and become more vibrant over the coming years.
The 2012 Conference Committee for the District 7020 welcomes all Rotarians to our website.
My name is Alain Haspil, your website host. I would like to take this opportunity to point out a few things you should do to ensure a successful registration.
1. There are 2 forms available on the website, and must be filled out. They go to different people, so please make sure you do both correctly.
First, fill out the Conference Committee form. It must be sent to 2012districtconference@gmail.com . This will ensure your Conference Registration.
Second, fill out the hotel accommodations form, which must be sent to Rotary7020@agencecitadelle.com . If Agence Citadelle does not receive its form, your accommodation reservation will not be confirmed.
So remember, fill out both forms on the website - one to the Conference Committee, and the other to Agence Citadelle.
PLEASE DO NOT MAKE ANY RESERVATION TO THE INDIVIDUAL HOTELS BUT ONLY ON THE FORM PROVIDED TO AGENCE CITADELLE OR ELSE YOUR HOTEL RESERVATION WILL NOT BE MADE.YOUR COOPERATION AND UNDERSTANDING WILL BE GREATLY APPRECIATED
2. Those interested in the "Jaipur" project (Rehab Project and prosthesis assembly shop, on Monday April 23, 2012), for relative information as well as travel information to Pignon: Please contact:
Adele ROMELUS <nr_adele@yahoo.com>; (509) 37026060
3. All hotels listed for the conference are along the beach and are within 10 minutes from the conference site. They all meet international standards and have Wi-Fi. For more info please visit their websites, available on the Conference site.
For your info, Hotel Indigo has a capacity of 280 rooms and is the Conference location.
4. Once you finalize your registration, you will receive a confirmation e-mail within two days. Should you not receive a confirmation e-mail, please contact:
Dominique BAZIN< nikabazin@yahoo.com>; (509) 36055924
Thank you for taking this walk with me. We wish you a successful registration, and look forward to seeing you in April!
Alain Haspil
Website Host
District 7020 Conference 2012
REGISTRATION & ACCOMODATION FOR HAITI 2012 DISTRICT7020 CONFERENCE
Do you know any youngsters with leadership potential? Want a great way to help make them tomorrow's greatest leaders? Well, here's your chance!
The Rotary Clubs of St. Andrew North, Downtown Kingston, Spanish Town, Liguanea Plains & Trafalgar New Heights will be hosting a RYLA Camp at Oberlin Conference Facility in the cool hills of St. Andrew, Jamaica from Feb 22 to 25, 2012 for young leaders aged 14 - 18 years old. With a modest registration fee of J$6,000 (US$75) which includes meals and accommodation, the event promises to be spectacular! Participants must be sponsored by a Rotary club and will be exposed to a variety of top-notch presenters while forming lasting friendships with youngsters from around the District.
Need more motivation? How about this - participation in the RYLA gets you points towards RI's Changemaker Award!
Consider sponsoring a few of your Interactors or other talented youngsters today! Registration forms and further details will be distributed in the coming week. Space is limited so don't delay!
Please share this awesome opportunity with all your club members. Have a great week!
Yours in Rotary service, Kameika Fullerton-DeLisser President 2011 - 2012 Rotary Club of St. Andrew North
Welcome everyone to this new Rotarian year!!! Presidents, Rotarians, Rotaractors of District 7020!!! I hope you all have a 2011-2012 year full of happiness, lots of Rotarian action, and much success. My salutation is addressed particularly to the Clubs Presidents, as well as all those exercising a function within our District.You are undoubtedly involved in a captivating and interesting year.
As you all know, one of the highlights of the year is the annual District Conference. This year, it will be held in Haiti, on the cote des Arcadins, in April of 2012. Your dedication and commitment is for us, an exceptional model, stimulating others and even yourselves to engage. That is what we need. KalyanBenerjee, the new Rotary International President has chosen a terrific theme for the year. He has asked us to draw from within to embrace humanity. His words, reflected in the chosen logo, remind me of a quote by well-known educator and philosopher Johann Heinrich Pestalozzi, who encouraged people to practice "head, heart and hand” in everything they do. So this Rotarian year, let's try to let our hearts speak! The best way to do this is to ensure that our District Conference is exceptional, and that from the fruitful exchanges made, extraordinary motivation and ardor will redouble our efforts to victoriously and productively complete our Rotarian year.
Thank you all for the signs of encouragement that I am already feeling. With your support, we will succeed. As the Governor visits your Club this year, you will be given the opportunity to view the promotional CD that will, we are sure, fascinate and enthrall you, thus encouraging you to complete and confirm your participation.Though registration has begun, reminders will be sent throughout the year. Keep in mind that the PETS assembly is also an opportunity to present next year’s objectives.
I am relying on all Club Presidents and Secretaries to continuously forward reminders to Club members, as they will be sent to them by email on a regular basis.
As District Governor 2011-2012, I would like to welcome you to what I hope will be a productive and participative year for all the clubs within District 7020.
We wish that we all pull together to be prepared already for the Hurricane season wich already starts this month of June up to November . Coordinate with your Disaster Releif Chairs in your different Clubs as with the Disaster Releif Chair in the District to have an harmonious and synergistic preparation to face all eventual violence of nature.. Remember that we have to be prepared for Future Vision in 2013 in our District and this year we advocate that every Club has a Future Vision Chair to be in close contact with our District Governor Nominee who is the District Future Vision Chair. A new Generation or a Youth Chair in every Club is suggested so we can prepare the future for Membership growth in our District. Always keep in mind and act to support your Rotary Foundation . Remember to prepare your SAR and be ready to be in comformity with your Due payment to both District and Rotary Internatiomal the coming begining of July. I only mention a few issues among many other tasks that we have to be prepared for while we should never forget that we are obligated to be always ready to : REACH within to EMBRACE HUMANITY. Let us go together for a joyfull ,familial , productive year 2011-2012 year.
I am taking the opportunity to reiterate that I am counting on your presence at the official installation for Governor 2011-2012, which will take place July 2, 2011, at the Karibe Convention Center in Petion-Ville Haiti at 6pm.
Kindly remember that the Pets, Assembly and Conference will be held in Haiti between April 17 and 21, 2012.
Address delivered by Past The Rotary Foundation Trustee, Carolyn Jones
at the Rotary District 7020 Conference in St. Thomas
Governor Diana, Governor John, Rotarians and guests. I
bring you greetings from your friends in District 5010, the Rotarians of
Yukon Territory, Canada; Alaska, USA and Siberia and Far East Russia.
C'est une phrase très simple : Plus Grands, Meilleurs et Plus
Performants, mais c’est un défi de taille tant pour les clubs que pour
les Rotariens. Comment pouvons-nous faire pour rendre nos clubs Plus
Grands, Meilleurs et Plus Performants ?
President Ray has also challenged us to make our clubs Bigger, Better and Bolder……
It’s a very simple phrase Bigger, Better and Bolderbut quite a
challenge to Clubs and Rotarians alike! Just how do we make our clubs
Bigger, Better and Bolder?
Inspired by the Guinness World Record-breaking book drive held during the 2008 Rotary International Convention held in Los Angeles, California, District 7020 has set its own challenge.to set a new record, and impact a generation.
Rotary Club of Kingston conveys 2009 Charlie Braham award on AG Dennis Chong. Other nominees for this years award were also honored, they include PAG Eric "Busha" Clarke, PP Dr.Lloyd Eubanks-Green and AG Haresh Ramchandani.
District 7020's own Rotary Peace and Conflict Studies Scholarship recipient, Jennifer Hutchinson from Jamaica, reports on her life changing experiences in this ground breaking program sponsored by the Rotary Foundation. Read her report on the attached link.
MARILYN BLACKHALL, President of the ROTARY CLUB OF ST. THOMAS II, has "LEAD THE WAY" by committing her Club to become the first Foundation Benefactor Club in District 7020.
It is still not too late to contribute to the Rotary Foundation if you and/or your club has not done so for this Rotary year. Should you have any questions about how to do so, please send me an email at casgirl3@mac.com and I'll walk you through the process - or find someone who can. :)
If you have ever listened to someone who has just achieved a major accomplishment- like a Nobel Peace Prize Winner, or someone being granted an Honorary Doctorate for his or her special work, he or she talks about how they honored, grateful and humbled he or she might feel. Well, looking back at the Rotary year 2012-2013, I can’t help feeling honored at the fact that Monica and I got to represent such a vibrant District at so many different events and in so many different ways. I feel grateful for the warmth we received as we visited the 83 Rotary Clubs across our 10 islands. Most of all, though, I feel humbled at the vast works of Rotary and that District 7020 continues to shine brightly in the Rotary universe.
It has been a long and busy year. When the year started out, I must admit, I felt a little daunted at the thought that we would have to visit 82 clubs in 10 countries – with visits to 80% of them requiring travel through Miami from the BVI. Most District Governors can simply get in their cars and drive around their district visiting their clubs. For us, it meant numerous flights, layovers, and lots of organization on the part of the Assistant Governors. Each trip, however, to the different islands was so unique and well planned that we couldn’t help getting excited about each trip. The clubs around our district have so many different personalities that it was great to get to know them all. We will never forget the amazing fellowships, the visits to diverse service projects, and meeting everyone. These visits have proven to me that District 7020 is one of the most vibrant districts of Rotary.
It is this vibrancy, this passion, that we have for Rotary that helps us to continue to grow in stature each year as a District. I’m especially proud to announce that we have chartered, several Rotaract, Interact and EarlyAct clubs, A Rotary Community Corps and two new Rotary clubs - including our first EClub for the District. And we have another EClub that’s on the verge of being chartered too! We have grown our membership by 2.5 percent without compromising quality and that is something we must all be proud of.
Our Public Image Outreach has been so vast this year as well. The District has utilized social media, more than ever before, to improve inter and intra District Communication. We have reached out to younger Rotarians and prospective Rotarians through Facebook, blogging and, yes, even twitter. We now have hundreds of twitter followers of the District Governor. Also, District 7020 has the honor of having more clubs receiving the 2012 -13 Zone 34 Public Image Citation than any other District in the Zone. At the outset we decided to focus on improving our Public Image this year and we succeeded.
We did not forget the Rotary Foundation either. As we prepared and trained for the transition to Future Vision, we increased our giving to the Rotary Foundation with increased giving to the Annual Fund and substantial contribution to Polio Eradication Initiative.
Our list of successes as clubs and as a District is way too long to specify here, but I wish to thank everyone for your continued Service Above Selfand for working with Monica and me to ensure that this District remains vibrant and passionate about Rotary. With all this work that we’ve done to improve and grow this year, I know our clubs are stronger for it and this makes our District stronger. We had over 500 participants at our exciting 39th District 7020 Conference, PETS, and Assembly this year in the BVI. We experienced the passion of Rotary while we built Peace Through Service. That alone is a clear sign that we are a healthy, strong, and passionate District. This is something we all must be proud of.
As we transition to a new Rotary year and a new District Governor - Jeremy Hurst, I request that you continue to be passionate about Rotary and that you Engage Rotary - Change Lives to build bigger, better and bolder clubs.
Thank you District 7020 for such a wonderful – passionate year!
A Rotary convention is a powerful thing, and a first convention is an experience you never forget. My first was in Chicago, in 1980. That was the year I was president of the Rotary Club of Yashio. I thought we should learn more about Rotary, so I asked nine other members of my club to join me, and we traveled to Chicago together. We did not know what to expect from a Rotary convention. What we found was more than any of us had imagined.
That convention showed me Rotary, and changed me forever. It gave our club something to strive for. I came to that convention as a member of a Rotary club. I left it as a Rotarian. The feeling that entered my heart in Chicago is still there today.
I am glad I will have the opportunity, as an RI president from Japan, to be part of the convention in Portugal. Portugal and Japan have a history together that began in the year 1542. This was the year that a Portuguese boat landed on a southern Japanese island. The Portuguese sailors did not plan to come to Japan. Strong winds blew their boat off course. But it was a happy accident, and the beginning of a peaceful and prosperous relationship.
In 1993, Japan and Portugal celebrated 450 years of good relations. Portugal was the first European country visited by the Japanese, in the middle of the 16th century. And the long Portuguese presence in Japan has had a lasting effect on my country.
The Portuguese found Japan by accident. But it is no accident that Lisbon has been chosen for this convention. Lisbon is A Harbor for Peace. And peace is the theme of this convention, as it has been the theme between Japan and Portugal for nearly 500 years.
As Rotarians, we work toward peace in many ways. We do it through humanitarian service. We do it through our belief in Service Above Self. And we work toward peace simply by being who we are. Every year, when we come together for a Rotary convention, we see, for a few days, the world as it could be. We see people of all colors and cultures come together. We work to build a better world.
I hope you will join me, and your fellow Rotarians, as we celebrate this year of Peace Through Service together.
From left, RI President-elect Ron Burton and wife, Jetta, Foundation Trustee Chair Wilfrid J. Wilkinson, Past RI President Luis Vicente Giay, RI President Sakuji Tanaka, RI General Secretary John Hewko, and Celia Elena Cruz de Giay at the awards banquet.
Rotary has received a silver Edison Award in recognition of the Future Vision Plan, the new grant model that enhances the scope, impact, and sustainability of humanitarian and educational projects funded by The Rotary Foundation.
Since 1987, the Edison Awards have recognized innovative new products, services and business leaders in the United States. The awards symbolize the persistence and excellence personified by Thomas Edison. Winners represent active contributors to the cause of innovation in the world.
RI President Sakuji Tanaka accepted the award during the annual Edison Awards gala held 25 April in Chicago, the city where Rotary was founded in 1905. The Future Vision Plan received top honors among funding models competing in the Lifestyle and Social Impact category. Nominee ballots were judged by a panel of more than 3,000, including members of seven associations that represent a wide range of industries and disciplines.
“This Edison Award recognizes and validates Rotary’s innovative approach to humanitarian service, as we constantly strive to improve lives and communities by addressing the world’s most pressing problems,” says Tanaka. “It is a great honor to accept such a prestigious award on behalf of Rotary’s global membership of 1.2 million men and women.”
The Edison Award coincides with the successful completion of a three-year pilot in which 100 Rotary districts in more than 70 countries tested Rotary’s new grant model.
The Future Vision Plan simplifies Rotary’s grant process, and focuses Rotarian service efforts where they will have the greatest impact. The model is innovative in combining Rotary’s volunteer base and a global reach with local resources to support sustainable, high-impact results in communities all over the world. The model funds more than US$100 million in service projects annually.
The new grant model will be implemented 1 July for Rotary clubs worldwide.
You have 3 days (Wednesday 8th May, 2013) to register if you intend to be a part of District Conference 2013 under the theme, Experience the Passion of Rotary.
We have reached our 450th registration mark for what is geared to be one of the most exciting conferences in District 7020. Please visit our website at www.rotary7020conference.com to register for the conference and to see the updates for our Family of Rotary Programme and other activities.
Please note the following for all persons attending the conference:
1. All attendees must be registered for a conference event (PETS only $150, PETS/Assembly/Conference $250 or Assembly/Conference Only $150.
2. Guest of Rotarians must be registered for Partner Program $70.
3. You can modify your registration to include a conference event UP TO AND INCLUDING WEDNESDAY MAY 8 by visiting www.rotary7020conference.com, click on 'Already Registered' and 'modify registration', entering their email address and confirmation number.
4. Registrants who have not selected conference events by Wednesday May 8 should be prepared to make selections and payment at the registration desk at Maria's by the Sea Hotel from Sunday 12 May.
5. All Registrants must update travel and hotel information in order to be collected from the airport and ferry terminals and transported to the hotels and registration. The Conference Committee will not be responsible for transportation of any Rotarian who did not indicate arrival and hotel information.
6. You must be registered for the Conference and Assembly in order to attend any events for the Conference (this includes free events). Persons who have only registered for free events and not registered for a conference event will be automatically registered for Conference and Assembly Only at a cost of $150.
7. The official dress of the conference is business casual. We do look forward to seeing those classic navy blazers however. You will also need to have formal wear for the District Governor's Ball and elegant wear for His Excellency the Governor's Reception.
8. Each country is responsible for putting together a bowling team for the "Bowl out Polio" tournament, which will be held on Wednesday evening after His Excellency the Governor's Reception.
9. We are also asking each country to bring a bottle or two of their country's aged rum for the rum tasting event on Wednesday evening after bowling.
10. Persons are asked to bring a pair of sneakers to take part in the Rotary Walk on Saturday morning at 5:30 am.
11. The Official currency of the Conference is US Dollars.
12. The Official Bank of the Conference is Scotia Bank.
13. The Official telecommunications provider of the conference is LIME.
14. The District Governor's Ball is quickly selling out so if you intend to attend you should sign up immediately.
15. Conference and luncheons are being held at the H. Lavity Stoutt Community College which is away from hotels so please be prepared to purchase lunch tickets.
16. Please visit the website for details on the Family Program and ensure that your families take part in great activities while you are at Conference.
17. For further information about the Conference please visit www.rotary7020conference.com or email business.servicesbvi2013@gmail.com for registration questions and bvi2013@gmail.com for general questions about the conference.
We look forward to seeing you for the week of 13-18 May 2013 at the Rotary District Conference 2013 in the beautiful British Virgin Islands.
For the past two years, I’ve traveled extensively on various Rotary missions – in preparation for taking over as District Governor for our great district. During my travels, I’ve visited not only the 10 wonderful countries that make up District 7020, but also many other countries on Rotary business. This has given me a vast appreciation of Rotary at work throughout the world. But, it has also reinforced the pride I feel in our great District - District7020. Through my travels, I’ve not only experienced a passion for Rotary but also Experienced the Passion of Rotary.
When I chose – Experience the Passion of Rotary - as our theme for our Rotary District for the year 2012-2013, I felt that it was something that really described our District. District 7020 is a vibrant and passionate district. Every year, we continue to grow in size. We have an increasing number of New Generations Clubs. We have an amazing relationship with our growing number of Rotaractors and we also keep expanding our Interact and our EarlyAct clubs. Last month we chartered a new Rotary Club in Haiti – the Rotary Club of Milot and we currently are grooming two Provisional Rotary E-Clubs. Our projects are dynamic and diversified; and when we fellowship - which we do VERY often – we really know how to fellowship. All these aspects are factors that help to make our district more vibrant and passionate. Don’t you agree?
Now, it might seem like we’re “blowing our own horn” here, but can you deny that you’ve not Experienced the Passion of Rotary in our service projects - our lively weekly meetings and/or during at least one of our fellowships? Also, as our year is quickly coming to an end, now is the time for us to “toot our own horn”. We’ve all worked really hard to contribute to the Global Polio Eradication Initiative (GPEI) - to End Polio Now - to help advance Literacy in our communities - to improve and promote healthy lifestyles with health fairs, etc. It’s been a fun time, but it’s been hard work. And we need to celebrate all our accomplishments. And that’s what District Conference is here to help us do.
The first part of the conference is focused on the Presidents-Elect and Secretary-Elect training so that they can plan and be organized for another exciting and successful Rotary year. The remainder of the conference though, is to celebrate - to continue to Experience the Passion of Rotary by recognizing all our good works, to honor those clubs that have truly excelled – and those individuals who have given of their time, talents and treasures and also to provide excellent opportunities to fellowship and share our experiences of the past year.
David Archer and the BVI District Conference team along with the District 7020 Training team have put together a fabulous week of learning and fellowship. The British Virgin Islands is prepared and anxiously awaiting your arrival with arms wide open to welcome you and showcase Nature’s Little Secrets. If you still have not registered for this year’s District Conference – Register Now! Let’s take this month of May to really show how great Rotary is and to be truly passionate about what we do!
The Rotary Club of Kingston's BACK2LIFE project in conjunction with Jamaica Public Service Co. Ltd is hosting a public forum on a subject that is becoming of increasing concern; namely the rate at which some boys are becoming disenfranchised - leading to poor school performance or dropping out altogether, anti-social and sometimes even violent behaviour.
Why are girls outperforming boys in academics? Why are some boys seeming to withdraw and no matter what you do you cannot seem to reach them? Why is anger so quick to flare and peer pressure so powerful? The public forum will address these issues, help us to understand their causes and, through discussion, will hopefully help us to find constructive and positive ways to address them.
Leading Anthropologist (Social Violence) Dr. Herbert Gayle, UWI Lecturer in Psychology, Sociology & Social Work, will lead us through an expose that will inform, enlighten and maybe frighten, but will guide us to a collective understanding that may raise the bar of our expectations and ask each of us to reach inside of ourselves for a greater resolve to understand, empathize and ultimately think and behave differently. The evening promises to be riveting!
The forum is for everyone who has an interest in raising a psychologically healthy male population that is able to contribute positively to our collective well-being, and especially targets parents & guardians of boys, teachers, mentors, professionals involved in criminal justice system, boy scout & youth club leaders & students.
** This story is taken from the Eleutheran: http://www.eleutheranews.com
Newly Chartered members of the CEHS Interact Club with District Superintendent for Education, Helen Simmons-Johnson (front left), Rotary Club of Eleuthera President, Jacqueline Gibson (front center), and Assistant District Governor, Stanford Charlton (front right).
The Rotary Club of Eleuthera celebrated with two of its youngest clubs on the island on Thursday, March 21, 2013, as they received their official certificates of Charter directly from Assistant District Governor (ADG) Mr. Stanford Charlton – who made a special trip to Eleuthera to share in these auspicious events.
At 2:30pm, a group of 20 students from the Deep Creek Middle School, now the island’s first EarlyAct Club, received their official charter and club pins. Club advisor and school Principal, Joanna Paul was lauded for her efforts with her enthusiastic group of youngsters.
Later on Thursday evening the Rotary Club of Eleuthera, hosted the Interact Club - based at the Central Eleuthera High School – to a dinner function in celebration of receiving their official certificate of Charter and pins as well. The Interact Club, which began with high school student President, Kenique Pinder in 2010, has grown since then, and presently boasts a membership of 46 students led by current President, Tiara Bethel.
According to Bethel, her club has been quite active during the past year, with a number of fundraisers, as well as projects, with the latest being the painting/striping of the main parking lot at the Central Eleuthera High School on March 9th.
Jacqueline Gibson, President of the Rotary Club of Eleuthera highlighted that her club has been busy in March, welcoming new and transferred members, working with Rotaract, Interact and Earlyact clubs, as well as spending time with their adopted School for Exceptional learners, where they’ve now established a story reading time, lunch sponsorships and fresh air yoga classes.
District Superintendent Helen Simmons-Johnson congratulates the newly chartered members of the CEHS Interact Club.
Eleuthera EarlyAct and Interact Clubs receive official certificates of Charter from ADG Stanford Chalton.
Rotary’s 108th anniversary on 23 February marks a year of both achievements in the fight to eradicate polio and a stepped-up commitment to finish the job.
Worldwide, 222 polio cases were reported in 2012, a little more than one-third of the 650 cases reported in 2011. India marked its second year without polio on 13 January. Overall, the annual incidence of polio has decreased more than 99 percent since the Global Polio Eradication Initiative was launched in 1988. Then polio infected about 350,000 children per year.
Although the wild poliovirus is now endemic only in Afghanistan, Pakistan, and Nigeria, it could spread from there back to other countries.
Among Rotary’s chief responsibilities in the eradication initiative is advocacy, an increasingly important element of this latter stage of the effort. In addition to contributing more than US$1 billion to the GPEI, Rotary has helped secure over $9 billion from donor governments since the initiative began in 1988. Rotary is boosting its advocacy work in the 200 countries and regions where Rotary clubs exist to encourage every national government to help meet a $700 million shortfall (as of 1 February) in funding the GPEI through 2013.
Rotarians in Canada, for example, have used letter-writing campaigns to persuade members of Parliament to support polio eradication. In August 2012, Rotary Foundation Trustee Chair and Past RI President Wilfrid Wilkinson and International PolioPlus Committee Chair Robert Scott, both Canadians, took the lead by writing Prime Minister Stephen Harper. Every Rotarian in the country received a copy of the letter and another that asked them to contact their own members of parliament.
Within three days, Wilkinson heard back from Rotarians who had conveyed the message to the prime minister or friends serving in other government positions.
In September, the Canadian government announced the Pennies and More for Polio initiative at a high-level side meeting on polio eradication during the United Nations General Assembly. Through the initiative, which runs until 1 March, the Canadian International Development Agency and the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation are each contributing C$1 to the GPEI for every dollar raised by Canadian Rotarians, up to $1 million. By the end of December, Rotarians had already exceeded the $1 million potential match, with the combined effort generating more than $3 million for the GPEI.
“The fundraising by Rotarians allows them to ask for support from the public at large,” says Wilkinson. “The fact that the government of Canada and the Gates Foundation are behind Rotary’s polio eradication effort is a big plus and helps our overall awareness efforts.”
Canadian Rotarians are also inviting their parliamentary representatives to Rotary club meetings leading up to Rotary’s anniversary. Rotarians everywhere can join the advocacy effort by talking to their elected officials, business leaders, and friends about polio eradication. Here are three ideas for making effective contacts:
Share articles about polio eradication, like those on the Rotary Media Center, that draw attention to Rotary’s role and the need for support.
Use the graphics available at www.endpolionow.org to show the importance of ending polio.
Invite an elected official to speak to your Rotary club and use the event to highlight Rotary’s commitment to ending polio. Give the speaker a polio-related gift, such as an End Polio Now pin or a framed photo of a child being immunized, and a certificate announcing that a contribution to PolioPlus has been made in the speaker’s name.
“You have been given the greatest opportunity in history to end this disease,” said Bruce Aylward, assistant director-general for Polio, Emergencies and Country Collaboration at the World Health Organization, speaking at Rotary’s International Assembly in January. “We can only finish with Rotary's leadership.”
The Zone 34 Peace Symposium is being held this Saturdya February 23rd in Atlanta. They have an amazing program planned. All who can, are encouraged to attend.
Zone 34 Peace Symposium 2012-2013- Rotarians are Encouraged to Attend
Rotary Youth Leadership Awards – RYLA Conference opened
With the participation of 124 Intercators and other Youth Leaders, RYLA was declared open last Thursday Evening by Assistant District 7020 Governor James Ferris. Prime Minister Sarah Wescot Williams, Minister Silveria Jacobs and District Governor Vance Lewis offered the young leaders words of welcome and encouragement before wishing them a successful conference on St. Maarten. The evening continued after the formalities with dinner and followed by a dynamic presentation by Psychologist Ms. Giselle Hilliman who spoke on the topic of “Understanding Different Behavioral Styles.
Gisella S. Hilliman, MA is a multi-talented young professional, and one of St Maarten's rising young leaders. Gisella holds a bachelors degree in Psychology from Temple University, in Philadelphia Pennsylvania and a Masters degree from the Massachusetts School of Professional Psychology, in Boston, Massachusetts. Her presentation engaged the participants to seriously evaluate their own personalities and those around them in an attempt to recognize how they themselves and others would react to a particular situation. The topic which set the tone for the rest of the conference which bears the theme “leadership and Peace through cultural diversity” was followed by an Ice Breaking Activity which built on the dinner theme. David McGregor Director and Trainer of TDC truly broke the ice as participants from Anguilla, St. Kitts, Tortola, Jamaica and St. Maarten took part in an exercise which challenged them to not look at each other in the eyes and remember as many as 20 names, of persons they had never met before, within 20 minutes. The challenge of not looking each other in the eyes failed terribly as clearly in our culture this is not customary. As for remembering names, based on an honor system the winner of this exercise was victorious with claiming to have remembered 18 names. Before lights out on the first night a final treat of ice cream was given as the following morning at 6:30 Patti Panthophlet would set the pace for the day with Zumba.
The Youth conference which is taking place at the MAC school in St. John’s Estate will end on Sunday afternoon. The varied topics discussed will be facilitated at the University of St. Maarten and at the MAC school.
For more on RYLA 2013 go to www.rotarysxm.org and our facebook page.
Rotary Club of St. Maarten Inducts two new members
District Governor 7020 Vance Lewis conducts ceremony
The Rotary Club of St. Maarten has two new members that where inducted during the lunch meeting on Wednesday February 13th at Divi Little Bay. Here for the opening of RYLA (Rotary Youth Leadership Awards) DG Vance Lewis was on hand from Tortola, to conduct the induction ceremony assisted in the pinning ceremony by the Honorable Governor Eugene Holiday who was a member of this club and is currently a Honorary member.
Joining Rotary are Debbie Biscontini and Geeta Usha Khatnani. Debbie Biscontini has a PhD in Economics and taught economics for much of her career, her classification within Rotary is Economist. Mrs. Bisconiti is also a volunteer Treasurer with the Dawn Beach Estate Lots Foundation.
Geeta "Ushi" Khatnani is the owner and manager of Mr Tablecloth and has joined the Rotary Club of St. Maarten under the classification of Retail.Ushi has been on the island since 1980 and lives with her husband Pishu and has 2 children and is has been a member of the Indian Merchants Association. Both new Rotarians have already demonstrated their involvement in community service within and without the Rotary organization. Recently inducted Rotarian of the Mid Isle Club Veronica Jansen Webster joined the other new members in the ceremony.
The opportunity was also taken by chairman of the RYLA Task Force Mr. James Ferris to present the the RYLA program to District Governor Vance Lewis.
Rotary Club of St. Maarten Inducts two new members
President Ger-Dwina Browne assisted by Secretary Rainer Ranis, Treasurer Ikmareka Hunt and Community Director Catherine de Windt organized a recruitment drive on Friday last at Carl & Sons.
Students of MPC who where identified as having leadership potential were invited and provided with a power point presentation in which information was shared of what Interact is all about and the Community Service, fundraising activities and fellowship that the Milton Peters College Interact club has been involved in over the past 3 years.
Interact is Rotary International’s service club for young people ages 12 to 18. Interact clubs are sponsored by individual Rotary clubs, which provide support and guidance, but they are self-governing and self-supporting. The MPC, St. Maarten Academy and Learning Unlimited Interact Clubs are sponsored by The Rotary Club of St. Maarten, while the St. Dominic High School Club is sponsored by St. Maarten Mid Isle Rotary Club. Club membership varies greatly. Clubs can be single gender or mixed, large or small. They can draw from the student body of a single school or from two or more schools in the same community.
Each year, Interact clubs complete at least two community service projects, one of which furthers international understanding and goodwill. Through these efforts, Interactors develop a network of friendships with local and overseas clubs and learn the importance of , leadership skills and personal integrity, being helpful and respectful to others taking on individual responsibility as well as hard work and understanding that all this and goodwill goes beyond the local geographical boarders.
As one of the most significant and fastest-growing programs of Rotary service, with more than 10,700 clubs in 109 countries and geographical areas, Interact has become a worldwide phenomenon. Almost 200,000 young people are involved in Interact.The recruitment drive resulted in 23 students of the Milton Peters College signing up to be Interactors. The official ceremony will be organized shortly. Anyone interested in joining an Interact Club should contact any member of the Rotary Family for more information.
MPC Interact Club hosts successful recruitment drive
Zone 34 has organized its first Peace Symposium in Atlanta in honor of Rotary International President Tanaka’s theme, Peace Through Service. This symposium will be at the Renaissance Concourse Atlanta Airport Hotel, One Hartsfield Centre Pkwy, Atlanta, GA 30354 on Saturday, February 23, 2013, from 8am – 3:00pm.
A very exciting program has been arranged by Co-Chairs Margie Kersey (District 6900) and PDG Betsy Owen (District 6930). Among the events will be a "peace dance” performed by an African American troupe, Interact and Rotaract Clubs presenting their prize winning projects, and a video displaying the peace projects of the clubs of Zone 34. Our presenters will be Peter Kyle speaking on Partners and Peace”, Dr. Abidemi Fasanmifrom Nigeria, speaking on "Gender Equality and Peace”, Jay Hakes speaking on "Energy Sources and Peace, and Wes Boughner speaking on projects clubs might accomplish for peace. Along with many other fun activities a peace pole will be planted to welcome visitors to the 2017 Rotary International Convention to symbolize our present and future commitment to the peace initiative.
If any of your New Generations groups (Interact or Rotaract) or clubs would like to help make origami cranes for the event, we will be happy to accept them if mailed to arrive by February 18. Instructions are attached. Please mail finished cranes to Christine Barrett – 3591 Montana Rd., Buford, Ga 30519, 865-293-2401. If your New Generations groups are sending in their Peace Projects, please send them by February 8 to Rich Panyik – 227 Chandler Walk, Loganville, GA 30052, ripanyik@bellsouth.net.
If any of your clubs have pictures of their peace projects for the slide show, please (by February 8) mail them or email them to Margie Kersey – PO Box 464381, Lawrenceville, GA 30042,404-680-7336, Margie@callkbs.com.
We are asking you or your appointee to work with the committee to ensure that there is a big contingency from your district in attendance. We are looking forward to seeing everyone in Atlanta on February 23 to join in the festivities to celebrate Peace Through Service. Registration information is attached to this email or http://www.IsMyRotaryClub.org/Register/GuestMemberExternal.cfm?EventID=77199599 will work. Be sure and mention "Rotary District” when making your reservations at the hotel to receive the discount rooms of $89.00. You can also register through your Dacdb under the date under on the calendar tab. See you there!
The Four Rotary Clubs on St. Maarten/Saint Martin are planning one of the largest Youth conferences St. Maarten has hosted for the second time called RYLA. Rotary Youth Leadership Awards (RYLA) is Rotary's leadership training program for young people. RYLA participants can be ages 14-30, but most clubs and districts choose to focus on a narrower age range, such as 14-18 or 19-30.
RYLA emphasizes leadership, citizenship, and personal growth, and aims to demonstrate Rotary's respect and concern for the youth, provide an effective training experience for selected youth and potential leaders, encourage leadership of youth by youth and recognize publicly young people who are rendering service to their communities.
The St Maarten/St Martin hosted RYLA will take place February 14-17, 2013.
The conference will target persons between the ages 14-17 years old from 10 countries in the Caribbean. In addition to Intercators from St. Maarten and Saint Martin, participants are expected to come from Haiti, Jamaica, St. Kitts & Nevis, Us Virgin Islands, Bahamas, British Virgin Islands, Cayman Island, Turks & Caicos and Anguilla.
Between seventy and one hundred and twenty participants are expected to attend the conference and preparations are in full swing.
Intercators on St. Maarten/Saint Martin are making their preparations for the Valentine’s weekend during which the 3 day conference will be held. The conference is being made possible through the generosity of sponsors such as CIBC, Nagico, Sol and Russell Bell Transportation.
In addition to being fun filled and an opportunity to make new friends the young leaders will be brushing up on their leadership skills such as listening and feedback. Effective public speaking, conflict resolution, dealing with bullying in an assertive but non aggressive way and much more are on the agenda. But it’s not only the leadership skills that will be polished, also team-building, culture and challenge exercises as well as community services projects are part of this grand event. The evenings are filled with more relaxing yet exiting activities which will put vocal cords and dancing skills to the test.
More details about RYLA and Interact Clubs can be found on www.rotary.org. Details such as registration for the St. Maarten/Saint Martin 2013 RYLA can be found on www.rotarysxm.org.
Rotary Awareness Month (January 2013) Leadership and Peace through Cultural Diversity
Rotary celebrates Literacy during the month of March. In District 7020, we also celebrate March as Emphases Month, where we can highlight some of our many service projects that focus on clean water, literacy, and health and hunger.
Clubs throughout the ten islands of our district donate to clean water projects, assist with feeding programs in schools and shelters, host health clinics and the list continues. What makes me especially proud of our district, though, are the hands-on, time consuming projects that we invest in as Rotarians. So many clubs have taken to visiting schools to read to students on either a bi-monthly or monthly basis or some have homework assistance programs. These projects get Rotarians even more involved in the community. I see this as I visit the various clubs. As we walk into a Rotary adopted or sponsored school, the children rush to us, knowing Rotarians by names, excited about yet another visit. It is just one of the many times when I am proud to be a Rotarian.
I would love to be able to give you exact numbers and statistics of how many literacy and water projects and feeding programs clubs in District 7020 organize each year. I know that it is substantial. Unfortunately, we have never been good at keeping track of what every club does every year. We need to improve on this aspect of our Rotary projects. We need to keep numbers to show the world how amazing Rotary truly is. All we need to do is go to Member Access at www.Rotary.org and click on Rotary Club Central. Here Presidents and Club leaders can take a few minutes to list what their clubs have been doing for the year. Think about it! If each of our 34,000 clubs in over 200 countries listed all that we do each year as Rotarians, wouldn’t that tell the world how truly important Rotary is - how important it is for someone with the same ideals to become a Rotarian?
Please go now to visit Rotary Club Central. Encourage your President and Club Leaders to enter in the information about your club and its service projects.
And while we are telling the world about our amazing work, let us not be afraid to celebrate what we have done. The deadline for the Zone Public Image Citation has been set for the 15th March and the District Literacy Award deadline was extended to March 17th. Please also encourage your Club President to apply for the RI Presidential Citation (Deadline is March 31st) , the District Governor’s Award for Excellence (Deadline is April 15th), and the Rotaract and Interact Club Presidential Citation (Deadline March 31st). Let us also not forget that the final Club of the Month submission is due on April 5th.
Rotarians work hard juggling work demands, Rotary Service and home demands. And we celebrate harder too. Fellowship is inherent in the first object of Rotary. So if you have not registered yet for the PETS, District Assembly & District Conference 2013 in the British Virgin Islands, please go and do so right away. The BVI is excited to welcome Rotarians to Nature’s Little Secret. Please go to www.rotary7020conference.com and register now. I promise you, you will Experience the Passion of Rotary like never before in the BVI.
Happy New Year District 7020! We are only five months away from the 2013 District Conference to be held in the British Virgin Islands, May 13-18, 2013. As Conference Chairman, I would like to use this opportunity to express our excitement for the conference ahead, under the theme, "Experience the Passion of Rotary".
Congratulations and thanks to those who have already registered. If you have not, you are invited to visit our Conference website at www.rotary7020conference.com or the District 7020 Website at www.7020.org to obtain further information on the Conference and, most importantly, to be included amongst the hundreds we anticipate will be visiting the beautiful shores of the British Virgin Islands to take part in the Conference.
Both websites will take you through a step by step process to register and will also provide an opportunity to submit any questions you might have regarding the Conference. For countries in our District that will need BVI Visas such as Haiti and Jamaica, we have simplified the process for you as follows:
1. Register for the Conference.
2. Email a scanned copy of your passport fact page which details your passport number and other issuing facts such as the place where your passport was issued, its expiration date and your photo to bvi2013@gmail.com Attention: District Conference 2012-2013 Secretary, Laura Arthur.
3. All persons requiring Visas should register and submit Visa request not later than February 28, 2013. We suggest that persons who require Visas register and send passport information as a group.
4. After your Visa has been processed we will email you a copy of the Visa.
5. Present Visa copy to airline agent when traveling to the BVI.
6. For Haitian Rotarians your point of contact in Haiti is PAG Caleb Lucien. Please email him at celucien@aol.com. PAG Caleb will also be coordinating travel for Haitian Rotarians coming to the Conference.
We have planned an amazing conference for you rooted in providing new and exciting Rotary information and learning, excellent fellowship and exposure to the beautiful British Virgin Islands. Should you have any questions about Conference Registration, please email business.servicesbvi2013@gmail.com. For general questions about the Conference please email bvi2013@gmail.com.
I am a Japanese businessman, and I wear a suit almost every day. The Rotary pin is always on my lapel. It is there because I am proud to be a Rotarian. Anywhere I go, people will see the pin and know who I am. Other Rotarians will see it and know that I am a friend, and people who are not Rotarians will see it as well. I want to be sure that all of them also understand the meaning of this pin.
This is why I am asking all of you to wear your Rotary pin and to raise awareness of what the pin means. I believe having that pin on your lapel changes you. It makes you think more before you speak and before you act. It makes you remember, all the time, that you are a Rotarian – and that as Rotarians, we are here to help.
All of us should be ready to talk about Rotary. When someone asks you about that pin, you should be ready to answer them. What is Rotary? What does Rotary do? These are questions that each of us should always be prepared to answer.
We cannot go to prospective members and ask them to join Rotary only because we want more members. We have to show them that Rotary is a wonderful organization, and that they will be happier because they belong to a Rotary club.
When we ask people to join Rotary, we are doing this to help them as well. I think all of us are grateful to the person who asked us to join. I know that my life is much happier, and has been much more productive, because of Rotary. It is clear to me that the day I joined the Rotary Club of Yashio was a day when I took my first step down a different path in life – a path of greater connection, greater satisfaction, and a deeper sense of fulfillment and peace.
This is a feeling that I want to share with others. And I know that one way to do that is through bringing in new members. But we must also do it by raising awareness of Rotary and Rotary’s work, by focusing on our public image and wearing our Rotary pins every day.
Sakuji Tanaka
President, Rotary International
Join the President in wearing your Rotary pin during Rotary Awareness Month in January
The year 2012 is nearly gone, and we have reached the midpoint of this Rotary year. It is time to take stock of the goals we have set for ourselves, and the progress we have made toward them. Are we on track to achieve what we set out to accomplish?
I am a great believer in the importance of setting goals that are high but realistic. A worthwhile goal should be within your reach but still require you to stretch. Opening yourself to a new challenge helps you find out what you are really capable of – which may well be more than you think.
On 1 July, we will embark on our newest challenge as an organization: the full rollout of the Future Vision Plan, the new grant model for our Rotary Foundation. We in Rotary have set for ourselves a simple and vital goal: to do the most good we can with all the resources we have. To do this, we will be working to reduce overhead; to improve accountability, transparency, and local control; and to focus our service more intensely in the areas where we know we can have the most impact.
With Future Vision, we will implement a simplified grant structure that will encourage Rotarians to serve in our six areas of focus: peace and conflict prevention/resolution, disease prevention and treatment, water and sanitation, maternal and child health, basic education and literacy, and economic and community development. These are areas in which Rotarians around the world have already been working for many years, and in which we have experience and a track record of project sustainability.
Sustainability will be a major focus under Future Vision, as we shift our emphasis to long-term, high-impact projects. Simply put, a sustainable project is one that will continue to benefit the world even after Rotary funding ends. The ultimate example of a sustainable project, of course, is polio eradication: When polio is gone, the good that we have done will continue forever, centuries after the last polio vaccine is given. And the lessons we have learned from PolioPlus are universal. A truly sustainable project requires an emphasis on planning and cooperation, a long-term perspective, and an approach that considers community members as partners in our service, not passive recipients.
Embracing Future Vision means embracing a more ambitious view of Rotary – one in which we work to address major issues in a serious, lasting way. It is a new way of thinking about our service, and an approach that I believe will lead to a Foundation more capable than ever of Doing Good in the World.
As a year end holiday gift, United Airlines is again offering a donation of 10 million miles to benefit charity miles partners.
Rotary has been United's partner for many years through the "Rotary Miles" program, which has provided free airfare for hundreds of children and adults in need of lifesaving surgery and other worthy causes.
From 6 December to 25 December, you can vote once each day for Rotary on each of your devices such as laptop, smartphone, tablet, etc. Charities receive a portion of the miles based on the percentage of the overall vote they receive. So forward the link http://10millioncharitymiles.com/ to everyone you know. Last year, we took second in the contest, receiving 2.5 million charity miles. Your vote could help Rotary come in first this year in the 10 Million Charity Miles Giveaway!
Vote for Rotary in United's 10 million miles giveaway
A very exciting preliminary program has been arranged by Co-Chairs PDG Betsy Owen (District 6930) and Margie Kersey (District 6900).
Among the events will be
• talks by a Peace Fellow and other peace speakers
• a "peace dance” performed by an African American troupe
• Interact and Rotaract Clubs presenting their peace projects
• a video displaying the peace projects of the clubs of Zone 34
We will be planting a peace pole - which will welcome the visitors to the 2017 Rotary International Convention at the Atlanta Airport to symbolize our present and future commitment to the peace initiative.
The Symposium committee will be planning the details. We are asking you or your appointee to work with the committee to ensure that there is a big contingency from your district in attendance. We are looking forward to seeing you and your District’s members in Atlanta on February 23 to join in the festivities to celebrate Peace Through Service.
Registration information will be forthcoming from Betsy and Margie soon.
Hard to imagine that months of preparations have flew by so fast, and in just a few days the 2012 GSE Team from Rotary District 7020 will be on their way to India, District 3260.
I’m grateful for the opportunity to lead this GSE team who have worked hard to ensure that they will be good ambassadors of our District. We depart December 1 and return on December 31, 2012.
Here is the blog address: http://gseindia2012.wordpress.com
Keep tuning into this blog for updates on this great program of The Rotary Foundation.
- PAG Haresh L. Ramchandani, Team Leader
hramchandani@hotmail.com
Top: The Rotary Club of Melbourne, Florida, sponsored the first Interact Club, chartered at Melbourne High School, in 1962. Rotarians and Interactors (center) pose for a picture. Bottom: A recreation of the photo with current Interactors and members of the sponsoring Rotary club. Photo courtesy of Rotary Club of Melbourne.
The very first Interact club, formed at Melbourne High School in Melbourne, Florida, USA, is joining Interact clubs and their sponsors around the globe in celebrating the program’s 50th anniversary during World Interact Week, 5-11 November.
The Melbourne club received its charter in November 1962, under the guidance and sponsorship of the Rotary Club of Melbourne, Florida, USA. In celebration of the golden anniversary, charter members of the club joined current Interactors and Rotarians from District 6930 for a night of reflection and fellowship.
“What makes Rotary great is what makes Interact great,” says Michael Welch, president of the Rotary Club of Melbourne, who helped plan the anniversary event. “For a person -- especially a young person, an Interactor -- to appreciate the concept of Service Above Self, and then put it to work on their own time, it’s a special experience that can change a lot of lives.”
As part of the celebration, Melbourne Interactors gave a presentation on the history of Interact. District Governor-nominee Juan Ortega explained how his experiences with Interact in Colombia led him to join Rotary.
The present-day Interactors and their sponsors also re-created an iconic photo of their club that appeared in The Rotarian in 1962.
Texas Interactors
The Interact Club of Robert E. Lee High School in Baytown, Texas, USA, which was chartered just months after the club in Melbourne, is celebrating the anniversary with various events, including a roundup on 15 September that was attended by more than 320 Interactors from across District 5890.
The Texas Interactors created a video showing photos and projects from the past five decades, in addition to networking with fellow Interactors and Rotarians. The Interactors and the Rotary Club of Baytown, which sponsors the club, presented two cakes, one to mark their club’s anniversary and the other for the Interact program.
The celebrations continued 27 September as RI President Sakuji Tanaka spoke at an all-club meeting held by the district. Garrett Kneese, a district Interact leader, discussed the importance of Interact and Rotary.
The Interactors are also conducting service projects to mark the anniversary. District Interactors went door-to-door with their Rotary sponsors on 31 October collecting nonperishable food for the district’s Interact Hungry Harvest program. The club set a goal of donating 3,000 cans to local food pantries and issued a challenge to other Interact clubs to match their efforts.
As an ongoing service project, the Interactors sort and pack used textbooks for Rotary Books for the World, a literacy project that collects reading and writing materials for schools in the developing world.
Tommie Buscemi, a member of the Rotary Club of Kingwood, Texas, USA, and cochair of the district’s Interact committee, says she’s seen how Interact has benefited its members by showing them how valuable they are to their community. “They’re the future of our country and the future of Rotary,” she says. “The program rewards them for being great leaders. They step up and do what’s important.”
Buscemi adds that Rotary clubs can also benefit by working with Interactors. “They inspire Rotarians to look at things differently,” she says. “They’re teaching us, through social media, how we can change the way we’re doing things and how we can make a bigger impact.”
Other celebrations
In San Antonio, Texas, District 5840 is holding its third annual New Generations Interact Conference at The Winston School San Antonio on 10 November. Tom Thorfinnson, a past RI director and vice president, will be the keynote speaker.
Five Interact clubs are working with Habitat for Humanity on a building project in January, and 12 Interact clubs are raising money for wells in Honduras. Interactors are holding fundraisers, including a golf tournament and a 5K run, in an attempt to raise US$11,500. The district has also created pins commemorating the 50th anniversary for Interactors.
You can celebrate the 50th anniversary by:
Entering a short video in our annual Interact video contest. Interact clubs may choose one of three themes related to the 50th anniversary.
Promoting Peace Through Service by designing a postcard to illustrate how Interact contributes to peace and understanding. One winning Interactor and his or her parent will receive round-trip airfare on United Airlines to attend one of the three upcoming Rotary Global Peace Forums, to be determined by Rotary International. Read the complete rules and guidelines.
Challenging your club to hold an event or each Interactor to raise US$50 for Rotary’s fight to eradicate polio.
Organizing a project that involves 50 positive actions in one of Rotary’s areas of focus. Examples include donating 50 books to support basic education and literacy or organizing a community forum with 50 young people.
Sharing photos of your club’s World Interact Week activities on the Interact Facebook page.
Interact clubs celebrate the program’s golden anniversary
"FREEPORT , Grand Bahama -- Rotarians on Grand Bahama came together during Hurricane Sandy with the activation of the emergency Rotary Water Plant from October 24-28, 2012. Commissioned after the devastating hurricanes of Frances and Jeanne in 2004, the plant provides potable drinking water to residents during times when serious weather impacts the local supply.
Rotarians activated the plant's RO machine in advance of Hurricane Sandy, putting about 5,000 gallons of water in the tank. Sandy impacted Grand Bahama for much of Friday and into the evening and early hours of Saturday.
The plant was re-activated early Saturday morning and Rotary volunteers began to assemble to help. They were put to work sanitizing and filling the nearly 500 one-gallon jugs which had been collected and stored in the plant throughout the year.
On Saturday, between the hours of 10:00am and 7:00pm, Rotarians estimate they gave away approximately 3,600 gallons of water to persons who came to the plant either with their own jugs or took those which they had to give them. In addition, they sent two tank trailers (275 gallons each) with Rotarian Peter Turnquest to be taken to East End Grand Bahama once the water subsided. The Grand Bahama Fire Brigade also made two trips with 55 gallon drums to flush toilets at some of the old folks homes on the island.
By Sunday morning most of Freeport had city water trickling through the pipes, however certain pockets did not, including East End, from the old missile base,
the entire settlement of Eight Mile Rock, and West End. Parts of East End are still without water mid-week post-Sandy.
Rotarians met again at the plant on Sunday and gave away an additional estimated 1,500 to 2,000 gallons of water.
The Rotary water plant crew would like to credit ZNS northern service radio for broadcasting their announcements about the water plant being open and for the station's continuous storm coverage. All the Rotary volunteers who assisted with the emergency water plant project were pleased the plant performed flawlessly and that they were able to continue Rotary's motto - Service Above Self - and help many persons in the community in a meaningful way.
The Grand Bahama Emergency Water Relief Foundation (The Rotary Water Plant) was envisioned by the TK Foundation who saw Rotary as the perfect partner and commissioned a joint project involving Rotary Districts 5280 - Los Angeles, CA; 7020 - Nassau and the Caribbean; and 6990 - Grand Bahama and South Florida; with assistance from the Rotary Foundation, and numerous corporate sponsors. - (press release written by PP Mike Stafford of the Freeport, Grand Bahama Rotary Club, D6990)
The Rotary Foundation is Doing Good in The World - please support it
Lindsey Cancino
District 7020 DRFC
Rotarians on Grand Bahama activate Rotary Water Plant
There are many ways to describe our Rotary Foundation. But I think of our Foundation literally – as the foundation for all of Rotary.
We do not often think about the ground beneath our feet. We do not often think about the walls that are holding up our house. We take them for granted. We think about them only when they are not there.
Not long ago in Japan, the ground fell out from under our feet. On Friday, 11 March 2011, a magnitude 9 earthquake shook Japan to its very core. More than 15,000 people died, nearly 6,000 were injured, and another 4,000 are still missing. The total losses of the disaster are estimated at over US$300 billion.
In a matter of hours, half a million people in one of the world’s wealthiest and most developed countries lost everything. They went from living in comfort and security to facing an uncertain future in school gymnasiums, tents, and ruined buildings.
In Japan, we are used to earthquakes. We thought we were ready for anything. But no one ever expected anything like this.
What happened on that day changed Japan, and everyone who lives there. It has made us realize how fragile our lives are. And it has made me realize how little separates me from the people I help through Rotary.
It is easy to look at the people we help through our Foundation as somehow different from ourselves. They live far away. We do not know their language or their culture. We do not know what it is like to have no running water, no sanitation, no health care, no education. We look at pictures, and we read stories in the news about poverty, wars, and disasters. We see, from so far away, the people who are living through such terrible times. But it is hard to put ourselves in their place.
Today, I tell you that there is nothing at all separating us from the people we help. We are all the same. Only the circumstances surrounding us are different.
Through our Foundation, we have the power to live the words of our Foundation’s motto: Doing Good in the World. Through it, we can do so much more good than we could ever do alone. And it matters so much – to people just like us.
On World Polio Day, 24 October, people around the globe will participate in the World’s Biggest Commercial, promoting the international effort to eradicate the devastating disease.
The innovative, interactive online initiative gives everyone a chance to join Archbishop Desmond Tutu, Bill Gates, Jackie Chan, Angelique Kidjo, and other world figures and celebrities who have already joined in Rotary’s This Close campaign in support of polio eradication. Participants can upload photos of themselves to Rotary’s polio eradication website, endpolionow.org, to be edited into the constantly expanding promotional spot. They receive an email with a direct link to their image and comment within the commercial.
Rotary is also releasing End Polio Now, an eclectic album of songs performed by its celebrity polio eradication ambassadors from the music industry. The lineup includes several polio survivors: violin virtuoso Itzhak Perlman, folk rock musician Donovan, and Staff Benda Bilili, a Congolese soukous band scheduled to launch its U.S. tour in Los Angeles on World Polio Day. The End Polio Now album is available for download on iTunes, and soon as a CD from shop.rotary.org, with all proceeds from sales going to PolioPlus.
Coinciding with World Polio Day, Rotary is ramping up its advocacy work in the 200 countries and regions where Rotary clubs exist to encourage every national government to commit to help meet a $700 million funding shortfall for the Global Polio Eradication Initiative through 2013.
Although new polio cases are at an all-time low -- there were fewer than 180 worldwide in 2012 as of 16 October -- the funding gap has already curtailed scheduled immunization activities in polio-affected countries. If eradication fails and polio rebounds, up to 200,000 children per year could be paralyzed.
“Governments need to step up and honor their commitments to polio eradication if we are to achieve our goal of a polio-free world,” says Wilfrid J. Wilkinson, chair of The Rotary Foundation. “We are at a true tipping point, with success never closer than it is right now. We must seize the advantage by acting immediately, or risk breaking our pledge to the world’s children.”
Here are other ways you can support the global effort to eradicate polio:
Upload your photo for the World's Biggest Commercial.
Lend your voice to advocacy efforts by signing the petition on endpolionow.org.
Begin planning an End Polio Now lighting to celebrate Rotary’s anniversary on 23 February.
Contribute now to end polio.
On World Polio Day, join the World’s Biggest Commercial
Many of you know that we now have five Avenues of Service in Rotary. The fifth, and newest, is New Generations Service. There are many ways to serve through this avenue, and you will read about some of them in this month’s issue.
All of the work we do to educate children, to improve maternal health, to help families live healthier lives – all of this is service to New Generations. We also serve New Generations by working to eradicate polio, helping to ensure that future generations of children will be born into a polio-free world.
Our youth and young adult programs, such as Rotaract, Interact, Rotary Youth Leadership Awards, and Rotary Youth Exchange, are a very important part of this Avenue of Service. We must remember that the youth of today are the leaders of tomorrow. By helping to develop young leaders and bringing younger members into our clubs, we strengthen communities – and Rotary’s future.
For most of my life, I have been a salesman. I learned long ago that being a good salesman is not enough. You must also have a good product. If you are a good salesman, you will make the first sale. But if you do not have a good product, you will make only the first sale. You will not make the second.
It is not enough to bring new members into Rotary. We want them to stay. We want the new, young members to become longtime members. We want them to be Rotary leaders in 10, 20, or 30 years.
How do we do this? We have to look at our product. We have to look at Rotary not with our own eyes, but with new eyes. When we invite a new member to join and that person’s answer is no, we should ask why. This is not to pressure someone into joining. It is to find out more information. What are the obstacles to membership? Is it an inconvenient meeting time? Is it too much of a time commitment? Is it something else that we have not thought of?
We need to ask questions, and we need to open ourselves to the answers. We cannot say, “No, we will not do this,” just because we have never done it before. Why not have child care at a meeting? Why not involve families in projects? Why not make attendance requirements less strict, or meet less often?
Our new Avenue of New Generations Service is an important step in ensuring many future generations of Rotary, and of Service Above Self.
Paralympic athletes at the garden party sponsored by Rotary International, in association with UNICEF, the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, the British Pakistan Foundation, and the Global Poverty Project. Photo by Jordi Matas
Perseverance and dedication are qualities that both Paralympic athletes and Rotarians use to reach their goals.
To highlight this common bond, British Rotarians used the excitement surrounding the opening day of the 2012 Paralympic Games on 30 August to rally government dignitaries from the United Kingdom and Pakistan to raise funds for Paralympic athletes and Rotary’s PolioPlus program.
“We wanted to celebrate the achievements of these amazing athletes and Rotary’s hard work towards polio eradication,” says Judith A. Diment, PolioPlus national advocacy adviser for the UK and a member of the Rotary Club of Windsor St. George, England. “Both groups have persevered through great odds to be where we’re at today.”
Rotary International, in association with UNICEF, the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, the British Pakistan Foundation, and the Global Poverty Project, sponsored the garden party in London attended by more than 100 people, including five Paralympic athletes, three of whom are polio survivors.
The event raised thousands of dollars for PolioPlus and the Pakistani Paralympic Committee and advocated for a polio-free world. Wajid Shamsul Hasan, the High Commissioner of Pakistan to the United Kingdom, praised Rotary’s efforts to eradicate polio in Pakistan and spoke about his government’s commitment to step up resources to rid his country of the disease.
Diment said advocacy efforts have become more important than ever, as funding shortages have forced the Global Polio Eradication Initiative (GPEI) to cancel or scale back immunization activities in high-risk countries, leaving more children vulnerable to the disease.
The GPEI launched an emergency action plan earlier this year but is US$1 billion short of what it needs in order to implement the plan through 2013. Rotarians can help, Diment says, by lobbying their governments to commit funding for polio eradication and by spreading the word about the immense benefits of finally eliminating this crippling disease.
“We must continue to reach out and put Rotary’s effort in front of the opinion makers and governments so they act in helping us achieve our goal of polio eradication worldwide,” says Diment.
Rotary Leadership Institute (RLI) Training is back in Jamaica, and will be held on November 24th and 25th at the Spanish Court Hotel in Kingston!
Not sure what RLI is? Ask anyone in your club that’s done it! I am sure you will hear nothing but fabulous remarks! Here are a few Testimonials:
RLI Testimonials
"I learned more today in Part 2 than in all three years I've been a Rotarian."
"I've been in Rotary for 18 years and I never knew what it was all about! I am definitely coming back."
"The instructors were great, no lecturing at all, but we learned something in every class."
"I was a member of a Rotary Club for 11 years, but after completing RLI and learning the true essence of what Rotary is, I now consider myself a Rotarian."
Notes:
· RLI comprises of Part 1, Part 2, Part 3 and Graduate.
· Saturday the 24th will offer Part 1 and Part 3
· Sunday the 25th will offer Part 2 and Graduate
· Registration is $80 per course inclusive of Breakfast, Lunch, Coffee breaks and all training materials.
· One can do a maximum of 2 courses in one weekend
· Deadline is strictly enforced and will cut off on Nov 13th Midnight or once class is full. There will be no exceptions.
· Registration begins at 7:30am on each day, and classes run until 3:30pm
Hotel Accommodation Information
Spanish Court Hotel
1 St. Lucia Avenue
Kingston 5
Jamaica, West Indies (WI)
Jamaica: (876) 926 0000 / (876) 618 6000
Fax: (876) 926 1613
Email: info@spanishcourthotel.com
Special Rate is $109 (Single) and $128 (Double) + taxes. Code for discount is RLI.
Registration Information
Step 1: Visit www.rlitraining.org
Step 2: Click “Online Registration”
Step 3: Click “Register as New User” if it is your first time. Otherwise sign in using your existing login.
Step 4: Hit “Continue”
Step 5: Choose “Caribbean” Region
Step 6: Select Course(s)
Step 7: Proceed with remaining Registration and Payment Instructions. Ensure that you receive confirmations for both courses if you are doing two.
It’s the best investment you’ll make in Rotary. Act Now!
Here’s hoping all is well with you and yours in your corner of the world.
On behalf of Caribbean Partnership, Inc. (CP), I would like to use this medium to reach out to you for your support to our suffering families and friends in the Caribbean and in particular, Haiti. Due to delays and costs with shipping products and supplies into Haiti, our Taskforce recommends monetary support at this time.
After their tragic experience with the earthquake of January 2010 and a period of limited recovery, these unfortunate people encountered yet another major disaster with Tropical Storm Isaac on August 27, 2012. Many people who were living in tent cities were overcome by the terrible storm and were subsequently left in mud with all their belongings destroyed or missing. Many were injured, and several lives were lost in this catastrophe.
Consequently, we are asking for your kind financial support which will be effectively and efficiently managed with accountability. Please send your donations to:
Account Name -CARIBBEAN PARTNERSHIP, INC.
ABA Routing/Transit Numbers -043000096
Account Number -1205090286
SWIFT Code -PNCCUS33
Please ensure that your transit information includes a note that the funds are designated for “Isaac Aid.” For assistance with transit information/ problems, please contact: PDG Philip Lustig, 9937 Majorca PL, Boca Raton, FL 33434; Ph. 561-487-2481 and Cell 561-212-6554
Thank you for your kind considerations, and please do not hesitate to contact me at (703) 447-8637 or via email at hmccormack@hgmteam.com if necessary.
PDG Horace G. McCormack Chairman, Caribbean Partnership, Inc.
Youth Exchange Students from Canada and the United States hold flags aloft during the hands across the border ceremony in 2005. Photo courtesy District 5360
In a year when the RI theme is all about peace, the annual gathering of Rotarians from both sides of the U.S.-Canadian border at the world’s first peace park takes on even greater significance.
In 1932, Rotarians played a large role in convincing the governments of Canada and the United States to join Glacier National Park in Montana and Waterton Lakes National Park in Alberta, forming Waterton-Glacier International Peace Park.
Each year since, Rotarians from both countries have gathered for a weekend of fellowship and goodwill, an event that this year could include members from more than 200 clubs in four districts in southwestern Canada and the northwestern United States.
“When I heard this year’s theme was about peace I was thrilled. It fits so well with what our districts have been doing here for the past 80 years,” says Frances Leggett, governor of Canadian District 5360 and president of the Waterton-Glacier International Peace Park Association. “Peace means all sorts of things. Any sort of collaboration is really a means of promoting peace.”
“When all is said and done, ours is an organization of service that can lift others, and build peace one person at a time,” adds Canadian Monty Audenart, a past RI vice president, who has participated in the event.
The assembly alternates between the U.S. and Canadian sides of the border. This year it takes place in Kalispell, Montana, 14-16 September. Three days of speakers and events will be capped off by the most moving part of the assembly, when Rotarians join hands across a white ribbon symbolizing the border between their countries.
During the ceremony, Rotarians recite this pledge: “In the name of God we will not take up arms against each other. We will work for peace, maintain liberty, strive for freedom, and demand equal opportunities for all mankind. May the long existing peace between our two nations stimulate other people to follow this example.”
Youth exchange students from both countries take part whenever possible. “A few years back, we had a separate event for the youth exchange students, and at the Saturday banquet they all marched in carrying the flags of their nations. It was a very moving experience,” Leggett recalls.
Beginnings
The idea for the peace park originated eight decades ago, when the president of the Rotary Club of Cardston, Alberta, Joseph S. Low, attended a meeting at which Past District Governor Frank R. Freeze spoke eloquently on the subject of international fellowship. Low decided to pitch to his club the idea of arranging an annual goodwill meeting between Canadian and U.S. Rotary clubs on alternating sides of the border. The club heartily endorsed the idea and authorized him to make it happen.
The park was dedicated on 18 June 1932. At the ceremony, Canadian Prime Minister R.B. Bennett and U.S. President Herbert Hoover expressed sentiments that mirrored Low’s.
“It is my earnest hope that this great International Peace Park, stretching across our common frontier and in which citizens of both our countries may seek recreation, may forever remain a permanent memorial of all that neighbourly relations should be between adjoining nations,” Bennett wrote.
“Dedication of the Waterton-Glacier International Park is a further gesture of the good will that has so long blessed our relations with our Canadian neighbors, and I am gratified by the hope and the faith that it will forever be an appropriate symbol of permanent peace and friendship,” wrote Hoover.
Today, Rotarians govern the Waterton-Glacier International Peace Park Association. Canadians and Americans are equally represented on the 18-member board, and the presidency alternates between the two countries.
Adapted from a Rotary Canada story by Paul Engleman
World’s first peace park celebrates its 80th anniversary
Every day, Rotarians work on service projects that make a positive impact on communities worldwide. Through Rotary Showcase, you can promote your club’s achievements to other Rotarians and Facebook friends. Add your project today or browse the site to see the good work other clubs are doing.
The clubs of USVI North worked together to create three videos to encourage membership and community support. The first was aired alongside the opening of the Olympics and is currently showing in the local movie theatres. Additional videos can be seen Here and Here and Here
Top: The Rotary Club of Cotonou Ifê, Benin, celebrates Rotary's anniversary with a cake in February. The club is one of several formed recently in Benin. Photo courtesy Boris Crestia. Bottom: Claudio Spiguel, third from left, and other members of the Rotary Club of Guaxupé, Minas Gerais, Brazil, with a car they purchased for a school for at risk youth. Decals on the car helped publicize Rotary's involvement, and led to several membership inquiries. Photo courtesy Claudio Spiguel
Eight years ago, Géné Villaça-Crestia was asked by her district governor to start a new Rotary club in her country, Benin.
She had been a Rotarian for only four years and didn’t really know where to begin. But she had a few things working in her favor: Villaça-Crestia is extremely passionate about Rotary, and she doesn’t take no for an answer.
“I don’t hesitate to drive to people’s places and come back again,” says Villaça-Crestia of her recruitment style. “I don’t wait for them to get back to me and tell me they don’t have time. I insist and go after them until they understand what Rotary is all about and the good it will do them to join.”
Villaça-Crestia’s techniques have been extremely effective. Within three months of her district governor’s request, she helped launch the Rotary Club of Cotonou Rive Gauche, Benin, and became the charter president. During the next two years, she helped form three other clubs, including two composed almost entirely of younger Rotarians.
This year, she and her son, Boris Crestia, a public relations specialist and Rotary Public Image Coordinator for Zone 20A, have teamed up to recruit advertising, public relations, and media professionals for another new club, which will soon be seeking its charter. Members have set goals of promoting basic education and literacy in Africa and serving as a public relations resource for other clubs.
Be passionate and persistent
Villaça-Crestia says the key to recruiting new members is to show them how passionate you are about Rotary and be persistent.
“People say they came to Rotary because they felt my passion and I could communicate it to them,” she says. “In this state of mind, any challenge is never really impossible.
“More than once, I had to wait hours in a reception area in order to meet an important or busy person and be able to convince them to join Rotary or give to The Rotary Foundation,” she adds. “But when you just explain to people, for instance, that the same money they pay for a nice meal in a good restaurant could help immunize a great number of families against polio, most people are sensitive to this and react immediately.’’
Villaça-Crestia says her favorite thing to say to prospective members is that by being Rotarians, they can be a bridge between the millions of dollars available through The Rotary Foundation and the poorest populations of the world. “Knowing that, and not becoming a Rotarian, is almost criminal,” she says.
Be involved in service and be visible
Brazilian Claudio Spiguel is another Rotarian who has succeeded in recruiting members. When Spiguel became president of the Rotary Club of Guaxupé in 2005, the club was hovering below 20 members and in danger of losing its ability to make a significant contribution to the community.
By focusing on getting members involved in service projects and publicizing those projects, he had helped raise membership to 34 by the end of his second stint as president. While serving in various leadership roles since, he has spread that enthusiasm to other clubs in the district, with similar effect.
Spiguel shared the following tips:
Teach club members the Foundation’s grant process and immediately engage them in pursuing projects that benefit well-known service organizations in need in your community. “To date, we have done five Matching Grant projects, and each has improved our credibility in the community.”
Broadcast the results of your work through partnerships with local media. “We created a weekly program at a regional TV station called ‘Rotary in the Community,’ a talk show with interviews and presentations about our work and Rotary in general. It has reached many people with our message.” ( Read a blog post from Spiguel)
What you can do
Share your passion for Rotary with your family, friends, and community during Membership and Extension Month in August. This year you’re invited to take part in two activities designed to help you remember why you joined and convert that excitement into inviting others to join.
By taking the Rotary Membership Challenge, you commit to sponsor a new member, tell a friend or colleague about your club’s projects, or volunteer as a mentor to prospective or new members. After you complete the form, Rotary will email you links to resources to help you meet the challenge.
By participating in the first-ever Rotary Moment Tweet Day on 14 August, you can tweet about your favorite Rotary memory or event, talk about your club’s activities, or share your community service project. Use hashtag #RotaryMoment.
In our Rotary calendar, we are reminded that August is Membership and Extension month. Although only the second month of the Rotary year, it is imperative that during this month we as Rotarians focus on retaining and attracting new members. Additional members gained early in the year can help propel our various clubs forward and upward toward success.
One school of thought tells us that if we focus on keeping our club vitalized with service projects, inviting interesting speakers to address our various club meetings and assemblies, enjoying good fellowship at all our service projects and during our meetings, we are likely to find that together these efforts will be rewarded with an increase in membership satisfaction. Satisfied members are more likely to remain Rotarians and indeed will want to share this satisfaction with non-members. This will then make our club look attractive to Rotarians and non-Rotarians and we can exploit this attractiveness by inviting these non-Rotarians to our meetings.
In his August message, Rotary International President Sakuji Tanaka encourages us to share with others, reasons why we think that Rotary is a great organization. He encourages us to talk about our Rotary moment as a means of inspiring others.
I too, would like to echo that sentiment and thus I am imploring all Rotarians in our great District 7020 to let us join together and dispel the myth that Rotary is the best kept secret in the world. We can do this by passionately talking about our Aha moment - our Rotary moment. This is the moment when the mental light bulb switches on as we suddenly gain clarity on some aspect of our lives. We will be surprised to see the powerful and positive impact of our telling about our Rotary moment. This personal experience can be used to great effect to open doors and to build new friendships.
Yesterday I was having a corporate meeting with a colleague and I casually asked the person whether he had heard about Rotary and what his impression was. I was told that the impression of the Rotary organisation was very positive but he wondered why no one had ever invited him to become a member? I have now invited this individual to the next round of meetings to be held by clubs in our area.
The moral of the story is that there are many potential Rotarians just waiting to be invited to a meeting. Take the plunge! Invite a friend or colleague to your next meeting. Tell him or her why you became a Rotarian. Tell that person about the good things that we as Rotarians do on a daily basis. Explain about the great things that Rotarians are doing to ensure that polio is eradicated from the face of the earth. Share your personal moment and you may be surprised to find out that your club will have a new vital member within a month. Then do not forget to include your story, along with all your other membership-related activities, in your August Club Of The Month (COTM) report that your club will submit before September 5th.
District 7020 is planning and moving forward to create a new Rotary club– an E-club.
Rotary E-clubs became official in July 2010 when the 2010 Council on Legislation voted to make E-clubs a permanent part of Rotary International. E-clubs meet online in a variety of formats. An E-club operates the same way as does any other Rotary club. An E-club is designed primarily for business, professional, and community leaders who are unable to attend a weekly meeting in person (due to physical disabilities, location constraints, or busy schedules).
At this time, District 7020 is looking only for current Rotarians who might find it more convenient to participate in an Eclub format. Participation will be limited at this point to the District 7020 geographic location. Our goal right now is to inform the district and to find out how many Rotarians in the district would be prospective E-club members. The E-club option offers the opportunity to meet, conduct service projects, and participate in Rotary fellowship.
From time to time, Rotarians who miss their regular Rotary club meeting may make up a meeting by attending an e-club meeting online – a valuable service for all members. Are you interested? Or do you know of someone in District 7020 for whom this E-club would be a
viable option? Please send an email to Kitty at ladykitt@sympatico.ca.
EClub for District 7020 Preparations - Will It Suit You?
What is Rotary? When I ask Rotarians this question, they often give vague answers. And when I asked myself this question, I had to think about it. August is Membership and Extension Month in Rotary, and I want all Rotarians to be able to send a unified message about what Rotary is and why they joined.
The key to increasing membership is for every Rotarian to be convinced that it’s good to be a Rotarian, and to convey that passion to others. In Rotary, we have a tendency to be humble and keep our achievements to ourselves. But we must share them with those around us and with the world.
Every Rotarian has a specific moment that stands out and has a special meaning. Some people refer to this as their “Rotary Moment.” I believe it is very important to share this moment with others. Facts and numbers can only go so far, but sharing a personal experience can open doors and build friendships.
That’s why I decided to create some sample messages that I call “Rotary Moments.” You can use these one-minute and three-minute messages to answer the question “What is Rotary?” in a way that is most personal to you. They will help you talk about the projects you’ve been involved in, how they’ve helped your community, and what’s been most meaningful to you.
To strengthen Rotary, we need more members. But unless those members are convinced of the benefits of the organization and can share that passion with others, expanding Rotary won’t be meaningful.
If every Rotarian is happy about being a Rotarian and spreads the word with a clear, unified message – if every Rotarian around the world can be his or her own PR department – the combined, collective effect will be enormous. These sample messages will help us all clearly communicate our enthusiasm to others. This will lead to an increase in new membership and in member retention.
The messages are available for free download at www.rotary.org, and Rotarians can buy other membership materials at shop.rotary.org.
I believe that the purpose of every life is to help others and contribute to society. Once Rotarians begin using these samples, the world will become more aware of how Rotary is helping people live that way. I encourage you to share your Rotary Moment with other Rotarians as well as non-Rotarians.
Olympic diver Tom Daley is featured in "This Close" posters as part of a publicity campaign by the Rotary Club of Plympton, Devon, England. Rotarians in India also lined up several members of Indian's Olympic team, including boxer Vijender Singh, for their "This Close" campaign.
The best athletes in the world have gathered in London for the 2012 Summer Olympics, and some of them are helping to spread the word about Rotary’s campaign to rid the world of polio.
Rotarians in Plymouth, Devon, England, used a few connections to line up Olympic divers Tom Daley and Tonia Couch for “This Close” posters, which have been displayed around Plymouth and at the training facility used by Ghana’s Olympic team.
Darren Hands, a member of the Rotary Club of Plympton, was put in contact with the athletes’ coach by a photographer friend who takes pictures of the divers regularly. The coach was happy to approach Daley and Couch and help make arrangements, Hands says.
“We did the shoot quite early in the morning so as not to impede their training,” he says. “We then produced various-size posters and postcards, as well as got the images printed in the local press and onto club and district websites.”
District 1290 received a public relations grant to use Couch’s image on bus advertisements around the counties of Devon and Cornwall to raise her image during the Olympics, promote Rotary’s polio efforts, and help with a membership drive.
“The campaign has received a lot of praise,” says Hands. “Together with the Rotary Club of Grantham’s Swimarathon, we were awarded the Rotary in Great Britain and Ireland (RIBI) PR Award at our national conference back in April.”
Other Olympic athletes participating in the “This Close” campaign are more than a dozen members of India’s team, including members of the men’s boxing, men’s and women’s weightlifting, and men’s and women’s wrestling teams.
Appealing to parents, wrestler Sushil Kum, a bronze medalist at the 2008 Beijing games, said: “In 1988, 500 children were getting affected by polio in India every day. Today, our country is reaching steadily toward eradication of polio. We need your help to win this fight.”
And Vijender Singh, a member of the boxing team who won a bronze medal in Beijing, said: “Polio vaccine can save a child from polio paralysis. Let us ensure that children are not paralyzed by giving them the vital drops.”
Home hosting and cleanup
Rotarians have displayed the Olympic spirit in other ways, as well. Tony Betts, a member of the Rotary Club of Redbridge, Greater London, volunteered to take part in home hosting organized through District 1130 and is playing host to a Rotarian couple from Jacksonville, Florida, USA, who are attending the games.
A Rotarian for six years, Betts says he has always been interested in the international aspect of Rotary and in meeting people from around the world. “It’s why I’ve attended the RI convention every year since I became a member,” he says. “I’ve always seen Rotary as bigger than just your local club.”
Through an initiative of the RIBI Olympic Committee called Work for Purpose, more than 300 volunteers signed up to work as cleaners in the athletic village to raise money for various Rotary projects. One effort includes members of the Rotary clubs of Hatfield and Stevenage, Hertfordshire, whose work will benefit several local children’s hospices.
Rotarians have also signed up to clean up after the games.
“Rotary and the Olympics share a common ethos,” says Debbie Hodge, governor of District 1260. “That is the building of a more peaceful world.”
A new Rotary year is set to begin, and with it several programs aimed at helping clubs and districts enhance their projects, share information, and increase membership. In addition, a new group of leaders will take over at the club, district, and international levels.
Sakuji Tanaka, of the Rotary Club of Yashio, Japan, will become Rotary’s 102nd president on 1 July and will encourage Rotarians to foster Peace Through Service. Read a profile of Tanaka from The Rotarian and download his convention speech.
Wilfrid J. Wilkinson, of the Rotary Club of Trenton, Ontario, Canada, will take over as Rotary Foundation trustee chair. Read his biography and download his convention speech.
Other changes include the following:
Beginning 1 July, The Rotary Foundation and the Water and Sanitation Rotarian Action Group will work together to offer resources and consulting services on major water and sanitation projects to several districts through a one-year pilot called the project enhancement process. These optional services will enable grant sponsors to tap into the technical expertise of their fellow Rotarians who are professionals in the field. To learn more, read these FAQs.
In order to focus goal setting at the club and district levels on membership activities, the RI Board has set a membership goal of 1.3 million Rotarians by 30 June 2015. The Board has also approved regional membership plans that were created by committees of Rotary leaders led by the directors in each region. Each plan addresses the region’s unique needs and customs. Districts and clubs are encouraged to use the regional membership plans as a guide in developing goals and strategies that are realistic and achievable and take into consideration historical trends and the opportunities within each region.
RI will be launching Rotary Club Central in an effort to measure the organization’s global impact. The new online tool allows clubs to set and track service, membership, and Foundation contribution goals.
Through Rotary Showcase, Rotarians can share photos of and information about their clubs’ service projects with the Rotary community and their Facebook friends. By indicating funds spent and hours volunteered, clubs and districts will also be helping track Rotary’s global impact.
A new convention website launches later this month, providing the latest news, travel tips, registration, housing information, and more on Rotary’s largest annual gathering. Register now for the 2013 RI Convention in Lisbon, Portugal, 23-26 June. The End Polio Now website will also be redesigned to include infographics, social media campaigns, status reports, and maps.
RI will hold three Rotary Global Peace Forums in 2012-13, each consisting of a two- or three-day program to engage and inspire Rotarians and community leaders. The forums will take place 30 November to 2 December in Berlin, Germany; 25-27 January in Honolulu, Hawaii, USA; and 17-18 May in Hiroshima, Japan.
The Council on Legislation will meet in April in Chicago to discuss and enact changes to the RI Constitution, RI Bylaws, and the Standard Rotary Club Constitution. The council meets every three years to review resolutions submitted by clubs, district conferences, the General Council and Conference of Rotary International in Great Britain and Ireland, and the RI Board. The Council comprises more than 500 representatives from every part of the Rotary world.
As the Future Vision pilot enters its final year, Rotary clubs and districts will start preparing for Rotary’s new grant model, which launches 1 July 2013.
The RI Board of Directors will seat eight new directors 1 July, along with RI President-elect Ron D. Burton, of the Rotary Club of Norman, Oklahoma, USA. The new directors for 2012-13 are Ann-Britt Åsebol, of the Rotary Club of Falun-Kopparvågen, Sweden; John B. Boag, of the Rotary Club of Tamworth North, Australia; Jacques di Costanzo, of the Rotary Club of Marseille Phocea, Bouches-du-Rhône, France; Takeshi Matsumiya, of the Rotary Club of Chigasaki-Shonan, Japan; Anne L. Matthews, of the Rotary Club of Columbia East, South Carolina, USA; Gideon Peiper, of the Rotary Club of Ramat Hasharon, Israel; Andy Smallwood, of the Rotary Club of Gulfway-Hobby Airport (Houston), Texas, USA; and Bryn Styles, of the Rotary Club of Barrie-Huronia, Ontario, Canada.
The Rotary Foundation Board of Trustees will seat five new trustees, including Stephanie A. Urchick, of the Rotary Club of Canonsburg-Houston, Pennsylvania, USA, who has been appointed for a two-year term, replacing Anne L. Matthews, who is joining the RI Board. The others, who will serve four-year terms, include Ray Klinginsmith, of the Rotary Club of Kirksville, Missouri, USA; Michael K. McGovern, of the Rotary Club of South Portland-Cape Elizabeth, Maine, USA; Samuel F. Owori, of the Rotary Club of Kampala, Uganda; and Julio Sorjús, of the Rotary Club of Barcelona Condal, Spain.
Changes you should know about for the new Rotary year
One day, I was asked to join the Rotary Club of Yashio. And it was two years later that someone came and spoke to us about the idea of vocational service. From that day, slowly, I began to change. I realized that the purpose of my life was not just to earn more, to sell more, to make my business better than anyone else’s. I realized that I wanted to have better goals and higher goals — both personally and professionally. I realized that for me, the most important thing in life was being useful to other people. And I realized that by helping others, even in the simplest of ways, I could help to build peace.
Un jour, on m’a demandé de rejoindre le Rotary club de Yashio. Deux ans ont passé avant que quelqu’un ne vienne dans notre club faire une présentation sur l’action professionnelle. À partir de ce jour-là, j’ai commencé à changer. Je me suis rendu compte que le but de ma vie n’était pas de gagner plus, de vendre plus, de rendre mon entreprise plus rentable que la concurrence. Je me suis rendu compte que je devais avoir des objectifs plus nobles – tant du point de vue personnel que professionnel. Je me suis rendu compte que la chose la plus importante dans la vie était de se rendre utile aux autres. Et il est devenu clair qu’en aidant les autres je pouvais contribuer à la construction de la paix.
Congratulations to Rotary Club of Spanish Town on its 30th Anniversary. It was exceptional to have my District Governor Visit with Rotary Club of Spanish Town , in Jamaica , on Tuesday October 18th ,2011. I found a Vibrant , Astounding , very Performant Club and far from being tired after 30 years of existence .
August is the month when we highlight “Self Service” and take care of our Membership. What is your Club planning to do in August to enhance
membership?
)
.jpg)
.png)
.png)
On November 17, General Secretary John Hewko and his wife will be riding 111 miles in the El Tour de Tucson Ride where they hope to raise $111,000 for polio eradication as a tribute to all of the Rotarians worldwide who have helped push polio to the brink of eradication.
-created-how-can-you-help/tornado1.jpg)
-font/loudspeaker.jpeg)
-font/loudspeaker.jpeg)
after the January 2010 earthquake during a panel presentation at Rotary-UN Day, 5 November. Rotary Images/Alyce Henson
