International President 2024-25, Stephanie Urchick, (Pennsylvania, USA)
ROTARY DISTRICT 6330 FOUNDATION NEWSLETTER
MAY
2025
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.”
RI PRESIDENT Stephanie Urchick
Rotary
District 6330 Governor, Katherine Hahn (RC of Stratford, ON) D6330 TRF Newsletter Editor – Kitty Bucsko (RC of D6330 Passport)
ROTARY INTERNATIONAL PRESIDENT MAY 2025 MESSAGE
Rotary’s young people of action
No matter how long we’ve been with Rotary, we all benefit from the energy and fresh perspectives of our young leaders. It is my privilege to place this month’s presidential message in the capable hands of one young leader, Vitor Joventino. In his column, Vitor reminds us how teamwork and inclusivity can spark transformative change. As you read his message, I encourage you to reflect on its insights, share in his excitement, and embrace new opportunities to learn.
STEPHANIE A. URCHICK PRESIDENT, ROTARY INTERNATIONAL 2024-25
I remember the exact moment when I realized the power of Rotary’s youth programs. It was a Saturday morning in Australia during my year as a Rotary Youth Exchange student. I stood among a group of young leaders at a Rotary Youth Leadership Awards event. The organizers challenged us to stand on a large tarp spread across the floor and, without stepping off, find a way to fold it in half.
At first, the task seemed simple. But as we moved, strategized, and adjusted, the reality set in – it required teamwork, agility, and constant communication.
Rotaractors and Rotarians guided us, but no one dictated how to succeed. The decisions were ours to make. And then something remarkable happened. Without being instucted, we collectively decided that no one would be left behind as our space on the tarp shrank.
One of our teammates was a person who uses a wheelchair, giving us an opportunity to adapt, ensuring that he was fully part of the experience. We shifted, lifted the tarp, and reconfigured our positions, using our time to think, plan, and act as a team. In the end, we successfully completed the challenge together.
As we celebrated our success, one participant said, “Society works the same way – challenges will come, but instead of leaving people behind, we must find ways to include everyone.” It was such a profound thought for someone so young, yet it perfectly captured the essence of our experience.
Interact empowers young people to create service projects with real and lasting impact. Youth Exchange builds global citizens who return home with broader perspectives and stronger leadership skills. RYLA develops young leaders equipped to inspire and mobilize others. All of this is The Magic of Rotary, emerging through the actions of youth. These programs are the heart of Rotary’s ability to grow and adapt in a changing world.
But the success of these programs depends on more than young leaders – it requires Rotary members who believe in their potential. I encourage you to sponsor an Interact club, host an exchange student, and support a RYLA participant. Your involvement does more than sustain these programs; it multiplies their impact and ensures that young leaders are not just beneficiaries of Rotary but active contriutors.
To those already supporting youth programs, thank you. Your mentorship and commitment make all the difference. And to those considering getting involved, now is the time! Because youth leadership isn’t just Rotary’s future, it’s Rotary’s present.
VITOR JOVENTINO, Rotaract Club of Penápolis, Brazil
THE ROTARY FOUNDATION TRUSTEE CHAIR
MAY 2025 - MESSAGE
Meet the Moment
There are moments in our journey to end polio when doubt and uncertainty may take hold, yet we must remain steadfast and, above all, hopeful as we keep our eyes on the goal. As Winston Churchill once said in a moment of crisis: “We cannot afford – we have no right – to look back. We must look forward.”
In Rotary, we always rise to meet the moment. No challenge is too great. In 1988, when we partnered with the World Health Organization to form the Global Polio Eradication Initiative, an estimated 350,000 polio cases occurred annually across 125 countries. Since then, the GPEI – which also includes UNICEF, the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the Gates Foundation, and Gavi, the Vaccine aliance – has worked tirelessly with governments worldwide. Together, we have reduced wild poliovirus cases by 99.9 per cent.
The journey has not been without challenges. Today, in Afghanistan, vaccinators are prohibited from conducting house-to-house immunization campaigns, while in Pakistan, conflict, terrorism, and migration hinder access to children in certain regions.
Earlier this year, the United States announced its intention to withdraw from the WHO, froze USAID funding, and restricted interactions with the CDC. These developments present obstacles for our polio eradication efforts and other Rotary global partnerships and programs.
Yet we rise to meet the moment, just as we have done before. We did so in India when we faced spikes in cases before the country was declared free of wild poliovirus in 2014. In Nigeria, we also encountered obstacles, but in 2020, WHO certified the country – and by extension, all 47 countries in the WHO Africa region – wild poliofree.
We are meeting the moment once again in 2025. Know that Rotary is working behind the scenes, collaborating with governments, international agencies, and partners to address challenges, manage disruptions, and explore alternative funding. As a nonpolitical organization, we remain focused on operational solutions while serving communities and protecting public health.
My wife, Gay, and I have witnessed firsthand the urgent need of the moment in India, Nigeria, and Pakistan, where we adminsistered vaccines to children. Looking into their eyes, I saw the future we are fighting for – and the responsibility we carry to finish the job.
The winds of change may shift, but with your help, Rotary’s commitment to eradicating polio will stand strong until our mission is complete.
MARK DANIEL MALONEY Foundation Trustee Chair, 2024-25
Dear Rotary members,
Over the past few months, while we visited Rotary clubs worldwide and witnessed inspiring projects that are making a tangible difference in their communities, many have approached us with concerns about the current political and economic volatility, and its potential impact on the work that we do.
We want to assure you that in times of uncertainty, one thing is certain - our mission and values remain unchanged. Rotary is a force for good in the world because we are deeply embedded in communities. We will continue to provide service to others, promote integrity, and advance world understanding, goodwill, and peace.
The ideals of service, fellowship, and diversity have enabled us to transcend boundaries of all kinds. We bring people of all backgrounds together, foster collaboration, and make our communities stronger.
For 120 years Rotary has thrived through two World Wars, through the Cold War, and through multiple deadly pandemics. We have endured and strengthened because we adhere to our mission and to our values. In times like these, we are once again reminded of the strength of Rotary and the importance of supporting our organization.
As a founding partner of the Global Polio Eradication Initiative, we've helped reduce polio cases by 99.9 percent since our first project to vaccinate children in the Philippines in 1979. Regardless of what lies ahead, we will stay the course and keep our commitment to the world's children by ending polio forever. At present, we're coordinating with our global partners to closely monitor and assess the fast-evolving situation, proactively working with many governments to sustain their financial support and seek alternative funding sources. Now more than ever, your financial support of PolioPlus is critical.
We will continue to support our Areas of Focus to forge solutions and fulfill long-term goals. Through our programs, grants, and people-to-people diplomacy, we address the underlying causes of conflicts, creating an environment conducive to peace. We work with our partners to engage in sustainable projects that tackle poverty, inequality, and lack of access to education in our own communities and those around the world. Rotary's recent peace conference in Istanbul, which attracted more than 1,000 Rotary members, peace builders, and scholars around the world is testimony to our commitment.
At this moment, it is ever more important that we channel our concerns and uncertainties into action and share that vision of hope with others.
Sincerely,
Stephanie A. Urchick President, Rotary International
Mark Daniel Maloney Chair, The Rotary Foundation
John Hewko General Secretary
INSPIRATION FOR MAY
1. "The youth of today are the leaders of tomorrow."
– Nelson Mandela
2. "Do not go where the path may lead, go instead where there is no path and leave a trail."
– Ralph Waldo Emerson
3. "The future belongs to those who believe in the beauty of their dreams."
– Eleanor Roosevelt
4. "You are never too old to set another goal or to dream a new dream."
– C.S. Lewis
5. "Youth is the gift of nature, but age is a work of art."
– Stanislaw Jerzy Lec
6. "The great challenge of youth is to take control of your own future."
– Anonymous
7. "The best way to predict the future is to create it."
– Abraham Lincoln
8. "There is no age limit to the impact one can make."
– Anonymous
9. "In youth, we learn; in age, we understand."
– Marie von Ebner-Eschenbach
10. "Young people need models, not critics."
– John Wooden
Growth
Through Service
In May, nature reminds us that growth happens gradually, but steadily.
As Rotarians, our impact may not always be immediate, but through consistent service, compassion, and integrity, we contribute to meaningful change.
Let us nurture the seeds of peace, understanding, and cooperation, knowing that our efforts will bloom in the lives of those we touch. (Author unknown)
Rotary International has selected its Presidents to lead the organization in 2025-2026 and 2026 -2027.
Mário César Martins de Camargo, a member of the Rotary Club of Santo André, São Paulo, Brazil, has been selected as the Rotary International President for the 2025-2026 term. He is the fourth Brazilian to hold this esteemed position.Rotary 7070+3District 5930+3ClubRunner+3
Professionally, de Camargo was president of Gráfica Bandeirantes, a prominent printing company in Brazil, and has served as a consultant to the print industry. His leadership extended to several printing and graphics trade associations, including the Brazilian Association of Graphic Technology and ABIGRAF, the Brazilian Printing Industry Association. He also contributed to the board of Casa da Esperança (House of Hope), a medical center in Santo André sponsored by his Rotary club, which serves over 200,000 patients annually. Rotary International+4Home | Rotary International+4ClubRunner+4
De Camargo's educational background includes studies in the U.S. and Germany. He holds degrees in business administration from EAESP-Fundação Getulio Vargas and in law from the Faculdade de Direito de São Bernardo do Campo. His involvement with Rotary began early; he participated in the Youth Exchange program to Minnesota, USA, in 1974-75, which inspired his lifelong commitment to the organization.
Since joining Rotary in 1980, de Camargo has held numerous leadership roles. He served as his club's Youth Exchange officer in 1981 at age 24 and as its president in 1992-93. He was governor of District 4420 in 19992000, a Rotary Foundation trustee from 2015-19, and a Rotary International director from 2019-21. Additionally, he has been an RI learning facilitator, committee member and chair, and task force member. De Camargo and his wife, Denise, also a Rotarian, are Major Donors and Benefactors of The Rotary Foundation.
In his upcoming presidency, de Camargo aims to enhance Rotary's public image by rejuvenating the brand and developing long-term partnerships with political, community, and business leaders worldwide. He emphasizes that Rotary's greatest asset is its 1.4 million volunteers and advocates for a more transparent system to appoint volunteers for positions, with clear criteria and data-based evaluation of results. Home | Rotary International+1ClubRunner+1
At the International Assembly in Orlando, Florida, USA, on 10 February 2025, de Camargo unveiled the 20252026 presidential message, "Unite for Good." He called on members to embrace growth, service, and connection, highlighting that Rotary's greatest asset is its members. He outlined three essential pillars for growth: innovation, continuity, and partnership, urging members to innovate, ensure leadership continuity, and collaborate with others to maximize impact. Home | Rotary International+2
De Camargo's extensive experience and dedication to Rotary position him well to lead the organization in its mission to create positive, lasting change in communities worldwide.
Mario Cesar Martins de Camargo, a member of the Rotary Club of Santo Andre, Sao Paulo, Brazil, is RI President for 2025-2026. He has been a consultant to the print industry in Brazil. He has plans to boost Rotary’s Public image, to rejuvenate the brand and to develop more long-term partnerships with political, community and business leadership across the world.
Mário César Martins de Camargo –RI President for 2025-26
Sangkoo Yun, a charter member of the Rotary Club of Sae Hanyang in Seoul, Korea, has been selected as the Rotary International President for the 2026-2027 term. He holds both bachelor's and master's degrees from the Syracuse University School of Architecture in the United States and an honorary doctoral degree from The University of Edinburgh in Scotland.
Professionally, Yun is the founder and CEO of Dongsuh Corp., specializing in engineering and marketing architectural materials, and serves as president of Youngan Corp., which operates in real estate and financial investment. Beyond his business endeavors, he is actively involved in various civic organizations and has a particular interest in the preservation of cultural heritage. District 7930+4Home | Rotary International+4
Since joining Rotary in 1987, Yun has held numerous leadership positions, including director, trustee, committee member and chair, and Rotary International learning facilitator. Notably, he co-chaired the "Keep Mongolia Green" project for eight years, an initiative led by Korean Rotary members aimed at combating desertification by planting windbreak forests in the Gobi Desert.
His extensive service also includes roles on the Board Administration Committee (2013-15, vice chair 2014-15), the International Assembly Committee (vice chair, 2020-21), and the End Polio Now Countdown to History Campaign Committee (regional vice chair, 2023-27). Additionally, he served on The Rotary Foundation’s Executive Committee (2019-22, chair 2020-21) and Programs Committee (2019-22, chair 2020-22). District 7930+3 Home | Rotary International+3Rotary Polska+3
Yun's contributions have been recognized globally. He received The Rotary Foundation’s Distinguished Service Award in 2021-22, was appointed an Officer of the Most Excellent Order of the British Empire by Queen Elizabeth II, awarded the Friendship Medal by the president of Mongolia, and acknowledged for distinguished services by both the president and prime minister of Korea.
A veteran of the Republic of Korea Army, Yun also serves as an emeritus elder at Andong Presbyterian Church. Together with his spouse, Eunsun, he is a Rotary Foundation Benefactor, Major Donor, and a member of the Arch Klumph Society, the Paul Harris Society, and the Bequest Society. The couple has two children.
Yun envisions Rotary as the premier platform for global humanitarian services, aiming to position the organization as a central hub for individuals, institutions, and businesses committed to serving humanity.
He emphasizes the importance of adaptability in the face of rapid technological advancements and proposes enhancing Rotary's role in connecting and engaging members worldwide.
Yun also advocates for greater regional autonomy within Rotary, simplifying policies to ensure they remain relevant and resilient, and fostering collaborative, impactful projects that address the evolving needs of communities globally.
Please click here to read an open letter to members - a health update notice - from Mr. Sangkoo Yun, published 24 April, 2025
Sangkoo Yun - RI President for 2026-27
ROTARY FOUNDATION TRUSTEES
About the Rotary Foundation – and our ambitious goal for June 2025
Our Rotary journey is built on service and a shared commitment to making the world a better place. At the core of these efforts is The Rotary Foundation, a powerful force that turns our aspirations into impactful action. Through its programmes, the Foundation addresses global challenges — fostering peace, fighting disease, ensuring access to clean water and supporting education, among others.
Yet only 30 per cent of Rotarians currently contribute to this remarkable cause. This is a call to action: supporting TRF is not just a responsibility, it’s an opportunity to create lasting change.
Every contribution, no matter how small, fuels projects that touch lives locally and globally. The Foundation has set an ambitious target of $500 million for this year, and with your support, we can achieve it.
Your donations directly impact lives. Fifty per cent of contributions go to the World Fund, supporting international projects, while the other half is invested in local initiatives through district/global grants. This ensures that your contributions benefit both local and global communities.
For 2024–25, our Foundation Trustee Chair Mark Maloney has set five clear goals for us:
• Lead by example: Every Rotarian should contribute to the Annual Fund and Endowment Fund.
• Increase the donor base: Encourage more Rotarians to give and amplify our impact.
• Support polio eradication: Continue our unwavering commitment to eradicating polio.
• Promote the Paul Harris Society: Inspire more members to join and contribute regularly.
• Organise Million Dollar events: Raise awareness and funds for the Endowment Fund through significant fundraising events.
Finally, we have a pledge to fulfil this year: we must ensure that our Endowment Fund reaches $2.025 billion by June 2025. Currently, we are $270 million short of this target. It is crucial that we encourage Rotarians to contribute to the Endowment Fund, helping to secure their legacy while supporting the long-term impact of Rotary’s mission.
Let’s strengthen our commitment and be the driving force behind these goals. Every dollar makes a difference, and together, we will continue planting the seeds of hope for generations to come. Thank you for your continued support.
Anirudha Roychowdhury RI Director, 2023–25
$2.025 billion by June 2025
Click here to read more.
Anirudha Roychowdhury
ROTARY D6330 HAS CHOSEN OUR DISTRICT GOVERNORS FOR 2025-26 and 2026-27
Meet Governor-elect Jeffrey (DG 2025-26)
Jeffrey is the president of Sedgewick + Ferweda Architects, a boutique architecture firm based in Flint, Michigan, with a tight-knit team of six.
He brings a genuine enthusiasm and passion for design to his role, thriving on the unique challenges that specialized projects demand. Jeffrey’s creative expertise has shaped a wide variety of impactful designs across Flint and the Midwest. His firm’s guiding principle says it all: “Good Design, Good Clients, Great Architecture.”
As president since 2001, Jeffrey sets the direction and vision for the firm while supporting his team to bring out their very best. He considers it a true privilege to serve the studio and foster a collaborative environment. Jeffrey is licensed in Michigan, Indiana, Ohio, Illinois, and Minnesota.
Community involvement is a core value for Jeffrey and his team. He’s deeply engaged in Rotary as the Assistant District Governor for District 6330, Area 9 (2023-24), Past President of the Genesee Valley Rotary Club, Liaison to the Powers Catholic High School Interact Club, and Membership Chair.
Jeffrey is also a proud dad to four children—Morgan, Evan, Jack, and Paige—who share his love for the outdoors. Whether it’s fishing, hunting, golfing, or tubing, they make the most of family time together.
Beyond work and family, Jeffrey is active in his church community, serving on the Pastoral Council and Liturgy Commission. He’s also a Catechist, Lector, Eucharistic Minister, and choir member, dedicating his time and talents to his faith.
Jeffrey’s commitment to his craft, community, and family shines in everything he does, making him an inspiring leader and role model.
Governor Elect - Jeff Ferweda
Meet Governor-Nominee Lorna (DG 2026-27)
Lorna Gunning Fratschko is a “seasoned” and long-term member of Rotary, having joined the Rotary Club of London South on April 1, 1996. Lorna now resides at the Rotary Club of London-Hyde Park, having transferred in August of 2020.
She lives her life according to the 4-Way Test, is a multiple Paul Harris Fellow and has attended the Rotary Institute Levels 1 & 2.
Lorna was born in Belleville and grew up on a dairy farm just outside of Tweed with her parents, two brothers and two sisters. As any farmer knows, it was a lot of hard work AND service. Lorna’s family was devoted to Community Service which she has carried on into her life as a Rotarian.
Lorna is a lifelong learner and absolutely appreciates the learning and training opportunities offered by Rotary. Recently she has participated in the Visioning Facilitation workshop in Stratford, Ontario, as well as the Learning-to-Lead Conference in Toronto from September 27 – October 1, 2023. She is committed to the notion of having more club members serving on District committees so as to have access to District news, service/fellowship opportunities to bring to the attention of their clubs.
Lorna has recently taken on the role of Membership Chair, District 6330 and is grateful for RI President-Elect Stephanie Urchick’s focus on membership. She believes that “every club member is on the membership committee!”
Also, the membership committee is her favourite! Further, Stephanie is a fan of the classification principal that facilitates membership initiatives and pride in Rotary members for occupying a unique vocational position in one’s club. Lorna concurs with this approach and is looking forward to bringing “Membership Minutes” to her club at their bi-weekly meetings. She believes that Membership needs to be front of mind for clubs.
Lorna served as President for the Rotary Club of London South for the year 2017-2018 and is happy that the RCLS received their Club Citation for that year. She has served on numerous committees (all but Club Service!) during her Rotary tenure as well as many, many fund raisers. As Chair of the Community Services Committee at the Rotary Club of London-Hyde Park, their current focus is on food security in the NW London communities. This focus has resulted in a Hot Breakfast Program at a local public school, support of the food bank & food program at a local community resource centre, support of our May Court Club’s food program, and a successful district grant supporting the completion of a certified teaching kitchen at another local community resource centre.
Lorna & her husband, Erich Fratschko, member of the Rotary Club of London-Hyde Park, recently celebrated their 45th wedding anniversary. Their family of 3 daughters, 1 grandson and Junior the British Bulldog Puppy means that there are very few dull moments in this family. Lorna is a committed Rotarian who lives by the Rotary Motto of SERVICE ABOVE SELF. She considers the position of District Governor to be an honour and privilege – the next step in her Rotary Career – and Lorna is looking forward to serving District 6330 in this capacity.
Please join Lorna’s LinkedIn community at linkedin.com/in/lornagunningfratschko. Lorna is looking forward to meeting and working with Rotarians from across District 6330.
Governor-Nominee Lorna Gunning Fratschko
DISTRICT 6330 GOVERNOR – KATHERINE HAHN
District website: https://rotary6330.org/
District 6330 Governor 2024-25
Katherine Hahn
Rotary Club of Stratford
OUR DISTRICT 6330 CONFERENCE IN MAY 2025 MAY 2 – 4
BE INSPIRED
Sylvia Whitlock Leadership Award Gallery
The Sylvia Whitlock Leadership Award honors one Rotary member each year who has actively worked to advance women in Rotary. It is named for the first female Rotary club president, who went on to lead change for women around the world through Rotary.
Who is Sylvia Whitlock?
An advocate, a trailblazer and a humanitarian — these are just a few words people use to describe Dr. Sylvia Whitlock, the first female Rotary Club president.
Dr. Whitlock first joined Rotary in 1982 which was during a time when women were excluded as members.
Click here to view a 30-minute video –
and listen to Dr. Whitlock as she tells her story. (Introduced by RI Past President Jennifer Jones)
A group of Rotarians established the award in 2017. The Rotary International Board of Directors decided in 2021 to make it an official RI award to support the goal of increasing the number of women in Rotary, particularly in leadership positions. There was not a recipient for this award in 2021-22.
Nominations are open from 1-31 August each year. Rotarians and Rotaractors can nominate any member in good standing, regardless of their gender or length of Rotary membership.
Here are the most recent recipients.
To read and learn more, click here
2024-25: Ayda Özeren, Turkey
“I believe in the power of small compassionate actions and the importance of helping women even if it seems like a drop in the ocean. Each act of kindness has the potential to make a significant difference in someone’s life. Empowering women helps to build stronger communities, and peace is only possible when you include women in decision making.”
Ayda Özeren, a Rotary past district governor, is a member of The Rotary Foundation Cadre of Technical Advisers and a Positive Peace Activator. She joined a Rotaract club in 1994 and became a member of the Rotary Club of IzmirGündogdu, Turkey, in 2003. Her Rotary career includes leadership roles at the club and district levels and as a participant in a Group Study Exchange.
With a background in finance and banking, Özeren is an author, a mediator, and a professional speaker. She works with leaders and organizations to create peace, resolve conflict, and transform vision into results. Her efforts have supported women and girls in Rotary and beyond, including through scholarships and mentorships. She also has facilitated financial literacy workshops for more than 10,000 women.
Özeren also has taken part in projects that aided people impacted by Turkey’s 2023 earthquakes, such as the Golden Needle Project, started by Rotary and Rotaract clubs before the disaster to help women learn how to use their sewing and embroidery skills to work in the ready-made clothing industry. Women in the program produced clothing for earthquake victims. In addition, revenue from a book that Özeren published in 2021 has provided high school scholarships for girls.
2023-24: Manjoo Phadke, India
“We firmly believe that by coming together as Rotarians, we can create a ripple effect of positive change, transforming lives and communities.”
Manjoo Phadke, 2023-24 governor of District 3131 and a past president of the Rotary Club of Pune Deccan Gymkhana, Maharashtra, India, has used her experience as an entrepreneur and corporate trainer to work for gender equality and promote diversity, equity, and inclusion.
She has helped women and girls in India get necessary health care by setting up medical checkup and mammography clinics and has led vaccination and menstrual hygiene campaigns. Phadke has also mentored female entrepreneurs, organized job fairs for young women, and equipped many women with practical skills including digital, legal, and financial literacy.
2022-23: Chin Mei Lu, Taiwan
"We as Rotarians are like lantern-carrying people in the dark corners of society, bringing light to others and helping make the world a brighter place."
Chin Mei Lu of the Rotary Club of Taipei Taimei, Taiwan, has spent more than 30 years working for women, girls, and others around the world. She has helped educate girls in Nepal, immunized children in India, supported girls in Uganda who have learned to sew menstrual belts, and helped people in Taiwan who are blind.
Lu traveled to Nepal and India in 2006-07 to assist with a project that enabled girls who didn’t have housing to attend school. She cooperated with local agencies to obtain supplies, food, uniforms, and sponsorship funds for the girls, many of whom were at risk of being trafficked into sex work or child labor.
2019-20: Jennifer Jones, Canada
"I've always wanted to carve my own path. Sometimes that's meant taking risks and making yourself open to new experiences."
Jennifer Jones, of the Rotary Club of Windsor-Roseland, Ontario, Canada, served as Rotary International’s president in 2022-23 — the first woman in that role.
She set an example by serving in many leadership positions before that, including as the first woman in her district to become governor and the first woman to be moderator of the International Assembly.
Jones, whose background is in media and television production, has worked to raise Rotary’s profile globally and has been dedicated to inspiring, empowering, and enabling women in Rotary — from being more active in their clubs to seeking the highest leadership positions.
To read and learn more, click here. https://www.rotary.org/en/sylvia-whitlock-leadership-award-gallery
NOMINATIONS
Nominations are open from 1-31 August each year.
Rotarians and Rotaractors can nominate any member in good standing, regardless of their gender or length of Rotary membership.
ARE YOU INTERESTED IN INTERNATIONAL SERVICE?
D6330
INTERNATIONAL SERVICES COMMITTEE
We’re here to help!
GETTING STARTED
If you have an idea for an international service project and are not sure where to start, you’ve come to the right place. Here’s a quick checklist of what you need to do to get started:
• Verify that your project fits within the Rotary International Areas of Focus.
• Locate an International Partner. This will be a Rotary Club in the jurisdiction where your project idea is located.
GLOBAL GRANT APPLICATIONS
Submit your global grant applications as soon as possible to avoid delays!
• There is no set due date for global grant applications, but if you’re thinking of applying for a global grant, submit your application quickly to avoid unnecessary delays.
• When The Rotary Foundation receives too many applications in late May and June, because of time limitations, grants may not be approved before the end of the Rotary year.
On our website at https://rotary6330.org/, please review our Programs /International Service. You will find lots of other info there as well.
Be sure to stop by soon!
Our goal is to make our District 6330 Website a very useful “Go To” site for anything involving International Service!
And if you’d like to learn more, you can have a look at Rotary’s Learning Center to take the district international service committee courses (My Rotary login required).
Pat Cavan 519-373-1087 patriciacavan@gmail.com
Grant Management in D6330 - Your Donations Are Important!
Clubs must qualify first! The Rotary Foundation requires Clubs that want to participate in the District Grants program to qualify.
Clubs must
We are looking for clubs to qualify for district grants and submit a project request!
• Be in good standing
• 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.
ROTARY HELPS IN COLOMBIA
Contributing to a global grant in Colombia
Rotarian James (Jim) Sillers from the Global Passport Club has recently supported a Global Grant in Colombia designed to upgrade and outfit a maternity ward in a hospital. Where there is a need, Jim likes to help make the solution possible. That’s what James Sillers does! Because he can, and because of his love of Rotary, he’s become a philanthropist!
About this particular hospital - It had been 20 years since a baby had been born in that hospital for lack of equipment. Any women with complications had to be transported 2 ½ hours for help.
Jim contributed to the Global Grant and also made a visit to the hospital in late December 2024 and January 2025. The whole community came out to celebrate the opening of the hospital and to meet Rotarian Jim.
The first baby in 20 years was born in the hospital in January, so they are up and running again.
Because Jim’s heart is in Rotary, and because he feels so strongly about the good Rotary can do, and because the PHF is revered in the country – as a further gesture of goodwill, Jim used his Paul Harris points to provide the Paul Harris Fellowship to each member of the Club Rotario Quimbaya, along with the lead doctor, the contractor and his wife. They were thrilled and grateful!
Already, Rotarian Jim has in his sights helping another hospital that was built four years go. It’s a new building, but as yet, there is no furniture and, more importantly, no medical equipment in the hospital! Jim would like very much to help furnish the maternity ward to begin with, so he will be looking forward to another Global Grant for that purpose.
Jim believes that the Project Fairs held annually in locations like Colombia provide a great service to Rotary and to the surrounding communities by garnering support for the local needs with the help of international Rotarians.
Kudos! Below is a photo of the Rotary Club along with those involved with the global grant.
At the official ceremony announcing the opening of the ward, the incoming District Governor was in attendance to bestow the PHF upon each club member.
Above are a few of the Paul Harris Fellow certificates and pins set out on a table at the event, ready to be awarded personally to the club members.
The presence of the District Governor-elect made the occasion so extra special!!
At right are the lead doctor of the project and two Rotary club members.
Click below to view a short video and learn more about our Rotarian friend, James Sillers, and a bit of his background. People are truly generous and kind when you just look around.
“Giving to the community is my life now. It’s my passion!” (James Sillers)
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Xd0tTbp1Snk
ROTARY AND KIVA: A GLOBAL CONNECTION OF SERVICE
Rotary clubs around the world have participated — and continue to participate — in Kiva.org, a well-established micro-lending platform that empowers entrepreneurs in underserved communities. Through small loans, Rotarians support sustainable economic development, making Kiva a meaningful and viable avenue for international service.
From Kiva.org…
We envision a world where all people - even in the most remote areas of the globe - hold the power to create opportunity for themselves and others. We believe providing safe, affordable access to capital to those in need helps people create better lives for themselves and their families.
How we do it. Making a loan on Kiva is so simple that you may not realize how much work goes on behind the scenes. Kiva works with microfinance institutions on five continents to provide loans to people without access to traditional banking systems.
One hundred percent of your loan is sent to these microfinance institutions, which we call Field Partners, who administer the loans in the field. Kiva relies on a worldwide network of over 450 volunteers who work with our Field Partners, edit and translate borrower stories, and ensure the smooth operation of countless other Kiva programs.
100% of every dollar you lend on Kiva goes directly towards funding loans; Kiva does not take a cut. Furthermore, Kiva does not charge interest to our Field Partners, who administer the loans.
Kiva is primarily funded through the support of lenders making optional donations. We also raise funds through grants, corporate sponsors, and foundations.
We are incredibly thankful for the support that has enabled us to do the work that has touched the lives of so many people.
Please view two short videos that will help you understand the international service provided through kiva.org –
• Beyond Charity – rethinking how we give
• The Power of Kiva
You, too, can get involved!
International Service - Microfinance
Why Individual Environmental and Climate Action Matters
Collective Impact: Millions of small, thoughtful actions can lead to significant reductions in carbon emissions and waste.
Cultural Shifts: Individual changes influence societal norms. When enough people adopt sustainable habits, industries and governments feel the pressure to act.
Lead by Example: Personal choices can inspire others. Your efforts can encourage neighbors, friends, and even future generations to follow suit.
Ideas for Taking Action:
1. Reduce Waste
• Compost food scraps (like using Lomi or traditional methods).
• Cut back on single-use plastics—switch to reusable bags, bottles, and containers.
• Repair and reuse items instead of discarding them.
2. Energy Conservation
• Use energy-efficient appliances and light bulbs.
• Turn off electronics when not in use.
• Consider switching to renewable energy if possible.
3. Transportation Choices:
• Walk, cycle, carpool, or use public transit more often.
• Drive fuel-efficient or electric vehicles, if feasible.
4. Diet Adjustments:
• Reduce meat and dairy consumption, which have high carbon footprints.
• Choose locally sourced and seasonal produce.
5. Advocacy and Education:
• Share what you learn about the climate crisis with others.
• Support policies and initiatives that address environmental issues.
• Join local or online groups focused on sustainability.
6. Support Eco-Friendly Businesses:
• Buy from companies prioritizing sustainable practices.
• Look for certifications like Fair Trade, Organic, or B Corp.
Your reading and increased awareness are already significant steps toward action.
By choosing a few areas to focus on, you can make a meaningful difference while inspiring others.
Small ripples create waves, and together, they can lead to transformative change.
Click here to test your Climate Footprint
INSPIRATION
Being inspired is a powerful force—it lifts our spirits, sparks creativity, and motivates us to act with purpose.
It reminds us of what’s possible and helps us see beyond limitations.
Inspiration is absolutely possible!
Sometimes it comes in a sudden flash, and other times it grows quietlythrough the people we meet, the stories we hear, or the causes we care about.
The important thing is to stay open to it—it’s often closer than we think.
A message from the Chair of the Environment Committee –Doug Thompson
to all who attended our Plant Rich Webinar on April 7!!
We enjoyed a fantastic talk by a wonderful speaker and compelling evidence for changing our dietary habits.
Focusing on a Plant-rich diet is the No. 1 or No. 2 solution that will make a difference both in our planet and in our own health.
Included on the next page is a link to the material related to the webinar which contains a link to the webinar itself. Please watch it.
There is also a link to Brenda Davis’s video which explains the science behind Plant Rich diets.
Did you know that moving to a Plant-rich diet is now recommended by all recognized health authorities including the Canada Food Guide, World Health Organization (WHO), Heart and Stroke Society, and the Cancer society among many others. The ball is in your court.
Plant-rich eating is a multi-purpose tool that helps address biodiversity loss, pollution, climate change, chronic disease, and more. It also supports all areas of Rotary Focus and the 4-Way Test. And, the best part? It's affordable, immediate, impactful, and delicious.
We hope you will “accept the Challenge” because eating plant-rich food can make every day Earth Day!
Please watch the videos, implement some or all of the changes in your life, give talks, engage other people with your knowledge , hold Plant-Rich dinners for friends, change habits within your club, and so on.
Click here to view the webinar. At the prompt, enter the Passcode: HG0b0#V%
Let’s walk the walk and we can all eat our way out of Climate Change.
Yours in Rotary, Doug Thompson.
Here are some links to share presented in the April 7 chat -
• For more information, visit our webpage or email us at plantrich@esrag.org
• Follow us on Facebook and Instagram.
In Rotary and Planetary Service, Dawn A. Byford, Co-Chair, ESRAG Plant-Rich Diet Task Force Rotary Club of Canmore, District 5360
Rotarian Dawn Byford
ROTARY’S MAY FOCUS – YOUTH SERVICE
Rotary Youth Exchange for D6330
BUILDING PEACE - ONE YOUNG PERSON AT A TIME
District 6330 is a member of the Central States Rotary Youth Exchange (CSRYE) organization, which is an incorporated joint program among 20 Rotary districts located in Illinois, Indiana, Michigan, Minnesota, North Dakota, South Dakota, Wisconsin, USA, and Ontario, Canada. For more details on CSRYE, please visit their website
VIDEOS BELOW
Click this link to view a short Youth Exchange video –
Click this link to view a second short Youth Exchange video –
Click this link to view a third short Youth Exchange video –
District 6330 is proud to participate in the Rotary Youth Exchange Program, which builds peace, one young person at a time. Students learn a new language, discover another culture, and truly become global citizens. Exchanges for students ages 15-18 are sponsored by Rotary clubs in more than 100 countries!
EXCHANGE STUDENTS UNLOCK THEIR TRUE POTENTIAL
See rotary6330.org for more information.
Exchange students can:
• Develop lifelong leadership skills
• Learn a new language and culture
• Build lasting friendships with young people from around the world
• Become global citizens
STUDENTS: INTERESTED IN GOING ON A ROTARY YOUTH EXCHANGE?
Candidates are ages 15-18 who are leaders in their schools and communities.
1. Talk to your parents/guardians and get their approval and support.
2. Click the button below to complete your Preliminary Application.
3. Connect with your local Rotary Club, if you haven't already
Rotary believes in developing the next generation of leaders. Our programs help younger leaders build leadership skills, expand education and learn the value of service.
TO LEARN MORE, CLICK THE BOXES BELOW.
ROTARY YOUTH EXCHANGE IS TURNING 50!
It has been 50 years since Rotary Youth Exchange became an official program of Rotary International!
This program connects cultures, inspires service, and creates friendships that last a lifetime. Use the video link below to show what it’s like to participate in Rotary Youth Exchange — for the students and their families, host families, and friends. Show it at Rotary events, school or community gatherings, and student activity fairs.
You can share this YouTube version of the video on your club’s website and social media channels.
Captions are available in your preferred language.
The application process for the next Programs of Scale grant has started. If your club or district is involved in an evidence-based program that is ready to scale over three to fie years, consider applying for the award which is valued at $2 million USD.
• Qualified districts, Rotary clubs, and Rotaract clubs are eligible.
• The first step is to submit a concept note by 1 August 2025.
The Programs of Scale materials have been updated for the 2026 competition and include details about the selection process and the rquirement that applicants hae cash contributions of at least $500,000 USD from exterbnal partners.
Learn more about the Programs of Scale application process and past recipients and finalists
NEW GENERATIONS SERVICE EXCHANGE
The NGSE is a exchange program operated by Rotary International to provide 18 to 30 (but more likely over 21) year olds the opportunity to learn about their career/vocation in another country. There is no cost to host an inbound or sponsor an outbound.
As a host, the club provides a hosting family, has the participant engage in club projects and may be asked to help identify potential vocational placements that could be contacted.
The role of the business is to provide the young person the opportunity to learn about their vocation here in Canada. This can include shadowing someone in their role, completing tasks that are related to the vocation (i.e. a law student might review a client file or take notes in a deposition, an engineer might take measurements) that the host feels the participant is capable of.
The host business may also provide reading materials, have the participant sit in on meetings or give other opportunities linked toe career goals.
The young person pays for their own travel as well as liability insurance.
They have spending money and take care of their personal expenses.
As they are adults, they are allowed to drive if they have an international license and insurance. They are also allowed to drink alcohol or smoke, if it is consistent with the host expectations (i.e. if the host says no smoking in the home, there is no smoking)
As they are adults, they may go out to drink provided they follow host expectations (i.e. do not come home drunk).
Although marijuana is now legal, it is strongly recommended that the participants do not partake. In addition, the student has been reviewed by their sponsoring club so it is known that there are no behavioural or legal issues.
For more information check www.youngadultexchanges.org
Interested? Here is the Application Form https://www.web.youngadultexchanges.org/wpcontent/uploads/2019/01/6_NGSE_Application.pdf
If you want more information, please contact Rosanne Field email: rfield@hurontel.on.ca Phone: 519 524 8072 (office) - 519 525 2124 (cell)
NOTE: After July 24, New Generations Service Exchange will no longer be an official Rotary International program. That means that Rotary International will discontinue supporting this program in July 2024. But this doesn’t mean that service exchanges will end. We encourage districts to continue planning and hosting exchanges through their own New Generations Service Exchange programs. The main change is that Rotary International will no longer offer a directory of New Generations Service Exchange chairs. All past, current, and future NGSE participants are still considered Rotary International program alumni. RI alumni opportunities will remain accessible to them, and districts are encouraged to maintain engagement with NGSE alumni. (https://my.rotary.org/en/upcoming-changes-new-generations-service-exchange)
Starting in the 2024-25 Rotary year, clubs may appoint a Programs for Young Leaders Contact for their club. Click here.
CLUB EXCELLENCE AWARDS
The Club Excellence awards, formerly the Rotary Citation awards, recognize the hard work clubs do throughout the year.
Working to achieve the Club Excellence goals helps clubs engage their members, increase their impact, stay relevant in their communities, and run more efficiently. A welcoming and engaging club not only fosters a positive experience for its members, but also reflects the values of Rotary.
When clubs achieve these goals, they contribute to the overall health and culture of Rotary for generations to come.
Your Rotary, Rotaract, or Interact club can earn a Club Excellence Award for achieving goals that strengthen Rotary and your club.
Goals include increasing club membership, engaging members in sustainable service projects, giving to The Rotary Foundation, building awareness of Rotary in your community, and having an up-to-date strategic plan.
To achieve the Club Excellence Award:
1. Go to Rotary Club Central
2. Review the available goals
3. Set at least half of the available goals
4. Achieve those goals
5. Report achievement in Rotary Club Central by 30 June.
6. Pay club invoices in full upon receipt
To learn more, click here
Resources and reference
o Club Excellence Goals and Instructions for Rotary Clubs (PDF)
o Club Excellence Goals and Instructions for Rotaract Clubs (PDF)
o Club Excellence Goals and Instructions for Interact Clubs (PDF)
o Club Excellence Award Frequently Asked Questions (PDF)
o How to create a My Rotary account (PDF)
o How to Update Interact Club Information (PDF)
WHAT IS A GLOBAL GRANT FOR VOCATIONAL TRAINING?
Vocational Training Teams (VTT) are groups of professionals who travel to another country, either to learn more about their profession or to teach local professionals more about it.
The Rotary Foundation funds some vocational training teams in our areas of focus through global grants. This training is often carried out in conjunction with a humanitarian project.
A team should include at least three people. The team leader needs to be a Rotary member, while the other participants can be members or non-members who have experience in the area of focus.
Rotary previously had a program called Group Study Exchange, which promoted international understanding and offered person-to-person opportunities for participants to learn how their vocation was practiced in other countries. It was phased out when we updated our grant model and placed this activity within global grants.
Think about whether you could join a vocational training team, or how a non-member who could participate.
PAUL HARRIS SOCIETY
What's the Paul Harris Society?
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.
Rotarian Jamie Pole President, RC of Sarnia (2024-25)
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!
Rotarian Jamie Pole President, RC of Sarnia (2024-25)
Summary of new polioviruses this week, cases and positive environmental isolates:
• Afghanistan: one WPV1 case and one WPV1-positive environmental sample
• Ethiopia: three cVDPV2 cases
• Nigeria: one cVDPV2 case
Key facts
• Polio (poliomyelitis) mainly affects children under 5 years of age.
• One in 200 infections leads to irreversible paralysis. Among those paralysed, 5–10% die when their breathing muscles become immobilized.
• Cases due to wild poliovirus have decreased by over 99% since 1988, from an estimated 350 000 cases in more than 125 endemic countries, to two endemic countries.
• As long as a single child remains infected, children in all countries are at risk of contracting polio. Failure to eradicate polio from these last remaining strongholds could result in a global resurgence of the disease.
• In most countries, the global effort has expanded capacities to tackle other infectious diseases by building effective surveillance and immunization systems.
The strains of poliovirus that have been halted forever — meaning officially certified as eradicated -
• Wild Poliovirus Type 2 (WPV2): certified eradicated in 2015 (last detected in India, 1999)
• Wild Poliovirus Type 3 (WPV3): certified eradicated in 2019. (last detected in Nigeria in 2012)
Both were declared eradicated by the Global Commission for the Certification of Poliomyelitis Eradication (GCC) after extensive surveillance confirmed that no naturally occurring cases of these viruses existed anymore. Only Wild Poliovirus Type 1 (WPV1) remains in circulation today — primarily in Pakistan and Afghanistan.
The eradication of WPV2 and WPV3 are two of the greatest milestones in global public health!
A BIT OF HISTORY –
ROTARY
INTERNATIONAL LAUNCHES POLIOPLUS
the first and largest internationally coordinated private-sector support of a public health initiative, with an initial fundraising target of US$120 million.
Influential Rotary Milestones
1. Founding of Rotary (1905)
Paul Harris founded the first Rotary Club in Chicago to create a professional fellowship. Though initially local, this idea quickly evolved into service-driven clubs globally, laying the groundwork for organized humanitarian work.
2. "Service Above Self" becomes the Rotary motto (1911)
This crystallized Rotary’s mission — moving beyond networking to serving others, a defining moment that committed the organization fully to humanitarian ideals.
3. First International Club Established (1910-1912)
The chartering of clubs outside the U.S., starting with Canada and later Europe, truly made Rotary an international force, sowing the seeds for global humanitarian service.
4. Rotary and the United Nations (1945)
Rotary was deeply involved in the formation of the United Nations — 49 Rotarians helped draft the UN Charter. To this day, Rotary maintains a consultative status with the UN, influencing global peace initiatives.
5. Launch of the Rotary Foundation (1917)
Started by Arch Klumph, this fund began modestly but grew into a massive engine for funding scholarships, health projects, peace efforts, and more worldwide. It's now one of the largest humanitarian foundations globally.
6. PolioPlus Initiative (1985)
Rotary made a historic commitment to eradicate polio. Their work sparked one of the largest publicprivate partnerships in history (Global Polio Eradication Initiative with WHO, CDC, UNICEF, and others) — polio cases have since dropped by over 99%.\
7. Youth and Leadership Programs (1950s onward)
Programs like Rotary Youth Exchange (1958), RYLA (Rotary Youth Leadership Awards), and Interact/Rotaract Clubs helped develop young leaders globally, emphasizing service and cultural understanding.
8. Focus Areas for Service (2013)
Rotary officially adopted six (now seven) focus areas, like peacebuilding, water and sanitation, and maternal and child health, sharpening its impact and aligning with international development goals.
9. Peace Fellowships and Peace Centers (1999)
Rotary created Peace Centers at universities worldwide, offering graduate studies to train peace and conflict resolution leaders — a real, structural investment in global peacebuilding.
10. "End Polio Now" Campaign and Bill Gates Partnership (2007)
Rotary’s partnership with the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, including massive funding matches, turned polio eradication into a major international priority and showcased Rotary's influence in mobilizing global health initiatives.
Each of these milestones didn’t just affect Rotary — they shifted how the world approached international service: emphasizing collaboration, sustainability, leadership development, and the power of volunteer-driven action.
The “End Polio Now” slogan
The "End Polio Now" slogan and its associated red-and-yellow poster became a central part of Rotary International's polio eradication campaign in the early 2000s.
While the exact date of the poster's first appearance isn't definitively documented, the slogan gained significant prominence during a major public awareness campaign in February 2008. This campaign featured the projection of the "End Polio Now" message onto iconic landmarks worldwide, including the Palace of Westminster in London. Wikipedia
The "End Polio Now" initiative is part of Rotary's broader PolioPlus program, launched in 1985, which marked the first internationally coordinated private-sector effort to support public health initiatives. Rotary's commitment to eradicating polio has been unwavering, with significant milestones achieved over the years, including the launch of the Global Polio Eradication Initiative in 1988 in partnership with the World Health Organization, UNICEF, and the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Wikipedia – Partners -
For more detailed information on Rotary's efforts to end polio, you can visit their official campaign website: endpolio.org.
Click here to read about the “plus” in PolioPlus!
THE POLIOPLUS SOCIETY
How can you take action? Donate to End Polio
Above - Polio survivor and Rotarian, John Nanni, talks about how polio has affected his life as a child and now as an adult. John shares his experience of speaking at a congressional meeting promoting continuing support for polio by our government.
It was six months before the Salk vaccine was widely tested - September of 1953 when I came down with polio. I was 10 months old. I was paralyzed from my neck down for a period of six months. My great aunt was a nun who spent most of her career working in hospitals and she could read a hospital chart. She saw that because I was in a polio ward that was overcrowded to begin with, she saw that I wasn't getting the care I needed.
She knew of Sister Kenny – a nurse from Australia who had developed a physical therapy program for paralyzed polio patients. The program would prohibit the muscles from dying off from inactivity. So my mom actually took me out of the hospital.
My grandmother took care of my older brother, and I would have all my muscles exercised for an hour. I was too young to remember but she said that I would scream in pain from the stretching the muscles. That was many hours a day over a six-month period. Click here to watch the full interview.
Become a Member of the District 6330 Polio Plus Society! Join
Now! Don’t be left out!
In 1985, Rotarians made a promise to the children of the world: to eradicate polio from the face of the earth. At that time, 125 countries on 5 continents were plagued by polio, with over 350,000 children, nearly 1,000 children every single day, being paralyzed by or succumbing to the polio virus. Now, more than ever, children are counting on Rotarians to wipe out Polio.
Since we began, Rotarians have raised over $2.1 billion for this noble cause, providing polio vaccines to more than 3.5 billion children. Today, only two countries, Pakistan and Afghanistan, remain polio-endemic, and the World Health Organization estimates that over 19 million children are now thriving, who otherwise would have been paralyzed by polio, thanks to Rotary’s polio eradication program.
Help us fulfill the promise we made in 1985. Join the District 6330 PolioPlus Society. If you have not yet done so, please consider making your donation before June 30. Let's help the cause as we wind down the Rotary year!
What is the PolioPlus Society (PPS)?
Minimum Annual Donation. The PolioPlus Society was created to encourage Rotarians to commit to a minimum annual donation of $100 USD to the PolioPlus Fund until polio is entirely eradicated. Members receive a special society pin.
Eradicating polio is Rotary’s number one priority. Polio primarily affects children under the age of 5, and there is no cure; immunization is the sole prevention. Rotary has raised approximately 10% of the eradication costs since 1985, with a challenge from the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation to raise $50 million annually for polio, matched by $100 million, totaling $150 million.
After the last case of paralysis, 450,000 children worldwide must be immunized annually for an additional three years to ensure total eradication of the polio virus. We’re very close to this goal, with only a few reported cases in Pakistan and Afghanistan.
You can participate. As a Rotarian and a supporter of Polio Eradication, Rotary’s top priority, you can participate in this humanitarian endeavor by becoming a member of the PolioPlus Society of Rotary in D 6330.
DONATE HERE!
Commit to an annual donation of at least $100 USD to the PolioPlus program, and in return, you’ll receive a PolioPlus Society membership pin and Paul Harris credit.
We’re close to eradicating polio, but we’re not done yet. We still need funds to continue immunization and surveillance efforts. Your ongoing gift will get us closer to the finish line.
If you would like to become a Polio Plus Society member, please contact PDG Diane Chantler at dianechantler@hotmail.com.
Your commitment to the children of the world is needed now to ensure we continue our goal to eradicate polio in the world. Show your dedication to Polio. You will be recognized with your Polio Plus Society Pin!
INTERNATIONAL DATES TO NOTE (plus
May - Rotary’s Focus on Youth Service
Saturday, May 3
World Press Freedom Day
Watch a short video – Click here
Thursday, May 8
Times of Remembrance and Reconciliation for those who lost their lives during the Second World War
Saturday, May 10
World Migratory Bird Day
Monday, May 12
International Day of Plant Health
Thursday, May 15
International Day of Families
Friday, May 16
International Day of Living Together in Peace
Tuesday, May 20 World Bee Day
Wednesday, May 21
World Day for Cultural Diversity for Dialogue and Development
Thursday, May 22
International Day for Biological Diversity
Thursday, May 29
International Day of UN Peacekeepers
FOUNDATION GRANTS – 7 AREAS OF FOCUS
IT’S THAT TIME OF YEAR –
We are looking for clubs to qualify for district grants and submit a project request!!
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.
(Month of February)
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.
(Month of December)
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.
(Month of March)
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.
(Month of July)
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.
(Month of September)
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.
(Month of October)
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.
(Month of April)
Calculate your carbon footprint! Click here.
Click below to view this short video – and learn.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GlWNuzrqe7U
And if you’re interested in learning more about a plant-rich diet, you might enjoy this Netflix Series
https://www.netflix.com/watch/81487765?trackId=268410292
Crossing the globe to help our planet
French Rotaractor Benjamin Parent is pursuing a lifelong dream of cycling around the world. His goal is to raise money to plant trees and build awareness of the need to protect our planet. Parent is making the trip in stages, meeting with social entrepreneurs to learn about environmentally sustainable projects in order to share their successes.
By Benjamin Parent, Rotaract Club of Cannes Riviera, France —
It all started with a dream and a question. I had tucked away in my mind for years a dream of cycling around the world. A series of questions pushed me to take the leap and pursue my dream:
• What does sustainable development really mean?
• How can an organization combine financial viability with a positive impact on life?
• How can we support a new generation of entrepreneurs to build purpose-driven businesses while making a living doing it?
• And how can I personally contribute to a more positive impact on life?
I wanted to see things for myself and try to answer these questions. That’s how Trees on the Way was born.
It’s a trip around the world on bicycle where I will meet committed entrepreneurs and inspiring changemakers and discover best practices and solutions from these people who have devoted their energy to helping others.
To go further, the trip will also promote the planting of trees.
• Stage 1: Middle East – Cross Southern Europe and the Middle East, exploring local initiatives focused on ecological transition and resilience.
• Stage 2: Asia – Discover projects in India, Nepal, China, and Southeast Asia connected to regenerative economic models.
• Stage 3: The Americas – Dive into social and environmental innovation across the Americas, from Canada to South America.
Click here to learn more and find out more about his round-the-world journey.
Supporting the Rotary Foundation: A Call to Action for Rotarians
The Rotary Foundation is the heartbeat of Rotary’s mission to create lasting change globally and locally.
Supporting the Foundation ensures the success of projects that address critical issues like clean water, education, disease prevention, and peacebuilding.
Learn
Understanding the impact of the Rotary Foundation is the first step. Explore the Areas of Focus – Stories of Impact – Rotary’s Financial Efficiency.
Ask
Encourage open dialogue about the Rotary Foundation by asking key questions: What inspires you to serve through Rotary? – Have you seen a Foundation-funded project in action? – What causes do you care about?
Commit
Making a personal commitment to support the Foundation solidifies its importance: Individual donations – Club goals – Sustained giving.
Membership
Support for the Foundation strengthens Rotary membership by enhancing engagement and pride: Retain members – Attract New Members – Build Fellowship
Rotary’s Council on Legislation (COL)
The 2025 Council on Legislation (COL) was held April 13–17, 2025, at the Hyatt Regency Chicago in Chicago, Illinois, USA. my-cms.rotary.org
Every three years, representatives from Rotary districts around the world gather in Chicago to review and vote on proposed legislation. The Council on Legislation is an essential part of Rotary's governance. Learn more about the Council on Legislation process.
This triennial gathering brought together representatives from Rotary districts worldwide to review and vote on proposed changes to Rotary's constitutional documents.
• What it does: This is Rotary’s legislative body. It meets every three years to debate and vote on changes to Rotary’s constitutional documents:
o Constitution of Rotary International
o Bylaws of Rotary International
o Standard Rotary Club Constitution
• Scope: It can amend, add, or delete rules and regulations that govern Rotary International and clubs worldwide.
• Delegates: Each Rotary district sends a voting representative, so it’s a big event—often described as Rotary’s version of a parliamentary session.
Rotary’s Rulemakers: Councils in Action
As a member-led organization, Rotary empowers clubs to help shape its direction. Two important Councils play a key role in this process:
What’s the Difference?
Council on Legislation (COL)
Meets Every 3 years
Purpose
Topics
Impact
Binding legislation that changes Rotary’s rules
Council on Resolutions (COR)
Annually
Non-binding resolutions with recommendations
Membership, dues, club structure, governance Program ideas, global priorities, advocacy
Alters Rotary’s constitutional documents
In short: The COL changes the rules. The COR suggests ideas.
Influences RI Board and Foundation Trustee decisions
At the 2025 Council on Legislation, the official purpose of Rotary was amended. It now reads:
“The purpose of Rotary clubs is to unite people to take action, create lasting change, and build peace through service and fellowship in communities across the globe.”
This revised wording reflects a more modern, mission-focused direction—one that resonates with Rotarians worldwide.
While Rotary’s vision statement remains unchanged, the 2025 Council on Legislation brought an important update to the purpose of Rotary clubs, aligning our formal documents more closely with the values we live by: action, change, peace, and fellowship.
And Rotary’s Vision Statement remains as follows:
"Together, we see a world where people unite and take action to create lasting change — across the globe, in our communities, and in ourselves."
This is Rotary's inspirational guiding statement—developed through the Shaping Rotary’s Future process and in place since around 2017. It’s not legally binding, but it's widely used in messaging and strategic direction.
A couple of decisions that you’ll be interested to know –
Monday, 14 April
Representatives approved a measure to decrease the number of members needed to charter a new Rotary club from 20 to 15.
. Tuesday, 15 April
After 45 minutes of debate, the Council approved an increase in the dues that every member pays to Rotary International of US$3.50 in the first year and US$3.75 in the following two years.
Supporters said the increase is needed to meet rising costs and continue providing essential resources and services to clubs. They said that the dues increase is below the inflation rate, indicating that RI is working to cut costs and manage revenues responsibly.
Opponents felt that dues increases may hurt membership and wanted more transparency from RI about what cost-cutting has been done. (Source)
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
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.
Click here to listen to We are the World
When tomorrow comes, this day will be gone forever. In its place is something that you have left behind. Let it be something good. 1
1 Author unknown