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 your 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 even more of the latest news about Rotary here in southern Ontario and around the world.
Posted by Niecy Dillon Tyrovolas , District 7070 Governor , 2025-26
In her March 2026 Newsletter, District 7070 Governor Niecy Dillon Tyrovolas talks about all of the highlights of February, and reminds us of all of the events filling up for March and beyond, including March being Water, Sanitation & Hygiene Month (get a speaker and find a project) , International Women's Day (March 5), Learning Tuesdays (March 17), Presidents Elect training in Niagara-On-The-Lake (March 22), Walk With the Earth on April 16, and EPIC Day of service on May 16. .. Please Read more. .........
Posted by Holger Knaack, Chair of the Trustees , Rotary Foundation 2024-25
In Past President Holger Knaack's Rotary Foundation March 2026 Newsletter, during Water, Sanitation and Hygiene Month, he talks about the thousands of water, sanitation, and hygiene initiatives supported by The Rotary Foundation. He emphasizes the sustainability of these projects by saying that rather than offering one-time fixes, we train communities to manage systems for generations, moving beyond charity to lasting change and has asked Erica Gwynn, manager of Rotary's water, sanitation and hygiene area of focus to share her perspective. He concludes by saying that water projects improve health, foster economic opportunity, and amplify education through increased school attendance, especially for girls who no longer spend hours fetching water. And they fight poverty. Holger says, "By giving to our Foundation and volunteering in water projects, you are part of this success. Everything we do opens an opportunity for someone, somewhere." .........
Posted by Francesco Arezzo, Rotary International President 2025-26
Let Action Define Us
In President Francesco's March 2026 Newsletter, he talks about how water connects us all, and when local Rotary water service projects are connected, measured, and shared, they become a force that extends beyond geography and borders. He also talks about the impact of Rotary's partnership with the United Nations Environment Program through the Community action for Fresh Water initiative. As we observe Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene Month, Francesco encourages you to reflect on the freshwater systems that sustain your community and the role Rotary can play in protecting them.. He says, "When we connect local action to global vision, we strengthen Rotary's ability to make lasting change".:........
Posted by Christine Etienne, Rotary International Director , Zones 28 & 32
To embrace current technology and to be a resource to all members of Zone’s 28/32, the Rotary International Director newsletter has been transitioned to an interactive blog style format that will be managed and moderated by the Zone leadership team. Look for the "In The Zone" March 2026 video from Christine Etienne, our Rotary International Director, in our March 2026 Rotary District 7070 Newsletter (when it becomes available) , and on the Rotary Zone 28 and 32 website.
As soon as Chris' "In The Zone" March 2026 video is available, it will be inserted into our District 7070 March Newsletter that appears on our Rotary District 7070 website and also on the Rotary Zone 28 and 32 website . ....... This month, Chris talks about march and Water ,Sanitation and Hygiene Month, and the tremendous work being done by Rotarians and Rotaractors worldwide. She highlights one such Global Grant - HANWASH in Haiti. Be sure to go to HANWASH.org for more details. It is also World Rotaract Week from march 9 through 15, 2026. This month . Chris Etienne, highlights Louisa Horne, our Rotary Zone 28 and 32 Membership Coordinator interviewing Rotaractor Charlie Shaw. ..... Take a look. ....Please Read more.....
Posted by Niecy Dillon-Tyrovolas, Rotary District 7070 Governor
Having received no challenges to the Selection Committee’s decision, I am delighted to inform you that Terry Caputo, from the Rotary Club of Whitby Sunrise, has been selected as the Rotary International District 7070 District Governor for the Rotary Year 2028-29. Terry will be a great addition to our District Governor Team joining me, Immediate Past District Governor Virginia O'Reilly and District Governor Elect Liz Compton, and District Governor Nominee Tina Martin.
What Is your Rotary Club doing to focus on Water, Sanitation and Hygiene in March 2026? Clean water and sanitation is a human right. When people, especially children, have access to clean water, sanitation, and hygiene, they lead healthier and more successful lives. We don’t just build wells and walk away. Rotary members integrate water, sanitation, and hygiene into education projects. When children learn about disease transmission and practice good hygiene, they miss less school. And they can take those lessons home to their families, expanding our impact.
Posted by Niecy Dillon Tyrovolas, Rotary District 7070 Governor
Come embrace women in our District as leaders, as we celebrate the Women’s Day of Rotary District 7070. March 5, 2026, form 5:30 pm to 9:00 pm at the Abilities Centre, in Whitby Ontario. Cost $15.00 Be sure to register HERE online today. Everyone is welcome. Men, Women, Emerging Leaders, Long-time Rotarians. Because “Unite for Good” isn’t just a theme — it’s how we move forward. TOGETHER. If you believe in connection, courage, and building something bigger than yourself…This is your room. These are your people. This is your moment. ..... Please read more.....
World Rotaract Week 2026 will be celebrated from Monday, March 9th through Sunday, March 15th, highlighting the global impact of Rotaractors.
World Rotaract Week is an annual celebration dedicated to Rotaractors, young leaders who engage in service, leadership, and community development projects worldwide. In 2026, the week will run from March 9th to March 15th, coinciding with Rotaract’s anniversary and providing an opportunity to recognize the contributions of Rotaract clubs globally. The week emphasizes the spirit of collaboration, innovation, and Service Above Self, encouraging members to lead initiatives that create positive change in their communities and beyond.
Purpose and Significance
World Rotaract Week celebrates the achievements and dedication of Rotaractors, highlighting their role in addressing social issues, promoting goodwill, and fostering leadership skills. Activities during the week often include:
Community service projects at local and international levels
Leadership workshops and training sessions
Networking events to connect Rotaractors across regions
Awareness campaigns to promote social causes and Rotary values
The week serves as a platform for Rotaractors to showcase their impact, inspire others, and strengthen the global Rotaract network.
For more info. pleas go to: https://www.rotary.org/en/get-involved/rotaract-clubs
Mark your calendar for Monday, March 9th, 2026 at 12:30pm EST!
You’re invited to join ShelterBox Canada and two of our in-country partners for a virtual panel discussion in honour of International Women's Day. We will explore how disasters and conflict uniquely impact women and girls - and how including women in every stage of emergency shelter response leads to stronger, safer communities.
When disasters or conflict strike, women and girls are disproportionately affected - yet their leadership is also one of the strongest predictors of a community’s long-term recovery.......
Join Rotary District 7070Governance Committee Chair Terry Caputo on march 17, 2026 from 7 to 8 pm on Zoom. Go to the District 7070 Calendar for march 17 and REGISTER TODAY.
"What Support Can the Governance Committee Offer to Clubs?”
If you’ve ever wondered:
What policies should we have in place?
How do we handle club bylaws?
Where do we turn for guidance?
This session is for you. Strong governance builds strong clubs — and strong clubs create lasting impact
Posted by Emma-Leigh Johnston Earth Captain – Whitby Walk with the Earth 2026
My name is Emma-Leigh Johnston. I am a first-year Health Sciences student at Trent University, a member of the Wolf Clan from Tyendinaga Mohawk Territory. I have the privilege of serving as the Earth Captain for the Whitby location of Walk With The Earth 2026. Walk With The Earth is a youth-led national initiative focused on Truth and Reconciliation, youth voice, sustainability, and environmental stewardship. The event raises funds for Honouring Indigenous Peoples (HIP) and their Youth to Youth (Y2Y) program — an immersive land-based learning experience that brings together Indigenous and non-Indigenous youth from across Canada. I had the privilege of participating in the Y2Y program in 2025 in Nova Scotia. That experience deeply impacted me. I learned from Elders, Knowledge Keepers, and community leaders, strengthened my connection to culture and land, and built lifelong friendships with youth from across Turtle Island. It is incredibly meaningful to now help create opportunities for other youth to participate in the same transformative experience.
The Whitby Walk With The Earth event will take place on April 18, 2026 along the Whitby waterfront .......
The Rotary Foundation will select up to 170 peace fellows this year to attend one of our nine partner universities with leading programs in peace studies, sustainable development, and conflict prevention and transformation. The fellows will be able to participate in a one-year professional development certificate program to learn advanced peacebuilding skills or earn a master’s degree in a variety of disciplines related to peace and development. The Foundation pays for tuition and fees, housing and meals, round-trip transportation, and internship and field-study expenses. Clubs and districts do not need to provide funding to recommend fellowship candidates. Use this referral form to have information sent to potential candidates.
Since the Rotary Peace Centers program began in 2002, more than 1,800 fellows have graduated from our programs to serve as leaders in governments, humanitarian organizations, educational and research institutions, and international organizations like the United Nations and the World Bank.
Join LIZ COMPTON (DGE) and her Committee for an inspiring weekend celebrating service, connection, and community impact. Meet fellow Rotarians and Rotaractors, learn from engaging speakers, and enjoy time together in the heart of North York
It is always with great sadness when we lose members of our District 7070 Rotary family. Everyone in District 7070 wants to express their deepest sympathies to our extended Rotary family. Please send your notices to Newsletter Editor Dave Andrews at dave.f.andrews99@gmail.com .....
Posted by Bob Wallace, Past District Governor, Past Rotary Zone Coordinator, and Current Chair of District 7070 Rotary Foundation Committee
In his March 2026 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. Are you a member of the Paul Harris Society OR the PolioPlus Society? We sure hope you attended the November 2025 Rotary Foundation Grant Qualification Seminar. Time to get the Memorandums of understanding in to me. Please Read more.........
Posted by Lars Henriksson, Chair, District 7070 Rotary Foundation Grants Committee
Rotary and Rotaract Clubs that want to apply for Global and District Grants must be qualified. This is a requirement by the Rotary Foundation. Qualification is for one Rotary year. For a Club to become qualified, at least two members of the Club must complete the training provided by District 7070. Members have two options to meet this requirement. Either, by attending the yearly Foundation workshop in November. About 80 Rotarians attended the one for the 2026-27 Rotary year, held in Oshawa Saturday, November 15, 2025. Or, those who didn’t attend the workshop can take the two online modules and quizzes, posted on the District’s website. The modules for the 2026-27 Rotary year are now available on the District’s website, www.rotary7070.org
In addition, the Club’s President and President-Elect must sign and submit a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to the District. A copy of the MOU can be found on the District’s website. Please, contact PDG Lars Henriksson at pdglars.henriksson@gmail.com if you have any questions or concerns
Posted by Lars Henriksson, Chair, District 7070 Rotary Foundation Grants Committee
District 7070 is introducing a new District Grant application process for the 2026-27 Rotary year, using ClubRunner. The new format will result in some important changes
To begin with, only qualified Clubs will have access to the application documents. Clubs applying for District Grants must enter the Member Area on the District’s website, www.rotary7070.org Once there, go the Grants to the left under the top banner. Click on Grants and then Submit A Grant Request. Complete and submit the request. ... Please read more......
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 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 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....
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 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 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.
A PolioPlus Society membership can completed here by clicking here.
March 2 at 7:30 PM - Ways to make your club Simply Irresistible
Join on Zoom - click here to access the meeting links page (must login with your ClubRunner account, contact webmaster Bruce Goldsen if you don't have a login.
Whoa...the first Monday of the month is here again already! Yep. Monday Membership Meetup is TOMORROW - and it'll be a good one! Same link as last time - https://us06web.zoom.us/j/86755780910...
Posted by Louisa Horne, Zone 28 & 32 Membership Chair
New member Orientation Session on April 23. The link is the same as the last one - and the same as the Monday Meetup. Hope your new members, and those wanting a refresher, can attend
Michael McQueen, a bestselling author, motivational speaker, and sought-after media commentator, shared three steps with incoming Rotary leaders to overcome resistance to change in their clubs at the International Assembly in January. Nothing changes unless minds do, McQueen said, giving the leaders tools to shift the discussion and reframe reality. Read an excerpt of his speech on Rotary 360 or view the entire speech in the Brand Center.
Posted by Lee Ann Searight, Rotary International Membership Resources Specialist
Every month is a time when we should celebrate our members, recognize their contributions, and engage with prospective members. We have many resources you can use to promote membership in your club and enhance participant engagement. Here are 10 ideas for planning an exciting time for them:
As you prepare for the new Rotary year, remember that engaged members lead to a vibrant club. Members are more likely to be engaged when their needs are met, and the best way to understand your members’ needs is to ask about them. You can use a member interest survey and a member satisfaction survey to gather this valuable information that will help improve your club experience.
These surveys have a new, editable online format, so you can easily customize questions for your members. The guides below will help you do that. After members complete a survey, you’ll be able to view the results online.
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 every Rotarian he saw to "Get your Ask in Gear". His words certainly reflect one of the District 7070 Action Plans. 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 45 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.
To see how we have done , Please Read more........
Whether you’re already using Rotary’s Service Project Center or are hearing about it for the first time, this dynamic resource hub supports you at every stage of your service project journey.
In the Service Project Center, you’ll find tools and resources all in one place to help strengthen the impact of your projects. There are documents, links, and guidance to design and manage measurable and sustainable projects, locate partners, exchange stories, share best practices, and more.
And now the Service Project Center is even more valuable and exciting to use with the addition of these new features:
A Resources page with links to project planning materials.
A refreshed, mobile-friendly Grant Center page and dashboard integrated into the Service Project Center, giving you seamless access to project resources and grant information.
An Impact page dedicated to supporting Rotary’s Action Plan that will debut with a fun game designed to test your knowledge of impact.
We encourage you to visit the Service Project Center for all your project planning needs and to check back regularly for new features and enhancements.
Learn about Vocational Service and how to incorporate it into your personal and professional life through Rotary. Vocational Service is one way that members and participants can serve at Rotary. It involves using our professional skills and expertise to serve the community, promote ethical practices, and inspire others.
As we work together to make a difference in communities, we want to better show people the lasting changes that Rotary members make in the world. Measuring our impact means we gather the information that allows us to do that. This handbook will help you plan how you’ll use measurement methods for all the service projects you carry out, whether they’re funded by your club, your district, or The Rotary Foundation.
You’ll find information about different approaches to measurement, practical examples, proven methods, and space for you to record your ideas or practice using the concepts. This will help you learn to plan and measure your projects and collect more relevant data.
Data is a powerful tool to help us learn what’s working and what isn’t. It also lets us create and share compelling stories about Rotary that propel people into action. Showing our impact through data can lead to new partnership opportunities and funding, attract new members, and forge stronger relationships in the communities we work with.
Posted by Janet Thorsteinson, Rotary Club of Whitby Sunrise, Team DR
The best and most beautiful things in this world cannot be seen or even heard but must be felt with the heart - Helen Keller. This statement reflects the goal and mission of the District 7070 International Project to the Dominican Republic (DR).
Team DR has returned from 5 weeks of sharing kindness to their fellow man. 16 individuals, Rotarian and non Rotarians were drawn to help continue the mission. Our volunteers not only had fun learning simple construction skills but also helped Team DR change lives…by giving the gifts of water through grey water retrieval systems and well discovery, light through installing solar lights, warmth through clothing, nourishment through food bags, education through the SewGirls Kits and most importantly the gift of friendship to the people we serve......
Posted by Janet Thorsteinson, Rotary Club of Whitby Sunrisenies
#SewGirlsCanGoToSchool is a drive to end Period Poverty. The project, first started in 2015, has to date delivered over 2000 reusable menstruation kits to girls and women in the Dominican Republic. Our volunteer groups now see female graduation pictures on the wall of the homes of the families we help. Girls are able to continue with their studies without the worry of missing school. The kits help raise girls up so that they are able to pursue dreams - to get education, delay early pregnancy, feel worthy and an equal to their male classmates, enjoy social engagements with their friends - all because they have something to menstruate on - something that we can make, something that is overlooked yet essential for females to succeed......
2025 was a year of significant growth at Trees for Life and it’s all thanks to supporters like you! Check out the highlights in our 2025 Year in Review as we gear up for an even busier 2026! Click here to see the Year in review.
Trees for Life are always looking for great volunteers who want to help us in our mission to make Canada happier and healthier. Whether you want to plant trees, sell 50/50 tickets, or help at events, we have lots of opportunities to get involved! As we prepare for our spring planting season we need your help. Register to volunteer and tell us what areas you’re interested in. We’ll reach out when new opportunities are available. Click here to register to volunteer.
Let’s Celebrate Oral Health Month Together in 2026!
April is Oral Health Month in Canada. Please assist us to encourage your local schools and parents to promote good oral and overall health. Schools may schedule a presentation by a local dentist and order a Colgate toothbrush and toothpaste for each of their students.
As many of you know, Patti Lee of the Rotary Club of Toronto West and her friend, Barbara Seagram travel to Cambodia and continue their work supporting children and families in Cambodia through education, hygiene, clean water, and opportunity. Every contribution truly makes a difference, and they are deeply grateful for the generosity that allows this work to continue. Dr Raffy Chouljian, President of the Scarborough Passport Rotary Club, who runs Brush-a-mania, a not-for-profit program designed to promote oral health and awareness among young children from Junior Kindergarten to grade 6. It was started in 2001 by the Scarborough Rotary Passport Club and has already reached over 650,000 students. Their purpose is to educate and motivate children and to bring together dentists, Rotarians, teachers and parents to create a celebration around proper dental care. This year, Brush-a-mania went all the way to Cambodia, thanks to Raffy and Patti. Please read more to see Patti's Thank You letter to Raffy and see some photos of the children , at school with their tooth brushes and toothpaste.....
Nearly two-thirds of the 781 million adults worldwide who are illiterate are female (National Literacy Institute). Gender barriers to education can cost $30 trillion in global lost earnings and productivity annually (World Bank). On the Feb 13 BELRAG webinar, Past R.I. President Shekhar Mehta’s highlighted the vital role of Girls’ Education in paving the pathway to gender equality, lucrative careers, economic productivity, health and wellness of families, digital competency, peace building, and greater agency to tackle climate change among communities......
Posted by Ally Buck, Rotary and Community Fundraising Coordinator with ShelterBox Canada on Feb 18, 2026
Here is the latest update from Ally Buck, the Rotary and Community Fundraising Coordinator with ShelterBox Canada. She is getting to know the Rotary Clubs and Rotarians that support ShelterBox. Ally is originally from Pictou County, Nova Scotia where she attended the Nova Scotia Community College’s Social Services/Community Development program. She relocated to Kingston, Ontario to attend Queen’s University where she graduated with her BA in Global Development Studies and is a member of the Rotaract Club of Kingston......
Posted by Melissa Lair, Manager of Fundraising and Development
Dear Rotarians in Rotary District 7070:
As we begin a new year, I want to start with a heartfelt thank you.
This past year was incredibly hard for so many families around the world. Conflict, climate disasters, and displacement forced millions of people from their homes, often with little warning and nowhere safe to go. In the middle of all that uncertainty, one thing was clear. People like you stepped forward.
Because of you, families found shelter and relief during immensely challenging circumstances, from Jamaica to Chad, Cameroon, the Philippines, Gaza, and so many places in between. Your generosity became life-saving support, bringing safety, dignity, and hope to people who had lost nearly everything......
Posted by Wade Nomura WASHRAG Operations Team Chair TRF Cadre and Global Regions Coordinator
Welcome to our newest version of the WASHRAG Newsletter, where you will be receiving our latest information and updates thanks to our newest Ops Team member, Newsletter editor Justine Wienken. We look forward to hearing from all of you and encourage you to stay connected with us, as our goal is to network with all levels of experience in WASH, from the first timers to the professionals of WASH.
Rotary and the United Nations Environment Programme launched Community Action for Fresh Water, an initiative that empowers communities to protect and restore freshwater ecosystems, two years ago now. We aim to measure the results of our clubs’ projects that help the environment so we can better tell our collective story about Rotary’s impact. If your club is working on a project that helps your local freshwater ecosystems, we want to hear about it!
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 .........
Posted by David Penney, Past President , Rotary Club of Oshawa-Parkwood
WAKAM is the acronym for Western Alliance of Kenya Against Malaria, and is the first Global Grant of RAM-Global (Rotarians Against Malaria-Global Rotary Action Group). The Grant strengthens the local health systems ability to prevent and respond to malaria by educating and equipping Community Health Promoters (CHPs). For malaria prevention, diagnosis and treatment, CHPs are the Malaria warriors and are the boots-on-the-ground managing malaria one village at a time. The grant's implementation is collaborative initiative between Busia, Siaya, Bungoma and Kakamega County Ministries of Health and the NMCP (National Malaria Control Program), RAM-Global (Rotarians Against Malaria-Global Rotary Action Group), 4 district work groups (as below) and 4 Rotary clubs in Western Kenya. This 2-year project launched in October 2024 in Western Kenya, and the Rotary District Governor Joe Kamau from Nairobi cut the ribbon. The Completion date in October 2026. Now it is time for the second Global Grant. We need help from Rotary Clubs here in District 7070..... Please read more.......
The 2026 Rotary Youth Leadership Symposium (RYLS) will be taking place, April 9-12, 2026 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: Leadership Skills, Hands-on Activities, Team Dynamics and Collaboration, Public Speaking, Outdoor Survival along with campfires, friendship, tons of fun, learning and so much more!!!
All this for only $379 + HST per participant which covers all programs, accommodation, and meals. Rotary Clubs in District 7070 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 - so act fast!
Posted by Bill Empey, District 7070 Chair, Honouring Indigenous Peoples
The 2026 Honouring Indigenous Peoples National Youth -2-Youth program is getting underway as 50 youth, from across Canada, have been selected and begin preparations. Drawing from schools, Rotary and indigenous communities across the GTA and southeastern Ontario, HIP (Honouring Indigenous Peoples) has gathered four outstanding high school students to represent their communities and Rotary District 7070:
Abigail Lefler, Grade 11 Bishop Strachan School
Oxib (Balam) Imox, Grade 11, Kapapamahchakwew - Wandering Spirit School
Darren (Sage) Hodder, Grade 10, Wexford Collegiate School of the Arts
Ellena Stamatiou, Grade 11, Crestwood School
The program addresses the Calls to Action from the Truth and Reconciliation Commission Report regarding youth. Here youth find their voice and a chance to meet and participate with indigenous traditions; learning history and life skills first hand and face to face. Please Read more for all of the details.....
Posted by Rob Pope, Rotary District 7070 Youth Exchange Committee
On the weekend of February 5th to 7th, 2026, the District 7070 & District 7010 Rotary Youth Exchange students gathered at Camp Kawartha for a weekend of bonding, learning, fun and anticipation.
The Youth learned outdoor skills, history, games, teamwork all while learning from each other on how to make the best of their exchange years. We had the inbounds share their experiences and knowledge with the soon to be outgoing students while the committee members also provided valuable information on strategies and tools to help them manage the up and downs of their exchange year.
The 2026-27 Outbound students learned where they will be going on their exchanges which is the highlight on the weekend.
If your club is not involved, now is the time to start planning for the 2027-28 Rotary Exchange Year. Find out how to get involved by contacting any District Youth Exchange Committee member, ask how RYE can add value to your club. Please email us at rye.d7070@gmail.com.
Take a look at the photos ........................
We hope this message finds you well and thriving in your service to our communities! As we continue to inspire and empower the next generation, we are excited to share an incredible opportunity that aligns perfectly with your Rotary values - the Rotary Youth Exchange program.
The Program is more than just an adventure. It’s a transformative experience that fosters international understanding, cultural appreciation, and personal growth. By promoting the Program with our District’s Rotary Clubs, we can provide young people the opportunity to explore a new culture, develop lifelong friendships, and enhance their leadership skills. .....
As we continue to inspire and empower the next generation, we are excited to share an incredible opportunity that aligns perfectly with your Rotary values - the Rotary Youth Exchange program.
The Program is more than just an adventure. It’s a transformative experience that fosters international understanding, cultural appreciation, and personal growth. By promoting the Program with our District’s Rotary Clubs, we can provide young people the opportunity to explore a new culture, develop lifelong friendships, and enhance their leadership skills. We invite you to join us in championing the Rotary Youth Exchange Program in our District......
Rotary and Rotaract clubs can now designate a Programs for Young Leaders contact. And Interact club presidents can (with a parent’s consent) complete an optional self-registration form to receive resources and support directly from Rotary International. Both of these changes will help clubs and youth programs expand and grow stronger in part by enabling RI to distribute tools and information to club contacts. The Programs for Young Leaders contacts will stay connected with all of the youth programs their club sponsors, amplifying participants’ ideas and input and advocating for safe, inclusive programs. They will also serve as the main contact for any Interact clubs their club sponsors, attend Interact meetings, and find opportunities for Interactors to attend the sponsor club’s meetings and activities. Learn more about the Programs for Young Leaders contact. ....
Illuminating Our Impact with Public Image & Storytelling
We’re excited to announce the launch of the Zones 28 & 32 Ignite Award, a new Public Image recognition designed to celebrate Zones 28 & 32 clubs and districts that shine a light on Rotary’s impact through consistent branding and storytelling. This award honors those who not only share Rotary’s impact but do so with clarity, creativity, and brand excellence.
Use our new, Rotary-branded PowerPoint presentation to give potential members or community partners a concise overview of what Rotary is and what our members do. Customize the notes depending on your audience. You can share the slides in person or virtually. Download the PowerPoint presentation in English.
We're all Rotary brand ambassadors! Helping others understand how we make a difference as people of action is something all Rotary members can do. Use the resources in the improved Brand Center to publicize your work and strengthen the Rotary brand.
Explore the Service Project Center's resources and find inspiration
Your club makes a difference. Now tell the world about it! Rotary’s Service Project Center helps you plan, track, and share your projects by providing a streamlined hub for tools, resources, and ideas from clubs worldwide. The Service Project Center also makes it easier to share links to your project on social media, to inspire others to take action with you. Visit the Service Project Center
Our newest promotional campaign features videos of a diverse sample of members explaining how Rotary helps them further their passions and professions. The campaign’s initial rollout features testimonials by three U.S. members. Watch for future videos showcasing Rotary’s diversity of membership, breadth of experiences, and global reach. The testimonials are designed to complement Rotary’s People of Action messaging. Together, the videos and messaging work to deepen the public’s understanding of the many ways Rotary enriches members’ lives.
Visit the Brand Center to download these dynamic videos, and then post them on your social media channels and websites to introduce potential participants and members to everything they can find in Rotary. Lots more on Videos....
Rotary's mission is timeless, but what worked for Rotary and its clubs in the past may not be the most effective approach today. The world has changed, people have changed, and communication has changed. In a Rotary 360 blog post, Herb Silverman, president of the Rotary Club of Impact Ocala, Florida, USA, outlines some of the ways his club is embracing change and how other clubs can do the same. Modernizing communications is high on his list. Learn more about how to adapt our tools and embrace today’s opportunities.
We’ve given our blog in English a new name and a fresh look. Rotary 360 replaces Rotary Voices and will capture the Rotary experience from every angle. You’ll find inspiring stories from Rotary members as well as thoughtful, conversation-starting pieces from our partner organizations and experts in various fields. Explore our new blog and share it with other members and people in your community. If you have a story to tell, send it to us at blog@rotary.org.
We’ve given our blog a new name and a fresh look. The Rotary Voices blog is now Rotary 360, and it captures Rotary’s story from every angle. Explore the blog website and look for projects and ideas that showcase how Rotary takes action to do good in the world and build community connections. Those inspiring stories can help build brand awareness when shared on your social media channels, helping to attract members, volunteers, and donors. Explore Rotary 360.
Nearly a decade ago, while Jennifer Jones was the chair of the Strengthen Rotary’s Brand Committee, Rotary International 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 Rotary International Board of Directors approved new brand guidelines, which included how clubs should use the Rotary logo.......
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.
It's a New Rotary Year - Check the Club Public Image Checklist. See how many checks you have accomplished , and start working on the rest of the checks. Your 2024-25-26-27 Club Presidents already have a copy. Here is the checklist.
Posted by Niecey Dillon-Tyrovolas, District 7070 Governor
To Rotarians in District 7070:
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 Niecy Dillon-Tyrovolas, 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 2025-26. Thirty-three of our District 7070 Rotary clubs have already completed the refresh program. These club websites are getting noticed by the public and 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.
A few years ago, we asked Rob MacArthur, our District 7070 Public Image Public Investigator to carry out an investigation on all 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 review. 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.
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:........
Patti Lee of the Rotary Club of Toronto West and her friend, Barbara Seagram, are very excited to invite you to a special event: a Concert for Cambodia, taking place on Sunday, May 3rd, 2026 at 11:30 a.m. at The Granite Club in Toronto. This concert is more than a wonderful afternoon of music. Your participation will help us continue our work supporting children and families in Cambodia through education, hygiene, clean water, and opportunity. Every contribution truly makes a difference, and we are deeply grateful for the generosity that allows this work to continue. Tickets are almost gone. Get you tickets today. Give Patti Lee a call today. Please read more ..........
As Rotary’s approach to building knowledge and skills shifts from a training model to a learning model, we’re putting participants at the center of the learning experience so they can direct their own learning and skill development.
Watch our webinar to explore how to create dynamic learning experiences through facilitated dialogue and idea sharing.
Posted by Susan Hunter, District 7070 Chair, Rotary leadership Institute
Rotary Leadership Institute is your opportunity to learn more about Rotary and share your ideas with other Rotarians.
In a complex, fast-changing world, excellent Rotary club leadership is essential to the future of Rotary. One of the best ways to strengthen your Club is to give your members the tools and skills to be better Rotarians. Rotary Leadership Institute is the solution.This is your opportunity to learn more about Rotary and share your ideas with other Rotarians, and it is a great learning experience for new Rotarians, for your incoming Board of Directors, and for any Rotarian who wants to learn more about Rotary.
We are pleased to announce that RLI Part I is scheduled for Saturday, May 23, 2026. Participants will have the opportunity to complete all the courses in Part I. Due to limited space, we are unable to organize Parts II and III on this date. REGISTER TODAY
Successful clubs set goals effectively. When club leaders plan for the future, they give the club a sense of direction. Whether you aim to welcome more members, complete more service projects, or improve the experience that your club offers, setting goals motivates members to work toward a common purpose. Rotary Club Central makes it easy for Rotary and Rotaract clubs to set their goals and track their progress. Club leaders can set yearly goals for up to three years and record the club’s accomplishment, and all members can view the club’s progress. Plus, new club leaders can use previous goals to make informed decisions about the club’s direction. It’s never too late to start planning for your club’s future. To get inspired, read this Rotary magazine story about clubs that benefited from using Rotary Club Central to set goals. Then visit Rotary Club Central to get started
Do you use WhatsApp? Get inspired with the latest Rotary news on our WhatsApp channel. Follow the channel here or look for it on the WhatsApp menu bar under Updates or Channels. Tell your members about this great way to connect with Rotary!
Follow Rotary’s social media channel Discover Rotary on Facebook and Instagram to stay informed about Rotary programs, offerings, events, and news. The channel features resources, tools, and learning opportunities to help your club or district succeed. Look for Discover Rotary on Facebook and Instagram and engage with us!
The Rotary Learning Center has a new mobile app that gives you a more direct and intuitive way to access the Learning Center. In addition to taking courses on your mobile device, you can also view your progress and explore other Learning Center courses and resources wherever you are. Download the Rotary Learning Center app from your app store, open the app, sign in to My Rotary, and explore!
Posted by Diana Edwards Supervisor, Rotary International Regional Membership Officer I Membership Development
Welcome to a new Rotary year! I’m Diana Edwards the Regional Membership Officer for zones 28 and 32. If we’ve not met yet I’m sure we will soon.
I wanted to share some new updates that’s happening in the Learning Center, please feel free to pass along as needed.
Mobile Update!
We launched the new mobile app. Anyone who had the Go Learn app should remove it from their phones. The app has had over 11,000 downloads since 27 May. (If you’re experiencing any difficulties, please contact learn@rotary.org).
2024-25 Highlights
15% of members use the Learning Center (this number remained the same compared to last year because we have done several data refreshes to have a more accurate count, there is also an unknown number of members being counted as non-members due to their My Rotary account not being connected to their club).
377,310 course completions which is a 23% increase from last year.
9,560 average number of unique learners that visit the Learning Center monthly, a 17% increase from last year.
64% of clubs have at least one member who visited the Learning Center this year up 15% from last year.
Posted by Past District Governor Iosif Ciosa, Chair District Learning Committee
This month is March - Water, Sanitation and Hygiene Month and here is the "Course of the Month" from the Rotary Learning Center. We are asking YOU to focus on this course that aligns with the theme of the month. We encourage you to look at "Community Action for Fresh Water" so that you have a better understanding and become even more effective in the success of your club..
Log in to MyRotary , go to the "Learning Center" and search "water". take a look at the very first pdf called "Community Action for Fresh Water" and Enjoy !!
Posted by Sarah Remijan Director of Learning and Development Rotary International
You asked for a better mobile experience with Rotary’s Learning Center, and here it is! Introducing the new app, a more direct and intuitive way to access the Learning Center on your mobile devices.
It’s now easier than ever to complete your role-based courses, track your progress, and explore other courses and resources — wherever you are.
Rotary’s Learning Center has a new mobile app that makes completing your public image courses (and others!) even easier. RotaryLearn replaces the GoLearn app and gives you a more direct and intuitive way to use the Learning Center. In addition to taking courses on your mobile device, you can review your progress and explore other Learning Center resources wherever you are. Search for Rotary Learning Center in your app store, download and open it, sign in to My Rotary, and explore!
To get started:
Download Rotary Learning Center from your app store.
Open the app and enter your My Rotary username and password.
Find your courses.
If you’ve accessed the Learning Center previously through the Go.Learn app, you’ll find that the RotaryLearn app is a more streamlined experience. After you get started with RotaryLearn, you can remove Go.Learn from your mobile devices. If you have questions, write to learn@rotary.org. . Happy learning!
As 2025 comes to a close, we’re thrilled to celebrate a year full of progress, innovation, and milestones! From the launch of Nova to powerful new features, this year has been all about giving you the tools to engage and inspire your members like never before....
Big changes are here and even bigger things are on the way!
We recently hosted our What's New webinar to unveil exciting updates and provide a sneak peek at what's next. Whether you joined us live or missed it, we’ve got you covered.........
Posted by Iosif Ciosa, Past District Governor and District 7070 Learning Chair
Welcome to your Rotary District 7070 Learning in this year. The District 7070 Learning committee is bringing all learning sessions under one umbrella.
The 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 learning 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 learning session in the upcoming month
District Governor Niecy Dillon Tyrovolas will also add any learning sessions to her weekly message.
Please Read more to see just some of the future learning sessions already planned for YOU....
There are lots of tips and tools of the trade when it comes to Public Image, Membership, The Rotary Foundation and Governance, when it comes to you and your Rotary or Rotaract club. This is exactly what we have in store for you.
On Tuesdays, on a monthly basis , we will continue to present learning opportunities, 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.
Go to the District website calendar and register today.
In 2024-25, we had 9 sessions ( No sessions in the months: July, December & June) with sessions allocated as follows: 2 sessions on Governance; 2 sessions on Membership; 1 session on The Rotary Foundation; and 2 sessions on Public Image. Watch the District 7070 Calendar for the time and date. Stay tuned for more details, these sessions are being developed as we speak. And even more planned for 2025-26.
Posted by Iosif Ciosa, Chair District 7070 Learning Committee
To District 7070 Committees: From: Committee Chair: Iosif Ciosa
Learning 2025-26 Description Form : Please use the 2023-24 form until a new one is developed.
Here is the 2023-24 Learning Description Form that we would like you to fill out and sent to Iosif Ciosa when you create the 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).
The Action Plan is a sustainable approach to creating and maintaining healthy clubs. President Francesco Arezzo and the Action Plan champions are asking all members to use the Action Plan framework to help address challenges and meet your club’s and district’s goals. Visit rotary.org/actionplan to use the Action Plan Toolkit today.
One thing successful clubs have in common is effective goal setting. When club leaders plan for the future, they give the club a sense of direction. Whether you aim to welcome more members, complete more service projects, or improve the experience your club offers members, setting goals motivates members to work toward a common purpose. Rotary Club Central makes it easy for Rotary and Rotaract clubs to plan and track their goals. Club leaders can now set yearly goals for up to three years and record the club’s accomplishments, and all members can view the club’s progress. Plus, future leaders can use past goals to make informed decisions about the club’s direction. It’s never too late to start planning for your club’s future. Visit Rotary Club Central and get started.
Whether you want to improve your members’ club experience in the short term, grow your overall membership, or do both, Rotary Club Central can help you reach your membership goals. With the latest updates to Rotary Club Central, you can now add goals for three consecutive years, allowing you to track your progress as you work toward your club’s long-term vision. Learn more by visiting the Learning Center. If you haven't visited the Learning Center before, go to rotary.org/learn, register for or sign in to My Rotary, and accept the privacy policy. Then, search for Rotary Club Central Resources.
The Rotary E-Club of Southern Scotland, which recently started a virtual leadership development program that pairs Rotarians who are industry leaders with younger professionals
In Past President Holger Knaack's Rotary Foundation March 2026 Newsletter, during Water, Sanitation and Hygiene Month, he talks about the thousands of water, sanitation, and hygiene initiatives supported by The Rotary Foundation. He emphasizes the sustainability of these projects by saying that rather than offering one-time fixes, we train communities to manage systems for generations, moving beyond charity to lasting change and has asked Erica Gwynn, manager of Rotary's water, sanitation and hygiene area of focus to share her perspective. He concludes by saying that water projects improve health, foster economic opportunity, and amplify education through increased school attendance, especially for girls who no longer spend hours fetching water. And they fight poverty. Holger says, "By giving to our Foundation and volunteering in water projects, you are part of this success. Everything we do opens an opportunity for someone, somewhere." ......... 
Come embrace women in our District as leaders, as we celebrate the Women’s Day of Rotary District 7070. March 5, 2026, form 5:30 pm to 9:00 pm at the Abilities Centre, in Whitby Ontario. Cost $15.00 Be sure to register 
Mark your calendar for Monday, March 9th, 2026 at 12:30pm EST! 
The Rotary Peace Centers will 
In his March 2026 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. Are you a member of the Paul Harris Society OR the PolioPlus Society? We sure hope you attended the November 2025 Rotary Foundation Grant Qualification Seminar. Time to get the Memorandums of understanding in to me. Please Read more.......
Michael McQueen, a bestselling author, motivational speaker, and sought-after media commentator, shared three steps with incoming Rotary leaders to overcome resistance to change in their clubs at the International Assembly in January. Nothing changes unless minds do, McQueen said, giving the leaders tools to shift the discussion and reframe reality. 
Past District Governor Mike Cooksey once told me that if you want more Rotary members, you have to ask. He told every Rotarian he saw to "Get your Ask in Gear". His words certainly reflect one of the District 7070 Action Plans. 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 45 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.
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 .........
