How do you describe the organization called "Rotary"? There are so many characteristics of a Rotary club as well as the activities of a million Rotarians. There are the features of service, internationality, fellowship, classifications of each vocation, development of goodwill and world understanding, the emphasis of high ethical standards, concern for other people and many more descriptive qualities.
In 1976 the Rotary International Board of Directors was interested in creating a concise definition of the fundamental aspects of Rotary. They turned to the three men who were then serving on Rotary's Public Relations Committee and requested that a one-sentence definition of Rotary be prepared. After numerous drafts, the committee presented this definition, which has been used ever since in various Rotary publications:
"Rotary is an organization of business and professional persons united worldwide who provide humanitarian service, encourage high ethical standards in all vocations and help build goodwill and peace in the world.”
Those 31 words are worth remembering when someone asks, "What is a Rotary club?”
Guests:Anne Northwood
Visiting Rotarians: Mark Taylor (Lantzville)
Announcements:
The Beer and Burger night was a success, in spite of the weather.
From the “Coldest Night of the Year” (February 24th) nationwide there were 40,000 walkers and nationwide they raised 13.7 Million Dollars. In Nanaimo there were 424 walkers and they raised $123,500.00. The top team in Nanaimo was Rotary, and they raised $12,945.
Ed reported that the RIBFEST for Labour Day is a go. He will send out a request to members to provide the number of hours they can volunteer.
Rod reported on the Health of the Club and that Larry is doing well after his hip replacement surgery and should be back at meetings in April.
He also visited Roger Northwood a few times.
Mark Taylor from the Rotary Club of Lantzville reported their club was selling Maple Syrup with the proceeds being a fund raiser and passed out slips for orders should members be interested.
Our local Rotaract Club of Nanaimo is holding a special International Womens Day Celebration event this Sunday, March 10th at the Beban Park Social Centre.
Event Time: 1pm to 5pm
Derek Introduced the speaker from Leadership Vancouver Island Robert Thompson who described how the organization functions and referenced materials given out. He was joined by Mike and Jennifer who described their experience taking on the 10 month course.
In its 20th year, the program promises an immersive, in-person experience over ten months, fostering personal growth and development. As a participant, you are not just gaining leadership skills; you are making an immediate impact on your organization and leaving a lasting mark on the community. Program sponsors can anticipate the development of skills that directly benefit their organizations, offering a unique opportunity for those without in-house leadership training. Graduates forge meaningful connections, hone dynamic communication skills, and develop the capacity to lead themselves and others towards lasting positive change. Cohorts collaborate on exciting community projects of their choosing, working with existing organizations to enhance their capacity and impact.