Our District 7070 newsletter is meant to keep everyone in our Rotary family up to date on latest news from around the Rotary world, from the clubs in our District, from the various committees in District 7070 and beyond. We send it out to all active Rotarians and post it on to our District Facebook page. We ask that you share this letter and keep our entire Rotary family and friends informed. Make sure they all get a copy. The deadline for your story submissions is always 4 days prior to the end of the month. Check out our District 7070 Facebook Page, Twitter, Instagram accounts and our District 7070 website for the latest news about Rotary here in southern Ontario and around the world.
Posted by Iosif Ciosa, District 7070 Governor , 2022-23
In his February 2023 Newsletter, District Governor Iosif Ciosa talks about February and the importance of it being Peace Building and Conflict Prevention Month and asks us to carry out projects in the important area of focus . He talks about Rotary's 118th Birthday (also called World Understanding and Peace Day) and urges us to register for District 7070's WORLD UNDERSTANDING AND PEACE DAY SYMPOSIUM on Feb 23. He asks us to to celebrate Rotary’s 118th Birthday! Make sure to share pictures on social media and with Dave Andrews and asks us . Perhaps, use the 23rd of February to make a donation to the Rotary Foundation, it is our Charity .........
Posted by Jennifer Jones, Rotary International President 2022-23
In President Jennifer Jones' February 2023 Message, she talks about our work with empowering girls and women which is much more than creating equity — sometimes, it’s about health or education. Other times it’s about providing safety. Regardless of the path, it’s always about basic human rights. Jennifer adds that we can do more to empower girls and women, and we can expand how we share the progress Rotary members and our partners have made toward this goal. She says that together, we can address the needs and inequities that girls throughout the world face daily. But we must also monitor the impact of these projects and create awareness of Rotary resources and subject matter experts, including Rotary Action Groups, The Rotary Foundation Cadre of Technical Advisers, Rotary Peace Fellows, and others. She encourages all of us to tell the stories of our initiatives that have a positive impact on the lives of women and girls. This last point is near and dear to her heart. This means sharing our stories on social media, through local news outlets, in this magazine, and wherever we can inspire others...........
Posted by Ian Riseley, Chair of the Trustees , Rotary Foundation 2022-23
In the Chair of the Trustees of The Rotary Foundation (and Rotary International Past President) Ian Riseley's February 2023 Newsletter, he says that as we celebrate Rotary’s 118th anniversary and Peacebuilding and Conflict Prevention Month, we can be proud of the many ways Rotary promotes peace. Without The Rotary Foundation, and your support of it, none of that would be possible. He adds that you and I are also part of a peace organization. This reputation has been earned through literacy projects that help people expand their minds and viewpoints. And through water, sanitation, and hygiene projects that create common ground for communities in conflict. The most visible face of this cause is the Rotary Peace Centers program, now in its 21st year. Today, more than 1,600 Rotary Peace Fellows are advancing the cause of peace in more than 140 countries. You can directly support this work through the Foundation by visitingrotary.org/donateand selecting the peacebuilding and conflict prevention area of focus. Past President Ian also encourages us to contribute to the Ian and Juliet Riseley Endowed Fund in The Rotary Foundation to support peace projects....
Posted by Drew Kessler, Rotary International Director , Zones 28 & 32
To embrace current technology and to be a resource to all members of Zone’s 28/32 the current newsletter is being transitioned to an interactive blog style format that will be managed and moderated by the Zone leadership team. Look for the In The Zone February 2023 video from Drew Kessler, our Rotary International Director, available on February 1,, 2023 in the February 2023 District 7070 Newsletter version that will be published on our District website or on the Rotary Zone 28 and 32 website . ......
Rotary International President-elect R. Gordon R. McInally called for members to capture the world's attention and lead the way toward possibilities far beyond our current expectations. McInally, a member of the Rotary Club of South Queensferry, West Lothian, Scotland, revealed the 2023-24 presidential theme, Create Hope in the World, to the 500 District Governors , during the Rotary International Assembly in Orlando, Florida, USA, on January 9, 2023. He urged members to promote peace in troubled nations, help those affected by conflict, and maintain the momentum of initiatives begun by past leaders.....
Chris Etienne, Past District Governor from District 6290, was selected as the 2024-2026 Rotary International Director for Zone 28
The Zone 28 Nominating Committee met at the end of September and selected 2007-2008 District 6290 Governor Chris Etienne to serve as 2024-2026 Rotary International Director, representing our paired Zones (28 & 32). Her nomination, should there be no challenge per the Rotary International Bylaws, becomes official after December 1, 2022. She will follow current Director Drew Kessler from Zone 32 and serve on the Board of Directors beginning July 1, 2024. Chris is an Associate Broker for Harbor Sotheby’s International Realty and Director of Leasing for Bay Harbor Company in Bay Harbor, Michigan. She has had a career in real estate since 2001 and has been in sales for more than 30 years, previously as Vice President of Treasury Management Sales for National City Bank. Chris is currently serving as Vice President of the Emmet Association of Realtors. She obtained her bachelor's degree from the University of Maryland European Division in Heidelberg, Germany, and her MBA from Lake Superior State University......
It is with great pleasure that I announce the result of the selection process for the role of District Governor for the Rotary 2025-2026 year is Niecy Dillon-Tyrovolas from the Rotary Club of Whitby-Sunrise
The selection process was conducted in accordance with Article 12 of the Rotary International Bylaws, and the above selection is subject to a Challenge Period of 14 days from the day of this announcement. Clubs wishing to make a challenge must do so in accordance with Sub-Section 12.030.7 of the RI Bylaws and submit the challenge no later than midnight February 12, 2023. In the absence of any challenges, the selection of Niecy Dillon-Tyrovolas as District Governor for District 7070 for the year 2025-2026 shall be declared official as of February 13th, 2023.
Special thank you to all who participated in the selection process.
The Council on Resolutions meets online every year to vote on proposed resolutions and urgent enactments. Resolutions are requests to the Board or the Trustees to take an action that is outside the purview of the constitutional documents. Ideally, a resolution should affect the Rotary world, rather than address local or administrative issues. An urgent enactment is a change to the constitutional documents, proposed by the RI Board, that the Board has determined cannot wait until the next Council on Legislation, which is held every three years. Representatives from all Rotary districts vote on items proposed by clubs, districts, the RI Board, and the general council or conference of RIBI. Adopted resolutions are then considered by the RI Board or The Rotary Foundation Trustees. Urgent enactments that have been adopted will amend the constitutional documents, and will take effect one month after the Council on Resolutions report has been sent. The 2022 Council on Resolutions concluded in November with the adoption of eight resolutions for the RI Board to consider. Read them atmy.rotary.org/cor/vote.
The Durham Parasport games were held in 8 different locations throughout Durham. To learn more go tohttps://durhamregion2023.ca/en/about the nine different sports that were played during these three days. These games were sponsored by The Rotary Clubs of Durham Region.
These games helped Feed The Need in Durham. There was no admission to these games at all. Instead, we people coming to the games were asked to bring a non-perishable food item to help Feed The Need In Durham (see:https://feedtheneedindurham.ca ) who distributed to over 60 locations in the Durham region. Thank you to Emmy Iheme from the Rotary Club of Oshawa for his many hours to help make this year.s Ontario Prasport Games a huge success. ......
Posted by Susan Hunter, Chair District 7070 Rotary Leadership Institute
In 2022-23 we are staying with our Rotary Leadership Institute (RLI) programming in the virtual format. Although we all appreciate that videoconference will never replace the personal connection that we get from meeting face-to-face, RLI is a very successful program with overwhelming response and enthusiasm from Rotarians across our District. Rotarians new to Rotary and even those with many years of service benefit from learning how we can create strong clubs with vibrant members who are engaged and committed to Service Above Self.
ROTARY DISTRICT 7070 WORLD UNDERSTANDING AND PEACE DAY SYMPOSIUM on ZOOM
I am excited to share with you the coming of an incredible Rotary District 7070 World Understanding and Peace Day Symposium with music, art and incredible speakers on Thursday February 23, 2023 at 7:00p.m., where you will hear Nobel Prize Winner Ouided Bouchamaoui who will join us all the way from Tunis, different entities that Rotary International is collaborating with to promote peace such as Mediators without Borders, The Institute for Economics & Peace, Rotary Inter-Country Committees (Rotary ICC) and learn about how Rotary is collaborating with these different entities to extend peace and understanding around the world......
We will then move from The Rotary International world to learn how YOU as Rotarians are partnering in promoting peace in Canada, and finally zooming in on how we are promoting it in our District and locally. In addition, with great entertainment with some live music and art which advocating for peace.
Hence, you will learn about our 4 ROLES (PeMa) as Rotarians in promoting peace …PeMa… yes you guessed it right and how we have been and will continue to strive to achieve.
As you probably know this day February 23, 2023 is a very special day for us Rotarians as it is the first meeting of Rotary which was held by Gustavus Loehr, Silvester Schiele, Hiram Shorey and Paul Harris on February 23, 1905 and now is designated as World Understanding and Peace Day. What a better day to enjoy our Peace Symposium.
This is an occasion to reflect on what are the 4 pillars of peace which we apply and why we as Rotarians offer an olive leaf to all.
Don’t miss this opportunity and incredible speakers, amazing music and art while learning something new..!! looking forward to seeing you all.
Nevine Yassa
President Elect 2023-24 Rotary Club of Scarborough District 7070
Chair Rotary District 7070 Peace Committee
Past ICC Regional Coordinator for North America & Mexico
February 23 is Rotary’s 118th Birthday. That day is also called World Understanding and Peace Day. On February 23, 1905, little did Paul Harris and his three friends realize what they were starting when they met in room 711 of the Unity Building in Chicago. We have come a long way, since then, but we still have a long way to go to achieve goodwill, peace, and understanding among all people of the world. And there is more to read.......
Posted by Lara Valles, President , Rotaract Club of Toronto
The Rotaract Club of Toronto is supporting the St. James Town Community Arts (SJTCA)to start a teen choir in February 2023 and YOU are invited to help. The Club needs lots of volunteers to help support this incredible opportunity, and best news is anyone is welcome and you don't need to have any musical background. You can sign uphereand note that if you are planning to help directly with the youth you will need to get a Vulnerable Sector Check. Please share with your friends and family, including any youth who live in the St. James neighbourhood in Toronto and would be interested in joining.
Rotaract Toronto Karaoke : February 23, 2023: For details, Please Read more.....
Posted by Johanna de Boer, Rotary Club of Whitby Sunrise
Come embrace women and equity in Rotary District 7070 as we celebrate the women of Rotary District 7070 ! We gather on March 8th @ 6pm in the Rotary Global Classroom at Durham College in a hybrid setting (In person and online) to celebrate fellowship and hear from female leaders of Rotary District 7070. Reception from 6 to 7 pm. Broadcast starts at 7 pm. Registration fee of $5.00 payable at the door for the IN Person event. Parking will be in Founders Lot 2 . Parking will be $3.00 Guest speakers include Niecy Dillon, Rachel Boyd, Kaitlyn Almeida and Elizabeth Compton.
Please join us for an evening where we embrace equity to forget and harmony and unity, driving success for all. Please register for the IN PERSON event right here.
To assist the Rotary Clubs of District 7070 achieve their Strategic Action goals, at the request of District Governor Iosif Ciosa, the District Public Relations Committee is continuing the Rotary Club ClubRunner Website Refresh Program and Promotional Half Back Discount, NOW available for your club in 2022-23.The first 25 Rotary clubs have completed the refresh program in 2021-22. These club websites are getting noticed by the public and by potential members. When a prospective member looks to join a club, the look at your club website. Will they want to join your club? Now it's TIME TO GET YOUR CLUB NOTICED. Prospective members are looking at You Club Website - What will they see? Don't be left behind. REGISTER TODAY. Please Read more.......
Millions of people all over the world are currently displaced by armed conflict or persecution. In fact, 90% of casualties in armed conflicts are civilians, half of which are children. Through service projects and Rotary programs, the Rotary family is committed to pursuing projects that address the structural causes of conflict, including poverty, inequality, ethnic tension, lack of access to education, and unequal distribution of resources.....
Posted by District 7070 Chairs Dave Andrews and Bob Wallace
Dave Andrews and Bob Wallace and their two committees (Public Image & Technology) would like to put together a in-person workshop, for April 1, 2023 in Cobourg for Rotary Clubs to help you boost your club's public image. What specific things do you want us to focus on? Social Media ideas? Clubrunner Items and Issues? Please let us know as soon as you can. BE SURE TO REGISTER TODAY RIGHTHERE. Dave Andrews is atdave.f.andrews99@gmail.comand Bob Wallace is atrwallace7070@gmail.com.
The 2023 Rotary Youth Leadership Symposium (RYLS) is taking place, May 11-14, 2022 at the Ganaraska Forest Centre! The 3-night experience is geared toward youth between the ages of 17-23 and will offer an inspiring program including: Diversity, Equity and Inclusion, Reconciliation and Land Based Education, Hands-on Activities, Group Dynamics, Public Speaking, Outdoor Survival and GPS Geocache adventures along with campfires, friendship and tons of fun and learning!!! All this for only $375 per participant which covers all programs, accommodation, and meals. Rotary Clubs are encouraged to find and sponsor eligible participants within their community, as well as members of the Rotaract and Interact Clubs that they host. There are only 30 spots available!
Posted by Mary Barry, Chair Host Organizing Committee
The Host Organizing Committee is very excited to welcome Rotary members and guests to Melbourne for the 2023 Rotary International Convention. Known as one of the world’s most livable cities, you will enjoy what we take for granted, a beautiful, vibrant and cosmopolitan city. .......
Rotary Zone 28 & 32 Finally, our Alaska "Life on Land" symposium has been postponed until August 31-September 2, 2023, at the Anchorage Sheraton and Spa, with 3 days pre and post-event opportunities.
The weather will be warmer, still plenty of daylight but also darkness for any northern lights. We will have great speakers on the Arctic and Environmental Sustainability, dinner in a home hosted by Rotarians, a special tour to see glaciers and wildlife, and the ability to match with a company for a one-way cruise from or to Alaska (some September deals are great!) or travel further north to meet up with local Rotarians in Fairbanks or Utqiagvik.
There's plenty of time to get ready, so grab your friends and start planning! Details coming soon on the Zone website, www.rotaryzones28-32.org.
It is always with great sadness when we loose members of our District 7070 Rotary family. Everyone in District 7070 wants to expresses their deepest sympathies to our extended Rotary family. Please send your notices to Newsletter Editor Dave Andrews at dave.f.andrews99@gmail.com .....
Posted by Bob Wallace, Past District Governor, Past Rotary Zone Coordinator, and Chair of District 7070 Rotary Foundation Committee
In his February 2023 letter to Rotarians, Past District Governor Bob Wallace, Chair of the District 7070 Rotary Foundation Committee, encourages every Rotarian to set and meet their club and personal goals and make a conscious effort to make a donation to The Rotary Foundation, whatever you can afford, to the Annual Programs Fund, the PolioPlus Fund, the Disaster Response Fund, and to the Endowment Fund. .......
The Trustees of The Rotary Foundation voted on 8 January to create separate funds to assist two areas — Pakistan and Ukraine — that are facing extreme need. The Pakistan Flood Response Fund and the Ukraine Response Fund are being established to address the humanitarian crises caused by devastating flooding in Pakistan and the war in Ukraine. Through these new funds, donors will soon be able to give directly to relief efforts led by Rotary members. More information about the funds, including how you can make online donations, contribute District Designated Funds (DDF), and apply for grants, will be available in the coming weeks.
I believe every Rotary member is an optimist. We believe that for every challenge, there is a solution—finding it is what people of action do. 2022 was a time of unique action and progress. We introduced a DEI Code of Conduct, celebrated a decade of partnership ShelterBox, and raised money for those impacted by the war in #Ukraine. What will your club accomplish in 2023? How will you be #PeopleOfAction? I can't wait to see what Rotary accomplishes in 2023. Find our 2022 annual report here: https://on.rotary.org/3GDZ7r6
Rotary International President-elect Gordon McInally invites you to join him in Scotland in August 2023 for the Royal Edinburgh – Rotary Foundation Million Dollar Weekend. Donors who make an outright gift to The Rotary Foundation of US$100,000 or more, or a bequest commitment of US$250,000 or more, will have the opportunity to register to attend – at no cost to Rotary – a specially curated experience hosted by Gordon and Heather McInally in their home country of Scotland.
Posted by Lars Henriksson, Past District 7070 Governor and District Grants Chair
The Rotary Foundation requires every Rotary and Rotaract Club that wants to apply for a District or Global Grant is qualified. It's not too late. Please get your club qualified TODAY. It is a yearly process, administered by the Districts. In D7070, we have an on-line process, consisting of three quizzes connected to three self-study modules. The modules and quizzes are found on the District’s website, www.rotary7070.org At least two Club members must pass the three quizzes. In addition, the Club President (2022-23) and President-Elect (2023-24) must submit a signed MOU – Memorandum of Understanding to the District. If you want to Qualify NOW (perhaps you missed theNovember 19 Seminar), please Read more to see what you can do to qualify today .....
In recognition of her commitment to supporting the long-term financial stability of Rotary, Jennifer Jones has requested that gifts to her Presidential Fund support the Endowment-World Fund. Gifts are not requested, however those wishing to make a Rotary Foundation gift in appreciation for RI President Jennifer’s participation in an event are requested to make a gift to the Jennifer Jones Presidential Fund – Endowment-World Fund. The World Fund is the primary funding source for global grants which support large international activities with sustainable, measurable outcomes in Rotary’s areas of focus. The World Fund provides the necessary funding for our highest priority activities around the globe. For further information and to download an information sheet visit: https://trfcanada.org/.../jennifer-jones-presidential-fund
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....
Polio programme must keep clear focus in 2023 on adapting operations amid broader humanitarian emergencies
2023 is a critical year for the global effort to eradicate polio. It is the year where all remaining poliovirus transmission globally is slated to be fully interrupted, per the GPEI Polio Eradication Strategy 2022-2026. A unique epidemiological window of opportunity is presenting itself at the start of the year, that we must capitalize on. So what is the programme’s focus for achieving success this year? The answer is: reaching zero-dose children in the most consequential geographies.......
Become a CHARTER MEMBER of the End Polio Now Canadian Club today. All you have to do is make a donation to The Rotary Foundation Polio Fund for $100.00 Canadian, once a year - every year. Our Past District Governor Michael Bell signed up 20 new members at the recent Rotary District 7070 conference. Did you know that Donations to The Rotary Foundation Polio Fund are tax deductible, even in Canada?.
Your donations to the Polio Fund are really needed today. Did you know that Rotary International's goal is for every Rotary club (including your own cub) to donate $1,500 US per year so that we can get the Gates Foundation of $100 million US per year? That would work out to an average of $45 US per club member. Did you know that only 12% of Rotarians donate to the Polio Fund worldwide. Let's change that number. It is up to you.
Make your donation and then notify DG Michael Bell at mjbell925@gmail.com that you have done this and he will make sure you get your CHARTER MEMBER pin in the End Polio Now Canadian Club.
Thank you Rotarians and Rotaractors of District 7070. Thank you Michael Bell and thank you Dr Bob Scott (Immediate Past Chair of the Rotary International Polio Plus Committee) for promoting the End Polio Now Canadian Club.
Rotary and our Global Polio Eradication Initiative (GPEI) partners have launched the Polio Eradication Strategy 2022-2026: Delivering on a Promise to overcome the remaining challenges to ending polio, including last year’s increase in polio cases caused by a pause in vaccination campaigns due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Leaders from Pakistan and Afghanistan — the last two countries where wild polio remains endemic — have recommitted to working with the GPEI to improve vaccination campaigns and reach at-risk children. As long as polio exists anywhere, it remains a threat everywhere.
In addition to providing a roadmap to eradication, the new strategy calls for renewed political and financial commitments from governments and donors to achieve a polio-free world. Learn more about the action underway to eradicate polio.
Past District Governor Mike Cooksey once told me that if you want more Rotary members, you have to ask. He told everyone he saw to "Get your Ask in Gear". His words certainly reflect one of the Strategic Plans that District 7070 has this year. Our goal is to receive 100 inquires from the "Join Us" or "Interested In Joining Us?" button on the District 7070 Website. Here is our challenge to your club: By the end of this Rotary year we want over 40 Rotary Clubs have a "Join Us" or "Interested In Joining Us?" button on their own club website AND have a "member conversion process" from these inquiries. It's up to you.
If you have been already been part of the District 7070 Website Refresh Program, then you will remember Melissa Wells talking about adding a "Join Us" button to the front page of your club website. This is your way of "asking" anyone who sees your website to learn more about Rotary and join your club.
Past District Governor Bob Wallace of our District 7070 Technology Team did this to our District Website. Instead of "Join Us" , Bob put an "Interested in Joining Us" button right up front on the menu tab. To see how we have done , Please Read more........
Leveraging Local Events to Grow Rotary: A Membership and Marketing Guide is now available. It explains each step of creating a strategic plan to turn the increased interest that comes from big Rotary events into membership growth. You’ll find tips for creating a strong leadership team, getting clubs ready for growth, planning promotions, and approaching prospective members. The guide also has links to these new resources:
Use these customizable scripts to communicate with prospective members assigned to your club through the Manage Membership Leads page in My Rotary. Modify the text based on your needs and update the prospective member’s status at each step. It’s important that every club have a process to manage the membership leads assigned to them. We want each prospective member to receive a response and have a positive interaction with Rotary.
Brian Goerdt is pretty good at figuring out how things work. A computer consultant, he’s built his business on managing complex projects and streamlining business needs. So when he was 2021-22 president-elect of the Rotary Club of Bettendorf, Iowa, he wanted to analyze what factors helped the club succeed. He calls what he found the "secret sauce" of membership growth. It has, he says, three ingredients:
Invite people to join.
Connect with them.
And engage them in projects that serve the community.
That secret sauce must be making Rotary membership in Bettendorf a tasty proposition. Read more to find out how.....
Early in the new year, Rotary International sees a big increase in inquiries about joining Rotary. District and club leaders, remember to follow up with these prospective members to ensure that they have a positive experience. You can gain a better understanding of how to turn leads into members by taking the Online Membership Leads course. Use the Refer a new member form if you know someone who might be interested in joining. The updated form allows all Rotary members to refer a prospective member to their own club or to a different club.
Many clubs face challenges related to three things: attracting new members, keeping members engaged, and finding meaningful ways to contribute to their communities. Use the Club Planning Assistant to get tailored advice for addressing your club’s challenges. Club leaders, you’ll receive an instant response with links to the resources we recommend to help you address your club’s most pressing challenges. You can then build these suggested strategies into your club’s membership plan.
New and different club models will attract diverse leaders to Rotary.Rotary clubs continue to demonstrate their value by staying connected to members and responding to changing needs in the community. Read about clubs around the world who are finding ways to adapt to new challenges and meeting online. Use these resources to increase your club's value:......
Richard Mewhinney met with PDG Ron Dick, PDG Bob Wallace, and Prince Kumar to initiate a trial of a project board utilizing the Rotary Showcase as a platform. We need the help of every club in District 7070 to add projects to the Rotary Showcase. They will not only appear on the Project Database for the entre Rotary world to see (and perhaps help you with your project) but also act as part of our Rotary District 7070 Project Board. Log into MyRotary , go to the online tools and click Rotary Showcase. Rotary members and program participants are improving lives in communities around the world every day through thousands of service projects. Explore the good work that we’re doing locally and globally, and share these projects through social media.
Rotary is dedicated to causes that build international relationships, improve lives, and create a better world. Our areas of focus address some of the world’s most critical and widespread humanitarian needs.
To the Rotarians in Rotary District 7070, you have helped make 2022 an incredibly impactful year. Thank you so much for your continued support and generosity. Your generosity means a lot to us, but your compassion means so much more to the families receiving support. In 2022, more than 400,000 people received shelter and aid thanks to you. You support made it to 12 different countries following disasters and conflicts. I cannot thank you enough for your continued support.
Posted by Meg Schmieder , Community Program Coordinator, ShelterBox Canada
In her February 2023 Newsletter, Meg Schmeider, Community Program Coordinator at ShelterBox Canada, provides an update on how Rotary and Shelterbox in Ukraine. Here's more of her newsletter.....
Posted by Joan Barrett, Rotary Club of Scarborough
A meeting with Violetta Piora at our Rotary District 7070 Conference in Oshawa, Ontario in May 2022, just after her session; has become a joint project extraordinaire! The Rotary Club of Scarborough, in conjunction with the Global Guardian Project of Durham College and the Rotary Global Classroom at Durham College in Oshawa, Ontario Canada are supporting orphans in Ukraine. This orphanage is located in a remote mountainous village and has over 93 young children in its’ care. The goal of this project is to help these students learn English and restart their education.......
Posted by Past District Governor Ron Dick & District 7070 Public Image Chair David Andrews
To our fellow Rotarians, Rotaractors and our whole District 7070 Rotary family,
At the Rotary District 7070 Conference in Oshawa in October , we saw the partnership with Durham College's Rotary Global Classroom and Sunnybrook Hospital, and Global Guardian working together to send Tactical Emergency Medical supplies to civilians on the front lines of Ukraine. They still need Canadian Rotary Clubs including those in District 7070, to help today. Thank you to the Rotary Clubs who have already donated and are saving lives. All donations will be included in their purchase of medical supplies from Sunnybrook hospital and taken to the Ukrainian war zone. Global Guardian is working on additional shipments of these medical kits that will arrive in a few months. Please Read more to find out more about the project and how YOU can help this immediate need TODAY....
Posted by Ron Denham, Past District 7070 Governor and Chair Emeritus WASHRAG
Dear Rotarian , Rotaractors and the whole Rotary family in District 7070,
As a Canadian District Regional Foundation Committee Chair, you know it's getting tougher to secure funding from The Rotary Foundation for Rotary projects. The requirements are increasingly demanding, and the amounts available for grants are being squeezed. Fortunately the Canadian Rotarian Water Foundation is here to help!
We are still offering up to $10,000 (CAD) or 10% of the value (whichever is less) of any WASH (Water, Sanitation and Hygiene) project focusing on a hospital, clinic or other health care facility, in which a Canadian Rotary club plays a leading role.......
Posted by John Currie, Executive Director, Honouring Indigenous People
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, please send it to Bill. Here are some highlights .........
The 66th Truth & Reconciliation call-to-action invites community-based organizations to deliver programs on truth and reconciliation and establish a network to share information and best practices. HIP’s Youth-to-Youth initiative is an innovative program aimed at empowering the next generation of leaders by uniting Indigenous and Non-Indigenous youth and inspiring them to take action towards creating sustainable environmental change.
Y2Y (Youth-to-Youth) Initiatives:
Two engagements co-ordinated between District 7070 and the Williams Treaty First Nations communities in 2022 - 2023:
The first one: Virtual teaching on nibi (water) with students was held on April 28, 2022 and was hosted with a panel of local Elders and Knowledge Keepers
The second one: Called "Aki-aadiziwin", it is a Reconciliation and Land Stewardship Program that aims to connect Indigenous and Non-Indigenous youth through meaningful engagement. Camp Kawartha in-person event on a date to be determined in 2023 with 25 Indigenous and 25 non-Indigenous youth. Youth will learn about treaties, Indigenous heritage and culinary experiences with Knowledge Keepers in the Williams Treaty Territories. 2023 dates to be determined. Details and application are found on http://www.rotaryhip.com. https://honouringindigenouspeoples.com/youth-to-youth-engagement/y2y70107070/ Please read more....
Posted by Bill Empey, Honouring Indigenous People, District Coordinator, Rotary District 7070
Misko-Aki; Confluence of Cultures introduces a new and unique exhibition of Indigenous history and culture in Muskoka. Located at the Muskoka Steamship and Discovery Center in Gravenhurst, the exhibition (and a virtual version) will open in 2023. Visitors will experience the 10,000 year history of the Huron-Wendat, Anishinaabe, Metis and Mohawk people as the exhibition takes them on a canoe trip through the culture, history and geography of the region. This unique project highlights the authentic and previously unrecorded history of these four cultures in a fascinating presentation. The confluence of these four cultures in Muskoka ties together indigenous history in many southern Ontario communities. Rotary Clubs can now donate to the exhibition. Please Read more to see how you can help .....
Posted by Bill Empey, Honouring Indigenous People, District Coordinator, Rotary District 7070
The Covenant of Nations will bring together elders from the Haudenosaunee Confederacy and the Anishinaabeg nation in a sacred renewal of Wampum Belt agreements that establish peaceful relations and resource sharing. These agreements cover the area surrounding the Great Lakes and were last renewed before the arrival of settlers. Rotary is being asked to support this initiative. This reflects the trust and friendship established between Rotary and the indigenous community. Please Read more to see how YOU can help.....
Attention - Rotarians and Rotoractors! Interested in helping our district youth? Want to make lifelong friendships? The District Rotary Youth Exchange Committee welcomes you to join us! We meet monthly to select and support our District’s Rotary Youth Exchange Inbound and Outbound Students. Contact PDG Beth Selby (selbyandvail@gmail.com) or Trevor Hagerman (trevorshelley2020@gmail.com).
Rotaract club presidents are now able to report current and incoming secretaries, treasurers, and committee chairs to Rotary International. Reporting these appointments will help assure your club leaders get the latest news and resources to support club-led activities. Log in to My Rotary and access the Club Administration section of your account.
Rotary’s public image is shaped by the actions of every member, from how we conduct ourselves in meetings to how we represent Rotary at events and respond to needs in our communities. The club public image committee’s role is to create and implement a plan to tell Rotary’s local story, promote the club’s activities in the area, and raise awareness of Rotary’s work around the world. This list will help you assess how well your committee is shaping Rotary’s image.
Check the Club Public Image Checklist. See how mnay checks you have accomplished , and start working on the rest of the checks. Here is the checklist.
Posted by David Andrews, Chair, District 7070 Public Image Committee
I have noticed that some Rotary Clubs in our District are altering the Rotary logo for use in the marketing and promotion of their various events and projects.
This sends the wrong signal to the public. Many do not know who we are now and with different “looks” to our logo just makes it worse. Please use the Rotary Voice and Visual Guidelines ( see : https://my.rotary.org/en/document/tell-rotarys-story-voice-and-visual-identity-guidelines-rotarians ) and USE ONLY THE ONE ROTARY LOGO in your marking and public relations initiatives. That would include your website , all social media sites and any signs you may have created. We continue to strive for One clear consistent look and message in all that we do, to ensure that everyone knows our “Rotary” message.....
Posted by Past RI President Holger Knaack and Past TRF Chair Ravi Ravindran
Here is a letter from Past Rotary International President Holger Knaack and Past Rotary Foundation Chair of the Trustees Ravi Ravindran. It is a Call To Action. It is more relative in 2023 than ever before. They are asking Rotary, Rotaract and Interact clubs to update their logos to align with our brand standards. This means using the template in the Rotary Brand Center to create a club logo and then using it consistently, like on club websites, social media accounts, and signage, to name a few.......
Rotary’s social and digital media specialist offers some tips: Social media makes expanding your club’s reach easier than ever, but how? There are tips, tricks, and tools for creating content for social platforms, and the goal is simple: connection. A well-built social media presence will help you create connections in your community and beyond, from building awareness of your club’s presence to showcasing its success. To help boost your social media savvy, we’ve put together the following eight tips and tools. — HANNAH SHAW.....
Posted by Julie Johnson, District 9510 Rotary Public Image Chair
When your club makes public image a priority, be prepared to see engagement rise. Showcasing how your projects make an impact in the community and touch people's lives gives the public an understanding of what Rotary does. Even better, it inspires people to get involved, says Julie Johnson, District 9510 Rotary Public Image Chair.....
Short instructional videos make learning new skills or navigating websites easier. That’s why we’ve created “Getting Started,” which walks you through the recently updated Brand Center home page. The video will also show you how to save assets to your computer, share items, access the tools you need to create professional communications, and more. You’ll find the “Getting Started” video on the Brand Center home page. Watch it today!
With the rise of social media and the decline of attention spans, the use of images to attract an audience is key. Photos are ideal captivators, whether for a social media post, flyer, ad, or brochure. For your People of Action stories, you’ll want images that instantly convey the good work your club members are doing....
Calling all District 7070 Rotary, Rotaract, and Interact clubs! Increase your club’s visibility. Tag us in all appropriate social media posts (Facebook, Instagram, Twitter) so we can share your news and events. We have lots of followers who would like to see your posts!
District Social Media Tags: Facebook: @rotary7070 Instagram: @rotaryd7070 Twitter: @rotary7070
Follow all Rotary International social media accounts and be sure to turn on notifications. This way, you won’t miss a post. And follow all Rotary District 7070 Facebook, Instagram and Twitter posts and share them on your social media pages. There is more....
Posted by Evan Burrell, a member of the Rotary Club of Turramurra, New South Wales, Australia
Maybe you spent much of last year banging away on social media to gain exposure for your club (because everyone says you should), but you felt like you were getting nowhere fast. It’s still early in the year. Why not take a step back, make an honest assessment of your approach, and determine what you could do better.
Here are six social media resolutions I think you should make this year to elevate your club’s social media exposure......
Posted by Evan Burrell, a member of the Rotary Club of Turramurra, New South Wales, Australia
Did you know more than a billion people use social media every day?
Social media is readily accessible, instantaneous, cost effective and user friendly. It offers your Rotary club a fantastic opportunity to communicate more effectively with members and supporters and can energize the way you promote your club and find new members.
Here are just a few examples of ways your club can use social media:
Posted by Melissa Ward, Rotary Club of Twin Bridges, Southern Saratoga, New York, USA and chair of the Rotarians on Social Networks Fellowship
A Facebook page gives your club a voice on Facebook. With so much other “noise” on social media, there are several things you can do to raise your club’s page above the distractions. ......
Posted by Evan Burrell, a member of the Rotary Club of Turramurra, New South Wales, Australia
The most engaging posts on social media are the ones that include images. That isn’t a statement, it’s a fact! Out of all of the social media networks, I have to say Instagram is my favorite. Why? Because photos equal fun! Although Facebook is currently the most popular social network, other platforms have been gaining ground, especially visual platforms like Instagram, which allows users to share photos after applying edits and digital filters. After uploading your photo, you can share it on your club’s social networking sites like Twitter and Facebook. Instagram is awesome when it comes to showing your creativity and it has 300 million active users.
So why should your club be on Instagram? Because “a picture is worth a thousand words.” There are so many things you can do with photos to showcase your vibrant club and promote Rotary. Before your jump in:
Posted by Rob MacArthur, District 7070 Public Image Committee
In the Summer of 2020, we asked Rob MacArthur, our District 7070 Public Image Public Investigator to carry out an investigation on all 55 Rotary clubs with respect to their club's Public Image. Rob looked at your club's basic web site setup as well as social media channels and the way they were being used. A spreadsheet of the results was made available for our District Leadership Team and Assistant Governors to look at in the Fall of 2020. The Pie Chart included shows a graphical representation of the results. Where do you "think" your club fits in this chart? What is the Image that the public have, about your club? ASK ROB.... Please Read more....
Posted by David Andrews, Chair, District 7070 Public Image Committee
District 7070 Public Image Committee is calling for both Rotaractors and Rotarians in the District to join the 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 Rotaractors and Rotarians who have experience in the field of Public Relations, Social Media platforms, and news writing. We want you to use those attributes to assist clubs and our Committee . Are you that Rotarian? Are you that Rotaractor? If you are 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 this Dsitrict Newsletter 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:........
Posted by Ken Robertson, President, Rotary Club of Wellington
The Wellington Rotary Club is getting ready for our third annual Maple Syrup fundraiser. Over the past 2 years this event has raised nearly $20,000 with monies going to the Prince Edward County Memorial Hospital. This year we will again be selling 750 mL bottles of local maple syrup for $20 a bottle. For those interested in pre-ordering please contact Yvonne Buys at y.buys@utoronto.ca – given past experience this will sell out fast. Alternatively, as we have done in previous years, Clubs could partner with us by bulk purchasing bottles without labels at a discount price to be sold locally. For more details please contact Yvonne.
The Rotary Citation awards recognize the hard work clubs do throughout the year. Taking action toward achieving the citation goals helps clubs engage their members, stay relevant in their communities, and run more efficiently. A welcoming and engaging club also reflects the values of Rotary. When clubs achieve citation goals, they contribute to the overall health and culture of Rotary for generations to come.Your Rotary, Rotaract, or Interact club can earn a Rotary Citation for achieving goals that strengthen Rotary and your club. Goals include increasing club membership, developing sustainable service projects, giving to The Rotary Foundation, and building awareness of Rotary in your community.
Posted by Lars Henriksson, Past District 7070 Governor
COVID has thrown a wrench in many Clubs’ plans. As we are returning step by step to a more normal life, it may be time to also look at the plans for the future for our Clubs. Club Visioning offers a process to develop an Action Plan for the Club. Each member of the Club is invited to participate, and the session can be either on-line or in person. Interested? Please, contact Lars Henriksson at pdglars.henriksson@gmail.com to find out more about the Club Visioning program.
Rotary Clubs, like most other organizations, will benefit from having a plan for the next couple of years. What are your goals? What do you want your Club to be like - two or three years down the road?
Strategic planning consists more or less of these three steps.
A description of where you are now, the Club’s status.
As a group, you and your club members decide what and where you want to be in two, three years.
By developing an Action Plan, you and your club members map out how to reach your goals.
Posted by Past District Governor , Bob Wallace, Chair District 7070 Technology Team
This is to introduce the District 7070 Technology team. Let's meet our team members. We are a team that can provide answers to any of your queries about MY ROTARY, CLUBRUNNER, ZOOM, and social media.
If you have any questions or problems that we can help with please contact me.
If your club would like any training in these areas, also please let us know. We recognize that these software programs are a great help and want you to get the most out of them.......
We now have a new and refreshed District 7070 Website. Be sure to take a look at the change over the next short period of time. Be sure to register for your club's website refresh too. In the meantime, check out the resources and articles available to you today. Use them on your club website, and as posts in your social media accounts.
Have you checked out the up-to-the-minute scrolling stories that you can share with your members and post on to your club website and social media pages? Have you checked out the new concise menu tabs? Have you seen all of the links at the bottom of the page? There's more good news here... Please Read more.....
Rotary International Zones 28 & 32 (formerly Zones 24 & 32) is a community of Rotarians, spanning two languages, four countries and seven time zones: Bermuda, Canada, France and the United States. It is you and me.
The Zone Website is filled with news from around the Rotary world, and even in our own backyard. Please take a look at theZone websiteand you will find monthly Beyond Borders Newsletters, letters from our Rotary leaders, dates and sites of our Rotary Zone Conferences which you can attend, Rotary events in our own backyard, Resources on membership, The Rotary Foundation and Public Image, and a section called Great Ideas To Share (Best Practices you can use and share with your members), membership webinars , and up to the minute news and download files. Enjoy.
As the first anniversary of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine approached, a firsthand account shows how Rotary members are responding to this humanitarian crisis.
On 26 January in Odesa, Mykola Stebljanko spent the day under attack. A barrage of missiles killed 11 people and destroyed critical infrastructure around Ukraine, including in the city where Stebljanko lives.
Turkey and Syria were struck by a devastating earthquake on 6 February that has killed tens of thousands of people, destroyed homes and other structures, and left people across the region without shelter.
As the first anniversary of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine approached, a firsthand account shows how Rotary members are responding to this humanitarian crisis.
Albert Bourla's story of how his parents survived the Holocaust provides a vivid picture of the Jewish experience in Thessaloniki. His story has important lessons today for all of us in our very troubled world.
Second woman nominated as Rotary International presidentEVANSTON, Ill. (January 24, 2023) — Stephanie Urchick, member of the Rotary Club of McMurray, PA, USA, will become the second woman to take office as president of