Our District 7070 newsletter is meant to keep everyone in our Rotary family up to date on latest news from around the Rotary world, from the clubs in our District, from the various committees in District 7070 and beyond. We send it out to all active Rotarians and post it on to our District Facebook page. We ask that you share this letter and keep our entire Rotary family and friends informed. Make sure they all get a copy. The deadline for your story submissions is always 4 days prior to the end of the month. Check out our District 7070 Facebook Page, Twitter, Instagram accounts and our District 7070 website for the latest news about Rotary here in southern Ontario and around the world.
REMINDERS FOR EVERYONE:
Send In Your Stories and Photos for the Next Edition:
Please send your Rotary Club stories (deadline is always 4 days prior to the end of the month) to our District Public Image Chair, Dave Andrews at dave.f.andrews99@gmail.com
A suggestion to the District Leadership Team, Assistant Governors and Committee Chairs : Send in a story about what your committee is doing and tell our clubs how they can connect with you.
A suggestion to 2023-24 Club Presidents: There is a place in the Newsletter for News from Clubs. What have you accomplished that you would like to announce to everyone in the District?
HERE IS WHAT IS INSIDE THIS MONTH. YOU CAN CLICK ON EACH TOPIC TO READ THE WHOLE STORY RIGHT HERE IN THE INDEX ....
Posted by John Burns, District 7070 Governor , 2023-24
In his November 2023 Newsletter, District 7070 Governor John Burns, Agent 7070, talks about many successes in October: our annual District 7070 Rotary Foundation Walk, World Polio Day LIVE from the Rotary Global Classroom at Durham College, the District 7070 Conference, and the many clubs he has visited during his official visits. He reminds us all to focus our efforts in November to The Rotary Foundation which is Rotary Foundation Month..........
Posted by Gordon McInally, Rotary International President 2023-24
In President Gordon McInally's November 2023 Message, he talks about Rotary taking steps to support peacebuilding in the Middle East and Africa region with the signing ceremony of our newest peace centre in Istanbul. The peace centers program, now in its 25th year, has prepared more than 1,700 peace fellows working in more than 140 countries to create a more peaceful world. Gordon adds that the Rotary Peace Fellows through their actions, have helped Create Hope in the World and will continue to do so. We can all advance peace by encouraging our local peacebuilders to learn more about Rotary and apply for this impactful fellowship. Rotary members can also mentor candidates for the fellowship. Or you can work with peace fellows who have already graduated. He says,"Peace must be waged persistently; it is the soil where hope takes root. But as with any journey, we take one step at a time". ...............
Posted by Barry Rassin, Chair of the Trustees , Rotary Foundation 2023-24
In the Chair of the Trustees of The Rotary Foundation (and Rotary International Past President) Barry Rassin's November 2023 Newsletter, Barry reminds us that as we celebrate The Rotary Foundation, let’s recognize it for what it is: one of the world’s best humanitarian organizations. He wonders how many people know that Rotary supports our causes — seven of them in fact — which we call our areas of focus. He adds that , if they want clean water, good health, and a sustainable future for our planet, they support what our Foundation does. If they envision a world where peace, full literacy, and economic opportunities for communities to support themselves exist, they also believe in Rotary’s mission. And if they want to see mothers and their babies thrive, their vision aligns with the work we do. Barry talks about our progress through the Foundation. Polio eradication is changing the world, one drop of vaccine at a time. Rotary Peace Centers are training peacebuilders to reduce violence and resolve conflict. And through Foundation global and district grants, we are improving lives in a real way. He says,"So thank you, Rotary ... on behalf of thousands of others you have helped by supporting The Rotary Foundation"..........
Posted by Drew Kessler, Rotary International Director , Zones 28 & 32
To embrace current technology and to be a resource to all members of Zone’s 28/32, the current newsletter is being transitioned to an interactive blog style format that will be managed and moderated by the Zone leadership team. Look for the "In The Zone" November 2023 video from Drew Kessler, our Rotary International Director, (available on November 1, 2023), together with Christine Etienne (Director Elect) in the November 2023 District 7070 Newsletter version that will be published on our District website and on the Rotary Zone 28 and 32 website . ....... Please Read more...
Mário César Martins de Camargo, a member of the Rotary Club of Santo André, Brazil, has been selected as president of Rotary International for 2025-26. He will be the fourth Brazilian to hold the office and the first since Paulo V.C. Costa in 1990-91........
During the weekend of October 14 and 15, 2023, Bob and Kathy Wallace were honoured at Rotary International headquarters in Evanston, Illinois as members of the Arch Klumpf Society. Named for the founder of The Rotary Foundation, the Arch Klumph Society was established to recognize the Foundation’s highest tier of donors — those who have contributed $250,000 or more. This distinguished society includes supporters from more than 50 countries and geographical areas. Their generosity enables the Foundation to continue its mission of advancing world understanding, goodwill, and peace through the alleviation of poverty, the support of education, and the eradication of polio. Congratulations , Bob and Kathy. Please Read more to see some photos.....
Posted by Susan Hunter, Chair District 7070 Rotary Leadership Institute
For the fall of 2023-24, we are staying with our Rotary Leadership Institute (RLI) programming in the virtual format. Although we all appreciate that videoconference will never replace the personal connection that we get from meeting face-to-face, RLI is a very successful program with overwhelming response and enthusiasm from Rotarians across the District. Rotarians new to Rotary and even those with many years of service benefit from learning how we can create strong clubs with vibrant members who are engaged and committed to Service Above Self.
Please Join District 7070 Membership Chair Joan Barrett with Special Guest Speaker Rick Caron - Innovative Club Advocate, along with discussions and questions
Rick Caron, the Zone 28, Innovative Club Advocate will explore:
- creative ways to make a club more dynamic & engaging - "Be Irresistible"
- discuss impact/cause based clubs
This session is for Membership Chairs, Presidents & general members
It is one hour in length on zoom Wednesday, November 8: 7 - 8pm
The session will be chaired by Joan Barrett with other members of the team participating: Jim Louttit to introduce, Joe Solway managing chat line & questions.
Rotary's All-Member Survey Is Coming in November. This is your chance to tell Rotary International what you like, what you don't like, and what you want from your Rotary Membership. To make sure you receive the survey, update your email address at my.rotary.org/profile/me.
The Rotary Magazine Photo Awards return in the June 2024 issue. It’s your opportunity to share your vision of the world, be it in glorious color or classic black and white. Members of Rotary and their families may submit photos between October 1 and December 31. But don’t wait: Send us your images today. Submit your photos at rotary.org/photoawards.
Congratulations to District Governor John Burns and his District Conference Committee for a wonderful weekend with fellow Rotarians at ourRotary District 7070Conference in Oshawa on October 20 - 22, 2023 as 55 clubs covering Toronto, York, Durham, Northumberland and Prince Edward Co... shared their stories, hearid inspiring speakers, connected with old friends who share a passion for Rotary as we made new friends. Be sure to go to the District 7070 Website Photo Albums and see just some of the photos from a great District Confernece.....
The Rotary International Convention: Unforgettable moments, enduring relationships. The Rotary International Convention is where you’ll find people of action from around the world brainstorming solutions to some of the most pressing challenges and celebrating our works of service that create lasting change. The convention is where you’ll renew connections, discover fresh perspectives, and create unforgettable moments and enduring relationships.
It is always with great sadness when we loose members of our District 7070 Rotary family. Everyone in District 7070 wants to expresses their deepest sympathies to our extended Rotary family. Please send your notices to Newsletter Editor Dave Andrews at dave.f.andrews99@gmail.com .....
What is your Rotary or Rotaract Club doing in November 2023 to celebrate and focus on The Rotary Foundation? As the charitable arm of Rotary, we tap into a global network of Rotarians who invest their time, money, and expertise intoour priorities, such aseradicating polio and promoting peace.Foundationgrantsempower Rotarians to approach challenges such as poverty, illiteracy, and malnutrition with sustainable solutions that leave a lasting impact. To get ideas how the Rotary Foundation transforms your gifts into projects that change lives both close to home and around the world, please Read more.......
Posted by Bob Wallace, Past District Governor, Past Rotary Zone Coordinator, and Current Chair of District 7070 Rotary Foundation Committee
In his November 2023 letter to Rotarians, Past District Governor Bob Wallace, Chair of the District 7070 Rotary Foundation Committee, encourages every Rotarian to set and meet their club and personal goals and make a conscious effort to make a donation to The Rotary Foundation, whatever you can afford, to the Annual Programs Fund, the PolioPlus Fund, the Disaster Response Fund, and to the Endowment Fund. .......
Congratulations to our Rotary Club host clubs in Region 3 (north end of Toronto) and Chair Virginia O'Reilly for another successful Rotary District 7070 Foundation Walk. Clubs from all over District 7070 came out and enjoyed a great walk, fellowship with new and old friends and raised money for the Rotary Foundation. The Walk took place on October 15, 2023, at The Milne Dam Conservation Park, 8251 McCowan Road, Markham, ON. Be sure to collect the pledges from your friends and Rotarians and make that donation TODAY..
Please Read more to see this year's Poster and go to the Photo albums of the District Website. Thank to to many Rotarians and a big thank you to the Rotary Club of York for a huge number of the photos......
Posted by Lars Henriksson, Past District 7070 Governor and District Grants Chair
On Saturday, November 18, 2023, the District 7070 Rotary Foundation Committee will hold a Grants Management Seminar about the Rotary Foundation and its grants program. The seminar will be held at the Oshawa and District Shrine Hall, 1626 Simcoe St. N, Oshawa.
Members of Rotary and Rotaract Clubs who attend the full program will meet the qualification requirements for both the current Rotary year and the 2024-25 year. The alternative will be completing the modules and quizzes found on the District’s website. Clubs must also submit Memorandums of Understanding (MOUs) to the District for each year.
Posted by Barry Rassin, Chair of the Trustees of The Rotary Foundation
Dear Fellow Rotarians,
As a global humanitarian organization, Rotary continually takes action to help communities in need. Because you are a Rotary leader, we want you to be among the first to know that The Rotary Foundation has established a temporary Morocco Earthquake Response Fund to support immediate assistance efforts through disaster response grants. We’ll begin fundraising efforts soon to finance the grants, which will be available specifically to areas affected by the 6.8-magnitude earthquake on 8 September that killed several thousand people, injured even more, and destroyed an estimated 50,000 homes........
Posted by Rotary District Governors Shirley-Pat (D5040), David (D5050) and Marjolein (D5060)
District Governors Shirley-Pat (D5040), David (D5050) and Marjolein (D5060) send greetings, hugs and positive thoughts throughout BC and Washington State. As you are aware, our members are experiencing yet another devastating fire season. Even beyond the borders of our Districts, our hearts ache for those in Northwest Territories, Eastern Washington and Hawaii who are also dealing with horrific fires causing the evacuation of entire cities and the devastating loss of their homes and structures. Many have also lost loved ones. We send our deepest condolences to them.
We would like to sincerely thank the first responders, firefighters, police, emergency services and the hundreds of volunteers who are fighting the fires. We are grateful to those who are keeping the evacuated areas safe, assisting those who are displaced from their homes. We are blessed by those who are simply doing their very best to support those who are going through a very challenging time. The strength and resilience of our communities is one of the reasons why many of us joined Rotary. ........
Posted by Mark Merriman, Rotary District 5000 Governor
Maui No Ka Oi
August 9, 2023 was a tragic day for our Rotarians, families and friends on the Island of Maui. The fires across the island have changed lives forever. Truly devastating. Our sympathy, thoughts and prayers are with everyone impacted.
As people of action, we can take immediate action. As we come together to recover and rebuild, we need to support each other. We need to Create Hope for Maui.
Through our Rotary District 5000 Foundation, a relief fund has been established. Foundation President Dave Hamil and Treasurer Sharon Amano will handle all donations. A committee will be organized shortly to find the greatest needs for distribution of monies. A single fund will be the most helpful over time to provide the most significant benefits. Please consider donating to this special fund, Maui Fires Relief Fund.
Mahalo to the Rotary Club of Waikiki for collecting monies at their lunch meeting today. These are the first contributions to the fund. Please also widely share this opportunity to help. Stay safe, take care and mahalo for creating hope.
Posted by Brett Collingwood, District Governor of District 5370
District 7070 Governor John Burns has received requests from a few District Governors in Canada regarding the evacuation of Yellowknife in the Northwest Territories due to the wildfires. For those of you who may not know, we have two clubs in Yellowknife and a club in Hay River, who have all been evacuated.
From District 5370 Governor Brett Collingwood: Here in Edmonton we are working with the city of Edmonton in offering supplies and/or volunteer support where needed for the evacuation centres. Here is a message that I circulated to all of the members in District 5370 indicating where they may provide financial relief support to the Northwest Territories. Clubs and Rotarians in District 7070 may wish to help out..... Please Read more.....
Grant Responsibilities by Leader is an updated guide to help club and district leaders understand their roles in qualifying for Foundation grants and taking part in district, global, and disaster response grants. The guide provides clear lists of the tasks for a district governor, district Rotary Foundation chair, club president, or chair of a grants, stewardship, scholarship, or vocational training team subcommittee. There’s also a list of Learning Center resources for each role. Download the guide today to better understand your role in the grant process.
Posted by Past District Governor Bob Wallace, Chair , District Rotary Foundation Committee
Dear fellow Rotarians in District 7070,
Rotarians in District 7070 have been committed to The Annual Programs Fund of the Rotary Foundation. You should be proud of the difference that Rotary have made in the lives of millions of people throughout the world by the project funded by The Rotary Foundation.
I want to thank you for your past efforts and ask that you recommit to helping us raise funds for The Annual Programs Fund of the Rotary Foundation.
We are inviting you to join our efforts to continue for The Annual Programs Fund of the Rotary Foundation. To become a member of the District 7070 Paul Harris Society you are asked to commit to making an annual donation of $1000 USD or more to The Annual Programs Fund of the Rotary Foundation.
We hope that with your commitment in joining the District 7070 Paul Harris Society, we will make a significant difference in our world.
Raise for Rotary is a platform that allows individuals, clubs, and districts to create online fundraisers that benefit The Rotary Foundation. It is a great way to celebrate personal events and special occasions. Organizers can share their fundraisers through social media, email, and text, so family, friends, colleagues, and supporters can donate online...... Please Read more....
YOU ARE INVITED..... to wathc the recording of the WORLD POLIO DAY 2023 LIVE FROM THE ROTARY GLOBAL CLASSROOM AT DURHAM COLLEGE as we celebrated World Polio Day with leaders from around the world, hosted by the Rotary Clubs of Oshawa and Oshawa-Parkwood, and Durham College.
Rotarians from arounf District 7070 joined the line in-person audience and $ 10.00 of their entreance fee was donated to The Rotary Foundation's Polio Plus Fund and will be credited to their next Paul Harris Fellow - Exactly the amount of District Governor John Burns Goal for every Rotarians to doante at least $10 this Rotary year for ending polio.
Here is a link to the recording of FOCUS ON POLIO with Brenda Cressy (Past Rotary Foundation Trustee), Barry Rassin (Current Chair of the Rotary Foundation and Past Rotary International President) and Jennifer Jones (Past Rotary International president and current member of the Board of Trustees of the Rotary Foundation), recorded live on World Polio Day, October 24, 2023.
Posted by Past District Governor Bob Wallace, Chair, District 7070 Rotary Foundation Committee
Dear Fellow Rotarians in District 7070,
Rotarians in District 7070 have been committed over the past nearly 40 years to raising funds to immunize children worldwide and our efforts are paying off. You should be proud of the difference that Rotary has made in the lives of millions of children by eliminating this dreadful disease.
I want to thank you for your past efforts and ask that you recommit to helping us raise funds to finish Rotary’s number one initiative of eradicating polio. Rotary is still committed to raising $50 million a year for this effort.
As such, we are launching the District 7070 Polio Plus Society and are inviting you to join our efforts to continue to raise funds to eradicate polio. To become a member of the District 7070 Polio Plus Society you are asked to commit to making an annual donation of $100 USD or more to The Rotary Foundation’s Polio Plus Fund until the last two countries, Afghanistan and Pakistan, are certified free of the wild polio virus.
In 2020, the GPEI launched a revision of the strategy for polio eradication. Partners and stakeholders collectively identified remaining obstacles to polio eradication, in order to inform a revised and strengthened plan. They then developed optimal approaches to reaching the goal, adapted to the global health context and based on lessons learned.
The strengthened plan aims to achieve and sustain a polio-free world through a focus on implementation and accountability. Emphasis will be on cutting outbreak response times; increasing vaccine demand; transforming campaign effectiveness; working systematically through integration; increasing access in inaccessible areas; transitioning towards government ownership; and improving decision-making and accountability.
Many of the new tactics and strengthened approaches outlined in this plan are already operational, and the plan will officially replace the current Polio Endgame Strategy in January 2022.......
Just as routine doctor visits help people identify health risks before they become serious, Rotary’s club health check can diagnose problem areas and prescribe remedies. Club leaders will find a checklist to assess their club’s well-being in the areas of club experience, service and social events, members, image, and business and operations, along with an array of resources to treat any problem areas. Regularly consulting those resources can help maintain your club’s health and preserve its value for club members and the community. A few examples follow, but review the entire document through the website listed below to ensure you’re taking full advantage of these valuable tools.
Past District Governor Mike Cooksey once told me that if you want more Rotary members, you have to ask. He told everyone he saw to "Get your Ask in Gear". His words certainly reflect one of the Strategic Plans that District 7070 has . Our goal is to receive 100 inquires from the "Join Us" or "Interested In Joining Us?" button on the District 7070 Website. Here is our challenge to your club: By the end of this Rotary year we want over 40 Rotary Clubs have a "Join Us" or "Interested In Joining Us?" button on their own club website AND for your club to have a "member conversion process" from these inquiries. It's up to you.
If you have been already been part of the District 7070 Website Refresh Program, then you will remember Melissa Wells talking about adding a "Join Us" button to the front page of your club website. This is your way of "asking" anyone who sees your website to learn more about Rotary and join your club.
Past District Governor Bob Wallace of our District 7070 Technology Team did this to our District Website. Instead of "Join Us" , Bob put an "Interested in Joining Us" button right up front on the menu tab. To see how we have done , Please Read more........
Early in the new year, Rotary International sees a big increase in inquiries about joining Rotary. District and club leaders: Remember to follow up with these prospective members to ensure that they have a positive experience. You can gain a better understanding of how to turn leads into members by taking the Online Membership Leads course. Use the Refer a new member form if you know someone who might be interested in joining. The updated form allows all Rotary members to refer a prospective member to their own club or to a different club.
Many clubs face challenges related to three things: attracting new members, keeping members engaged, and finding meaningful ways to contribute to their communities. Use the Club Planning Assistant to get tailored advice for addressing your club’s challenges. Club leaders, you’ll receive an instant response with links to the resources we recommend to help you address your club’s most pressing challenges. You can then build these suggested strategies into your club’s membership plan.
New and different club models will attract diverse leaders to Rotary.Rotary clubs continue to demonstrate their value by staying connected to members and responding to changing needs in the community. Read about clubs around the world who are finding ways to adapt to new challenges and meeting online. Use these resources to increase your club's value:......
Welcome to the brand new section in our District newsletter. Our Past District Governor Iosif Ciosa is our District Training Chair and he wants to give every member of the Rotary famiy in District 7070 the best possible opportunity to learn more about Rotary and your leadership opportunities. Be sure to drop by this section each month to see what new training / eadership opportunities are in store for you.
There are lots of tips and tools of the trade when it comes to Public Image, Membership and The Rotary Foundation when it comes to you and your Rotary or Rotaract club. This is exactly what we have in store for you.
On Tuesdays, starting on January 16, 2024 , on a monthly basis , we will be presenting learning opportinities, in one-hour zoom sessions, for you and your club members, to help you with many ways that you can learn more about Rotary and really help your club.
Here is how we have divided up the sessions: January 16 - Public Image; February 20 - Membership; March 12 - Rotary Foundation; April 16 - Public Image; May 21 - Membership; and June 18 - Rotary Foundation. Stay tuned for more details, these sessions are being developed as we speak.
From your District 7070 Chairs: Dave Andrews (Public Image); Joan Barrett (Membership) and Bob Wallace (Rotary Foundation) and your District 7070 Learning Chair Iosif Ciosa..
Posted by Iosif Ciosa, Past District Governor and District 7070 Training and Learning Chair
Welcome to your Rotary District 7070 Training & Learning in the 2023-24 Rotary year. The District 7070 Training/Learning committee is bringing all training/learning sessions under one umbrella.
The traning/learining sessions (events) on the district website are one colour – red
A form to be used by our District Committees when putting together a training/learning session to tell you all about the training session. This form (see the attached form in the next story in this newsletter) will be sent to Iosif and to Bob Wallace posting on to the District website
We have also created a NEW section in the Monthly District Newsletter that will show the training/learning session in the upcoming month
District Governor John Burns will also add any training / leraning sessions to his weekly message.
Please Read more to see just some of the future training learning sessions already planned for YOU....
Posted by Iosif Ciosa, Chair District 7070 Training -Learning Committee
To District 7070 Committees: From: Committee Chair: Iosif Ciosa
Training/Learning 2023/2024 Description Form
Here is the Training/Learning Description Form that we would like you to fill out and sent to Iosif Ciosa when you create the training / learning event that we will put on the District Website.
You may attach pictures, flyers, artwork or graphics (please make sure that pictures or graphics are not copywritten and are royalty free).
Posted by Lars Henriksson, Past District 7070 Governor and District Grants Chair
On Saturday, November 18, 2023, the District 7070 Rotary Foundation Committee will hold a Grants Management Seminar about the Rotary Foundation and its grants program. The seminar will be held at the Oshawa and District Shrine Hall, 1626 Simcoe St. N, Oshawa.
Members of Rotary and Rotaract Clubs who attend the full program will meet the qualification requirements for both the current Rotary year and the 2024-25 year. The alternative will be completing the modules and quizzes found on the District’s website. Clubs must also submit Memorandums of Understanding (MOUs) to the District for each year......
Richard Mewhinney met with PDG Ron Dick, PDG Bob Wallace, and Prince Kumar to initiate a trial of a project board utilizing the Rotary Showcase as a platform. We need the help of every club in District 7070 to add projects to the Rotary Showcase. They will not only appear on the Project Database for the entre Rotary world to see (and perhaps help you with your project) but also act as part of our Rotary District 7070 Project Board. In 2023-24, if your club is looking to receive a Rotary Citation, your service projects have to go into Rotary Showcase.
Log into MyRotary , go to the online tools and click Rotary Showcase. Rotary members and program participants are improving lives in communities around the world every day through thousands of service projects. Explore the good work that we’re doing locally and globally, and share these projects through social media.
Rotary International's five-part webinar series, designed to support you as you cultivate effective and sustainable projects, is now available on demand. Watch any of the five sessions for tools and strategies to help you plan, implement, and evaluate your projects.
Posted by Nevine Yassa, Chair. District 7070 Peace Committee
Rotarians are invited to attend a Peace Conference in Cairo on African Partnerships for African Peace and Prosperity from 17th to 19th November 2023 in Cairo, Egypt, the City that Acted for an infinite time as a guardian and a center of culture, art, and beauty. We welcome you to join over 500 distinguished humanitarians and industry leaders from Africa and around the world who are gathering in Cairo under the inspiring theme of "African Partnerships for African Peace and Prosperity." (see: https://www.iccpeaceforum-cairo.org ) .... Please Read more......
Posted by Nevine Yassa, District 7070 Chair - Peace Committee
Dear Rotarians
I am absolutely thrilled to extend to you a warm and heartfelt invitation to join us at the upcoming Rotary Peace Forum, themed "Harmonizing Hearts and Hands for Peace," taking place on February 22, 2024, at 6:00 p.m. (Please register on the District 7070 website at https://rotary7070.org/event/peace-forum--quot-hearts-and-hands-for-peace/ ). Imagine being part of a gathering where distinguished humanitarians and industry leaders from across the globe unite under the inspiring theme of "Harmonizing Hearts and Hands for Peace." This theme encapsulates our belief that creating lasting peace is a harmonious effort that requires the unity of compassionate hearts and capable hands......
Posted by Ally Buck, Rotary and Community Fundraising Coordinator with ShelterBox Canada
Please welcome Ally Buck, the new Rotary and Community Fundraising Coordinator with ShelterBox Canada (taking over Meg’s role). She has been getting settled into her new position over the last few weeks and is looking forward to getting to know the Rotary Clubs and Rotarians that support ShelterBox. She is originally from Pictou County, Nova Scotia where she attended the Nova Scotia Community College’s Social Services/Community Development program. In 2018 she relocated to Kingston, Ontario to attend Queen’s University where she graduated with her BA in Global Development Studies last June.
Rotary members Create Hope In the Worldthrough their commitment to providing Basic Education and Literacy to their home communities and communities around the world. In this issue of the BELRAG newsletter, learn how Rotarians in Panama are committed to improving learning across the country by through training teachers in effective use of technology to improve classroom teaching and learning. Thank you to Courtney Doldron for linking us up with the Newsletter. NOTE: BELRAG will host several webinars in the next weeks to engage Rotarians and share best practice. .......
Posted by Bill Empey, Chair, District 7070 Honouring Indigenous Peoples Committee
The Honouring Indigenous Peoples (HIP) 2024 National Y2Y Truth and Reconciliation experience will be held March 24th to 30th in British Columbia.
HIP continues our mission of fostering intercultural understanding and promoting reconciliation between Indigenous and Non-Indigenous youth from across Canada. The March 2023 Winnipeg experience was a big success. The March 2024 program again includes traditional teachings and cultural heritage of the Indigenous Peoples residing on that land. This is a transformative program designed for youth aged 15 to 17, offering them an immersive opportunity to engage with Indigenous culture and develop meaningful connections with their peers.
We need your help making the 2024 event a success. We are asking for your Club’s financial support and help reaching out to high school students and their schools, teachers, parents and others in the community as we seek applications......
Posted by Bill Empey - Honouring Indigenous People, Rotary District 7070 Coordinator
Here is the latest Honouring Indigenous People Rotary News and Events, projects, blogs, photos, films, and resources. There are many major initiatives and resources available to you and your Rotary club. Your Club can help. Our District 7070 Action Committee's Areas of Focus Coordinator is Bill Empey from the Rotary Club of Toronto If you have a good news story, or want to help starting a project, please contact Bill. Here are some news highlights .........
Rotary is dedicated to causes that build international relationships, improve lives, and create a better world. Our areas of focus address some of the world’s most critical and widespread humanitarian needs.
Posted by Shauna Moore, Chair, District 7070 DEI Committee
Your Rotary District 7070 Diversity Equity & Inclusion (DEI) Committee is welcoming members. If you would like to join a committee that is actively working to celebrate the rich diversity we have in our district and strive to create more inclusive clubs, please get in touch with Shauna Moore - shaunanmoore@gmail.com
We are a new Rotaract club in the district. We are an e-club that spans over the entire district 7070. We’ve approached you today to let you know we are actively recruiting future Rotaractors. So if you know any individuals who might be interested feel free to get them to sign up using our sign-up sheet in our bio or by emailing us directly. We are looking forward to learning more and creating a partnership with your club. Feel free to reach us at rotaract7070eclub@gmail.com If interested.
Our goals:
- To give Rotaractors a home after they graduate from a university-based Rotaract club
- To address service area gaps in Rotaract programs
- To foster and grow Rotaract in the District
- To be a central club that allows for tracking numbers and coordinating large-scale events like the Rotaract District Conference
- To be an access point between Rotaract and Rotary Clubs
- To be an inclusive space that builds goodwill and better friendships
- To foster Rotarians of the future
- To be a fun club where young professionals and university students get to network, and develop under rotary.
We look for your support in making this a reality.
Additionally below is our Linktree containing our social media and Sign-up Sheet, please circulate it to your club and networks.
The 2024 Rotary Youth Leadership Symposium (RYLS) is taking place, April 18-21, 2024 at the Ganaraska Forest Centre! The 3-night experience is geared toward youth between the ages of 16-20 and will offer an inspiring program including: Diversity, Equity and Inclusion, Reconciliation and Land Based Education, Hands-on Activities, Group Dynamics, Public Speaking, Outdoor Survival and GPS Geocache adventures along with campfires, friendship and tons of fun and learning!!! All this for only $385 per participant which covers all programs, accommodation, and meals. Rotary Clubs are encouraged to find and sponsor eligible participants within their community, as well as members of the Rotaract and Interact Clubs that they host. There are only 30 spots available!
Attention - Rotarians and Rotoractors! Interested in helping our district youth? Want to make lifelong friendships? The District Rotary Youth Exchange Committee welcomes you to join us! We meet monthly to select and support our District’s Rotary Youth Exchange Inbound and Outbound Students. Contact PDG Beth Selby (selbyandvail@gmail.com) or Trevor Hagerman (trevorshelley2020@gmail.com).
Rotaract club presidents are now able to report current and incoming secretaries, treasurers, and committee chairs to Rotary International. Reporting these appointments will help assure your club leaders get the latest news and resources to support club-led activities. Log in to My Rotary and access the Club Administration section of your account.
As a Rotary member, you play an important role in shaping the public image of your club or of Rotary. Our public image is determined by our members’ actions and impact. Rotary’s Brand Center has resources to help you share your stories and promote your impact to your community:
Take public image courses in the Learning Center , such as The Rotary Brand, which conveys the benefits of a consistent, recognizable brand; and Our Logo: Representing Rotary, which demonstrates how to use Rotary’s logos consistently and correctly.
Posted by David Andrews, District 7070 Public Image Chair
Looking For A Place to Find Speakers? Got a good Speaker you have recently heard? Well, you've come to the right place!
We want this to be a great resource for speakers for your club. The speakers listed have been all recommended by clubs in our District. The list will be updated often, so you may want to "bookmark" this page! Speakers are listed by category as shown on the District 7070 website "Speakers Corner" page under the Our Work Tab.
Just follow the instructions on the Speakers Corner Page and then contact Rotary District 7070 Public Image Chair Dave Andrews at dave.f.andrews99@gmail.com. with the speakers (and their info on this form) that you wish to add to Speaker's Corner for all of the clubs to enjoy.
OUR GOAL: We would like to see each club in our District recommend at least one speaker that other clubs would just love to hear. Please use the form and send it to Dave TODAY. Let's really build a significant Speaker's Corner.
Note: The Speakers Corner Page is only accessible by Rotarians and Rotaractors with a clubrunner ID and password and not available to the general public . (to respect the privacy to the speakers who have volunteered to speak to other Clubs)
Here are a few ideas from Rotary International for strengthen Rotary's brand...
Making Rotary's public image a priority:
As a Rotary public image advocate, you help others understand who we are and how we make a difference. Publicizing your club’s efforts and sharing the impact you make helps attract members, volunteers, and donors. Thank you for making public image a priority and strengthening Rotary's brand.
Brand News is a newsletter about public image and branding sent quarterly to Rotary leaders. If you know someone who would like to receive it, please have them write to pr@rotary.org
It's TIME TO GET YOUR CLUB NOTICED. Prospective members are checking YOU out - What will they see? Don't be left behind. REGISTER TODAY. To assist the Rotary Clubs of District 7070 GET NOTICED, at the request of District Governor John Burns, the District Public Relations Committee is continuing the Rotary Club ClubRunner Website Refresh Program and Promotional Half Back Discount. THIS PROGRAM IS NOW AVAILABLE FOR YOUR CLUB in 2023-24. Thirty-one of our District 7070 Rotary clubs have already completed the refresh program. These club websites are getting noticed by the public and by their potential members who are checking them out. When a prospective member looks to join a club, they look at YOUR club website. GET YOUR CLUB WEBSITE REFRESHED - REGISTER TODAY. Please Read more.......
About The Course: Social media offers a powerful way to promote Rotary and your club to people who are already involved, as well as to partner organizations, possible donors, and prospective members. Learn the basics of using various social media platforms and how to create posts that will connect with people.
Other courses you can take: Building Rotary's Public Image; The Rotary brand; Promoting Your Club as People of Action; Our Logo: Representing Rotary; Public Relations and Your Club
Rotary’s public image is shaped by the actions of every member, from how we conduct ourselves in meetings to how we represent Rotary at events and respond to needs in our communities. The club public image committee’s role is to create and implement a plan to tell Rotary’s local story, promote the club’s activities in the area, and raise awareness of Rotary’s work around the world. This list will help you assess how well your committee is shaping Rotary’s image.
Check the Club Public Image Checklist. See how many checks you have accomplished , and start working on the rest of the checks. Here is the checklist.
Posted by David Andrews, Chair, District 7070 Public Image Committee
I have noticed that some Rotary Clubs in our District are altering the Rotary logo for use in the marketing and promotion of their various events and projects.
This sends the wrong signal to the public. Many do not know who we are now and with different “looks” to our logo just makes it worse. Please use the Rotary Voice and Visual Guidelines ( see : https://my.rotary.org/en/document/tell-rotarys-story-voice-and-visual-identity-guidelines-rotarians ) and USE ONLY THE ONE ROTARY LOGO in your marketing and public relations initiatives. That would include your website , all social media sites and any signs you may have created. We continue to strive for One clear consistent look and message in all that we do, to ensure that everyone knows our “Rotary” message.....
Calling all District 7070 Rotary, Rotaract, and Interact clubs! Increase your club’s visibility. Tag us (Rotary District 7070 accounts on Facebook, Twitter and Intragram) in all of your appropriate social media posts (Facebook, Instagram, Twitter) so we can share your news and events. We have lots of followers who would like to see your posts! Take a look at our three District accounts.
District Social Media Tags: Facebook: @rotary7070 Instagram: @rotaryd7070 Twitter: @rotary7070
Follow all Rotary International and Rotary District 7070 social media accounts and be sure to turn on notifications. This way, you won’t miss a post. And follow all Rotary District 7070 Facebook, Instagram and Twitter posts and share them on your social media pages. There is more....
In the Summer of 2020, we asked Rob MacArthur, our District 7070 Public Image Public Investigator to carry out an investigation on all 55 Rotary clubs with respect to their club's Public Image. Rob looked at your club's basic web site setup as well as social media channels and the way they were being used. A spreadsheet of the results was made available for our District Leadership Team and Assistant Governors to look at in the Fall of 2020. The Pie Chart included shows a graphical representation of the results. Where do you "think" your club fits in this chart? What is the Image that the public have, about your club? Here is what Rob found out... Please Read more....
Posted by David Andrews, Chair, District 7070 Public Image Committee
Our District 7070 Public Image Committee is calling for YOU (Rotaractors and Rotarians in the District) to join our District Public Image Committee. Our scope is to boost Rotary's Public Image and to assist Rotary Clubs in D7070 to do the same.
We are looking for YOU, Rotaractors and Rotarians who have experience in the field of Public Relations, Social Media platforms, and news writing. We want you to use those very special talents to assist clubs and our Committee . Are you that Rotarian? Are you that Rotaractor? Are you interested ? Please contact Dave Andrews at dave.f.andrews99@gmail.com and we can set up a time to chat about your interests.
Be sure to see the Public Image menu tab on our District Website and check out our District Facebook Page , Twitter account and Instagram account and the District Newsletters too, for some idea of what we do.
Posted by Past Rotary International President Jennifer Jones
Nearly a decade ago, while I was the chair of the Strengthen Rotary’s Brand Committee, we conducted in-depth research to better understand how the public viewed Rotary, our members, and our work. What we learned was that we needed to reposition the Rotary brand by focusing on clear, consistent messages and a unified visual identity. Based on the committee’s recommendation, the Board of Directors approved new brand guidelines, which included how clubs should use the Rotary logo.......
Do you have events or fundraisers that you want other clubs to know about? Perhaps a project with which you need their assistance? Here are just three ways you can get your event, your message , a story about your club, or your "ask for help" out to your neighbouring Rotary Clubs, RIGHT HERE IN THIS NEWSLETTER:........
The annual Beaujolais Nouveau Fundraising Celebration hosted by the Rotary Club of Etobicoke, is making some changes this year, this year it is called Canadian Twist on Beaujolais, members from Toronto Rotary Club join us in organizing the Annual Celebration. An evening of Wine, Delicious Food, Entertainment, Exciting Raffle Prizes and Silent Auction. All funds raised will go to support the the devasting disasters in Morocco, Libya and Afganistan. All proceeds will go to Shelter Box.
Come out and Join Us! - November 15, 2023 - Mimoco Crusiing Club, 200 Humber Bay Park Rd W, Etobicoke, ON from 6 to 10 PM
Posted by Susan Roper, Rotary Club of Scarborough Twilight
To Rotarians and the whole Rotary Family in District 7070:
I am inviting you to the South Asian Autistic Awareness Centre's, Open House on WednesdayNovember 15th at 6:30pm to view their 2023 SEASONAL GOODNESS GIFTS COLLECTION. Check out their website at www.saaac.org
SAAAC is an organization in Scarborough that works with and supports autistic youth and adults. Goodness Gifts is one of the programmes they have initiated with their clients to create employment. Goodness gifts goes beyond traditional gifting. You can order custom gift boxes with your choice of contents, the boxes would make great Christmas gifts for friends and relatives, or your business associates or your clients......
The Rotary Club of Picton is presenting a Ukranian Evening (Fundraiser) on Nov 18, 2023 with all proceeds going to Ukraine for medical supplies and relief programs for children. Tickets are $100 and available at pictonrotary.ca
Posted by Heather Graeme, Past President , Willowdale Rotary Club
Here is a letter to the Rotary District 7070 Family from President Jobson Easow:
I hope this letter finds you in good health and high spirits. I am writing to you today with a message of hope and peace. Our club has embarked on a mission to make a meaningful impact on the lives of individuals and communities by providing access to education, and we invite you to join us in this noble endeavor. The Rotary Club of Willowdale has undertaken a project to build computer labs in schools for the less fortunate children in the Tribal area of Kerala, India. However, we cannot do it alone. We need your support to make a real difference in the lives of those seeking hope and peace through education.
To raise funds for this cause we are hosting an “International Night” with dinner, Bollywood dancing and entertainment on Friday November 24th, 6.30pm at Floga Estiatorio and Event Space, 1957 Kennedy Rd, Scarborough, ON M1P 2L9. Tickets are sold at $75pp and you get $45 in charity tax receipts. Your generous contribution will go directly towards the computer lab project in Kerala, India, allowing us to expand our reach and make a lasting impact on the lives of many. Every dollar counts and your support is greatly appreciated......
Fifth Annual Concert to Feed the Need in Durham : PLEASE NOTE DATE AND LOCATION CHANGE: TO At 2 pm on SUNDAY, DECEMBER 10, 2023, musicians from across the Durham Region will be gathering at The BILTMORE THEATRE 39 King St E, Oshawa, ON L1H 1B2 to help feed their neighbours in the fifth annual Concert to Feed the Need in Durham. As in past years, the event will showcase an award-winning line-up of performers from a cross-section of genres – pop, country, R&B, gospel, folk, classical and more.
YOUR ARE INVITED. The event’s scope has grown over the years, becoming a Durham-wide Rotary event, with the Rotary clubs in the Region so far joining as co-presenters. All net proceeds from the show will go to Feed the Need in Durham – and the need has never been greater. The agency collects and distributes food and other essential items to more than 60 emergency food providers across Durham, including food banks, shelters, meal and snack programs and other social service agencies. Save the date: Dec 10, 2032 . TICKETS NOW AVAILABLE ...... BECOME A SPONSOR..... Please Read more....
The Rotary Citation awards recognize the hard work clubs do throughout the year. Taking action toward achieving the citation goals helps clubs engage their members, stay relevant in their communities, and run more efficiently. A welcoming and engaging club also reflects the values of Rotary. When clubs achieve citation goals, they contribute to the overall health and culture of Rotary for generations to come.Your Rotary, Rotaract, or Interact club can earn a Rotary Citation for achieving goals that strengthen Rotary and your club. Goals include increasing club membership, developing sustainable service projects, giving to The Rotary Foundation, and building awareness of Rotary in your community.
From Victoria Ruger, Club and District Management Product Manager and Chonticha Yurai, Grants and Service Product Manager
You all know the benefits of using Rotary Club Central, which is designed to be the place where you set our goals and track your progress.
Rotary Showcase, however, is the best place for you to plan your service projects, share the outcomes, and show the impact in ways that can attract more partners or inspire other clubs.In the coming months, both online tools will be updated. This includes phasing out the Service Activities section in Rotary Club Central — a change that will simplify how you track projects and allow you to focus your efforts in one place.......
Posted by Lars Henriksson, Past District 7070 Governor
As we are returning step by step to a more normal life, after COVID, it is now time to also look at the plans for the future for YOUR CLUB. Club Visioning offers a process to develop an Action Plan for the Club. Each member of the Club is invited to participate, and the session can be either on-line or in person. Interested? Please, contact Lars Henriksson at pdglars.henriksson@gmail.com to find out more about the Club Visioning program.
Rotary Clubs, like most other organizations, will benefit from having a plan for the next couple of years. What are YOUR goals? What do you want YOUR Club to be like - two or three years down the road?
Strategic planning consists more or less of these three steps.
A description of where you are now, the Club’s status.
As a group, you and your club members decide what and where you want to be in two, three years.
By developing an Action Plan, you and your club members map out how to reach your goals.
Posted by Past District Governor , Bob Wallace, Chair District 7070 Technology Team
This is to introduce the District 7070 Technology team. Let's meet our team members. We are a team that can provide answers to any of your queries about MY ROTARY, CLUBRUNNER, ZOOM, and social media.
If you have any questions or problems that we can help with please contact me.
If your club would like any training in these areas, also please let us know. We recognize that these software programs are a great help and want you to get the most out of them.......
We now have a new and refreshed District 7070 Website. Be sure to take a look at the change over the next short period of time. Be sure to register for your club's website refresh too. In the meantime, check out the resources and articles available to you today. Use them on your club website, and as posts in your social media accounts.
Have you checked out the up-to-the-minute scrolling stories that you can share with your members and post on to your club website and social media pages? Have you checked out the new concise menu tabs? Have you seen all of the links at the bottom of the page? There's more good news here... Please Read more.....
Rotary International Zones 28 & 32 (formerly Zones 24 & 32) is a community of Rotarians, spanning two languages, four countries and seven time zones: Bermuda, Canada, France and the United States. It is you and me.
The Zone Website is filled with news from around the Rotary world, and even in our own backyard. Please take a look at theZone websiteand you will find monthly Beyond Borders Newsletters, letters from our Rotary leaders, dates and sites of our Rotary Zone Conferences which you can attend, Rotary events in our own backyard, Resources on membership, The Rotary Foundation and Public Image, and a section called Great Ideas To Share (Best Practices you can use and share with your members), membership webinars , and up to the minute news and download files. Enjoy.
As the fight against polio unites communities around the world, Rotary members are using time-tested methods and attention-catching new ideas to raise awareness, funds, and support toward eradicating this debilitating disease.
n McInally's November 2023 Message, he talks about Rotary taking steps to support peacebuilding in the Middle East and Africa region with the signing ceremony of our newest peace centre in Istanbul. The peace centers program, now in its 25th year, has prepared more than 1,700 peace fellows working in more than 140 countries to create a more peaceful world. Gordon adds that the Rotary Peace Fellows through their actions, have helped Create Hope in the World and will continue to do so. We can all advance peace by encouraging our local peacebuilders to learn more about Rotary and apply for this impactful fellowship. Rotary members can also mentor candidates for the fellowship. Or you can work with peace fellows who have already graduated. He says,"Peace must be waged persistently; it is the soil where hope takes root. But as with any journey, we take one step at a time". 
Past District Governor Mike Cooksey once told me that if you want more Rotary members, you have to ask. He told everyone he saw to "Get your Ask in Gear". His words certainly reflect one of the Strategic Plans that District 7070 has . Our goal is to receive 100 inquires from the "Join Us" or "Interested In Joining Us?" button on the District 7070 Website. Here is our challenge to your club: By the end of this Rotary year we want over 40 Rotary Clubs have a "Join Us" or "Interested In Joining Us?" button on their own club website AND for your club to have a "member conversion process" from these inquiries. It's up to you.
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Here is the latest Honouring Indigenous People Rotary News and Events, projects, blogs, photos, films, and resources. There are many major initiatives and resources available to you and your Rotary club. Your Club can help. Our District 7070 Action Committee's Areas of Focus Coordinator is Bill Empey from the Rotary Club of Toronto If you have a good news story, or want to help starting a project, please contact Bill. Here are some news highlights .........
Rotaract club presidents are now able to report current and incoming secretaries, treasurers, and committee chairs to Rotary International. Reporting these appointments will help assure your club leaders get the latest news and resources to support club-led activities. Log in to My Rotary and access the Club Administration section of your account.
Calling all District 7070 Rotary, Rotaract, and Interact clubs! Increase your club’s visibility. Tag us (Rotary District 7070 accounts on Facebook, Twitter and Intragram) in all of your appropriate social media posts (Facebook, Instagram, Twitter) so we can share your news and events. We have lots of followers who would like to see your posts! Take a look at our three District accounts.
The Rotary Citation awards recognize the hard work clubs do throughout the year. Taking action toward achieving the citation goals helps clubs engage their members, stay relevant in their communities, and run more efficiently. A welcoming and engaging club also reflects the values of Rotary. When clubs achieve citation goals, they contribute to the overall health and culture of Rotary for generations to come.
Rotary International Zones 28 & 32 (formerly Zones 24 & 32) is a
