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 even more of the latest news about Rotary here in southern Ontario and around the world.
REMINDERS FOR EVERYONE:
Send In Your Stories and Photos for the Next Edition:
Please send your Rotary Club stories (deadline is always 4 days prior to the end of the month) to our District Public Image Chair, Dave Andrews at dave.f.andrews99@gmail.com
A suggestion to the District Leadership Team, Assistant Governors and Committee Chairs : Send in a story about what your committee is doing and tell our clubs how they can connect with you.
A suggestion to 2023-24 Club Presidents: There is a place in the Newsletter for News from Clubs. What have you accomplished that you would like to announce to everyone in the District?
HERE IS WHAT IS INSIDE THIS MONTH. YOU CAN CLICK ON EACH TOPIC TO READ THE WHOLE STORY RIGHT HERE IN THE INDEX ....
Posted by John Burns, District 7070 Governor , 2023-24
In his March 2024 Newsletter, District 7070 Governor John Burns, Agent 7070, reminds us about the importance of clean water highlighting March as Water Sanitation & Hygiene Month and encourages everyone to focus on Water. He also thanks Joan Barrett for and outstanding membership learning Tuesdays and Nevine Yass for an outstanding Peace Forum. John also wants to remind us to get ready for the Great Lakes Watershed Cleanup on April 27 and encourages us to come to the Rotary Club of Bowmanville's 100th anniversary on April 27. ............
Posted by Gordon McInally, Rotary International President 2023-24
In President Gordon McInally's March 2024 Message, he says that there are many pathways to peace, and in Rotary, we are fortunate to have Rotary Peace Fellows who demonstrate this truth time and again. Each year, Rotary awards up to 130 fellowships for leaders around the world to study peace and development, and what these peace fellows learn prepares them to work in conflict prevention and resolution and promote Positive Peace. Gordon cites a few examples of the creative ways peace fellows advance peace. He added that these stories — and hundreds like them — show how Rotary is creating a generation of leaders ready and able to build peace worldwide. Nearly 1,800 peace fellows have graduated from Rotary Peace Centers, and they are applying their craft in more than 140 countries. ............
Posted by Barry Rassin, Chair of the Trustees , Rotary Foundation 2023-24
In the Chair of the Trustees of The Rotary Foundation (and Rotary International Past President) Barry Rassin's March 2024 Newsletter, Barry says that Rotary’s focus turns to two themes this month. March is Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene Month, and we celebrate World Rotaract Week 11-17 March.Clean water, basic sanitation, and proper hygiene are fundamental human rights, yet a staggering 2.2 billion people still lack access to safe drinking water . We’re taking action. Over the past decade, your Rotary Foundation has invested more than $180 million in over 2,500 water and sanitation projects worldwide . Rotary is on the ground making a difference through global grant-supported projects funded by your contributions to the Foundation. He says that when we talk about partnerships, we can’t forget our closest ally, right here in the family of Rotary: Rotaract. The engagement, energy, and ideas of Rotaract complement the experience of Rotary clubs and increase our collective impact. He urges all Rotary and Rotaract clubs to foster closer collaboration and engagement in our Foundation, whether it’s rolling up their sleeves on a project or giving...........
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 has been transitioned to an interactive blog style format that will be managed and moderated by the Zone leadership team. Look for the "In The Zone" March 2024 video from Drew Kessler, our Rotary International Director, (available on March 1, 2024), together with Christine Etienne (Director Elect) in the March 2024 District 7070 Newsletter. When Drew's "In The Zone" March 2024 video is available, it will be inserted into the District 7070 March Newsletter that appears on our Rotary District 7070 website and also on the Rotary Zone 28 and 32 website . ....... Please Read more...
Posted by John Burns, Rotary District 7070 Governor
Having received no challenges to the Selection Committee’s decision, I am delighted to inform you that Elizabeth (Liz) Compton, from the Rotary Club of Toronto Leaside, has been selected as the RI District 7070 District Governor for the Rotary Year 2026-27. Liz will be a great addition to our District Governor Team joining me, Immediate Past District Governor Iosif Ciosa, District Governor Elect Virginia O'Reilly and District Governor Nominee Niecy Dillon-Tyrovolas
International Women’s Day is 8 March. To celebrate, join Rotary for a webinar that will focus on the importance of not only including women in leadership but also championing their leadership, both in the workplace and beyond. We will discuss identifying leaders early, establishing mentorship and sponsorship programs, supporting women in joining women-led professional organizations, and focusing on allyship. We’ll also announce and celebrate the recipient of the 2023-24 Sylvia Whitlock Leadership Award. This event is open to Rotary members and nonmembers of all genders. Register now.
Use #IWD2024 to find other Women’s Day events or to post information about your own!
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. If you are going to the In-Person event,please Register today and there is a Registration fee of $15.00 payable to jdeboer@rogers.com NOW. Parking will be in Founders Lot 2 @ Durham College . Parking will be $3.00 Parking map: https://maps.app.goo.gl/BxKBqPJyHQpXacNG8 . Guest speakers include Janet Thorsteinson, Paige Fernandes, Jennifer Boyd, Nikita Williams, Renata Pancini & Debbbie Morgan.
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 by CLICKING HERE and then be sure to pay Johanna IN ADVANCE of the big event.
Chris Snyder, from the Rotary Club of Toronto, and Chair Emeritus of Honouring Indigenous Peoples, has written a blog on Women Leaders. Since we are approaching International Women's Day on March 8, please take a look at Chris' blog: http://www.chrissnyder.ca/
District 7070 Rotary Foundation Chair Bob Wallace and his committee are putting the final touches on the March 12, 2024 Learning Tuesdays Zoom - "The Importance of The Rotary Foundation". We invite YOU to join Past District Governor Bob Wallace, the Chair of our Rotary District 7070 Rotary Foundation Committee as they welcome our keynote speaker: Chris Etienne Rotary International Director Elect for our Rotary Zones 28 & 32, will be talking about the overall importance of the Foundation.
Would Rotary exist without the Foundation?
We will hear stories about: the outcomes of grants, Polio, and the Endowment Fund and 2025 by 2025. We will also hear that the importance is that it is our money for us to use on district and global grants
Be sure to register on the District website Events Calendar and see the Zoom Meeting link. RegisterHERE.
Every year, World Water Day (22 March) raises awareness and inspires action to tackle the water and sanitation crisis. It is a United Nations observance, coordinated by UN-Water and led by one or more UN-Water Members and Partners with a related mandate. The theme is proposed in advance by UN-Water and is aligned with the annual publication of the UN World Water Development Report, published by UNESCO on behalf of UN-Water, with its production coordinated by the UNESCO World Water Assessment Program (WWAP). In 2024, the theme of World Water Day is ‘Leveraging water for peace’ and the name of the World Water Development Report is ‘Leveraging Water for Peace and Prosperity’. The World Water Day campaign is simply called ‘Water for Peace.’ .....
The Rotary World Curling Championships are in Peterborough in April 2024!
This prestigious event, talking place from Friday April 5 - 12, 2024, will be a clash of 23 top-tier teams from the powerhouse curling nations of Canada, the USA, Scotland, and England. Each team has battled through national Rotary curling competitions to secure their spot in this global spectacle.
We invite sponsors to gain visibility during this exciting event. Partner with us to showcase your brand to a passionate audience and support this global celebration of sport and fellowship.
Interested in Sponsoring? Contact: rotaryworldcurling2024@gmail.com
By popular demand, please join us for a Rotary Public Image presentation on "Rotary --- What's In a Name!" Tuesday, April 16, 2024 7:00 pm to 8:00 pm (Toronto Time) on Zoom
In the second Learning Tuesdays on Public Image, please join Rotary International Zone 28 Rotary Public Image Coordinator Mary Lou Harrison, and Zone 32 Rotary Public Image Coordinator as they will present:
- - A refresher on correct logo usage
- - How to use and protect the Rotary name and why it's so important
- - Next steps if you are currently using the Rotary name
- - Q&A - There will be time scheduled to ask your questions.......... our distinguished panel will be glad to answer them. Laura Spear and Mary Lou will be joined by Liz Thiam, Global Brand Specialist at Rotary International, to answer your questions....... Please read more.......
The 2024 Rotary Youth Leadership Symposium (RYLS) will be taking place, April 18-21, 2024 at the Ganaraska Forest Centre! The 3-night, 4-day experience is geared toward youth between the ages of 16-20 and will offer an inspiring program: Conflict Resolution, Diversity, Equity and Inclusion, Reconciliation and Land Based Education, Leadership, Hands-on Activities, Group Dynamics, Public Speaking, Outdoor Survival along with campfires, friendship and tons of fun and learning!!!
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 - so act fast!
Applications are due by March 1, 2024. To apply click HERE.
For more info, contact: Past District Governor, Mark Chipman, chipburt@hotmail.com.
Check out the attached Flyer and video of past RYLS participants below.
Posted by Susan Hunter, , Chair District 7070 Rotary Leadership Institute
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 newer Rotarians, for your incoming Board of Directors, and for any Rotarian who wants to learn more about Rotary. Here is more of the story........
Our 4th Annual Great Lakes Watershed Cleanup Event (GLWC) is quickly approaching! Please mark your calendar for Saturday April 27, 2024. More information will come from your District Environmental Action Committee very soon. Thank you - Dan Coombes - Chair GLWC (dancoombes4@gmail.com)
What is your club doing ?What are you planning? Here's one example.....
At The Second Marsh in Oshawa, Ontario, the Rotary Clubs of Oshawa, Oshawa-Parkwood and Courtice and civic leaders will be helping the Friends of The Second Marsh to clean up the Second Marsh on Lake Ontario. The SECOND MARSH is a 137 ha coastal wetland located in the southeast portion of Oshawa, (Regional Municipality of Durham), Ontario, Canada. The combination of Second Marsh with the adjacent areas of McLaughlin Bay Wildlife Reserve and Darlington Provincial Park represents nearly 400 hectares, one of the largest publicly accessible waterfront spaces available in the Greater Toronto Area (GTA). It is located on the north shore of Lake Ontario in a major urban center, and is unique in being the largest remaining wetland in the GTA.
For even more ideas....... Please Read more .......
Posted by Rotary Club of Scarborough Passport President Dr. Raffy Chouljian
We need help recruiting other Rotarians to go to Brush-a-mania schools and represent Rotary. Brush-a-mania is a Rotary program and it would be nice if there was a Rotarian at every school to emcee and lead the assembly. Brush-a-mania is a not-for-profit program designed to promote oral health and awareness among young children from Junior Kindergarten to grade 6. It was started in 2001 by the Scarborough Rotary Passport Club and has already reached over 650,000 students. Our purpose is to educate and motivate children and to bring together dentists, Rotarians, teachers and parents to create a celebration around proper dental care. Read more about this great project and see how you and your Rotary Club can help.....
The Rotary International Convention: Unforgettable moments, enduring relationships. The Rotary International Convention is where you’ll find people of action from around the world brainstorming solutions to some of the most pressing challenges and celebrating our works of service that create lasting change. The convention is where you’ll renew connections, discover fresh perspectives, and create unforgettable moments and enduring relationships.
Join your fellow Rotarians during the Rotary International Convention in Singapore at the annual Zones 28 & 32 Beyond Borders dinner, Sunday, May 26, 2024 at One Farrer Hotel. CLICK HERE to get your tickets.
COME JOIN US AT THE WONDERFUL NOTTAWASAGA RESORT in ALLISTON, ONTARIO. The THE LINK FOR RESERVATIONS WILL BE AVAILABLE SOON. There will be a SPECIAL RATE OF $199.00 + TAXES.......
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 March 2024 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? Find out how.........
Posted by Lynda Ryder - Chair, District 7070 Peace Fellowships Committee
Districts and Rotary and Rotaract clubs play a key role in recruiting and recommending Rotary Peace Fellow candidates. Each year, The Rotary Foundation awards fellowships to leaders in peace and development to study at one of the Rotary Peace Centers at premier universities around the world. The fellows can earn a master’s degree or a postgraduate diploma through the professional development certificate program. The application will be open 1 February through 15 May, and the peace fellows who are selected will begin their studies in 2025. Find out who is eligible and how they can apply.
Help midcareer change-makers and young professionals who have peacebuilding experience apply for a fully funded Rotary Peace Fellowship. Connect with your district Rotary Peace Fellowship subcommittee chair to learn more about recruiting candidates from your communities......
Posted by Lars Henriksson, Past District 7070 Governor and District Grants Chair
The Rotary Foundation requires Rotary and Rotaract Clubs that want to apply for Global and District Grants to be qualified. Clubs are qualified when two of its members have successfully completed the two on-line quizzes connected to the training modules. In addition, the President and President Elect of Clubs must sign and submit the MOU – Memorandum Of Understanding to the District. The qualification is valid for one Rotary year. All documents for the 2024-25 Rotary year are posted under the Rotary Foundation tab on the District’s website, www.rotary7070.org For any questions, please contact PDG Lars Henriksson, District Grants Sub-Committee Chair at pdglars.henriksson@gmail.com
REMEMBER: To qualify, a Club must have at least two of its members complete the qualification process. In addition, the Club must submit an MOU to the District, signed by the President and President Elect. Please Read more for details.............
Posted by Lars Henriksson, Past District Governor and Chair of the District 7070's Rotary Foundation Grants Committee
Rotary and Rotaract Clubs that want to apply for District Grants in the 2024-25 Rotary year must submit their applications between March 1 – May 31, 2024. Applications are made on the application form found under the Rotary Foundation tab on the District’s website, www.rotary7070.org
The Club applying for the Grant must be qualified for the 2024-25 Rotary year. Supporting Clubs are also encouraged to become qualified.
Please, note that an application for a District Grant is not a guarantee for a grant. Applications are evaluated by the District Grants Sub-Committee. Final decision will be made by the Rotary Foundation, which they approve the Spending Plan submitted by D7070 in July 2024.
Posted by Lars Henriksson, Past District Governor and District 7070 Rotary Foundation Grants Chair
Everyone working on a Global Grant application is looking to add DDF – District Designated Funds – to the funding of the project. Without DDF, the Rotary Foundation will not provide any funds to the project.
D7070 has guidelines for matching Club cash contribution with our DDF. At the same time, the amount of DDF the District has is limited. It is based on the funds we raised three years back for the Annual Fund. There are also many areas where we can and want use our DDF.
Effective immediately, we are therefore requiring everyone looking for DDF to a Global Grant project to complete and submit a DDF Request Form. The form is available on the District’s website, under the Rotary Foundation tab.. Projects that have not submitted a DDF Request Form run the risk of not receiving any DDF.
It’s not too early to begin preparing your concept note for a Programs of Scale grant. Concept notes are due 1 August 2024 for the 2025 Programs of Scale grant competition. For the next award cycle, Programs of Scale proposals must include a minimum of US$500,000 in cash contributions from one or more external program partners. Register for these webinars to learn more about the process:
“Creating Partnerships for Success” on 23 February 2024 will cover partnership strategies. Register for the 08:00 Chicago time (UTC-6) session ( that's 9 AM Toronto Time) in English, French, Portuguese, and Spanish or the 16:00 Chicago time (UTC-6) session in English, Korean, Japanese, and Mandarin.
“Programs of Scale Competition: Insights and Tips for Applying” will be held on 21 March 2024. Register for the 08:00 Chicago time (UTC-5) session ( that's 9 AM Toronto Time) in English, French, Portuguese, and Spanish or the 16:00 Chicago time (UTC-5) session in English, Korean, Japanese, and Mandarin.
Note: The time zone is UTC-6 for one of the sessions and UTC-5 for the other because Chicago will switch to daylight saving time in early March.
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....
Sharethe video “Breaking Down Silos in Child Health and Nutrition” with your social networks. Here’s some sample copy for your social post:
How does Rotary’s PolioPlus program protect children from the threats of malnutrition and disease? By working together with the communities most at risk to deliver integrated services.
Learn how engaging with digital communities is helping fight misinformation about polio vaccines.
Follow End Polio Now on Facebook and X, formerly Twitter.
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.
Congratulations to Past District 7070 Governor Ted Morrison, District 7070 Governor Elect Virginia O'Reilly and District 7070 Public Image Chair Dave Andrews who made that commitment on December 11 , 2023 at the weekly meeting of the Rotary Club of Port Hope and received their certificates from Rotary International Director Drew Kessler.
Thank you to Rotary District 7070 Membership Chair Joan Barrett and her committee for an excellent Learning Tuesdays on February 20, 2024, on "Membership Workshop - Club Culture", that featured our Rotary International President 2024-25 Stephanie Urchick and the 2024-24 Aide to President Stephanie , Tom Gump. We all learned some new ways to add and retain members in our clubs. Be sure to register see the recording on the Rotary District You Tube Channel . It makes a great learning experience for your members..........
President-elect Stephanie A. Urchick is calling upon Rotary members to make their clubs “simply irresistible” to community members seeking service and fellowship. She calls on members to use Rotary’s Action Plan to assess where they are and where they need to go. Urchick talks about her priorities in an interview with Rotary magazine. Tom Gump, presidential aide to Urchick, further breaks down the concept in his blog post for Rotary Voices..... Please Read more .....
Getting involved in Rotary creates opportunities to make connections, participate in meaningful service, become a leader, and expand your perspective. The personal growth that you experience through Rotary depends on your choices throughout your Rotary journey. We know that each member has a unique combination of interests, skills, and talents, so each member will be attracted to different activities.
Designing Your Rotary Experience is a guide that describes all of the options members have for customizing their Rotary experience and getting involved in ways that matter to them. This guide is great both for new members who are learning about Rotary beyond their club and for longtime members who want to discover new ways to participate.
Just as routine doctor visits help people identify health risks before they become serious, Rotary’s club health check can diagnose problem areas and prescribe remedies. Club leaders will find a checklist to assess their club’s well-being in the areas of club experience, service and social events, members, image, and business and operations, along with an array of resources to treat any problem areas. Regularly consulting those resources can help maintain your club’s health and preserve its value for club members and the community. A few examples follow, but review the entire document through the website listed below to ensure you’re taking full advantage of these valuable tools.
Past District Governor Mike Cooksey once told me that if you want more Rotary members, you have to ask. He told everyone he saw to "Get your Ask in Gear". His words certainly reflect one of the 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 40 Rotary Clubs have a "Join Us" or "Interested In Joining Us?" button on their own club website AND for your club to have a "member conversion process" from these inquiries. It's up to you.
To see how we have done , Please Read more........
Early in the new year, Rotary International sees a big increase in inquiries about joining Rotary. District and club leaders: Remember to follow up with these prospective members to ensure that they have a positive experience. You can gain a better understanding of how to turn leads into members by taking the Online Membership Leads course. Use the Refer a new member form if you know someone who might be interested in joining. The updated form allows all Rotary members to refer a prospective member to their own club or to a different club.
Many clubs face challenges related to three things: attracting new members, keeping members engaged, and finding meaningful ways to contribute to their communities. Use the Club Planning Assistant to get tailored advice for addressing your club’s challenges. Club leaders, you’ll receive an instant response with links to the resources we recommend to help you address your club’s most pressing challenges. You can then build these suggested strategies into your club’s membership plan.
New and different club models will attract diverse leaders to Rotary.Rotary clubs continue to demonstrate their value by staying connected to members and responding to changing needs in the community. Read about clubs around the world who are finding ways to adapt to new challenges and meeting online. Use these resources to increase your club's value:......
Welcome to the brand new section in our District newsletter. Our Past District Governor Iosif Ciosa is our District Training Chair and he wants to give every member of the Rotary famiy in District 7070 the best possible opportunity to learn more about Rotary and your leadership opportunities. Be sure to drop by this section each month to see what new training / eadership opportunities are in store for you.
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.
Join our webinar that was shown on February 13, 2024 to explore how to create dynamic learning experiences through facilitated dialogue and idea sharing.
There are lots of tips and tools of the trade when it comes to Public Image, Membership and The Rotary Foundation when it comes to you and your Rotary or Rotaract club. This is exactly what we have in store for you.
On Tuesdays, starting on January 16, 2024 , on a monthly basis , we will be presenting learning opportinities, in one-hour zoom sessions, for you and your club members, to help you with many ways that you can learn more about Rotary and really help your club.
Here is how we have divided up the sessions: January 16 - Public Image; February 20 - Membership; March 12 - Rotary Foundation; April 16 - Public Image; May 21 - Membership; and June 18 - Rotary Foundation. Stay tuned for more details, these sessions are being developed as we speak.
From your District 7070 Chairs: Dave Andrews (Public Image); Joan Barrett (Membership) and Bob Wallace (Rotary Foundation) and your District 7070 Learning Chair Iosif Ciosa..
Posted by Iosif Ciosa, Past District Governor and District 7070 Learning Chair
Welcome to your Rotary District 7070 Learning in the 2023-24 Rotary 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 John Burns will also add any learning sessions to his weekly message.
Please Read more to see just some of the future learning sessions already planned for YOU....
Posted by Iosif Ciosa, Chair District 7070 Learning Committee
To District 7070 Committees: From: Committee Chair: Iosif Ciosa
Learning 2023/2024 Description Form
Here is the 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).
Start the new year right by taking a course in the Learning Center. As a district leader, what better resolution can you make than to brush up on your Rotary knowledge? You’ll find plenty of opportunity to do that quickly and effortlessly in the Learning Center. Our Learning Center staff members recommend these courses in advance of the coming season of learning events designed to prepare incoming leaders for their terms in July:
Did you know that Rotary’s Action Plan can help you address your club and district challenges and leverage opportunities? Use Rotary’s Strategic Planning Guide to get ready for the upcoming Rotary year.
Posted by Nevine Yassa, District 7070 Chair - Peace Committee
Congratulations to Nevine Yassa, Chair of Rotary District 7070 Peace Building Committee, for an outstanding Rotary Peace Forum, themed "Harmonizing Hearts and Hands for Peace," that took place on February 22, 2024. The attendees were part of a gathering where distinguished humanitarians and industry leaders from across the globe united under the inspiring theme of "Harmonizing Hearts and Hands for Peace." This theme encapsulated the belief that creating lasting peace is a harmonious effort that requires the unity of compassionate hearts and capable hands. The recording is now available if you missed it. Please Read more ......
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. REMINDER: Beginning this year, in 2023-24, if your club is looking to receive a Rotary Citation, your service projects have to go into Rotary Showcase.
Log into MyRotary , go to the online tools and click Rotary Showcase. Rotary members and program participants are improving lives in communities around the world every day through thousands of service projects. Explore the good work that we’re doing locally and globally, and share these projects through social media.
What Is your Rotary Club doing to focus on Water, Sanitation and Hygiene in March 2024? Clean water and sanitation is a human right. When people, especially children, have access to clean water, sanitation, and hygiene, they lead healthier and more successful lives. We don’t just build wells and walk away. Rotary members integrate water, sanitation, and hygiene into education projects. When children learn about disease transmission and practice good hygiene, they miss less school. And they can take those lessons home to their families, expanding our impact.
The strategic partnership between The Rotary Foundation (TRF) and IHE Delft Institute for Water Education aims to tackle the world’s water and sanitation crisis by increasing the number of trained professionals to devise, plan, and implement solutions in developing and emerging countries. The IHE Delft Institute is the world’s largest international graduate water education facility. Since 1957 the Institute has provided graduate education to more than 23,000 water professionals from over 190 countries, and is a flagship institute in the UN-Water family.......
Posted by Nilam Bedi, Chair , District 7070 Environmental Action Committee
As we approach the spring season, the Environmental Action Committee is pleased to announce that clubs across the district are getting ready for hands-on projects.
- March 23rd, Earth Hour - Woodbridge, Richmond Hill clubs will have presence at the Vaughan City Hall event. Other nearby clubs will also be joining. Regardless of whether you join a local event, everyone can acknowledge and participate in the Earth Hour by switching off for an hour.
- April 24th - Environmental Symposium, virtually and in-person at the Oshawa Rotary Global Classroom. Details to follow.
- April 27th - District wide Great Lakes Watershed Cleanup.
Posted by Ally Buck, Rotary and Community Fundraising Coordinator with ShelterBox Canada
Please welcome Ally Buck, the new Rotary and Community Fundraising Coordinator with ShelterBox Canada. She is looking forward to getting to know the Rotary Clubs and Rotarians that support ShelterBox. She is originally from Pictou County, Nova Scotia where she attended the Nova Scotia Community College’s Social Services/Community Development program. In 2018 she relocated to Kingston, Ontario to attend Queen’s University where she graduated with her BA in Global Development Studies last June.
Rotary members Create Hope In the Worldthrough their commitment to providing Basic Education and Literacy to their home communities and communities around the world. Be sure to see the latest issues of the BELRAG newsletter, learn how Rotarians are committed to improving basic education and literacy. Thank you to Courtney Doldron for linking us up with the Newsletters.
Enjoy the Newsletters as you support BEL programs to Create Hope in the World.
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 .........
Thank you all for your applications that we received by the December 15 deadline. District 7070 received a significant number of outstanding candidates, making the selection process quite challenging. Honouring Indigenous Peoples (HIP) received applications from hundreds of candidates across Canada, and only 50 will be chosen to participate. Successful applicants will receive acknowledgment in the upcoming week. When the final selection is published, we will provide the names of those selected from 7070.Five students from 7070 will be going to British Columbia. These very special students will enjoy a truly transformational experience. We now need your help to raise the final amount for the program ..... Please Read more .....
Posted by Shauna Moore, Chair, District 7070 DEI Committee
Your Rotary District 7070 Diversity Equity & Inclusion (DEI) Committee is welcoming members. If you would like to join a committee that is actively working to celebrate the rich diversity we have in our district and strive to create more inclusive clubs, please get in touch with Shauna Moore - shaunanmoore@gmail.com
We are a new Rotaract club in the district. We are an e-club that spans over the entire district 7070. We’ve approached you today to let you know we are actively recruiting future Rotaractors. So if you know any individuals who might be interested feel free to get them to sign up using our sign-up sheet in our bio or by emailing us directly. We are looking forward to learning more and creating a partnership with your club. Feel free to reach us at rotaract7070eclub@gmail.com If interested.
Our goals:
- To give Rotaractors a home after they graduate from a university-based Rotaract club
- To address service area gaps in Rotaract programs
- To foster and grow Rotaract in the District
- To be a central club that allows for tracking numbers and coordinating large-scale events like the Rotaract District Conference
- To be an access point between Rotaract and Rotary Clubs
- To be an inclusive space that builds goodwill and better friendships
- To foster Rotarians of the future
- To be a fun club where young professionals and university students get to network, and develop under rotary.
We look for your support in making this a reality.
Additionally below is our Linktree containing our social media and Sign-up Sheet, please circulate it to your club and networks.
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.
After the wonderful District Conference in Oshawa featuring our exchange students .....
I am sure you are all wanting to get in on the fun and excitement and get YOUR OWN EXCHANGE STUDENT.
At the Stirling Rotary Clubhouse on Nov 1, 2023, the Rotary Clubs of Stirling, Trenton, Brighton & Campbellford held a joint information session for prospective outbound students. We had 16 interested students and most students brought both of their parents. If you need a copy of the live presentation please contact trevor@thlogistics.ca . There is still time to get a student for late August 2024 ! Do you need more information ? Please contact co-chairs Beth Selby selbyandvail@gmail.comor Trevor Hagerman trevor@thlogistics.ca
Not sure about August 2024 but August 2025 might work for you, please contact us .. we can do a presentation via Zoom or possibly in person visit to your club.
Chairs
Beth & Trevor
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).
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.......
Learning Tuesdays January 16, 2024 "How To Kick Start Your Club's Social Media" is now available on our Rotary District 7070 You Tube Channel. Fantastic presentations by Past District Governor Mary Lou Harrison (Rotary's Zone 28 Public Image Coordinator on why we tell our Rotary Story on Social Media , and from Hannah Shaw (Rotary's Digital and Social Media Specialist from Rotary International Head office in Evanston , Illinois) with tips for Kick Starting Your Club's social media.
Thank you to our past District Governor Iosif Ciosa, this year's District learning Committee Chair , for approving Learning Tuesdays for 2023-24, here in District 7070.
Thank you to District Governor John Burns, Past District Governor Bob Wallace and Assistant Rotary Zone 28 Public Image Coordinator Joe Solway for all of your help.
Meet Joe Solway the new host of Talking Rotary. After a long career in the media, including 20 years at CBC Radio, Joe became a proud member of the Rotary Club of Bowmanville.
Joe is an active organizer at both the club and district levels. He is best known as the producer of A Concert to Feed the Need which supports food banks and shelters across the Durham region.
Here is just one of the podcasts..... wait til you see who is on and the topic....
As a Rotary member, you play an important role in shaping the public image of your club or of Rotary. Our public image is determined by our members’ actions and impact. Rotary’s Brand Center has resources to help you share your stories and promote your impact to your community:
Take public image courses in the Learning Center , such as The Rotary Brand, which conveys the benefits of a consistent, recognizable brand; and Our Logo: Representing Rotary, which demonstrates how to use Rotary’s logos consistently and correctly.
It's TIME TO GET YOUR CLUB NOTICED. Prospective members are checking YOU out - What will they see? Don't be left behind. REGISTER TODAY.
To assist the Rotary Clubs of District 7070 GET NOTICED, at the request of District Governor John Burns, the District Public Relations Committee is continuing the Rotary Club ClubRunner Website Refresh Program and Promotional Half Back Discount.
THIS PROGRAM IS NOW AVAILABLE FOR YOUR CLUB in 2023-24. Thirty-two of our District 7070 Rotary clubs have already completed the refresh program. These club websites are getting noticed by the public and by their potential members who are checking them out. When a prospective member looks to join a club, they look at YOUR club website. GET YOUR CLUB WEBSITE REFRESHED - REGISTER TODAY.
Here are a few ideas from Rotary International for strengthen Rotary's brand...
Making Rotary's public image a priority:
As a Rotary public image advocate, you help others understand who we are and how we make a difference. Publicizing your club’s efforts and sharing the impact you make helps attract members, volunteers, and donors. Thank you for making public image a priority and strengthening Rotary's brand. Brand News is a newsletter about public image and branding sent quarterly to Rotary leaders. If you know someone who would like to receive it, please have them write to pr@rotary.org
Ways to promote Rotary
Being consistent in our communications — through public relations, events, advertising, social media, and more — strengthens Rotary’s brand and builds awareness and understanding of how our members are people of action, creating positive change in communities around the world. Learn how to build awareness of our brand through communications that work best for your club. Click HERE
Posted by David Andrews, District 7070 Public Image Chair
Looking For A Place to Find Speakers? Got a good Speaker you have recently heard? Well, you've come to the right place!
We want this to be a great resource for speakers for your club. The speakers listed have been all recommended by clubs in our District. The list will be updated often, so you may want to "bookmark" this page! Speakers are listed by category as shown on the District 7070 website "Speakers Corner" page under the Our Work Tab.
Just follow the instructions on the Speakers Corner Page and then contact Rotary District 7070 Public Image Chair Dave Andrews at dave.f.andrews99@gmail.com. with the speakers (and their info on this form) that you wish to add to Speaker's Corner for all of the clubs to enjoy.
OUR GOAL: We would like to see each club in our District recommend at least one speaker that other clubs would just love to hear. Please use the form and send it to Dave TODAY. Let's really build a significant Speaker's Corner.
Note: The Speakers Corner Page is only accessible by Rotarians and Rotaractors with a clubrunner ID and password and not available to the general public . (to respect the privacy to the speakers who have volunteered to speak to other Clubs)
Rotary’s public image is shaped by the actions of every member, from how we conduct ourselves in meetings to how we represent Rotary at events and respond to needs in our communities. The club public image committee’s role is to create and implement a plan to tell Rotary’s local story, promote the club’s activities in the area, and raise awareness of Rotary’s work around the world. This list will help you assess how well your committee is shaping Rotary’s image.
Check the Club Public Image Checklist. See how many checks you have accomplished , and start working on the rest of the checks. Here is the checklist.
Posted by David Andrews, Chair, District 7070 Public Image Committee
The Rotary International Board of Directors has made it very clear. A brand is more than just a logo, but a logo is a big part of our visual identity. When the public sees it throughout their community, they begin to think of Rotary members as people of action. Using the same visual elements unites Rotary, Rotaract, and Interact and allows us, as a diverse global organization, to tell our story with one voice.
The RI Board of Directors is asking every club to update its logo to align with Rotary’s brand guidelines
Unfortunately,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 different “looks” to our logo just makes it worse. Please use the Rotary Brand Center ( see : https://brandcenter.rotary.org/en-us) and USE ONLY THE ONE ROTARY LOGO in your marketing and public relations initiatives. That would include your website , all social media sites and any signs you may have created.
A consistent voice and unified visual identity are essential components of a strong brand. Learn how to use Rotary’s communication and design elements to build awareness and recognition of Rotary and to tell the story of people of action. We continue to strive for One clear consistent look and message in all that we do, to ensure that everyone knows our “Rotary” message.....
Calling all District 7070 Rotary, Rotaract, and Interact clubs! Increase your club’s visibility. Tag us (Rotary District 7070 accounts on Facebook, Twitter and Intragram) in all of your appropriate social media posts (Facebook, Instagram, Twitter) so we can share your news and events AND you can share District events and posts all about Rotary . We have lots of followers who would like to see your posts! Take a look at our three District accounts.
District Social Media Tags: Facebook: @rotary7070 Instagram: @rotaryd7070 Twitter: @rotary7070
Follow all Rotary International and Rotary District 7070 social media accounts and be sure to turn on notifications. This way, you won’t miss a post. And follow all Rotary District 7070 Facebook, Instagram and Twitter posts and share them on your social media pages. There is more....
In the Summer of 2020, we asked Rob MacArthur, our District 7070 Public Image Public Investigator to carry out an investigation on all 55 Rotary clubs with respect to their club's Public Image. Rob looked at your club's basic web site setup as well as social media channels and the way they were being used. A spreadsheet of the results was made available for our District Leadership Team and Assistant Governors to look at in the Fall of 2020. The Pie Chart included shows a graphical representation of the results. Where do you "think" your club fits in this chart? What is the Image that the public have, about your club? Here is what Rob found out... Please Read more....
Posted by David Andrews, Chair, District 7070 Public Image Committee
Our District 7070 Public Image Committee is calling for YOU (Rotaractors and Rotarians in the District) to join our District Public Image Committee. Our scope is to boost Rotary's Public Image and to assist Rotary Clubs in D7070 to do the same.
We are looking for YOU, Rotaractors and Rotarians who have experience in the field of Public Relations, Social Media platforms, and news writing. We want you to use those very special talents to assist clubs and our Committee . Are you that Rotarian? Are you that Rotaractor? Are you interested ? Please contact Dave Andrews at dave.f.andrews99@gmail.com and we can set up a time to chat about your interests.
Be sure to see the Public Image menu tab on our District Website and check out our District Facebook Page , Twitter account and Instagram account and the District Newsletters too, for some idea of what we do.
Do you have events or fundraisers that you want other clubs to know about? Perhaps a project with which you need their assistance? Here are just three ways you can get your event, your message , a story about your club, or your "ask for help" out to your neighbouring Rotary Clubs, RIGHT HERE IN THIS NEWSLETTER:........
The Rotary Club of Campbellford is inviting everyone in District 7070 to register Now For their First Ever Car Tour on Sunday, June 16. This is a unique, new fundraiser for the Rotary Club of Campbellford to continue to financially benefit the organizations they support. Be sure to see the flyer ......
The Rotary Citation awards recognize the hard work clubs do throughout the year. Taking action toward achieving the citation goals helps clubs engage their members, stay relevant in their communities, and run more efficiently. A welcoming and engaging club also reflects the values of Rotary. When clubs achieve citation goals, they contribute to the overall health and culture of Rotary for generations to come.Your Rotary, Rotaract, or Interact club can earn a Rotary Citation for achieving goals that strengthen Rotary and your club. Goals include increasing club membership, developing sustainable service projects, giving to The Rotary Foundation, and building awareness of Rotary in your community.
From Victoria Ruger, Club and District Management Product Manager and Chonticha Yurai, Grants and Service Product Manager
You all know the benefits of using Rotary Club Central, which is designed to be the place where you set our goals and track your progress.
Rotary Showcase, however, is the best place for you to plan your service projects, share the outcomes, and show the impact in ways that can attract more partners or inspire other clubs.In the coming months, both online tools will be updated. This includes phasing out the Service Activities section in Rotary Club Central — a change that will simplify how you track projects and allow you to focus your efforts in one place.......
Posted by 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.......
Posted by Lars Henriksson, Past District 7070 Governor
As we are returning step by step to a more normal life, after COVID, it is now time to also look at the plans for the future for YOUR CLUB. Club Visioning offers a process to develop an Action Plan for the Club. Each member of the Club is invited to participate, and the session can be either on-line or in person. Interested? Please, contact Lars Henriksson at pdglars.henriksson@gmail.com to find out more about the Club Visioning program.
Rotary Clubs, like most other organizations, will benefit from having a plan for the next couple of years. What are YOUR goals? What do you want YOUR Club to be like - two or three years down the road?
Strategic planning consists more or less of these three steps.
A description of where you are now, the Club’s status.
As a group, you and your club members decide what and where you want to be in two, three years.
By developing an Action Plan, you and your club members map out how to reach your goals.
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.
In President Gordon McInally's March 2024 Message, he says that t
The Rotary World Curling Championships are in Peterborough in April 2024!
By popular demand, please join us for a Rotary Public Image presentation on "Rotary --- What's In a Name!" Tuesday, April 16, 2024 7:00 pm to 8:00 pm (Toronto Time) on Zoom
In his March 2024 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? Find out how.......
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 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 40 Rotary Clubs have a "Join Us" or "Interested In Joining Us?" button on their own club website AND for your club to have a "member conversion process" from these inquiries. It's up to you.
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Here is the latest Honouring Indigenous People Rotary News and Events, projects, blogs, photos, films, and resources. There are many major initiatives and resources available to you and your Rotary club. Your Club can help. Our District 7070 Action Committee's Areas of Focus Coordinator is Bill Empey from the Rotary Club of Toronto If you have a good news story, or want to help starting a project, please contact Bill. Here are some news highlights .........
Rotaract club presidents are now able to report current and incoming secretaries, treasurers, and committee chairs to Rotary International. Reporting these appointments will help assure your club leaders get the latest news and resources to support club-led activities. Log in to My Rotary and access the Club Administration section of your account.
Meet Joe Solway the new host of Talking Rotary. After a long career in the media, including 20 years at CBC Radio, Joe became a proud member of the Rotary Club of Bowmanville.
Calling all District 7070 Rotary, Rotaract, and Interact clubs! Increase your club’s visibility. Tag us (Rotary District 7070 accounts on Facebook, Twitter and Intragram) in all of your appropriate social media posts (Facebook, Instagram, Twitter) so we can share your news and events AND you can share District events and posts all about Rotary . We have lots of followers who would like to see your posts! Take a look at our three District accounts.
The Rotary Citation awards recognize the hard work clubs do throughout the year. Taking action toward achieving the citation goals helps clubs engage their members, stay relevant in their communities, and run more efficiently. A welcoming and engaging club also reflects the values of Rotary. When clubs achieve citation goals, they contribute to the overall health and culture of Rotary for generations to come.
Rotary International Zones 28 & 32 (formerly Zones 24 & 32) is a
