Our District 7070 newsletter is meant to keep everyone in our Rotary family up to date on latest news from around the Rotary world, from the clubs in our District, from the various committees in District 7070 and beyond. We send it out to all active Rotarians and post it on to our District Facebook page. We ask that you share this letter and keep your entire Rotary family and friends informed. Make sure they all get a copy. The deadline for your story submissions is always 4 days prior to the end of the month. Check out our District 7070 Facebook Page, Twitter, Instagram accounts and our District 7070 website for even more of the latest news about Rotary here in southern Ontario and around the world.
Posted by Niecy Dillon Tyrovolas , District 7070 Governor , 2025-26
In her February 2026 Newsletter, District 7070 Governor Niecy Dillon Tyrovolas says that February may be cold on the outside, but it’s the perfect month to focus on warming hearts. Niecy thanks her District Governor Team, the District Leadership Team, the Assistant Governors and especially YOU who have supported her, encouraged her, and inspired her every day. She reminds us that February is Peacebuilding and Conflict Prevention month. Peace begins with understanding. In February , Niecy reminds us about PELS (Presidents Elect Learning Seminars in February, and Learning Tuesdays on Feb 17, and then International Women's Day in March . What’s the difference between a Rotarian and a snowflake? Think you know the answer? Keep it in your mind (and maybe tell a friend)… Neicy will reveal the punchline in the March newsletter. .. Please Read more. .........
Posted by Francesco Arezzo, Rotary International President 2025-26
Let Action Define Us
In President Francesco's February 2026 Newsletter, he talks about February being Peacebuilding and Conflict Prevention month and cites examples of great works by Rotary in Columbia, India and Chad. He says that , "From Columbia to India to Chad, the lesson is clear: Peace is not a dream. It is the result of sustained action with a focus on true, lasting impact. To replicate these successes, Rotary clubs can take three steps: Learn from peace fellows and other peace experts in our organization, apply a peacebuilding lens to community assessments, and prioritize impact over ceremony.". He tells us that "Rotary cannot be satisfied with half measures of empty words. If we are truly people of action, then action must define us. Together, we can Create Lasting Impact, across the globe, in our communities and in ourselves. " .......
Posted by Holger Knaack, Chair of the Trustees , Rotary Foundation 2024-25
In Past President Holger Knaack's Rotary Foundation February 2026 Newsletter, he talks about Peacebuilding and Conflict Prevention Month. a perfect time to reflect on The Rotary Foundation's mission to advance world understanding, goodwill and peace. Holger added that peace is at the heart of everything Rotary does and goes on to talks about the Rotary Peace centers and his recent trip to Columbia to see our latest Programs of Scale award, Pathways to Peace and Prosperity in Columbia and reacquainted himself with Brigitta von Messling, a German peace fellow I worked closely with in Berlin 13 years previous. He was pleased to heat aboutBbrigitta and her work with the World Food Program, Rotary's recent Program of Scale. He added that Rotary Peace Fellows are invaluable. They remind us that peace is built one person at a time. He adds that your support of The Rotary Foundation opens countless opportunities for transformation.........
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" February 2026 video from Christine Etienne, our Rotary International Director, in our February 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" February 2026 video is available, it will be inserted into our District 7070 February Newsletter that appears on our Rotary District 7070 website and also on the Rotary Zone 28 and 32 website . ....... This month, Chris talks about ....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.....
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.
February 23 is Rotary’s 12ist 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.......
Olayinka H. Babalola urges members of Rotary to Create Lasting Impact: Rotary International president-elect emphasizes effective action and ‘embracing the world with open arms’
During the Rotary International Assembly (January 11-15, 2026) , Rotary International President-elect Olayinka H. Babalola called on members to Create Lasting Impact by making their clubs more welcoming, carrying out impactful projects, and allowing their Rotary experiences to transform them personally......
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 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 Current Chair of District 7070 Rotary Foundation Committee
In his February 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 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....
A new report shows how Partners for a Malaria-Free Zambia, the 2021 Programs of Scale grant recipient, has improved health outcomes for people across Zambia. Program organizers continue to promote the community health worker model to reduce severe malaria cases and deaths. Rotary members in Zambia traveled to health offices in all 10 target districts in 2025, one year after the program’s funding ended, to gather data. Review the Partners for a Malaria-Free Zambia Annual Impact Report to learn more about how this program has helped.
The report’s PowerPoint format makes it easy to share during a club meeting or with potential partners. You can also share the presentation with prospective members to inspire them to join Rotary and make a real difference in the world. Questions? Write to programsofscale@rotary.org.
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.
Feb 2 at 7:30 PM - Ways to make your club Simply Irresistible
Join on Zoom - click here to access the meeting links page (must login with your ClubRunner account, contact webmaster Bruce Goldsen if you don't have a login.
Posted by Louisa Horne, Zone 28 & 32 Membership Chair
Two More Orientation Sessions added in February. 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.
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.
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.
Nearly two-thirds of the 781 million adults worldwide who are illiterate are female (National Literacy Institute). Gender barriers to education can cost $30 trillion in global lost earnings and productivity annually (World Bank). Past R.I. President Shekhar Mehta’s talk will highlight the vital role of Girls’ Education in paving the pathway to gender equality, lucrative careers, economic productivity, health and wellness of families, digital competency, peace building, and greater agency to tackle climate change among communities......
Posted by Melissa Lair, Manager of Fundraising and Development
Dear Rotarians in Rotary District 7070:
As we begin a new year, I want to start with a heartfelt thank you.
This past year was incredibly hard for so many families around the world. Conflict, climate disasters, and displacement forced millions of people from their homes, often with little warning and nowhere safe to go. In the middle of all that uncertainty, one thing was clear. People like you stepped forward.
Because of you, families found shelter and relief during immensely challenging circumstances, from Jamaica to Chad, Cameroon, the Philippines, Gaza, and so many places in between. Your generosity became life-saving support, bringing safety, dignity, and hope to people who had lost nearly everything......
Posted by Ally Buck, Rotary and Community Fundraising Coordinator with ShelterBox Canada on Jan 28, 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 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 are encouraged to find and sponsor eligible participants within their community, as well as members of the Rotaract and Interact Clubs that they host. There are only 30 spots available - so act fast!
Posted by Bill Empey, District 7070 Chair, Honouring Indigenous Peoples
The District 7070 Conference on Oct 24, 25 and 26 was a huge success and HIP raised our flag in the House of Friendship and at an afternoon event that featured elder teachings, drumming, dancing around a fire and three HIP Y2Y youth and their stories about the 2025 program. The focus, as always is on youth and hands on experiences.
HIP at the District 7070 Conference; left to right - Jim Loutitt, Lauren Brown, Bill Empey, Etienne Luviana, Sam du Plessis, John Currie
I am reaching out with an update on HIP and our 2026 Y2Y program. Please Read more for all of the details.....
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. .....
Posted by Trevor Hagerman & Rob Pope, Co-chairs of D7070 Rotary Youth Exchange
The District 7070 Rotary Youth Exchange Committee is thrilled to announce an exciting renewed partnership with the Toronto District School Board for the 2026-27 school year! This agreement opens the doors for incredible reciprocal student exchanges in the vibrant Metro Toronto area.
We already have an eager outbound student ready to embark on this adventure, and we're on the hunt for a dynamic Rotary Club to sponsor this ambitious student and host the incoming one. The parents of the outbound student are enthusiastically preparing to host and are actively seeking another set of host parents to make this dream a reality.
Time is of the essence, as we aim to kick off these exchanges by August 2026. If your club is excited to be part of this amazing opportunity, please reach out to me or Trevor Hagerman at trevor@thlogistics.ca for more details.
We've seen great success when clubs collaborate in hosting an exchange student, sharing the joyful experience and easing the workload. Let's work together to make unforgettable memories!
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 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 Virginia O'Reilly, 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:........
On January 29, 2026: Rotarians and guests from the Rotary Clubs of Oshawa, Oshawa-Parkwood and Whitby-Sunrise were joined by Rotary District 7070 Governor Niecy Dillon -Tyrovolas for a Night of A Thousand Dinners, with proceeds going to the Canadian Landmine Foundation , at the Officers' Mess, Ontario Regiment, Simcoe Street North in Oshawa, Ontario.
This year's keynote speaker was Dr. Alistair D. Edgar, who has served as Chair of the Canadian Landmine Foundation (CLMF) since 2017. He is also the Executive Director of the Academic Council on the United Nations System (ACUNS), and serves as co-director of the Laurier Centre for Military, Strategic and Disarmament Studies (LCMSDS), as well as Associate Professor of Political Science at Wilfrid Laurier University. Dr. Edgar is president of the New Delhi, India-based International Jurist Organization (IJO); and a National Board member of the United Nations Association in Canada (UNAC). Dr. Edgar’s research focuses on transitional justice in war-to-peace transitions and post-conflict peace building. He has conducted fieldwork in Afghanistan, Cambodia, Kosovo, and northern Uganda. Dr. Edgar holds a BA Honours in History from Cambridge University (Sidney Sussex College), a MA in Political Science from the University of British Columbia, and a PhD in Political Science from Queen’s University, Canada. He was the John M. Olin Doctoral Fellow in Economics and National Security at the Olin Institute, Centre for International Affairs, Harvard University, and completed a Certificate in Russian Studies at Moscow State University.
How Rotary Clubs on Three Continents, Together with Madiro and Ubuntu Village of Life, Brought a Life-Saving Ambulance to Rural Burundi
There Is More Good News in the World Than Bad
On New Year’s Day a small ceremony took place outside Ubuntu Village of Life’s rural hospital in Mugamba, a community in Burundi’s mountainous interior. People arrived on foot, by bicycle, and from neighboring hills. There were no banners, no official speeches, and no visiting dignitaries. The occasion was straightforward and deeply practical. The Rotary Club of Bujumbura was formally handing over a new ambulance to Ubuntu Village of Life (UVL). Click the link to watch the video:
A Heartwarming Initiative Bringing Joy and Hope to Children Across Continents
The Letters to Santa project is the flagship initiative of the Lakeshore Charitable Foundation, a charitable organization based in Etobicoke, Toronto. Founded by Rotarian Phillip Wayne Barker, the Foundation's mission is to advance education in developing countries by building and repairing public schools and providing books and supplies. The Letters to Santa project represents a unique intersection of Christmas joy, cross-cultural connection, and practical educational support that touches the lives of hundreds of children each year......
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. Please read more to get your tickets today.....
As Rotary’s approach to building knowledge and skills shifts from a training model to a learning model, we’re putting participants at the center of the learning experience so they can direct their own learning and skill development.
Watch our webinar to explore how to create dynamic learning experiences through facilitated dialogue and idea sharing.
Posted by Susan Hunter, District 7070 Chair, Rotary leadership Institute
Rotary Leadership Institute is your opportunity to learn more about Rotary and share your ideas with other Rotarians.
In a complex, fast-changing world, excellent Rotary club leadership is essential to the future of Rotary. One of the best ways to strengthen your Club is to give your members the tools and skills to be better Rotarians. Rotary Leadership Institute is the solution.This is your opportunity to learn more about Rotary and share your ideas with other Rotarians, and it is a great learning experience for new Rotarians, for your incoming Board of Directors, and for any Rotarian who wants to learn more about Rotary.
We are pleased to announce that RLI Part I is scheduled for Saturday, May 23, 2026. Participants will have the opportunity to complete all the courses in Part I. Due to limited space, we are unable to organize Parts II and III on this date. REGISTER TODAY
Successful clubs set goals effectively. When club leaders plan for the future, they give the club a sense of direction. Whether you aim to welcome more members, complete more service projects, or improve the experience that your club offers, setting goals motivates members to work toward a common purpose. Rotary Club Central makes it easy for Rotary and Rotaract clubs to set their goals and track their progress. Club leaders can set yearly goals for up to three years and record the club’s accomplishment, and all members can view the club’s progress. Plus, new club leaders can use previous goals to make informed decisions about the club’s direction. It’s never too late to start planning for your club’s future. To get inspired, read this Rotary magazine story about clubs that benefited from using Rotary Club Central to set goals. Then visit Rotary Club Central to get started
Do you use WhatsApp? Get inspired with the latest Rotary news on our WhatsApp channel. Follow the channel here or look for it on the WhatsApp menu bar under Updates or Channels. Tell your members about this great way to connect with Rotary!
Follow Rotary’s social media channel Discover Rotary on Facebook and Instagram to stay informed about Rotary programs, offerings, events, and news. The channel features resources, tools, and learning opportunities to help your club or district succeed. Look for Discover Rotary on Facebook and Instagram and engage with us!
The Rotary Learning Center has a new mobile app that gives you a more direct and intuitive way to access the Learning Center. In addition to taking courses on your mobile device, you can also view your progress and explore other Learning Center courses and resources wherever you are. Download the Rotary Learning Center app from your app store, open the app, sign in to My Rotary, and explore!
Posted by Diana Edwards Supervisor, Rotary International Regional Membership Officer I Membership Development
Welcome to a new Rotary year! I’m Diana Edwards the Regional Membership Officer for zones 28 and 32. If we’ve not met yet I’m sure we will soon.
I wanted to share some new updates that’s happening in the Learning Center, please feel free to pass along as needed.
Mobile Update!
We launched the new mobile app. Anyone who had the Go Learn app should remove it from their phones. The app has had over 11,000 downloads since 27 May. (If you’re experiencing any difficulties, please contact learn@rotary.org).
2024-25 Highlights
15% of members use the Learning Center (this number remained the same compared to last year because we have done several data refreshes to have a more accurate count, there is also an unknown number of members being counted as non-members due to their My Rotary account not being connected to their club).
377,310 course completions which is a 23% increase from last year.
9,560 average number of unique learners that visit the Learning Center monthly, a 17% increase from last year.
64% of clubs have at least one member who visited the Learning Center this year up 15% from last year.
Posted by Past District Governor Iosif Ciosa, Chair District Learning Committee
This month is February - Peacebuilding and Conflict Prevention Month and here is the "Course of the Month" from the Rotary Learning Center. We are asking YOU to focus on this course that aligns with the theme of the month. We encourage you to take this course called "All about Peace Fellowships" 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 you will see these courses listed there. Click on the course and Enjoy !!
All About Peace Fellowships can be found under the About Rotarytab. In this course you will learn about the Rotary Peace Fellowship program and how we train leaders in peacebuilding and conflict prevention. Also find out what kind of candidates we're looking for, how you can help identify them, and which universities host Rotary Peace Centers. You will also learn how you can get involved with the program as a member or with your club or district.
Posted by Sarah Remijan Director of Learning and Development Rotary International
You asked for a better mobile experience with Rotary’s Learning Center, and here it is! Introducing the new app, a more direct and intuitive way to access the Learning Center on your mobile devices.
It’s now easier than ever to complete your role-based courses, track your progress, and explore other courses and resources — wherever you are.
Rotary’s Learning Center has a new mobile app that makes completing your public image courses (and others!) even easier. RotaryLearn replaces the GoLearn app and gives you a more direct and intuitive way to use the Learning Center. In addition to taking courses on your mobile device, you can review your progress and explore other Learning Center resources wherever you are. Search for Rotary Learning Center in your app store, download and open it, sign in to My Rotary, and explore!
To get started:
Download Rotary Learning Center from your app store.
Open the app and enter your My Rotary username and password.
Find your courses.
If you’ve accessed the Learning Center previously through the Go.Learn app, you’ll find that the RotaryLearn app is a more streamlined experience. After you get started with RotaryLearn, you can remove Go.Learn from your mobile devices. If you have questions, write to learn@rotary.org. . Happy learning!
As 2025 comes to a close, we’re thrilled to celebrate a year full of progress, innovation, and milestones! From the launch of Nova to powerful new features, this year has been all about giving you the tools to engage and inspire your members like never before....
Big changes are here and even bigger things are on the way!
We recently hosted our What's New webinar to unveil exciting updates and provide a sneak peek at what's next. Whether you joined us live or missed it, we’ve got you covered.........
Posted by Iosif Ciosa, Past District Governor and District 7070 Learning Chair
Welcome to your Rotary District 7070 Learning in this year. The District 7070 Learning committee is bringing all learning sessions under one umbrella.
The learining sessions (events) on the district website are one colour – red
A form to be used by our District Committees when putting together a training/learning session to tell you all about the learning session. This form (see the attached form in the next story in this newsletter) will be sent to Iosif and to Bob Wallace posting on to the District website
We have also created a NEW section in the Monthly District Newsletter that will show the learning session in the upcoming month
District Governor Niecy Dillon Tyrovolas will also add any learning sessions to her weekly message.
Please Read more to see just some of the future learning sessions already planned for YOU....
There are lots of tips and tools of the trade when it comes to Public Image, Membership, The Rotary Foundation and Governance, when it comes to you and your Rotary or Rotaract club. This is exactly what we have in store for you.
On Tuesdays, on a monthly basis , we will continue to present learning opportunities, in one-hour zoom sessions, for you and your club members, to help you with many ways that you can learn more about Rotary and really help your club.
Go to the District website calendar and register today.
In 2024-25, we had 9 sessions ( No sessions in the months: July, December & June) with sessions allocated as follows: 2 sessions on Governance; 2 sessions on Membership; 1 session on The Rotary Foundation; and 2 sessions on Public Image. Watch the District 7070 Calendar for the time and date. Stay tuned for more details, these sessions are being developed as we speak. And even more planned for 2025-26.
Posted by Iosif Ciosa, Chair District 7070 Learning Committee
To District 7070 Committees: From: Committee Chair: Iosif Ciosa
Learning 2025-26 Description Form : Please use the 2023-24 form until a new one is developed.
Here is the 2023-24 Learning Description Form that we would like you to fill out and sent to Iosif Ciosa when you create the learning event that we will put on the District Website.
You may attach pictures, flyers, artwork or graphics (please make sure that pictures or graphics are not copywritten and are royalty free).
The Action Plan is a sustainable approach to creating and maintaining healthy clubs. President Francesco Arezzo and the Action Plan champions are asking all members to use the Action Plan framework to help address challenges and meet your club’s and district’s goals. Visit rotary.org/actionplan to use the Action Plan Toolkit today.
One thing successful clubs have in common is effective goal setting. When club leaders plan for the future, they give the club a sense of direction. Whether you aim to welcome more members, complete more service projects, or improve the experience your club offers members, setting goals motivates members to work toward a common purpose. Rotary Club Central makes it easy for Rotary and Rotaract clubs to plan and track their goals. Club leaders can now set yearly goals for up to three years and record the club’s accomplishments, and all members can view the club’s progress. Plus, future leaders can use past goals to make informed decisions about the club’s direction. It’s never too late to start planning for your club’s future. Visit Rotary Club Central and get started.
Whether you want to improve your members’ club experience in the short term, grow your overall membership, or do both, Rotary Club Central can help you reach your membership goals. With the latest updates to Rotary Club Central, you can now add goals for three consecutive years, allowing you to track your progress as you work toward your club’s long-term vision. Learn more by visiting the Learning Center. If you haven't visited the Learning Center before, go to rotary.org/learn, register for or sign in to My Rotary, and accept the privacy policy. Then, search for Rotary Club Central Resources.
In Past President Holger Knaack's Rotary Foundation February 2026 Newsletter, he talks about Peacebuilding and Conflict Prevention Month. a perfect time to reflect on The Rotary Foundation's mission to advance world understanding, goodwill and peace. Holger added that peace is at the heart of everything Rotary does and goes on to talks about the Rotary Peace centers and his recent trip to Columbia to see our latest Programs of Scale award, Pathways to Peace and Prosperity in Columbia and reacquainted himself with Brigitta von Messling, a German peace fellow I worked closely with in Berlin 13 years previous. He was pleased to heat aboutBbrigitta and her work with the World Food Program, Rotary's recent Program of Scale. He added that Rotary Peace Fellows are 
The Rotary Peace Centers will 
Olayinka H. Babalola urges members of Rotary to Create Lasting Impact: Rotary International president-elect emphasizes effective action and ‘embracing the world with open arms’
In his February 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 .........
