
International President 2024-25,
International President 2024-25,
Rotary International President for 2024-25, Stephanie Urchick, highlights her initiatives in 2024-25, including championing the Action Plan and promoting Rotary’s peacebuilding initiatives.
RI President Stephanie urges all members to “grow the Magic of Rotary by adding new members to our Rotary family and providing wonderful experiences to those already involved.”
“Unlock the Magic of Rotary by unlocking the power of women and girls. Advance the Magic of Rotary by fundraising to help change the world.”
“Together, we can make every club and every district ‘simply irresistible.’”
Click this link to view several videos from the 2024 Singapore Convention including RI President Stephanie and RI President-elect Mário César Martins de Camargo
To adapt, as laid out in Rotary’s Action Plan, we must occasionally step out of our comfort zone and try something new. Here are two examples of clubs that adapted –one with heart and one through critical thinking and strategy.
The Rotary Club of Chandigarh Mid Town, India, led with heart earlier this year. To engage members and grow membership, Club President Nitin Kapur personally called every former member of the club and invited them to a gathering billed as an alumni meetup.
Eight former members attended, and the results were stupendous. The visitors had a chance to connect once more – not only with current members but with the sense of camaraderie and belonging that membership gave them. By the end of the evening, the club welcomed six of the former members back into the Rotary family.
Club President Kapur showed courage when he reached out to the alumni. Not only did he adapt and try something new, but he had the strength of character to show the club’s alumni how much they still meant to the family of Rotary. That bravery paid off.
People want to feel needed and appreciated. People want to feel that they belong. And they might never feel that way if we don’t have the courage to tell them.
Meanwhile, the Rotary Club of Seoul-Hansoo, Korea, has been experimenting with different club models to great effect. Over the past four years, Seoul-Hansoo has created and maintained four satellite clubs – a service club, an interest-based club for musicians, a cause-based club that mentors professionals, and a club for college students.
These satellite clubs are part of a five-year plan the Seoul-Hansoo club implemented to increase membership through innovation.
What is the secret to founding and maintaining so many satellite clubs? Membership between Seoul-Hansoo and its satellite clubs is fluid and synergistic. Many members of the satellite clubs attend the sponsor club’s meetings. And many of the sponsor club’s members participate in the satellite clubs.
Additionally, the focus of each satellite club is no accident. Each one appeals to different interests of people in the sponsor club and in the community, attracting existing and potential members. This is an excellent strategy to both retain and attract members because it offers flexibility. If someone is interested in joining but they can’t make it to the sponsor club’s meetings, they have plenty of options to choose from.
These are just two examples of how we can adapt with our hearts and minds. Every club is different, so I encourage you to reach out to members of your club an of the community around you. Ask them about the club experience and what you can do to improve.
Talk to enough people and you might find ways that you can adapt and spart The Magic of Rotary in your club.
STEPHANIE A. URCHICK PRESIDENT, ROTARY INTERNATIONAL 2024-25
A season of lasting giving
December is a time for generosity and reflection when we think not only about our loved ones but about how we can make a difference in the world.
This year, consider giving a gift with an enduring impact, one that extends beyond these holidays, lasting for generations. Gifts to The Rotary Foundation Endowment are extraordinary gifts that create extraordinary change.
By supporting Rotary’s Endowment, you help ensure that RI will have the resources it needs to develop and implement sustainable projects today and in the years to come. Members who include the Endowment in estate plans or make an outright gift support that mission.
Imagine your gift helping to fund the drop of vaccine that prevents the last case of polio, eradicating this devastating disease once and for all. Picture it supporting other health initiatives in 2034, 2044, and beyond.
If you make an outright gift today, you will have the opportunity to witness your support in action, working through clean water projects, literacy initiatives, and economic development efforts. These Rotary Foundationfunded projects touch lives across the globe, bringing hope to individuals you may never meet, but who will know you through your generosity.
Past President Arch C. Klumph, who first proposed an endowment more than 100 years ago, would be amazed not only at the opportunities Rotary has to help today but also at the future possibilities Rotary’s Endowment provides.
However, our Endowment is only strong when we all support it Because it is essential to our success, we have set an ambitious goal: to build our Endowment to $2,025 billion in net assets and commitments by 30 June, 2025. This goal is not just a number: it is a reaffirmation of our belief in Rotary’s enduring ability to do good in the world. A fully funded $2 billion endowment will provide more than $100 million year after year for Rotary Foundation activities.
I have asked district governors and club presidents to lead by example before the year’s end, but each of us has an opportunity to secure Rotary’s legacy of service. Please join Gay and me in planning your estate or outright gift today.
Remember, this is no ordinary gift. Your generosity will provide a legacy for future generations to find solutions in the areas we care about, while creating a ripple of positive change that extends far beyond our lifetimes. What better gift could there be?
MARK DANIEL MALONEY Foundation Trustee Chair, 2024-25
District website: https://rotary6330.org/
District 6330 Governor 2024-25
Katherine Hahn
Rotary Club of Stratford
Sonja Glass, acting Chair of the Rotary District 6330 Nominating Committee (composed of Mike Chaffee, Jim Schlatman, Joe Reynold and Don Moore) is pleased to announce that, after reviewing the candidates suggested by clubs and recruited by the Committee, DAWN KENNEDY has been selected to become current District Governor Nominee Designate for the Rotary year 2027-2028.
Joining Rotary in November 1993, Dawn contributed significantly to Rotary through her commitment to the Rotary Club of Mildmay. Serving as President and as Treasurer multiple times, Rotary has been a huge focus in her life. When you speak with Dawn, her enthusiasm is infectious.
Currently as the Assistant Governor for Area 2, Dawn has a focus on growing membership, nurturing volunteerism in youth, and supporting The Rotary Foundation. More recently, Dawn has taken on a leadership role in the District’s Visioning Program and looks forward to assisting more clubs in developing their plans for the future. Dawn has completed the Rotary Leadership Institute and is a multiple Paul Harris Fellow.
As per Rotary International Bylaws* (Article 12) and per District 6330 Policies and Procedures*, we are sending this notice to inform District 6330 membership of the Nominating Committee’s selection and the start of the challenge period.
From now until November 23, 2024, any club in District 6330 (that has been in operation for at least one year) may challenge this selection by proposing a challenge candidate, but only if such challenge candidate was already suggested to the Nominating Committee by that club. Such a challenge must be substantiated by a resolution of the club adopted at a regular meeting of that club and be submitted in writing to the District Governor on or before November 23.
Barring any such challenges, Dawn Kennedy will become the District Governor Nominee Designate for the Rotary year 2027-2028 effective November 24.
*Note: if you wish to research RI Bylaws or District 6330 Policies and Procedures, use the following links:
• RI Bylaws RI Bylaws
• D6330 Policies District 6330 P & P 2024-25
…at October 30, 2024
continued on next pages
2Report from PDG David Elliott, District Foundation Chair
**Other funds include term/directed gifts and funds for approved grants.
Year to Date (YTD) covers the period from July 2024 through October 2024.
…at October 31
Note - Yearly breakdowns include both new qualifiers and recognition level changes. Paul Harris
October 2024 Foundation Recognition Points
Rotary Direct Participants
Note - Joint Major Donor/Bequest Society counts as one. EREY (USD 25 starting in 2016-17), Sustaining Members and PHS Eligible includes all individuals, not just active club members.
Dear Rotarians in D6330!
Please mark your calendars for the upcoming Day of Giving - Giving Tuesday, 3 December – and please make an effort to support The Rotary Foundation!
This Global day of Generosity is an opportunity for all members to make a big impact with a gift of any size. A donation to Annual Fund-SHARE supports projects you’re passionate about, both in your community and around the world. A gift to PolioPlus helps transport vaccines and immunize children to keep them safe.
Here’s how you can help us prepare for Giving Tuesday:
• Watch our Giving Tuesday video with your club.
• Donate to The Rotary Foundation on Giving Tuesday.
• Download our Giving Tuesday graphic and share with your peers.
The Rotary Foundation will again recognize the top three clubs in fundraising, donor participation, and online giving. Find out which clubs were recognized last year and set a giving goal for your club this year. Just be sure the gifts are made on 3 December!
Every contribution, no matter the size, helps Rotary create positive change in the world. We know that with your help, we can make an even bigger impact because of Giving Tuesday!
Sincerely,
The Rotary Foundation
With World Polio Day behind us, DON’T STOP! KEEP THE FIGHT ALIVE!
Despite World Polio Day having passed by for this year, we must keep Polio as a priority if we are to be successful in eradicating it from our planet.
Earlier, DG Katherine wrote –
Thank you for your continued dedication to raising awareness about Rotary's Polio Eradication efforts.
DG Katherine also created an 11-minute video presentation that every D6330 Rotarian should see.
Please feel free to incorporate the video into your meetings and share throughout the year. Polio eradication is an ongoing effort!
Here is the link to the video: https://youtu.be/Wja7mSyIIIE
KEEP THE FIGHT ALIVE!
There is still time and opportunity for those who might wish to contribute to DG Katherine’s “Plummeting for Polio – Drop to Zero” effort. To contribute, please click here.
Of course, you can donate through the site endpolionow.org. Click here. All donations made will receive a ta receipt.
TO LEARN MORE ABOUT GRANTS IN DISTRICT 6330 –
Find the information on the home page (rotary6330.org) under the Learning tab -
TO LEARN MORE ABOUT THE ROTARY FOUNDATION IN DISTRICT 6330 -
Find the information on the home page under the Rotary Foundation tab -
Fighting Disease - Rotary International rotary.org
Rotary International is deeply committed to disease prevention and treatment worldwide. Here are several initiatives and projects that highlight their efforts. These efforts are highlighted through the month of December.
1. PolioPlus Program
Since 1985, Rotary's PolioPlus program has been at the forefront of global polio eradication efforts. Collaborating with partners like the World Health Organization and UNICEF, Rotary has contributed over $1.2 billion and countless volunteer hours to immunize more than 2.5 billion children across 122 countries. This initiative has brought the world to the brink of eradicating polio. https://www.rotary.org/en/our-causes/fighting-disease
2. Disease Prevention and Treatment Projects
Rotary members actively combat diseases such as malaria, HIV/AIDS, Alzheimer's, multiple sclerosis, diabetes, and polio. They establish temporary clinics, blood donation centers, and training facilities in underserved communities facing health care challenges. Additionally, Rotary focuses on health education and providing routine hearing, vision, and dental care to promote overall well-being.
https://www.rotary.org/en/our-causes/fighting-disease
3. Global Grant Projects
Through The Rotary Foundation, Rotary clubs implement global grant projects aimed at disease prevention and treatment. For instance, the Guatemala Literacy Project provided textbooks, computer labs, teacher training, and scholarships to impoverished schools, indirectly improving health outcomes by enhancing education. https://www.rotary.org/en/top-global-grant-projects
4. Rotary Action Groups
Rotary Action Groups consist of members and partners with expertise in specific areas, including disease prevention and treatment. These groups assist clubs in planning and implementing impactful projects, offering guidance to ensure sustainability and effectiveness.
https://rotaryserviceblog.org/2023/12/07/get-help-from-rotary-action-groups-tofight-disease-in-your-community/
These initiatives demonstrate Rotary International's dedication to improving global health through disease prevention and treatment efforts.
Can you ace these short quizzes about the human body and your health?
https://www.quiztreat.com/quiz/Zze_L4FIQQAIdwBB
https://www.quiztreat.com/quiz/Zwg4CwXzMQAIiaNF/question/ZMu1aIrE7AAHiNQe
https://www.quiztreat.com/quiz/Zwg4CwXzMQAIiaNF?utm_source=share-link
Dear Fellow Rotarians,
We need your help!
Your donations to the Rotary Annual Fund aren't just financial contributions; they are investments in humanity.
Here’s what your support enables:
Sustainable Development Projects: Rotary supports initiatives that provide clean water, sanitation, education, and healthcare to underserved communities, improving their quality of life for generations to come.
Disaster Response and Recovery: Your contributions help Rotary provide immediate relief and long-term recovery in regions affected by natural disasters, from delivering emergency supplies to rebuilding schools and homes.
Promoting Peace and Conflict Resolution: By funding peace fellowships and conflict resolution programs, you empower future leaders who work on global peacebuilding efforts and foster understanding across cultures and borders.
Eradicating Disease: Rotary’s fight against polio, through the PolioPlus program, has brought us closer than ever to eradicating this devastating disease, while other global health initiatives focus on combating malaria, HIV/AIDS, and maternal and child health challenges.
Youth and Leadership Programs: Your donations provide educational scholarships, leadership training, and life-changing experiences for young people, equipping them to become compassionate leaders and active global citizens.
Environmental Sustainability: Rotary is also committed to protecting the environment, with projects focused on climate action, reforestation, and sustainable farming practices that contribute to a healthier planet.
Click here to view a 30-second video from a Rotarian in Chicago – and why she donates to the Annual Fund!
Donate to the Rotary Annual Fund today and become part of a global movement dedicated to making the world a better place for everyone.
Not to be confused with a Paul Harris Fellow (which means a life-time gift of $1000 to The Rotary Foundation's annual fund), the Paul Harris Society is the name given to those Rotarians who pledge a $1000 gift annually –every year
You may know these committed individuals they wear a "flag" below their Rotary pin that reads "PHS."
One easy way to give at the $1000 level is through Rotary Direct sign up and an amount of money you designate is automatically deducted from your account each month. Learn more at www.rotary.org.
Members of the Paul Harris Society know that the need never ends -- and neither should the giving.
D6330 Long-time Paul Harris Society Chair is Rotarian Jamie Pole.
What your giving supports
Paul Harris Society gifts have helped provide:
• Vocational training for teachers establishing an early childhood education center in South Africa
• Water filters, toilets, and hygiene training to prevent fluorosis, diarrhea, and other diseases in India
• A scholarship for a medical professional in Italy to research treatments that minimize mortality rates among premature babies
• Peace-building seminars for 200 teachers and 1,300 students in Uganda
• Treated mosquito nets and medical services that prevent malaria in Mali
In District 6330 we are proud of the generous members in our Paul Harris Society.
We have over 32 of our clubs that now have members in the Paul Harris Society.
You are invited to join!
Dear Fellow Rotarians!
How recently have you thought about positive outcomes with money you invested with The Rotary Foundation?
A special group - You are invited to join a special group of Rotarians dedicated to making a significant impact on our communities and the world.
The Paul Harris Society recognizes members who contribute $1,000 or more each year to any combination of the following:
• Annual Fund-SHARE
• Annual Fund-World Fund
• Annual Fund-Areas of focus
• PolioPlus Fund
• Disaster Response Fund
• Disasters of Magnitude
• Approved global grants
For under $3 a day you can join the Paul Harris Society.
• You can fulfill your Paul Harris Society commitment gradually during the Rotary year.
• An immediate $1,000 contribution is NOT required at the time of enrollment.
It is your donations that allow our clubs, your club, and Rotarians around the world to -
• provide clean water
• prevent disease
• save mothers and children
• promote peace
• fund projects
• support education, and
• stimulate economic development
We as Rotarians are in the business of changing lives!
I encourage you to consider becoming a member of the Paul Harris Society.
Will you be joining the PHS members of our District 6330?
If you have any questions or need further information, please do not hesitate to reach out to your Paul Harris Society Coordinator, District 6330 – Jamie Pole!
Summary of new polioviruses this week, cases and positive environmental isolates:
• Afghanistan: one wild poliovirus type 1 (WPV1) Afghanistan: six WPV1-positive environmental samples
• Pakistan: one WPV1 case and one WPV1-positive environmental sample
• Chad: five cVDPV2 cases and one cVDPV2positive environmental sample
• Nigeria: one cVDPV2 case
• Poland: one cVDPV2-positive environmental sample
• South Sudan: one cVDPV2-positive environmental sample
• GPEI Strategy Extension– following its approval by the Polio Oversight Board (POB) in October, the GPEI’s Strategy Extension to 2029 has been published. With poliovirus persisting in some of the most difficult environments in the world to deliver healthcare, the extension will see tactics adapted to addressing remaining geographic and political challenges to achieving success. More.
• Global leaders, from G7 to G20 to Commonwealth, continue to voice their unwavering support and commitment towards polio-free world More
• In Poland, a cVDPV2 was isolated from an environmental sample, collected from Warsaw on 22 October. There is no evidence of local circulation. Initial analysis suggests it is linked to the cVDPV2 emergence originating in Zamfara, northern Nigeria, which has this year been detected internationally, including recently also in Barcelona, Spain. Poland has high vaccination coverage, estimated at above 90% with three doses of IPV, both national and in the affected subnational area.
The polio eradication campaign has been ongoing for many years and has achieved so much through the years since the idea germinated in the 1980s.
Setbacks are nothing new and it has been to the credit of all associated with the polio eradication partners that their dedication has brought the eradication achievements to such a high level.
We are so close – and we have been so close for a very long time. We CAN finish the job – and we WILL finish the job!
Here's an announcement – a joint statement from WHO and UNICEF dated November 1 – that will provide more information.
Polio vaccination campaign to resume in northern Gaza
1 November 2024 -- Jerusalem/Amman/Geneva/New York -- A third phase of the polio vaccination campaign is set to begin tomorrow in part of the northern Gaza Strip after being postponed from 23 October 2024 due to lack of access and assured, comprehensive humanitarian pauses, intense bombardment, and mass evacuation orders. These conditions made it impossible for families to safely bring their children for vaccination and to organize campaign activities.
The humanitarian pause necessary to conduct the campaign has been assured; however, the area of the pause has been substantially reduced compared to the first round of vaccination in northern Gaza, conducted in September 2024. It is now limited to just Gaza City.
Though in the past few weeks, at least 100 000 people have been forced to evacuate from North Gaza towards Gaza City for safety, around 15 000 children under ten years in towns in North Gaza like Jabalia, Beit Lahiya and Beit Hanoun still remain inaccessible and will be missed during the campaign, compromising its effectiveness.
To interrupt poliovirus transmission, at least 90% of all children in every community and neighborhood must be vaccinated. This will be challenging to achieve given the situation. 3
The final phase of the campaign had aimed to reach an estimated 119 000 children under ten years old in northern Gaza with a second dose of novel oral polio vaccine type 2 (nOPV2). However, achieving this target is now unlikely due to access constraints.
Despite the lack of access to all eligible children in northern Gaza, the Polio Technical Committee for Gaza, including the Palestinian Ministry of Health, World Health Organization (WHO), United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF), United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees (UNRWA) and partners has taken the decision to resume the campaign.
This aims to mitigate the risk of a long delay in reaching as many children as possible with polio vaccine and the opportunity to vaccinate those recently evacuated to Gaza City from other parts of North Gaza.
To overcome challenges posed by the volatile security situation and constant population movement, robust micro plans have been developed to ensure the campaign is responsive to the significant population shifts and displacement in the north, following the first round in September.
3 Highlight added by editor.
The campaign will be delivered by 216 teams across 106 fixed sites, 22 of which have been added to ensure increased availability of vaccination in areas where recently displaced people are seeking refuge. Two hundred and nine social mobilizers will be deployed to engage communities and raise awareness around vaccination efforts.
The time period for the humanitarian pause has been extended by two hours and is expected to run from 6am to 4pm daily. As in the first two phases, vitamin A will also be co-administered to children between two to ten years in the north to help boost overall immunity.
The campaign in northern Gaza follows the successful implementation of the first two phases of the second round in central and southern Gaza, which reached 451 216 children – 96% of the target in these areas. A total of 364 306 children aged between 2 and 10 years have received vitamin A so far in this round.
Despite the challenges, WHO and UNICEF urge for the humanitarian pauses to be respected to ensure the successful delivery of this second round of the polio vaccination campaign. This is crucial to help curb the spread of polio in Gaza and neighboring countries.
Click here to view a short and very informative video to learn why polio is so dangerous.
Join the PolioPlus Society in your club or 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
Despite the fact that November, with the focus on The Rotary Foundation, has passed for this year, if we are going to continue to do the good works of Rotary, we must continue to support The Rotary Foundation. And remember Tuesday, December 3 – Giving Tuesday!
November was commemorated as Rotary Foundation month, a time to celebrate and amplify the extraordinary impact of The Rotary Foundation. The Foundation is more than an organization; it is a powerful force for good, uniting Rotarians globally in transformative projects that touch lives in meaningful ways
As we read the words of Rotary leaders, we can be reminded of the profound ways we change lives – from eradicating polio to fostering peace and ensuring access to clean water and education. This is our opportunity to reflect on how, together, we turn vision into action and generosity into sustainable impact. Each contribution builds hope and resilience, echoing Rotary’s mission across generations.
From Barry Rassin, Past Rotary International President and Past RI Foundation Chair
The Rotary Foundation’s Global Impact
The Rotary Foundation is our Foundation and is one of the best in the world, if not the best, for making our world a better place. Whether we are doing global grants in every corner of the world addressing all seven areas of focus or we are training Peace Fellows or we are creating and supporting large Programs of Scale, we are changing lives. It is estimated that we have touched the lives of millions of people over the last few years. We do that because of you! You support our programs by donating in one of the many ways that it can be done. Be very proud as your donations are really making our world a better place for so many. Thank you!
Sunday, December 1
World AIDS Day
Monday, December 2
International Day for the Abolition of Slavery
GIVING TUESDAY – DECEMBER 3
Tuesday, December 10 Human Rights Day
Thursday, December 12
International Universal Health Coverage Day
Wednesday, December 18
International Migrants Day
Friday, December 20
International Human Solidarity Day
Friday, December 27
International Day of Epidemic Preparedness
COVID-19 is a human tragedy. But it has also created a generational opportunity. An opportunity to build back a more equal and sustainable world.
The response to the pandemic, and to the widespread discontent that preceded it, must be based on a New Social Contract and a New Global Deal that create equal opportunities for all and respect the rights and freedoms of all.
António Guterres, Secretary-General of the United Nations, Nelson Mandela Lecture: “Tackling the Inequality Pandemic: A New Social Contract for a New Era
Rotarians can get involved in various types of service –
Club Service, Community Service, International Service, Vocational Service, New Generations (Youth) Service
A list of Rotary's 7 areas of focus and a brief description of each:
1. Peacebuilding and conflict prevention: Rotary aims to address the root causes of conflict and promote sustainable peace through initiatives that support education and training, promote community dialogue, and build networks of peacebuilders.
2. Disease prevention and treatment: Rotary works to improve health outcomes and reduce the spread of disease through initiatives that promote immunization, provide access to clean water and sanitation, and support medical research.
3. Water and sanitation: Rotary aims to improve access to clean water and sanitation in underserved communities, through initiatives that promote infrastructure development, support education and training, and raise awareness about the importance of clean water and sanitation.
4. Maternal and child health: Rotary works to improve maternal and child health outcomes by supporting initiatives that provide access to prenatal and postnatal care, promote vaccination, and support nutrition and education programs for mothers and children.
5. Basic education and literacy: Rotary aims to improve access to education and literacy for children and adults, through initiatives that support teacher training, provide educational resources and materials, and promote community-based programs that increase literacy rates.
6. Economic and community development: Rotary works to support economic and community development initiatives that promote job creation, increase access to financial services, and support small business development and entrepreneurship.
7. Supporting the environment: Rotary aims to support environmental sustainability initiatives, through programs that promote conservation, improve access to clean energy, and support the development of sustainable agriculture and other eco-friendly practices.
Calculate your carbon footprint Click here.
A few Action Ideas for Individuals and Communities to consider
COMPOSTING is an excellent way to reduce waste and enrich soil, contributing positively to the environment. Composting diverts organic waste from landfills, leading to multiple environmental and economic benefits. Here are some resources to help you get started:
1. David Suzuki’s Guide on Composting: This resource provides a comprehensive introduction to composting, including methods and benefits.
2. The Spruce's Guide to Gardening Using Food Scraps: This article offers insights into sustainable gardening practices, such as composting and regrowing plants from food scraps.
The Spruce
3. Food & Wine's Guide on How to Compost at Home: This beginner-friendly guide covers various composting methods suitable for different lifestyles, emphasizing the balance of materials and moisture. Food & Wine
4. Article on Composting Tips by Charles Dowding: Renowned gardener Charles Dowding shares his techniques for efficient composting, including the ideal mix of green and brown materials.
These resources provide valuable information to help anyone interested in composting effectively and contributing to environmental sustainability
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.
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.
Below is a list of links garnered from the Internet on mini-forests planted in Ontario.
• https://guelph.ca/living/environment/trees/mini-forest-project/
• https://greenventure.ca/canopy-for-community/mini-forest-in-hamilton-project/
• https://canadiangeographic.ca/articles/planting-a-network-of-mini-forests-across-canada/
• https://greencommunitiescanada.org/little-forests-kingston-plants-three-new-mini-forests-at-a-seniorscentre/
• https://trca.ca/news/tiny-forest-the-pocket/
• https://www.uxbridge.ca/en/news/mini-forests-coming-to-uxbridge.aspx
• https://www.oala.ca/ground-57-greening-mini-forests
• https://www.greenbelt.ca/mini_forests
• https://greencommunitiescanada.org/city-of-hamilton-plants-900-trees-and-shrubs-as-a-mini-forest-atjohnson-tew-park/
• https://cvc.ca/news/greening-corporate-grounds-plants-first-mini-forest-in-the-credit-river-watershed/
• Link to identify Michigan State Forests
And finally – an educational, thought-provoking, eye-opening new documentary on Netflix –
Buy Now: The Shopping Conspiracy - Click here for the trailer.
“We're consuming more, producing more - and there's a flip side to that.”
The Earthshot Prize, launched by Prince William in 2020, is a global initiative designed to inspire and fund innovative environmental solutions. The prize seeks to tackle five major environmental challenges, referred to as "Earthshots," by 2030. Each year, five winners are chosen—one per Earthshot—and receive £1 million (about $1.2 million USD) to scale their solutions. These five Earthshots are:
1. Protect and Restore Nature - Focusing on revitalizing ecosystems, protecting biodiversity, and ensuring natural areas thrive.
2. Clean Our Air - Addressing pollution and promoting clean energy and cleaner air standards.
3. Revive Our Oceans - Protecting marine ecosystems, reducing plastic pollution, and improving ocean health.
4. Build a Waste-Free World - Reducing waste through sustainable production, recycling, and circular economy models.
5. Fix Our Climate - Combatting climate change through solutions like renewable energy, carbon capture, and sustainable agriculture.
The prize not only awards funding but also offers winners ongoing support, including access to networks of environmental experts, corporate partners, and investors to help bring their solutions to a larger scale. With its focus on achievable impact, the Earthshot Prize encourages hopeful, positive action by showing that solutions exist, and that individuals, communities, and businesses all have roles to play in creating a sustainable future.
These projects are often community-centered and accessible, illustrating that environmental change can start at any scale.
Click here to view Prince William as he introduces/opens the Awards Presentation in South Africa 2024
Click here as Prince William announces the 2024 Earthshot finalists
Click here to learn about all the winners and finalists from 2021 to present
Click here to learn more about the Earthshot prizes.
The Rotary Four-Way Test is a simple yet profound guide for ethical decision-making in all areas of life.
It challenges us to consider four key questions before we speak or act!
These questions encourage us to prioritize honesty, fairness, and the well-being of others in our choices, reminding us that our actions have an impact on the wider community.
The test is more than just words!
It is a moral compass for creating a more thoughtful, compassionate, and just world.
Click the 4-way test above and open the link to hear the Four-Way Test by RC of Saskatoon Nutana
FAST FORWARD TO JANUARY - Rotary’s focus on Vocational Service
Rotary Vocational Service is one of the five primary avenues of service in Rotary International, focusing on promoting high ethical standards, providing opportunities for skill development, and using professional skills to improve communities. Here is a very short introduction:
1. Ethical Standards in Business and Professions
2. Recognizing the Dignity of All Occupations
3. Service through Professional Skills
4. Vocational Training Teams (VTT)
5. Supporting Education and Employment Initiatives
6. Promoting Ethical and Community-Minded Leadership
By promoting ethical practices, building skills, and serving through their professions, Rotary members make a meaningful impact on their communities and beyond through Vocational Service. This service avenue is a key part of Rotary’s commitment to fostering ethical, capable, and community-focused leaders around the world.
Click here to listen to We are the World.
• As a Rotarian engaged in a business or profession I am expected to:
• Consider my vocation to be another opportunity to serve.
• Be faithful to the letter and the spirit of the ethical codes of my vocation, to the laws of my country, and to the standards of my community.
• Do all in my power to dignify my vocation and to promote the highest ethical standards in my chosen vocation.
• Be fair to my employer, employees, associates, competitors, customers, the public, and all those with whom I have a business or professional relationships.
• Recognize the honour and respect due to all occupations which are useful to society.
• Offer my vocational talents, to provide opportunities to young people, to work for the relief of the special needs of others, and to improve the quality of life in my community.
• Adhere to honesty in my advertising and in all representations to the public concerning my business and profession.
• Neither seek from or grant to a fellow Rotarian a privilege of advantage not normally accorded to others in a business or professional relationship
Click here for a short video.
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.
What is a Rotary Foundation Bequest Society Member?
Those who have made commitments for future gifts of $10,000 or more to The Rotary Foundation are invited to join the Bequest Society.
Donors may elect to receive various benefits and recognition pieces commemorating their commitment at each new recognition level, including pins, crystals, named funds, and special seating at the Rotary International Convention.
A bequest gift of at least $10,000 in your name to The Rotary Foundation creates a legacy of your generosity and compassion as you are helping many people live better lives around the world.
Today there are over 18,000 Bequest Society Members worldwide. Will you join them by leaving a gift to Rotary in your estate? Contact the Rotary Foundation’s Planned Giving team.
Location -
The Arden Park Hotel - Best Western – Stratford, Ontario 552 Ontario Street - Stratford, ON - Canada
DatesMay 02, 2025 - May 04, 2025
Join Katherine Hahn, District 6330 Governor for 2024-25
Rotary embodies magic! It's inclusive, it's innovative, and it's deeply rooted in service to others.
In these transformative times, our commitment to service above self is more vital than ever. As we navigate change, Rotary stands firm, adapting to meet the evolving needs of our communities and the world at large.
Stratford is a place where creativity takes center stage, where stories unfold, and where ideas come to life. It's a community that embodies the very essence of Rotary's spirit of service.
That's why I'm thrilled to extend a heartfelt invitation to you to join us in Stratford in May 2025 and experience firsthand the magic of community service – the Magic of Rotary.
Your in-person registration includes a full day of activities:
• Admission to the convention’s opening and closing ceremonies, general sessions, breakout sessions, and the House of Friendship.
• Transportation between your hotel and the convention venue, if you booked your hotel through Rotary’s official housing partner, Maritz Events.
What’s not included:
• Preconvention events
• Rotary- and host-ticketed events
• Housing, meals, and transportation to and from the airport
• If you register as Saturday, House of Friendship only, anything other than access to the House of Friendship on Saturday, 21 June, is not included
Cancellations and refunds
Should you need to cancel a registration, a $50 processing fee applies to each registrant (each person). Requests to cancel registrants or Rotary-ticketed events must be received in writing by 30 April 2025. Cancellations caused by visa denial must be received in writing by 25 June 2025.
We prefer you cancel online, but you can also email ri.registration@rotary.org or fax +1-847-556-2194.
RI will refund registration and ticket fees if the convention is cancelled but is not responsible for travel or other related costs incurred by Rotarians and their guests.
Registration and tickets are not transferable.
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. 4
Author unknown
IPCC
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IPCC
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