Rotary International President, Francesco Arezzo (Rotary Club of Ragusa, Italy) District 6330 Governor Jeff Ferweda, (Rotary Club of Genessee Valley, MI) Club Newsletter Editor, Kitty Bucsko
District website: https://rotary6330.org/ Club website: http://www.6330passport.org
The Calendar below shows Rotary’s 2025-26 monthly themes.
ROTARY CALENDAR and THEMES
Month
Theme
July Maternal and Child Health
August
Membership and New Club Development
September Basic Education and Literacy
October Economic and Community Development
November The Rotary Foundation
December Disease Prevention and Treatment
January Vocational Service
February Peace and Conflict Prevention/Resolution
March Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene
April Environment
May
June
Youth Service
Rotary Fellowships Click
MONTH OF OCTOBER
Economic and Community Development
REGULAR MONTHLY MEETING
Wednesday, October 1at 7:00p.m. Eastern Time
WORLD POLIO DAY
Friday, October 24
HAPPY CHATS ONLINE – JOIN US!
Every Wednesday at 6:30 p.m. Eastern Time
UNITE FOR GOOD
THE ROTARY FOUNDATION
Month of November
DISTRICT GOVERNOR’S VISIT
Wednesday, December 3 Rotary Anthem
Right click here to open the link and listen to the Rotary Anthem!
THE ROTARY INTERNATIONAL PRESIDENT
OCTOBER MESSAGE 2025
What community-led development looks like
October is Rotary’s Community Economic Development Month, a time to spotlight our efforts to help communities build thriving, sustainable future. This month’s observance aligns perfectly with the Rotary core value of leadership.
Leadership means empowering people to guide their own progress. That is precisely what Rotary’s economic development projects aim to achieve.
Take, for example, a recent initiative in southern India in which Rotary members unlocked the power of women of the Adivasi tribal groups through sewing training to earn a living and regain social inclusion. Historically, widows and abandoned women in this region lose social standing and are shunned by society or blamed for their misfortunes. Opportunities to support themselves or obtain training are minimal.
This year, The Rotary Club of Windsor-Roseland, Ontario, partnered with clubs in Districts 3203 and 3234 in India – and with the Indian organization Sevalaya Trust – to provide sewing machines and training to 80 Adivasi women. They learned to stitch saree blouses, kurta tunics, and salwar suits, enabling them to support themselves and their families. Each woman received a certificate for completing the program and the sewingmachine provided offered free long-term maintenance for the machines. The project offered vital income and dignity to women ostracized by society after widowhood.
This story is one example of Rotary leadership in action: local people guiding solutions that address their community needs. Our role is not to deliver charity or to impose outside models, but to foster self-reliance by investing in leadership, skills, and sustainable enterprise.
This October, I invite Rotary members worldwide to reflect on economic leadership in their communities. Who is stepping forward to lead local economic initiatives? Where is there untapped talent that could be supported with training or mentorship? How can your club catalyze opportunity through partnerships with local businesses, vocational schools, or savings groups?
Leadership is not always about being visible. Sometimes it means listening, working collaboratively, and amplifying the voices of others. That approach lies at the heart of Rotary’s philosophy and our lasting impact on economic development.
By building capacity – whether through microcredit groups, vocational training workshops, or entrepreneurship programs –we enable communities to lead their own transformation. When people take ownership of their progress, change becomes sustainable.
Let us lead with good intention and provide support with heart. By nurturing local leadership, we can create opportunities that ripple through communities, empowering individuals, families, and societies.
Together, we can support economies that work for everyone and enact community development projects that last
THE ROTARY FOUNDATION TRUSTEE CHAIR
Born of Friendship
MESSAGE OCTOBER 2025
Friendship in Rotary often bears fruit that can change the world. When I was Rotary president-elect, I served on the Board of Directors alongside then-Vice President Olayinka “Yinka” Hakeem Babalola from Nigeria. My wife, Susanne, spent time with Yinka’s wife, Preba “Precy” Babalola. Yinka and Precy support The Rotary Foundation, not only as Arch Klumph Society members, Benefactors, and Major Donors, but also as Rotary members who are deeply involved in Foundation projects.
Susanne and Precy’s friendship led to their clubs joining forces. For October, as Rotary marks Community Economic Development Month, I thought Precy Babalola could best capture the impact of their collaboration in her own words:
“Obuama, Nigeria, was hit hard by COVID-19. Many families, especially women and young adults, were left without stable income or opportunity. The community urgently needed practical support and long-term solutions.
My club, the Rotary Club of Port Harcourt Passport, decided to respond. We partnered with the Rotary E-Club of Hamburg-Connect and our districts to launch a global grant project focused on empowering people with skills that restore hope and dignity.
Over 250 women and young adults were trained in farming fish, poultry, and snails as well as bead-making. Local facilitators led hands-on workshops, equipping participants with skills to start enterprises.
Families are now generating income and mothers can send their children to school. Youths are earning, teaching others, and contributing to the local economy.
Women, once stuck, are now leading their own businesses, training others, and finding a new sense of purpose. The project continues to ripple, creating not just jobs but confident community leaders.”
This is what change looks like when dedicated Rotarians work together with the support of The Rotary Foundation.
Community economic development is an area of powerful projects for many reasons. We have experts in our clubs who know how businesses can strengthen their local economy. Such projects can be adapted nearly anywhere and often show early signs of success.
Our Foundation, too, provides the expertise of an engaged professional staff and the Cadre of Technical Advisers.
What began as dinner conversation led to a lifechanging global grant. Isn’t it remarkable that in Rotary, the friendships we make can create opportunities that transform lives for generations?
HOLGER KNAACK
Foundation Trustee Chair, 2025-26
ROTARY’S OCTOBER FOCUS –
ECONOMIC & COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT
Rotary’s theme for October focuses on Economic and Community Development, reminding us of the importance of creating sustainable opportunities for people to build better lives.
Around the world, Rotary supports initiatives that strengthen local economies, foster entrepreneurship, and encourage growth through education and training. Microfinance projects are a key part of this work—small loans and financial tools that empower individuals, especially women, to start businesses, support their families, and uplift entire communities. By investing in people, Rotary helps break the cycle of poverty and builds lasting resilience.
This month also highlights World Polio Day on October 24, when Rotary members across the globe come together to raise awareness and funds for the final push to eradicate polio. Our work in economic development goes hand in hand with our efforts to end polio—both aim to give every child, every family, and every community the chance to thrive. October is a time to celebrate progress, inspire action, and commit ourselves to helping communities achieve dignity and self-sufficiency.
As September closes, we reflect on Basic Education & Literacy—the foundation of opportunity. From tutoring to book drives, Rotarians help people unlock the world through words.
October invites Economic & Community Development—turning skills into livelihoods. And right in the middle is World Polio Day on October 24. It’s our reminder that healthy children become thriving students, and thriving students become community builders.
If you can, plan a small awareness moment, share Rotary’s End Polio Now message, or make a gift to PolioPlus Education, livelihoods, and polio eradication—three threads, one Rotary tapestry.
Microfinance & Empowerment. Mary in Kenya. Mary, a determined wife and mother, is raising four children with her supportive husband. Although the children range from teenagers to grown adults, Mary continues to focus on providing them with stability and opportunities.
She runs a small but lively business selling secondhand clothes, locally known as mitumba, which offers affordable options for her community. Mary enjoys her trade, especially when helping clients find the perfect fit at a bargain.
With this support, she plans to expand her stock of clothes like jackets, sweaters, dresses and skirts, to attract more customers and reinvest profits into her venture.
Delia B. Rodelas, past president of the Rotary Club of Metro San Pedro, plants a tree during the kick-off of the Rise Up for Sierra Madre project, which aims to reforest 20 hectares of the Sierra Madre mountains in Laguna, Philippines.
Community Growth. Imagine stepping outside to breathe crisp air, drinking pure water, or eating a delicious, healthy meal. These essentials are at risk due to environmental challenges, but Rotary members are stepping up to protect them.
Rotary & Polio. A safer generation of oral polio vaccines brings renewed hope for eradicating polio around the world.
Highlights
• The novel oral polio vaccines nOPV1 and nOPV3 triggered strong immunity and had mostly mild side effects in adults
• New vaccines are more genetically stable than older versions, lowering the risk of vaccine-related outbreaks
• Phase 2 trials are moving forward, bringing us closer to ending polio for good
ROTARY INSPIRATION
Muhammad Yunus (Nobel Peace Prize laureate, pioneer of microfinance):
“Once poverty is gone, we’ll need to build museums to display its horrors. Until then, every person is responsible for ending it.”
→ A challenge to Rotarians to use service and innovation to lift others up.
Margaret Mead:
“Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed citizens can change the world. Indeed, it is the only thing that ever has.”
→ Perfect for encouraging Rotarians to see the global impact of local action.
Paul Harris (Rotary founder):
“Friendship was the foundation rock on which Rotary was built and tolerance is the element which holds it together.”
→ A reminder that strong communities are built on relationships and understanding.
Click here to listen to a lovely inspiring song!
is My Wish – Peace on Earth!
…by Voctave
This
NEWS & INFORMATION IMPORTANT TO ROTARIANS
INTERNATIONAL RESPONSIBILITIES OF A ROTARIAN
…as written in the ABCs of Rotary by Clifford L. Dochterman, RI President 1992-93
As an international organization, Rotary offers each member unique opportunities and responsibilities. Although each Rotarian has first responsibility to uphold the obligations of citizenship of his or her own country, membership in Rotary enables Rotarians to take a somewhat different view of international affairs.
In the early 1950s a Rotary philosophy was adopted to describe how a Rotarian may think on a global basis. Here is what it said:
"A world-minded Rotarian: *
• looks beyond national patriotism and considers himself as sharing responsibility for the advancement of international understanding, goodwill and peace;
• resists any tendency to act in terns of national or racial superiority;
• seeks and develops common grounds for agreement with peoples of other lands;
• defends the rule of law and order to preserve the liberty of the individual so that he may enjoy freedom of thought, speech and assembly, and freedom from persecution, aggression, want and fear;
• supports action directed toward improving standards of living for all peoples, realizing that poverty anywhere endangers prosperity everywhere;
• upholds the principles of justice for mankind;
• strives always to promote peace between nations and prepares to make personal sacrifices for that ideal;
• urges and practices a spirit of understanding of every other man's beliefs as a step toward international goodwill, recognizing that there are certain basic moral and spiritual standards which will ensure a richer, fuller life."
That is quite an assignment for any Rotarian to practice in thoughts and actions!
* * At the time this philosophy was developed, Rotary was still an all-male organization. Today, the philosophy will include all Rotarians - men and women.
INTERNATIONAL WORK –
Do you have an interest? If so, this information is for you!
There are numerous ways to partner with others and work together to accomplish great things internationally. You DO NOT need to be an expert. You simply need an interest in international work. Read below to find ways to get involved.
The District International Service Committee has now been in existence for one year. During that time, members have been busy compiling resources to assist clubs and individuals interested in getting involved with international projects. You can find out more about the committee by clicking here. If you would like to join the committee or want to learn more contact the committee chair, Pat Cavan. patriciacavan@gmail.com
Perhaps you do not actually want to write grants, travel or be directly involved with international projects but you or your club would like to financially support projects. You can do so! Click here to find out about Global Grant projects in D6330 seeking funding partners.
Hand Up is simply a group of Rotarians from D6330 who have an interest in international work. The committee has been in existence for over 30 years and annually completes Global Grant projects, initially in Cameroon and now in Guatemala. They are currently writing a Global Grant application for an Agroecological Vegetable Project in Santa Cruz la Laguna. Active projects are in the areas of Basic Education and Literacy, Water and Sanitation and Economic Development. They are a busy group routinely managing 4 or 5 Global Grant projects at a time and some members choose to visit the project sites in Guatemala. To learn more about Hand Up click here. If you would like to join the committee or want to learn more contact the committee chair, Nancy Ottewell. nottewell@gmail.com
Project Fairs take place in different countries around the world to promote the need for partnerships for Global Grants to become funded. For example, the Colombian Project Fair takes place every year at the end of January. It brings the 2 Colombian Districts together for 3 days allowing clubs in both districts to present projects for which they are seeking international partners to help fund their Global Grant applications. Over the course of the 3 days participants hear about 40 - 50 projects seeking funding. There are also social and cultural activities intertwined with the presentations. To learn more about upcoming Project Fairs click here. If you would like to learn more contact Joan Fisher. sinkpolio@rogers.com
D6330 also has Inter Country Committees with both South Africa and Colombia. Members share information, discuss needs and plan project partnerships. To learn more about Inter Country Committees contact Carolyn Herrick for the South Africa Committee carolyn.m.herrick@gmail.com or Joan Fisher for the Colombia Committee. sinkpolio@rogers.com
Please let me know if I can assist in any way.
Yours in Rotary, Pat Cavan
District International Service Chair 519-373-1087 patriciacavan@gmail.com
Pat Cavan
Summary of new polioviruses this week, cases and positive environmental isolates:
• Algeria: one cVDPV1 case, one cVDPV1-positive environmental sample, and one cVDPV2-positive environmental sample
• Yemen: six cVDPV2-positive environmental samples
For details on the 2024 estimates and what they tell us about immunization globally, read the WHO-UNICEF press release and explore the WHO Immunization Data Portal
Reemergence of Polio in Gaza
Here’s How Global Humanitarian Organizations Responded
Author: Jacky Habib July 17, 2025
Every morning, past dawn, for 12 consecutive days, the bombs stopped falling in Gaza — not permanently, just until the late afternoon. This staggered humanitarian pause, negotiated by leading health organizations, enabled health workers to fan out across Gaza — moving through displacement camps and communities amid the rubble. Carrying coolers of polio vaccines, teams navigated damaged roads and makeshift shelters to reach as many children as possible within the fragile daily window they were given.
Click here to read the rest of the article
SUPPORT THE ROTARY FOUNDATION
THE POLIOPLUS SOCIETY
Join the PolioPlus Society in District 6330.
Donations are matched annually 2-to-1 by the Gates Foundation up to US$50 million, generating a potential total of US$150 million toward polio eradication.
Raise awareness in your community by planning events or projects that support the fight against polio.
Visit endpolio.org to find the latest information and tools to help you share the story of our fight against polio and raise support.
Ending this disease forever remains our top humanitarian priority and needs our full commitment.
How can you take action? Donate to End Polio
Visit the PolioPlus Society Facebook Page. https://www.facebook.com/groups/polioplussociety
Click here to view a short video and learn more about GAVI – The Vaccine Alliance One of the greatest achievements in the history of mankind.
In our increasingly complex geopolitical and social environment, it’s more important than ever for Rotary members to remember the promise we made to the children of the world, to eradicate polio.
On 24 October, World Polio Day, we’ll join with our partners, frontline health workers, polio survivors, public health advocates, and others to remind everyone that eradicating polio not only is possible but also is a promise we intend to keep.
As your club begins planning its World Polio Day activities, be sure to visit the Brand Center to get a wide variety of polio-related resources. And don’t forget to register your club’s participation!
INTERNATIONAL DATES TO NOTE
October Rotary’s Focus – Economic & Community Development
Sunday, October 5
World Teachers’ Day
Monday, October 6 World Habitat Day
Friday, October 10
World Mental Health Day
Saturday, October 11
International Day of the Girl Child
Sunday, October 12
World Migratory Bird Day
Thursday, October 16
World Food Day
Friday, October 17
International Day for the Eradication of Poverty
Friday, October 24
United Nations Day World Polio Day
Friday, October 24 to Friday, October 30
Disarmament Week
Wednesday, October 29
International Day of Care and Support
Do you need a make-up? missed meetings?
To learn about other Rotary clubs?
The Passport Club members are encouraged to join local (and other) clubs to learn more about Rotary, get to know other Rotarians, gain a new perspective and appreciation for Rotary and Rotarians. Here is a list of online clubs where you can earn a make-up along with learning a whole lot more about Rotary! Why not visit them all?
• Rotary E-Club of Canada One – Rotary On Demand, Where you want, When you want!
• Rotary Club of One World
• Rotary E-Club of World Peace
Click here to attend this week’s posted meeting of E-Club of Canada One.
These meetings are posted online and available 24/7!
Club President for 2025-26 – Mariann Timmers
OUR CLUB PROJECTS
HELPING MIGRANT
WORKERS
The Passport Club of District 6330 is happy to be continuing – at least for this final year - our successful service project, Backpacks for Migrant Workers for one more year.
North Lambton Community Health Care created the Migrant Worker Project to support the 700 migrant workers working in Sarnia and Lambton County. Our club has been working with the Project Coordinator, Andrea Jones-Peper, by providing backpacks for newly arriving workers.
We will continue through the 2025-26 year to fill the backpacks with items requested by workers, such as toiletries. The date of delivery is hoping to be the start of the season in the spring. We will continue to support these workers. Stay tuned! Consider what items you can individually add to these backpacks!
Empower Dreams with Kiva.org: Microloans that Make a World of Difference
Have you ever wished you could help someone start a business, support their education, or improve their community — even from across the world? Kiva.org makes that possible. Through Kiva, individuals can lend as little as $25 to support entrepreneurs and underserved communities in over 80 countries.
The impact for recipients is profound: they gain access to capital that traditional banks may deny them, along with a sense of dignity, agency, and the opportunity to break the cycle of poverty. Whether it’s a woman opening a market stall in Kenya or a farmer in Peru investing in sustainable equipment, your small loan can create lasting change.
Lenders benefit too — not financially, but personally and globally. It’s a chance to connect with someone’s story, be part of their success, and promote values of equity and entrepreneurship. With a 96% repayment rate, your funds can be loaned again and again, multiplying your impact.
Kiva turns compassion into action — one microloan at a time.
Visit www.kiva.org to learn more or to start lending today.
Are you interested in becoming a Kiva Ambassador? Click here.
CONTINUING SUCCESS – CUP OF KINDNESS
To some this is just a cup.
To members of the Rotary Club of District 6330 Passport this is A CUP OF KINDNESS.
…as we support local food banks in our local communities
We will donate to another Food Bank this year and try for another district grant.
London Food Bank
Strathroy
Sarnia – Inn of the Good Shepherd
Stratford
THE ROTARY FOUNDATION
Donations Are Important!
Remember our Happy Chats – get to know our club members!
Join the Happy Chats – get to know our club members!
Happy Chats are online every Wednesday. Every Wednesday at 6:30 p.m. - 7:00 p.m. -ish – Join us!
Join your Rotary friends for an informal 30-minute get together.
Plan to join our Zoom Meetings! Click here
And our Monthly Online Meeting!! Plan to join us!
View the video of our monthly meeting of Wednesday - September 3, 2025
Click here to view September’s meeting video.
2025 COUNCIL ON LEGISLATION OF ROTARY INTERNATIONAL REPORT OF ACTION
13-17 April 2025 | Chicago, Illinois, USA
For those unfamiliar with the Council on Legislation –
The Rotary Council on Legislation is Rotary International’s primary law-making body.
Meeting every three years, it brings together representatives from all Rotary districts around the world to review and vote on proposed enactments that can amend Rotary’s governing documents (such as the Constitution, Bylaws, and Standard Club Constitution).
The most recent Council met 13 to 17 April 2025.
The Council serves as Rotary’s “parliament,” shaping the policies, rules, and procedures that guide Rotary clubs and districts worldwide. Its decisions ensure that Rotary remains both rooted in its traditions and responsive to the changing needs of members and communities.
86 enactments were transmitted to the COL.
• The Council adopted 31 enactments, including one item that was adopted during vetting ahead of the COL.
• The Council rejected 37 proposals, 11 proposals were withdrawn from consideration, four items were referred to the RI Board, and three items were postponed indefinitely.
Of the 31 adopted enactments, five were adopted with amendments, which are noted in the report with an asterisk (*). Legislation takes effect on 1 July 2025, unless otherwise noted in the item of legislation.
Click here for the report.
Grant Management in D6330 - Your Donations Are
Clubs must qualify first! The Rotary Foundation requires Clubs that want to participate in the District Grants program to qualify. To qualify, the club must:
• Be in good standing
• May not have any grant reporting that is overdue
• Have at least 2 members complete the District’s Qualification Training course and quiz
The Certification is valid for One Rotary Year only! Clubs must be re-certified for each Rotary Year.
Rotary Foundation Grants – There are two kinds of grants. -Global Grants and District Grants:
Global Grants
• Must be in (at least) one of Rotary's Areas Of Focus
• Must be International projects involving at least 2 clubs in 2 different countries. One of these clubs is the "host" club - the club where the project will take place. The other is the "international partner" - the club that provides funding and possibly some expertise to help implement the project.
• Must have a minimum budget of USD $30,000
• Club funds are supplemented by the District Designated Funds as, and if, available
• Funds donated to the project from District Designated Funds are supplemented by The Rotary Foundation (World Fund) to fund these grants.
District Grants
• May be local or international in scope.
• Are usually smaller in scale. There is no minimum budget requirement.
• Will usually involve active participation by Rotarians.
• District 6330 clubs may apply for more than one District Grant in a single Rotary year but are limited to a maximum of USD $3,000 per year in District Grant funding.
• Projects must be started and completed within one Rotary year - July 1 to June 30 of the next year.
Ready to Apply for A Grant? Will it be a District or a Global Grant?
3 simple questions to help you decide:
• Is the project in one of the areas of focus? – No? Consider applying for a District Grant.
• Is the project between Clubs/Districts in separate countries? – No? Consider a District Grant.
• Is the total budget for the project less than USD $30,000? – No? Consider applying for a District Grant.
• If you answer YES to all the above, consider applying for a Global Grant.
CLUB OFFICERS 2025-26
President Mariann Timmers
Secretary
Treasurer
Membership Chair
Project Chair
Directors
The Rotary Foundation (TRF) Communications
Sue Storie
Jessica Herbert
Deb Beaupré
Sue Storie
Rick Storie
Kitty Bucsko
MEMBERSHIP LIST BELOW –
CLUB MEMBERS’ LIST WITH EMAIL ADDRESSES
A.C. Alrey
acalrey@gmail.com
Deb Beaupré debmarjean@gmail.com
Rich Bouchard rbouchard@racetoerase.com
Kitty Bucsko ladykitt@gmail.com
Lynn Coates lynn.coates.1@outlook.com
Sue Elliott susan@sutherlandelliott.ca
Heather Macdonald heathermac@BMTS.com
Jessica Morrow jessicaherbert2023@gmail.com
George Ottewell george.ottewell@gmail.com
Nancy Ottewell nottewell@gmail.com
Rick Storie rick.storie@sympatico.ca
Sue Storie sue.storie@sympatico.ca
Lynne Ternosky lynneternosky@gmail.com
Mariann Timmers gtimmers@aol.com
MY WHY IN ROTARY
…District Governor Jeff Ferweda believes it’s important to know/understand WHY you are in Rotary
Here is one response to consider -
Rotary makes people better — it makes us all better. The friendships, ideas, and energy we find through Rotary inspire us every day — and give us a special purpose that makes us all better. Consider the Four-Way Test!
Members of Rotary clubs throughout the world continually amaze with their creativity, innovations, and commitment to making our community stronger. They have signature projects that make a huge difference in their individual communities and around the world. Rotary clubs are filled with well-intentioned people who want to find their niche, coming up with ideas and then following them through to a perfect conclusion
The Rotary Club of Sarnia, as an example, holds a community Pancake breakfast every year under the Bluewater Bridges for the start of the Port Huron to Mackinac boat race. Click here to view a short video of the 2025 event.
The other Rotary clubs around the world are cut from the same cloth — filled with purpose and dedicated to excellent projects that bring those purposes to life. In Sarnia, consider this summer’s Art in the Park planned and hosted by the Rotary Club of Bluewaterland! Or the long-standing Annual Charity Trivia Night hosted by the Rotary Club of Sarnia-Lambton After Hours. These projects put Sarnia and Rotary “on the map”!!
In London, clubs have made many contributions to the community - Oneida Imagine Build – temporary family shelter; purchase of Intraoral scanner for Thames Valley Children’s Centre; Rotary Reading Garden was rededicated at the London Public Library; London South Rotarians (with Hyde Park and Rotaractors) participated in a river cleanup – and those are just a few examples of the excellent work Rotarians do.
The world over, Rotary clubs of every size work with the same spirit — devoted friends and neighbours creating lasting, positive change. With Rotary, we all find inspiration, we all have something to contribute, and together we are so much better.
People need something — an idea, an inspiration, a purpose to lead them forward. Rotary offers us that purpose and expands it outward, multiplying it for the good of our communities and our world.
Rotary has 5 areas of service – and it’s here you can find your niche -
• Club service
• Vocational service
• Community service
• International service
• New Generations (Youth) service
There is a place for every one of us to serve!
As others have said:
• “Alone we can do so little; together we can do so much.” — Helen Keller
• “Individually, we are one drop. Together, we are an ocean.” — Ryunosuke Satoro
The Environment – Rotary’s 7th Area of Focus
Another reason to save our Environment
Our oceans are vital for cleaning our planet’s air, stabilizing climate, supporting biodiversity, and sustaining global livelihoods—yet they face dire threats like pollution, overfishing, acidification, and habitat loss.
Rotary International, through its environmental focus and global network, is uniquely positioned to drive meaningful change. For example, Rotary-supported projects can fund community-driven coastal cleanups, educate on sustainable fishing practices, or advocate for marine conservation policies, helping mitigate key global challenges like plastic pollution and coral degradation.
A beautiful example of Rotary’s impact is the Diveheart program, highlighted in a recent Rotary Magazine feature, “Divers with Disabilities Find Peace in Deep Water ” (Source)
Diveheart was launched by a dedicated Rotarian to bring “scuba therapy” to individuals with disabilities, offering them a transformative experience of weightlessness and empowerment in the water. The program underscores Rotary’s values of inclusion and service above self—beyond physical healing, it reshapes identities: no longer “Johnny in a wheelchair,” but “Johnny the scuba diver.” (Source)
By supporting initiatives like Diveheart, Rotary not only advances individual well-being but also strengthens human connection to the world’s waters—cultivating respect, advocacy, and stewardship. When people feel a personal bond with the ocean—especially through such empowering programs—they’re more likely to champion its protection.
In brief: Our oceans are essential to life and especially vulnerable at the moment. Rotary can address these threats through hands-on environmental action, education, and by inspiring deeper human connection to the seas.
Diveheart exemplifies this beautifully—leveraging Rotary’s network to empower individuals while deepening our collective relationship with the ocean.
Click here to view a short video on the Diveheart program.
ENVIRONMENTAL CONSIDERATIONS –
By sequestering carbon, boosting biodiversity, improving air quality, and reducing urban temperatures, mini forests offer a low-cost, high-impact solution for local and global environmental challenges.
MINI FORESTS also known as "pocket forests" or "Miyawaki forests," are small, densely planted areas of native trees and shrubs designed to grow quickly and mimic the structure of natural forests. They can significantly impact the climate and environment in several ways:
1. Carbon Sequestration
Trees absorb carbon dioxide (CO₂) from the atmosphere during photosynthesis, storing carbon in their biomass and soil. Even small forests can sequester a meaningful amount of carbon, contributing to climate change mitigation.
2. Increased Biodiversity
Mini forests provide habitats for local wildlife, supporting biodiversity even in urban areas. They attract insects, birds, and small mammals, creating micro-ecosystems that improve ecological balance.
3. Enhanced Soil Health
The roots of densely planted trees improve soil structure and increase its capacity to retain water and nutrients. This process reduces soil erosion, promotes organic matter buildup, and supports soil microbes, which play a crucial role in nutrient cycling.
4. Air Quality Improvement
Trees in mini forests can filter pollutants like nitrogen dioxide (NO₂) and particulate matter (PM), improving air quality. Leaves trap dust and particulate pollutants, reducing their presence in the air we breathe.
5. Cooling Effect (Urban Heat Reduction)
Mini forests reduce the "urban heat island" effect by providing shade and through evapotranspiration (the release of water vapor from leaves). This cooling effect can make urban areas more comfortable and reduce the energy demand for air conditioning.
6. Increased Resilience to Climate Change
These forests improve local water cycles, which can help stabilize temperatures and humidity levels. They also protect against the impact of extreme weather events, as dense root systems improve the land's ability to absorb heavy rainfall and prevent flooding.
7. Community Engagement and Education
Creating mini forests often involves community engagement, which raises awareness about climate issues and fosters environmental stewardship. It gives people a tangible way to contribute to climate action on a local scale.
FOR YOUR INTEREST – MINI FORESTS
Below is a list of links garnered from the Internet on mini-forests planted in Ontario.
See our club Facebook page for more up-to-the-minute club news!
Click here to view a short and fun video of our RI President
PASSPORT CLUB HAS BECOME A HOST SPONSOR ROTARY GLOBAL GRANT SCHOLARSHIP RECIPIENT
A repeat from last month -
Leah Holt, shown at right, is the recipient of a Rotary Global Grant Scholarship sponsored by Rotary District 6080.
Leah is pursuing a Master of Public Health program offered by the Schulich School of Medicine & Dentistry at the University of Western Ontario. She graduated with honors from the University of Central Missouri with a Bachelor of Science in Health Studies and a minor in Nutrition.
During her time at UCM, Leah served on various executive boards, including the Health Studies Student Leadership Committee. She was also selected for the prestigious Ronald E. McNair Postbaccalaureate Achievement Program, through which she selected research mentors and completed her first independent research project, focusing on understanding the lived experiences of teen mothers.
Leah is passionate about minimizing barriers to health and improving health for all.
Jackie Jackson from District 6080 serves as her sponsor counselor, and the Rotary Club of D6330 Passport, with members in London and vicinity, is her host sponsor.
• Scope: Funds large, international activities aligned with Rotary’s Areas of Focus (e.g., peace, health, water, education, economic development, environment).
• Types of activities:
1. Humanitarian projects (e.g., building water systems, providing medical equipment).
2. Vocational training teams (groups traveling abroad to teach or learn professional skills).
3. Scholarships (successor to the Ambassadorial Scholarships).
• Funding structure:
o Minimum budget US$30,000
o Must involve a Rotary club in the host country and one in another country (“international partner”).
o Club and district funds are matched by The Rotary Foundation’s World Fund.
Rotary Foundation Global Grant.
ROTARY’S FOUR-WAY TEST
A Thoughtful Start to any day
� � � � What is the Rotary Four-Way Test?
It's a short ethical guide used by Rotarians worldwide to help evaluate decisions, both personal and professional.
It was created in 1932 by Herbert J. Taylor, who later became Rotary International President. Facing financial and moral crisis in his company, he developed this test as a litmus test for integrity and fair conduct.
The test asks four questions of the things we think, say or do:
• Is it the TRUTH?
• Is it FAIR to all concerned?
• Will it build GOODWILL and BETTER FRIENDSHIPS?
• Will it be BENEFICIAL to all concerned?
It may seem simple, but in a complex world, those questions are anything but easy — and that’s part of their power.
� � � Why Should We Consider It?
�
Because ethics matter — now more than ever.
The Four-Way Test:
• Brings clarity to grey areas.
• Encourages honesty and accountability, not just in public life but in our quiet decisions.
• Fosters trust — a commodity that seems scarce in many parts of today’s society.
• Helps cultivate respectful dialogue instead of divisiveness.
• Serves as a universal framework: it’s non-religious, non-political, and applicable across cultures and professions.
In a world of misinformation, polarization, and moral shortcuts, it gently but firmly asks: “Are we making the right choices for ourselves and for others?”
Click the 4-way test above and open the link to hear the Four-Way Test by RC of Saskatoon Nutana
� � What Does the Four-Way Test Mean in Today’s Context?
In a global landscape marked by challenges — climate change, inequality, misinformation, and conflict — the Four-Way Test is a compass. It reminds us:
• Truth is not just about facts, but integrity.
• Fairness challenges us to consider others, not just ourselves.
• Goodwill and friendship are the foundations of peace, community, and collaboration.
• Benefit to all concerned asks us to be stewards, not just beneficiaries.
In Rotary, it’s more than words. It shapes how Rotarians lead projects, build partnerships, and serve their communities — from clean water initiatives to polio eradication. But beyond Rotary, it’s an invitation to live more ethically and courageously.
� � Closing Thought
The Four-Way Test isn't about being perfect. It's about trying to do the right thing, every day, in big ways and small.
It invites us to pause, reflect, and then act — with conscience, compassion, and courage.
Whether you’re a Rotarian or not, those four questions can light a path through some of life’s murkiest terrain.
THE ROTARY FOUNDATION
EREY – Every Rotarian Every Year
Our Every Rotarian, Every Year (EREY) initiative encourages all Rotary club members to contribute something each year to The Rotary Foundation. We hope that you can consider at least $100 USD every year to help us reach our goal to support the Rotary Foundation financially each year.
Sustaining member. One who contributes $100 USD every year is a Sustaining Member. With EREY, we encourage you to contribute an amount you can afford every year. Click here to listen to We are the World
A LITTLE HUMOUR
SangKoo Yun, former RI president-elect, dies at 75
By Wen Huang 5-Sep-2025
SangKoo Yun, a consummate Rotary leader and businessman who had been selected to be Rotary International's president for 2026-27, died on 5 September, after months of treatment for pancreatic cancer. A member of the Rotary Club of Sae Hanyang, Seoul, Korea, Yun resigned as president-elect in August to focus on his medical treatment.
"SangKoo's passing is a great loss to the global Rotary family," says RI President Francesco Arezzo. "Yun's vision and contributions to Rotary will continue to inspire and motivate me and others. His legacy lives on in the hearts of Rotary friends and those whose lives were touched by his dedication to Rotary service."
Yun grew up in Seoul, Korea. His father, a prominent political activist, served as the country's president in the early 1960s. Instead of following his father into politics, Yun traveled to the United States after secondary school to pursue his interest in architecture. He received his bachelor's and master's degrees in architecture from Syracuse University.
Yun returned to Korea in the late 1980s and founded Dongsuh Corp., which engineers and markets architectural materials. The business flourished during the construction boom before the 1988 Olympic Games in Seoul. He later started the Youngan Corp., a real estate and investment venture.
"SangKoo was a tremendously genuine and kind person," says Past RI President Stephanie Urchick, who reached out to Yun several years ago after her niece traveled to South Korea as an English teacher. Yun invited Urchick's niece to his home and spent time helping her acclimate to local cultures. "I will never forget his thoughtfulness and friendship", she adds. Many Rotary members recalled similar experiences.
Yun joined Rotary in 1987, when he helped charter the Rotary Club of Sae Hanyang. He saw the organization as a professional networking hub to help him become more involved in the community. From the beginning, he worked to promote Rotary Youth Exchange and served on his scholarship committee. These interests evolved into a lifelong passion for service, especially international service.
Yun served for eight years as co-chair of the Keep Mongolia Green Project. The initiative planted windbreak forests in the Gobi Desert to alleviate dust storms, which frequently affected nearby regions of Mongolia, China, and Korea. The project eventually expanded to include strategic orchard plantings in Karakorum, which is now Mongolia's largest green zone. Its success helped inspire the Mongolian government to take further action to counter desertification. Yun received a Friendship Medal from the president of Mongolia for spearheading the innovative project.
"No one thought trees could grow in the desert, but we succeeded," said Yun, who traveled to Mongolia 33 times.
Click here to read the full article
But no -
When tomorrow comes, this day will be gone forever. In its place is something that you have left behind. Let it be something good. †
