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 website and 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 April 2026 Newsletter, District 7070 Governor Niecy Dillon Tyrovolas talks about March2026 being filled with energy, connection, and impact—and she LOVED seeing it all across District 7070, from International Women's Day, to the Toronto St Patrick's Day Parade, to Presidents Elect Training, Sewing Days, Brush-A-Mania, Paul Harris Celebrations, 75th Anniversary Galas, Speaker Series, , Food Drives, …and so much more. Niecy reminds us that April is Protect the Environment Month and urges us to commit to supporting activities that strengthen the conservation and protection of natural resources and advance ecological sustainability. April is setting up to be just as active with Easter (yes… she loves chocolate… no shame!), RYLS – Rotary Youth Leadership Symposium, Inter-Club Spelling Bee, Walk the Earth, Great Lakes Watershed Clean Up, Learning Tuesday – All about Storytelling, Fun Under the Big Top – Famous People Players, and EPIC Day of Service projects popping up across the District! Please Read more. .........
Posted by Francesco Arezzo, Rotary International President 2025-26
Count On Preparation, Not Luck
In President Francesco's April 2026 Newsletter, he talks about the Rotary Foundation Program of Scale - Healthy Families in Nigeria. He adds that Service is not only what we do when conditions are ideal. It is the commitment to prepare people before a crisis arrives and to stand with communities when it does. Programs like Together for Healthy Families in Nigeria show what is possible when Rotary brings together local knowledge, global partnerships, and sustainable solutions. He says, "Programs like Together for Healthy Families in Nigeria show what is possible when Rotary brings together local knowledge, global partnerships, and sustainable solutions.".........
Posted by Holger Knaack, Chair of the Trustees , Rotary Foundation 2024-25
In Past President Holger Knaack's Rotary Foundation April 2026 Newsletter, he says that Rotary’s environment area of focus offers clubs and districts the chance to make a truly lasting impact in their communities with partnerships such as the Community Action for Fresh Water., whereby Rotary and Rotaract clubs can identify a local body of water — a river, a lake, wetlands, or groundwater — and commit to its long-term protection and restoration. He asks us to look around your community — he bets that you’ll find a body of water in need of protection. The Rotary Foundation can support your project through Community Action for Fresh Water and a global grant..........
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" April 2026 video from Christine Etienne, our Rotary International Director, in our April 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" April 2026 video is available, it will be inserted into our District 7070 April Newsletter that appears on our Rotary District 7070 website and also on the Rotary Zone 28 and 32 website . ....... This month, Chris talks about the environment ....Please Read more.....
Posted by Hal Alleyne, Chair, Rotary District 7070 Environmental Action Committee
With Environmental Sustainability taking root within Rotary as the 7th Area of Focus, Rotary has designated April 2026 as the Environment Month. Check the link below to see what Rotarians around the world are doing to improve the health of planet.
Within District 7070, most clubs are participating in the Great Lakes Watershed Cleanup. On Saturday April 25, 2026, thousands of Rotarians & Non-Rotarians alike, on both sides of the Canadian and U.S. border will roll up their sleeves to collect refuse along the shoreline, and innumerable waterway tributaries to the Great Lakes basin......
Rotarians from all over Rotary District 7070 embraced women in our District as leaders, as we celebrated the Women’s Day of Rotary District 7070. March 5, 2026, at the Abilities Centre, in Whitby, Ontario Canada, hosted by Rotary District 7070 GovernorNiecy Dillon-Tyrovolas. We celebrated a fundamental truth within Rotary: when we support the agency and leadership of women, we strengthen the foundation of every community. This day is more than a celebration—it is a call to continue our work to remove barriers, elevate women’s voices, and expand access to leadership and service. “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.....
In the words of our Rotary District 7070 Governor Niecy Dillon-Tyrovolas: What a fantastic day at the Toronto St. Patrick’s Day Parade! on March 15, 2026. So much fun walking the parade route with an incredible group of Rotarians from District 7070. The energy, the smiles, the green everywhere… it was pure magic! And let’s be honest… we had the BEST float in the parade! A huge thank you to the amazing teams from the Rotary Club of Etobicoke and the Rotary Club of Toronto for putting it all together and for bringing Rotary spirit to the streets of Toronto, Ontario CANADA. Days like this remind me how special it is when we come together to celebrate community and fellowship. Rotary showing up, having fun, and doing good… that’s how we roll!
From Past District Governor Lynda Ryder: It was established that we gave away over $10,000 in give aways at the parade. Travel bags, hats, perfume, hair conditioner, eye liner etc. It was a great day.
Thank you to Niecy, PDG Iosif Ciosa, PDG Lynda Ryder, and Scarborough Rotarian Sonya Chouljian for the fantastic photos
If you missed the live presentation from Rotary District 7070Governance Committee Chair Terry Caputo on March 17, 2026 you can see the video on our Rotary District You Tube Channel. Here is the link: https://youtu.be/e2pLZmyGR6U?si=BN8_8J88Jzk58G9v
"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
Join the Rotary District 7070 Public Image Committee as we present Elevating Our Voice: Branding and Storytelling in Action. Joe Solway, our Rotary Zone 28 Assistant Public Image Coordinator has invited our Zones 28 and 32 Public Image Coordinators, Cheryl Metiva and Amy Schuller to make this presentation and answer any questions you may have. Be sure to register on the District 7070 website event for Learning Tuesdays on April 21, 2026 at 7 pm .
Did you know that A BRAND IS MORE THAN A LOGO. ROTARY’S BRAND IS MUCH BIGGER THAN ITS LOGO. IT’S A PERCEPTION. IT’S HOW OTHERS THINK ABOUT US. NOT JUST HOW WE SEE OURSELVES.......
For more than a century, Rotary and its members have been promoting peace and working to address the underlying causes of conflict in our communities and around the globe – a challenge that’s more important now than ever before.
On May 20, you can learn more in a special on-line presentation “Unite for Peace”– a high-energy hour of stories, music and more, showcasing the peacebuilding work of Rotary through our commitment to create lasting change that enhances international relationships, improves lives and communities, and creates a more peaceful world.
Our very own Joe Solway, Rotarian form Bowmanville , Ontario Canada, and Rotary Zone 28's Assistant Public Image Coordinator is producing this show.
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 .......
Posted by Neil Phillips, District 7070 Governor 2018-19 and Mary Lou Harrison, District 7070 Governor 2018-19
Dear fellow District 7070 Rotarians,
We are seeking nominations, both from within Rotary or potentially community partners for the Dr. Bob Scott Disease Prevention Award and the Wilf Wilkinson Peace Award . Please note the May 16 deadline. Please do not hesitate to reach out should you have any questions. Please Read More for the Awards Criteria......
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.
Bestselling author and motivational speaker Michael McQueen spoke about change with incoming Rotary leaders at the International Assembly in Orlando, Florida, USA. Though Rotary emphasizes the need for change, McQueen suggests that even the best-planned strategies can fail if leaders cannot change people’s minds. Most leaders have encountered club members who resist change. But McQueen says there are ways you can overcome people’s fears, shift the discussion, and help them perceive things differently. Learn more about how to do this in McQueen’s blog post for Rotary 360 or review his full speech in the Brand Center.
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 April 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 Grants Committee
The window for 2026-27 District Grant applications is wide open. Until the deadline May 31, 2026. Applications are made on the District website, www.rotary7070.org.
Here are the steps to get access to the application material.........
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.
Remember, if your club wants a Global Grant, they must qualify and submit their request at anytime. The time for District grants for 2026-27 ended on May 31, 2026.
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....
World Polio Day is just around the corner (October 24, 2026) . We hope you have started your planning. Here are Some Resources to raise awareness and funds:
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.
April 6 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 almost here again already! Yep. Monday Membership Meetup is April 6 - 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
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......
Posted by Past President Eric Nejat, Rotary Club of Richmond Hill
RMCC (Rotarians Mitigating Climate Change) is a group of dedicated Rotarians working together to combat climate change. They collaborate with community leaders, raise public awareness, and implement effective strategies to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and promote sustainability. Join us in our mission to create a greener, more resilient future. Together, we can drive significant, lasting change and build a better world for generations to come. Our recognition extends to all founding and supporting clubs of RMCC — the Rotary Clubs of Woodbridge, Richmond Hill, York, Newmarket, Etobicoke, Whitby, and Willowdale — whose collective commitment continues to demonstrate the power of inter-club environmental cooperation across District 7070.
Please find the Rotarians Mitigating Climate Change (RMCC) Letter Special Edition on Dr David Suzuki's recent visit to Richmond Hill, prepared by our editor Rotarian Mehrzad of Rotary Club of Richmond Hill. He reports on the evening with Dr Suzuki, his achievements in the environmental activities and also Suzuki Foundation. I am sure you will enjoy reading it as much as I have......
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.
BELRAG was formed in 2011. We are a network of Rotarians and others passionate across the world who have a special interest in acting upon the mission and goals of Rotary International related to alleviating illiteracy; enhancing literacy teaching and learning globally, and helping to provide materials and equipment for literacy education at different levels. Like all Action Groups, BELRAG is an autonomous association of like-minded Rotarians, partners of Rotarians, and Rotaractors working in partnership with Clubs and Districts on basic education and literacy projects of mutual concern. Learn more about the history of BELRAG here.
Posted by Ally Buck, Rotary and Community Fundraising Coordinator with ShelterBox Canada on Mar 30, 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 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 .........
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 were encouraged to find and sponsor eligible participants within their community, as well as members of the Rotaract and Interact Clubs that they host. There were only 30 spots available.
Posted by Bill Empey, District 7070 Chair, Honouring Indigenous Peoples
The 2026 Honouring Indigenous Peoples National Youth -2-Youth program for 2026 is in the books and again, a tremendous success., as 50 youth, from across Canada, participated. 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 addressed 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 Diego Ribeiro Galbiati., Rotary District 7070 Youth Exchange Committee Member
We, the members of the Rotary Youth Exchange Committee, are happy to share a few stories about the comings and goings of our Rotary Exchange Students with a few photos to let you get to know the students and the Rotary Youth Exchange Program. Please let us know if you have any questions about this important program. Thank you for all your support.
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:........
Rizzan Delos Santos is the vice president of the Lindsay Rotary Club . She will be the guest speaker at the April 16 the regular lunch meeting of the Rotary Club of Ajax. She specializes in AI for businesses and charities .She will be speaking on that subject and how it can help raise funds for rotary clubs.
Date: April 16th ; Time: 11:45 at Parkland Retirement Centre, Ajax . On the south west corner of Harwood and Rossland in Ajax north . Parking at the south end of the building. You enter on the west side of the building . We are at the south end of the second floor . Lunch is $25. Meeting starts at 12 noon and speaker comes on around 12:30 pm
Posted by Howard Bak, President , Rotary Club of Willowdale
Here is the success of a project undertaken by the Rotary Club of Willowdale in 2000 that President Howard Bak recently shared shared with the members:
“In the Rotary year 2000-2001, under the leadership of then President John Walters, the Rotary Club of Willowdale raised tens of thousands of dollars to bring a teenager from Jordan for surgery in Toronto. Rasha Oudeh, 18 years old, suffered from Treacher Collins Syndrome. The Club arranged for Rasha and her mother to travel to Toronto, funding their extended stay while she underwent several surgeries involving facial reconstruction. All her medical expenses were covered. Rasha returned to Toronto the following year and a final surgery was performed on April 8, 2002.
Dr. Antonyshyn, her surgeon, made a presentation to the Club of the surgeries performed on Rasha and was presented with a Paul Harris Fellow.
Recently, John Walters was in Jordan and visited Rasha. I have attached a photograph of his visit (see below). Rasha is the lady on the right. She is an award-winning fashion designer having started her own fashion design company, shipping products worldwide from Jordan.
Another example of how Rotary can affect the lives of individuals around the world.”
Lars Henriksson and Lynda Ryder have just solidified the event for the afternoon of April 25th - with Famous People Players - A Rotary District 7070 Fellowship Event for all Rotarians and Rotaractors in District 7070.
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 ..........
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.......
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
Rotary Basics is a comprehensive overview of Rotary’s extensive history, from how it was founded to how we operate today. The updated guide tells all about Rotary, including our structure, values, international offices, The Rotary Foundation, and more. It can help inform new members who are beginning their Rotary experience and refresh the knowledge of longtime members. You can even share it with nonmembers who want to learn more about Rotary.
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 everyone! 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 April - Environment Month and here is the "Course of the Month" from the Rotary Learning Center. We are asking YOU to focus on the Areas of Focus Course that aligns with the theme of the month 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 click on the course catalog, go to the SERVICE section and take the Areas of Focus Course 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!
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.
Do you have new ideas for Learning Tuesdays? What would you like to see? Please send your suggestions to Past District Governor Iosif Ciosa at iosifciosa@outlook.com.
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).
Each year, 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. If you missed the changeover webinars from the 2025-26 year to the 2026-27 year click HERE and see the webinars. ....
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.
Through Rotary, police officer Joanne Serkeyn expanded her view of how to make a difference. In July, Serkeyn will become the governor of District 7090
Members of the Rotary Club of Custer, South Dakota, played a role in the construction of the Crazy Horse Monument and continue to support its federation
Far from the vaccination front lines, the fight to end the disease begins in everyday spaces, from a neighborhood pub to a commuter train to a tulip field. At the center of it all, no surprise, are enterprising Rotary members just like you
In Past President Holger Knaack's Rotary Foundation April 2026 Newsletter, he says that Rotary’s environment area of focus offers clubs and districts the chance to make a truly lasting impact in their communities with partnerships such as the Community Action for Fresh Water., whereby Rotary and Rotaract clubs can identify a local body of water — a river, a lake, wetlands, or groundwater — and commit to its long-term protection and restoration. He asks us to look around your community — he bets that you’ll find a body of water in need of protection. The Rotary Foundation can support your project through Community Action for Fresh Water and a global grant.
With Environmental Sustainability taking root within Rotary as the 7th Area of Focus, Rotary has designated April 2026 as the Environment Month. Check the link below to see what Rotarians around the world are doing to improve the health of planet.
Rotarians from all over Rotary District 7070 embraced women in our District as leaders, as we celebrated the Women’s Day of Rotary District 7070. March 5, 2026, at the Abilities Centre, in Whitby, Ontario Canada, hosted by Rotary District 7070 GovernorNiecy Dillon-Tyrovolas. We celebrated a fundamental truth within Rotary: when we support the agency and leadership of women, we strengthen the foundation of every community. This day is more than a celebration—it is a call to continue our work to remove barriers, elevate women’s voices, and expand access to leadership and service.
The Rotary Peace Centers will 
In his April 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.......
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 .........
