Yet another month has passed – and many Clubs have been visited. While each Club is unique, a common theme is a positive forward focus on growth and connection to communities. Each Club speaks with pride of their efforts to engage their members and grow the impact of Rotary in their communities. I’m thrilled to hear of collaboration between Clubs for greater impact.
November is the month we focus on our Foundation – our charity of choice. Our continued focus needs to be on our giving to the Foundation. I’m issuing a challenge, asking that all Clubs consider celebrating our centennial year by becoming a Centurion Club. This means that each member would donate at least $100 to the Foundation during the year – or Clubs would donate the equivalent of that amount. As you know, a percentage of our giving comes back to the District in three years’ time as District Designated Funds that support projects. What a great way to acknowledge our centenary and set us up for supporting future community projects.
I’ve recently received from RI the names of Clubs in our District that contributed most strongly to the Foundation during 2019-20. Congratulations to IPDG John Mohi for his leadership in this.
So – a drum roll please!
In terms of giving per capita, a huge congratulations to the Rotary Club of Wellington South who was No.1 in our District in 2019-20. No.2 Club was Rotary Club of Wanganui and no. 3 was Rotary Club of Tawa. This requires a minimum of US$50 per capita. I have banners for each of you and would like to present them at a time when John can also attend.
For significantly supporting the End Polio Now Countdown to History Campaign in 2019-20, the Rotary Clubs of Carterton, Wanganui, Marton, Eastern Hutt and Wellington have all been recognised by RI. These Clubs have all contributed at least US$1500 to Rotary’s eradication efforts. I have certificates to present to you at a time when John can also attend.
A major Foundation related activity during October was of course Ride the Train for Polio. It was great to see a wave of red tee shirts on stations around the District. Thanks to all those who organised this event. Thanks too to the Clubs who held other events to raise funds to polio – and had fun while doing so!
I am always keen to hear details of the wide range of projects Clubs are involved with in their communities. Some Clubs have asked me for suggestions about projects. While I can talk about other Clubs’ ideas, I encourage you to determine your community’s needs and resources through an assessment. Community assessments identify the community’s strengths and weaknesses and how Rotarians will be able to work with the community to meet its needs. It is vital to conduct this assessment before starting your project. Some key points are to remember to consider the historical, cultural, and social dynamics of the community with which you wish to partner. By including the community and local subject matter experts from the start, you’ll not only identify the core needs and select the most appropriate project, but will also ensure support and sustainability for your endeavours.
Keep up the amazing work you are doing. We can all be very proud of our reputation as People of Action and our commitment to make a difference in our communities.
Ngā mihi
Gillian
DG Gillian Jones