Celebrating the Hope that Rotary District 7600 Clubs Created in The World Through Supporting the Rotary Foundation
By IPDG Rudy Garcia
On November 14, almost 150 of our fellow Rotarians, Family and Guests gathered at the Colonial Heritage Club to recognize the accomplishments and contributions our Rotarians and their Clubs made to the Rotary Foundation in Rotary Year 2023-2024
We had a wonderful turnout as thirty-three of our clubs attended the celebration. We were also fortunate to have Past Rotary Foundation Chair Brenda Cressey as our keynote speaker In addition, we had fifteen surprise visitors from Rotary Clubs in Germany join us while in Williamsburg on the Rotary Friendship Exchange!
What a great time we had celebrating our clubs’ accomplishments Clubs achieved recognition in multiple categories:
$250+ Per Capita, 100% Foundation Giving, 100% Every Rotarian Every Year (EREY) POLIO Plus Contributions of over $1,500.
18 of our clubs had over $250 per capita giving, 17 attained 100% Foundation Giving, 16 had 100% EREY and 21 Clubs contributed over $1,500 to the Polio Plus Campaign! Wow!
All told, our Rotarians donated an average of $228.10 in Annual Fund Giving making us Number 3 in the Zone! That totaled $492, 921 which made us Number 4 in the Zone! Our per capita Polio Plus Donations of $131.67 and our total Polio Plus contributions of $284, 538 resulted in us LEADING the Zone in both categories! What a testament to both the dedication and generosity of our Rotarians!
Thanks for a fantastic year of supporting our Foundation and the efforts to eliminate Polio from the world I am so proud to be part of such a fantastic group of loving, kind, and generous Rotarians!
In addition to the Club Awards, we also recognized Bonnie Field, Camile Peter, Elizabeth McCoury, Michael Bins, Mark Deutsch, Tracy Pendleton, Stan Wall, Mike Little, Prisicilla Bele, Haywood Andrews, and Charles Harril with the Foundation District Service award for their support in promoting the Foundation at both the Club and District Foundation level. Congratulations on a “Job Well Done”!
We were also able to recognize the achievements of two of our Past District Foundation Chairs (Stephen Beer and Chuck Arnason) with awards from The Rotary Foundation. Brenda presented PDG Chuck with the Rotary Foundation Distinguished Service Award and then presented PDG Stephen with the Citation of Meritorious Service. What a culmination of recognition of their service to our District as well as The Zone and the Rotary Foundation
Rotarians Raghavan Sadagopan, David Mansfield and Jack Hilgers received recognition for their Major Donor Level Contributions to the Foundation! Thanks for your support of our Foundation!
In 2017 Catherine and I had the privilege of being recognized by then RI President Elect Sam Owori at District Conference when we first achieved our Major Donor and Bequest Society Level One On Thursday night we were humbled to have our Bequest Society Level Four recognition presented by Past Trustee Brenda. One of our goals when we set out on the District Governor journey was to increase our giving to both the Annual Fund and to increase our Bequest pledge. Thankfully we were able to accomplish both over the past couple of years. Finally, we surprised Rotarian Carol Woodward with a special commemoration of her service through four District Rotary Foundation Chairs, (PDGs Probs, Chuck, Stephen, and John). She was the holder of all the institutional knowledge through all four of their terms and so was essential in helping us continue to be successful in growing our support for the Foundation! Thanks again for all your service Carol!
Thanks to the Foundation Committee Leadership Team for all their hard work organizing and executing this marvelous event and a special shout out to Rotarian Bill Billings of the Franklin Rotary Club for once again providing photography support You can see all of his wonderful pictures here: https://photos.app.goo.gl/K4QKPFJrYa6LgQkm6
The Rotary Club of Richmond welcomes a new member: Joanna Ibrahim
Q1. What drew you to the Rotary Club of Richmond? Both my brother and my father are members of the Rotary Club in other parts of the world, and I just moved down here from New York City for my first job out of college and I was looking for a way to give back to the local community here in Richmond.
Q2. Share with us a recent volunteer project/organization in which you have participated. Last summer, I went to Tanzania for a couple of weeks where I volunteered with a local charity to demolish and rebuild a kitchen at an orphanage.
Q3 Our club enjoys our socials What is a favorite place of yours in Richmond? I’m a foodie, so I enjoy going to The Tobacco Company, Lolita’s for the best tacos, and Dumplings & Noodles for the best dumplings
Q4. What does "service above self" mean to you? It's about finding purpose in contributing to the greater good and knowing that the impact I make, no matter how small, can create positive change in someone else's life.
At the Rotary Club of Farmville lunchtime meeting on November 22, 2024, Janet Bunnell (center) was award her first Paul Harris pin Club President Doug Stanley (right) is applying the pin to her collar Club Foundation Chair Kerby Moore (left) prepares to hand her the Paul Harris Fellow certificate
The Rotary Club of Innsbrook celebrated a milestone for our newest member, Sujing Yang, who earned her permanent badge after completing all the steps required of a new member Congratulations, Sujing, on this achievement, and welcome fully into the Rotary family!
The West Richmond Rotary Club is excited to have welcomed FIVE new and worthy members since September 2024
Each new member brings fresh energy, unique talents, and a shared passion for service, enriching our community and deepening our commitment to "Service Above Self " family co
Submitted by Pam Bozkurt
an and their t is Pam Greater
On 29 Oct, James City County Rotary Clubs - Breakfast & Satellite members delivered dictionaries to every 3th grade class in the James City County & Williamsburg Elementary Schools This project has been an annual effort by the JCC Rotarians to help students in their educational development. Co-Project Leaders Rotarians Pete Kokolis and Stephanie Montgomery coordinated the deliveries with the District Coordinator.
Shown are Rotarian Bill Wallis, Nealie Reedy, Matoaka Elementary Reading Specialist, and Bobby Knowles, Principal, Matoaka Elementary School
Submitted by Paul Miyamasu
12th Annual South Richmond Rotary Corvette Raffle
Only 1,800 tickets being sold
$100 a piece
Beneficiaries: Ronald McDonald House Charities of Richmond, Veterans & Athletes United, & other local charities
Drawing Date: March 15th 2025 10:30 PM (need not be present to win)
Can choose a Corvette or any other Car, Truck, or SUV, from a CMA Dealership
Link to the webpage to purchase tickets: www.southrichmondrotary.com/corvette-raffle Terms and conditions apply please visit: www southrichmondrotary com/corvette-raffle
Tim Ryan’s Hurricane Relief Effort: A special shoutout to Tim Ryan of the Rotary Club of Smithfield for traveling to North Carolina with his daughter Kelley to assist with recovery efforts following Hurricane Helene. Tim exemplifies the Rotary spirit of "Service Above Self."
Submitted by Leigh Abbott
Submitted by Mason Lemmon
Putt-Putting for Outstanding Educators with the Rotary Club of Hampton Roads
On October 19, 2024, the Rotary Club of Hampton Roads proudly hosted its annual putt-putt fundraiser to honor and support exceptional local educators Each fall, the club raises funds through generous sponsorships and ticket admissions, all in the spirit of recognizing and uplifting those who profoundly impact our community's students.
The event was a resounding success Participants challenged one another in a friendly game of putt-putt, followed by a celebratory buffet, raffle, wine pull, and silent auction The funds raised will be awarded to several outstanding educators nominated by their school's administration Each selected educator will receive a $500 gift to supplement their classrooms with much-needed supplies
The Rotary Club of Hampton Roads extends its heartfelt gratitude to all the sponsors, the community, volunteers, Jungle Golf, and Tautog's for their incredible support By coming together, the club is proud to honor and empower the dedicated educators who shape the minds and futures of our youth.
The Huguenot Trail Rotary Club raised $1825 00 for the Walk to End Alzheimer’s - RVA
Where do the funds go?
All funds raised through Walk to End Alzheimer's further the care, support and research efforts of the Alzheimer's Association The Alzheimer's Association is a nonprofit 501(c)3 organization.
Submitted by Steve Anderson
PAUL HARRIS SOCIETY
One sure way to make more impact for positive change around the world and in our own communities is by joining the Paul Harris Society. PHS members are philanthropic leaders dedicated to positive change and demonstrate a commitment to serve others
You can join by notifying Rotary International with your intent to commit an annual contribution of $1,000 00 either to the Annual Fund, the Polio Plus Fund, or an approved foundation grant Foundation contributions are transformed into high impact sustainable solutions to pressing needs around the world so the more contributions that are made, the more impact we will make.
The easiest way to give is to sign up for Rotary Direct, by which a certain dollar amount of your choosing (typically ($83 33 per month) is withdrawn from a designated account Many Rotarians never miss or feel this but know how much impact they are making with their contributions
There are currently over 33,000 PHS members in the world in 157 countries and 21 percent of all contributions to the Rotary Foundation are given by PHS members PHS members truly show the dedication, commitment, and passion for Rotary and doing good in the world, so please consider being a part of us and creating more impact where there’s so much need..
If you are considering joining but need more information or even need assistance in applying, please reach out to me at kevinylsinc@gmail com and I can help
Kevin Yeargin, District 7600 Paul Harris Society Chair
Photos include: Edna & Bob Ray; Ray & Diane Darcey; President, Jack Hilgers; David Mansfield, Debbie Giel
Submitted by Camile Peter
Here is a fun activity that the Rotary Club of West Richmond has been sponsoring for the last two years The back story is Our club has adopted Charles M Johnson elementary school Along with this carnival, we assist with their bookfair, have teacher appreciation events, donate school supplies, and maintain a vegetable and flower garden at the school
On September 14th it was our honor to serve Charles M Johnson Elementary School again this year for the Back to School Carnival! Nutasha from the Richmond Flying Squirrels Baseball team and our very own Henrico County Division of Fire Department brought very special elements to the party. Games, great attendance, a John Deere train, fun, food and a bunch of happy students and their families hard to ask for much more!
This is our club's 2nd year hosting this successful event Additionally, we volunteer and donate in a variety of capacities throughout the year including taking care of the gardens, school supply donations, and the Spring Book Fair We are proud to be making a difference in this community!
Charles M Johnson Elementary is located in Henrico County and boasts an incredibly dedicated staff and leadership. We are grateful to these phenomenal professionals! Among the challenges they face as educators are ken by the student population, and the disproportionate number of lowincome families.
Western Henrico Rotary – Becky Briggs Memorial Golf Outing
Submitted by Pam Bozkurt
The Western Henrico Rotary Club held our 33rd Annual Becky Briggs Memorial Golf Tournament Monday, October 14th, at the Lakeside Park Club. Donations and sponsorships raised just over $30,000, which will allow our club to award several significant scholarships to worthy and deserving local high school seniors in the coming year, supporting the college of their respective choices.
Since starting this initiative in 1993, our club has awarded scholarships to 142 high school seniors totaling $330,000 Attendance represents 42 colleges, both here in Virginia and out-of-state
We continue to be proud and honored to support this worthy cause A special thanks to all who supported, both as volunteers and participants!
Submitted by Pam Bozkurt
Service Above Self
PROJECT W.A.R.M. - We Need Your Help
The Rotary Club of Richmond has lots of wood ready to be split at the wood lot to prepare when the weather turns really cold weather and we deliver wood to individuals who depend on wood only for their heat source. Join us Saturday mornings starting November 16 at 9am for splitting and delivery The woodlot is located at a cityowned maintenance lot behind John Marshall High School off Chamberlayne & North Avenues, 608 Forest Lawn Drive.
HISTORY - Project W.A.R.M., an all-volunteer effort, began in 1976 by one man who had seen a TV news story of a woman burning her clothes and furniture to stay warm during a particularly cold season In time, it expanded to a partnership including the City of Richmond, The Salvation Army, the Richmond and Tuckahoe Jaycees and is currently a banner project of The Rotary Club of Richmond. Mary Ann Wilson and Will Schroeder carry on this tradition with members from our club
MISSION - Many families in Metro Richmond rely on firewood as a primary or supplementary home heating source and are without adequate resources to provide this necessity on their own. All expenses are borne by the volunteers. Rotarians with pick-up trucks are especially needed during the winter months Any families in Metropolitan Richmond rely on firewood as a primary or supplementary home heating fuel Of those, a significant number are not able to acquire that fuel on their own. In so far as the means available to it will allow, Project W.A.R.M. endeavors to relieve that burden for as many of our less fortunate neighbors as possible
HOW WE HELP - Rotarian volunteers are key to this rewarding and unique project's success Wood is split (using gas-supplied splitters) during the Spring/Summer months (late Tuesday afternoons) and continues during the delivery season (November-March) (from 9-Noon Saturdays) The woodlot is located at a city-owned maintenance lot behind John Marshall High School off Chamberlayne & North Avenues Supervised children of all ages have found working on this project fun and rewarding and are most welcome if accompanied by a responsible adult.
Contact Joe Kelleher via email with questions!
Submitted by Michela Worthington
Building Accessibility: Rotary Club of Innsbrook Partners with project:HOMES November 9 2024
Members of the Rotary Club of Innsbrook teamed up with project:HOMES, a remarkable 501(c)(3) nonprofit, to install a much-needed ramp at the home of a deserving community member. project:HOMES takes an all-encompassing approach to housing, challenging misconceptions of affordable housing by producing and preserving high-quality, affordable homes and providing large-scale home repairs, improved accessibility, and energy efficiency for existing homes. This partnership allowed us to bring greater accessibility and independence to this household, making a lasting impact in the community Huge thanks to project:HOMES and our Rotarians for bringing this project to life! Together, we’re building stronger, more inclusive communities
The 2024 Hurricane Season
It’s been a busy and impactful season with 18 out of the 21 for the Atlantic occurring, so far, as predicted. Recovery efforts are still taking place for those areas affected by Hurricane Helene, one of the worst storms this season impacting multiple states
In late October, Shawn Talmadge, Virginia State Coordinator for Emergency Management, shared some data related to response efforts, as of October 23, 2024, concerning those impacted in Virginia by Hurricane Helene
Number of rescues: 136+
1 million+ bottles of water distributed
Peak road closures included 484 primary and secondary roads and 118 bridges
At peak, 287 cell tower outages
At peak, 310,000 power outages
37,250+ meals distributed
Also, in late October, District Governor, Joy Kline, shared that $450,000+ in donations had been collected for the Zone Relief Fund and there were commitments for about another $450,000 These funds collected will be distributed through grants Many of the areas impacted by the hurricane will take years to recover Rotarians can continue to play a crucial role in assisting individuals and areas Assistance may be through connections Rotary clubs have already established or it can be through cash donations. Cash donations through grants can help support long-term recovery projects.
Here are several donation links
Rotary Zones 33/34 - https://www.rizones33-34.org/disaster-recovery/
Rotary International Disaster Response Fund - my rotary org/en/disaster-response-fund
With every disaster, the response efforts start locally where each of our Rotary clubs operates and serves their community Localities will need help before the State arrives and before FEMA arrives Don’t wait until the disaster happens to figure out how you can help Now is the time to prepare for disasters to help yourself, a fellow Rotarian, your club, or your community One of the ways you can learn about emergency preparedness is to take Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) training. For more information, contact one of District 7600’s Disaster Recovery Coordinators
Jerry Fields, James City County Rotary Club
Robin Hillman, Goochland County Rotary Club 757-532-1526, jfields49@aol.com 804-833-6802, Robin.hillman@verizon.net
The Rotary Club of Hanover had the pleasure of welcoming DG Joy Kline! Assistant District Governor Penny Guiles introduced District Governor Joy Kline for her 61st club visit (whew!)
Her talk focused on the four pillars of Rotary increasing our impact, expanding our reach, enhancing participant engagement, and increasing our ability to adapt She stands ready to help the Club in any way and we are ready to Find Joy in the Journey!
A highlight of DG Joy Kline’s visit was the recognition of member Penny Guiles for her work as Co-Chair of last year’s district conference
On Nov. 15, the James City County Rotary Club (Breakfast and Satellite) members and their families took time to remove the flags at Williamsburg's Veterans Park that they had placed a week earlier in honor of Veterans Day This has been an annual event by the club to honor all veterans who have served in our nation's armed forces
The Rotarians continue to follow their motto: Service Above Self. Pictured from left are Paul Miyamasu, Project Leader Gary Chenault, Neva Lynde, Bill Wallis, Ron Howard, Jon Weaver, Alicia Logan, Liz Weaver, Marisol Howard, Jack Clark, Gail Saunders, Phillipe & John Pierre, Assistant Project Leader Roger Saunders, Leslie and Steve Pearce, & Ron Lynde. Submitted by Paul Miyamasu
Recognition of Veterans
Dr Clay Mountcastle, Director, Virginia War Memorial, spoke to The Rotary Club of Richmond in honor of Veterans Day. He also presented pins to Scott Coffield, Joe Kelleher, E.M. Miller, Hugh Miller, Jim Bynum, & Jon Hatfield
Submitted by Michela Worthington
On November 9, the Rotary Club of Warwick at City Center, Newport News was honored to present "Flags for Heroes" at Warwick High School to honor and remember heroes who have served in the Armed Services and in our communities We thank Dr Michele Mitchell, Superintendent, Newport News Public Schools, the Warwick High School ROTC, the Warwick High School Chorus Ensemble, Tiffany Thompson, Club Member and Principal, Warwick High School, and Holly Kidd, Club President, for participating in the program Club members Cleong Long, Newport News Councilman, Robin Nelhuebel, and Jim Probsdorfer announced the names and sponsors of those we were honoring and remembering A special thank you goes to Robin Nelhuebel and Michael Gleason for organizing this year's event. Take a moment to drive past Warwick High School and see the flags representing heroes in our communities
Submitted by Davetta Rinehart
PolioPlus Update
David Rosenthal, District Polio Programs Chair
October 24 was World Polio Day, and Rotarians in District 7600 found multiple ways to celebrate The Rotary Club of Brandermill held their “3rd Annual PuttPutt for Polio”, the Rotary Club of Church Hill had a “Purple Pinkie” event, and the Rotary Club of Hampton Roads celebrated with “Pints for Polio”. The Rotary Club of James City County will celebrate World Polio Day and Rotary Foundation Month on November 23, 2024 Several clubs recognize their guest speakers with a contribution to polio, stating the number of vaccines that were purchased in their name.
N G S
However your Club celebrated, thank you for your continued support.
The fight goes on There have been a few setbacks in fighting the Wild Polio Virus in Afghanistan and Pakistan, where our partners continue to work with local and national leaders to reach the children that need our help. As of 19 November, there are 72 cases of children infected with Wild Polio. Our partners with the Global Polio Eradication Initiative (GPEI) mobilized immunization efforts in Gaza after one case of Variant Polio (cVDPV2, previously called circulating vaccine-derived poliovirus) was detected The immunization efforts have been very successful, reaching 559,161 children under the age of 10 in September for Round 1, and 556,774 in October/November for Round 2. The “Plus” part of PolioPlus included Vitamin A supplements to the children. For more informationhttps://polioeradication.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/ROUND-2-%E2%80%93-OUTBREAKRESPONSE-SUMMARY.pdf.
While the cases of Wild Polio have risen in 2024, the cases of Variant Polio have decreased, and overall, the world we see few cases of Polio this year GPEI continues to monitor 41 countries, plus the two countries with endemic polio, and there has been 224 variant cases in 19 countries, compared to 529 cases in 2023, and 881 cases in 2022
Know that your contributions are making a difference in the world. $1.00 buys 10 doses of the vaccine thanks to the 2 to 1 match from the Gates Foundation To be 96% effective, each child needs two doses, so $2.00 protects 10 children for life. But it makes a difference to more than just that child It makes a difference to their parents, their siblings, their community, and all the people that come after them. With a pledge of $100 per year, you can join the PolioPlus Society and make a difference in the lives of 500 children and their families. Please take a moment to complete the pledge form at https://www.rotary7600.org/index/foundation/polio-plus-society/
The Rotary Club of James City County gathered for an update on the campaign to end polio, presented by David Rosenthal, Rotary District PolioPlus Chair
thanks to l-r, Rotarians Terrie and Eric Nathan and their grandson Accepting the check on the far left is Pam McGregor, Executive Director of The Arc of Greater Williamsburg
The eradication of polio is one of our longest standing and most significant efforts Along with our partners, we have helped immunize more than 2.5 billion children against polio in 122 countries and reduced polio cases by 99.9 percent worldwide. Rotary members have contributed more than $2.1 billion and countless volunteer hou to protect nearly 3 billion children in 122 countries from this paralyzi disease Today, polio remains endemic only in Afghanistan and Pakistan; however, it's crucial to continue working to keep other countries polio-free to achieve our goal to end the disease for good
(L-r) Travis Rabb, JCC Rotary President; Jerry Fields, JCC Club Foundation Chair; David Rosenthal; Debbie Snow, JCC Evening Club Chair
Submitted by Paul Miyamasu & Neva Lynde
WORLD POLIO DAY EVENT
Submitted by Michael Broadhurst
The Rotary Club of Portsmouth, VA had a very successful World Polio Day celebration and fundraising event on October 24, 2024 – the actual World Polio Day
The Club had been planning the event for several weeks and it came to fruition during our lunch meeting that day with our speaker, Pam Tubbs, from the Rotary Club of Norfolk, who told us about her experiences being a successful career woman – with Polio At the end of the meeting, several members gathered for a “selfie” showing their Purple Pinkies received during the meeting
We set up a tent in front of Roger Brown’s Sports Bar and Restaurant (where the Cub meets) on High Street in Portsmouth Numerous Cub members crewed the tent and solicited donations from 1:30 PM until 6:30 PM Not only eness and money for the battle against Polio, but we made many new friends s of the country visit Portsmouth more than we realized and they all admired
Brandermill Rotary
Thi d Annual Putt-Putt for P World Polio Day, October 2
tch effort ith seeing some old friends R le-of-85 member Joe Donnelly d ch
Swift Creek Middle School Interact members, & Nancy Wright Beasley - Tomas Duque, Lucas Wang, and Tanner Eam, Anna Jarreau, Vanamali Mepperla, Madeline Kraft
Brandermill Rotarian representatives prepare to play Putt-Putt - Bill Girvin, Don Cummins Tom Anderson, Bill Snodgrass, Nancy Wright Beasley & Lynn Anderson
Interact Club members collect money through a Purple Pinky station
Maureen Mizelle, Ed Eaves, & Pat Wood
Pam Tubbs & Club Members
Final Frontier - Jackie Dunn, Joe Donnelly, Liz Pasqualini, Michael Broadhurst, & Todd Taylor
Swift Creek Middle School Interact members Lizzy Wade, Isabelle Koneru, Madeline Kraft
Rotarians Help Create Wonderful Lives! PDG John Padgett
As the holiday season approaches, it’s hard not to draw inspiration from the timeless message of It’s a Wonderful Life. George Bailey’s realization that the impact of one life ripples through a community mirrors the essence of what we as Rotarians strive to achieve through the Rotary Foundation Each contribution we make, no matter the size, has the power to change lives, strengthen communities, and inspire hope Like George, who learned how much he mattered to Bedford Falls, Rotarians in District 7600 can reflect on how much their generosity matters to the world.
When you give to the Rotary Foundation, you’re not just donating funds—you’re creating a future filled with opportunity. Your dollars might support scholarships for young dreamers, provide clean water to a village in need, or eradicate polio from its last stronghold Every act of giving becomes part of a broader narrative of compassion and progress. Like George’s small acts of kindness that ultimately saved his community, your support for the Rotary Foundation makes the impossible possible for countless individuals around the globe
In the spirit of the season, let’s take a moment to celebrate the wonderful life we share as Rotarians. Our collective service creates a brighter tomorrow for those we may never meet but whose lives are forever transformed by our dedication Just as George discovered the profound value of his life through the lens of gratitude, let us pause to be grateful for the impact we’ve made together. The Rotary Foundation is a beacon of hope, and your gifts are the light that guides its work.
As we reflect on the impact of our giving this season, let us remember Clarence's timeless words from It’s a Wonderful Life:
"Each
man's life touches so many other lives. When he isn't around, he leaves an awful hole, doesn't he?"
Rotarians of District 7600, your presence, your generosity, and your dedication to service touch countless lives every day. Because of you, the holes in the world are filled with hope, kindness, and opportunity May you continue to find joy in the profound difference you make, knowing that your commitment to the magic of Rotary creates a ripple of goodness that will endure for generations to come. Because of you, friends, neighbors and communities throughout the world truly can have a wonderful life!
The holidays can be a joyful time, but for many young people, it’s also a period of heightened stress, anxiety, and emotional challenges. One in five youth experiences a major depressive episode each year, and over half of them do not receive adequate treatment. Factors like disrupted routines, family tensions, financial pressures, and social comparisons on platforms like Instagram can exacerbate feelings of isolation or inadequacy For vulnerable youth, such as those already struggling with mental health issues, the season’s demands can feel overwhelming.
Addressing these challenges proactively not only helps mitigate holiday-related stress but also lays the foundation for long-term mental well-being.
The Rotary District 7600 Mental Health Task Force is recruiting 16 youth and 16 adults to participate in a youth resilience skill development and peer facilitation program. We need your help recruiting high school students and adult volunteers to participate in this program that can create lasting change to help us bounce back better after challenge.
For more information or to help, please contact Chair Sanna Calvert at Susanna@HealingEdu.org.
Girl Empowerment Symposium
January 21st at 4:30 pm
January is Human Trafficking Prevention Month, a crime affecting thousands of girls each year. Register for the District 7600 Girl Empowerment Committee’s Child Human Trafficking Virtual Symposium on January 21st at 4:30 pm to learn how Rotarians can make a difference
Click Here to Register: https://www.dacdb.com/index.html?EventID=77799797
It is imperative that we find ways to promote peace for girls around the globe as 13 million girls ages 15 – 19 have been subjected to forced sex. Human trafficking disproportionately affects girls
Come learn from Amelia Stansell, 7610’s District Governor, how Rotary clubs can tackle human trafficking prevention in their own communities through increasing awareness and building partnerships
As many of you have heard, the Girls’ Empowerment Presidential Initiative was sunsetted at the end of the 2023-2024 year by Rotary International
While efforts, projects and activities centered on Girls’ Empowerment were encouraged to continue among clubs and districts around the world, many have wondered and expressed “what’s next for Girls’ Empowerment?”
Earlier this (2024-2025) Rotary year, a group of invested Rotarians began organizing a new Rotary Action Group (RAG) dedicated to Girls’ Empowerment. We are now at the stage of preparing the official application to Rotary International to establish and charter the proposed new RAGGE and this is where we want your support!
Our plan is to submit a formal application to Rotary International within the next 60 days with the goal to officially announce the RAGGE at Calgary 2025
We need your help now! Join us and SIGN-UP using the link below to be included in the formation, establishment and operation of this proposed new RAGGE! https://www.cognitoforms.com/RotaryZone34/RAGGEConfirmationOfInterest2024
Rotary Action Group (RAG)
Girl Empowerment Community Service Project
Rotarians needed to support the Empowering Girls service project on February 22nd!
Rotarians needed for the 2025 Girl Scout Cookie Count n’ Go!
Over 50 volunteers are needed at each site to help distribute approximately to 780,000 boxes of cookies to more than 350 troops
Join us at one of three delivery locations, Virginia Beach, Suffolk, or Hampton!
You will be thanked with a box of Girl Scout Cookies! Join us as a club or as individual Rotarians. Details below on how to sign up!
CALL TO ACTION
Thank you to the many of you who followed up with the Empowering Girls Committee members after our presentation at the District Conference and/or who stopped by our booth in the House of Friendship We are encouraged by how many of you “signed on” to support an Empowering Girls project or speaker at your upcoming club meetings On behalf of girls all around the world, thank you for being bold with us – for HER success!
Earlier this (2024-2025) Rotary year, a group of invested Rotarians began organizing a new Rotary Action Group (RAG) dedicated to Girls’ Empowerment This core planning and organizing team has been working on the formation and establishment of a (new) Rotary Action Group for Girls’ Empowerment (RAGGE), dedicated to continuing and enhancing the amazing work of Girls’ Empowerment around the world. In addition to maintaining the term “Girls’ Empowerment”, the scope of the proposed new RAGGE will encompass the multiple foundational priorities that have been part of the initiative since 2021, including: Education, Health & Wellness, Safety & Well-Being, Economic Enhancement & Security, and Advocacy & Engagement.
We are now at the stage of preparing the official application to Rotary International to establish and charter the proposed new RAGGE…and this is where we want your support! As prior global ambassadors for Girls’ Empowerment, you are the key to bringing the proposed new RAGGE to life and have it thrive Your regional and local networks of district and club advocates and champions of Girls’ Empowerment are pivotal to this endeavor Our plan is to submit a formal application to Rotary International within the next 60 days with the goal to officially announce the RAGGE at Calgary 2025.
We encourage you to join us and SIGN-UP- https://www cognitoforms com/ /RAGGEConfirmationOfInter to be included in the formation, establishment and operation of the proposed new RAGGE When you signup, you will be kept up-to-date and informed as things progress, as well as, invited to participate in planning meetings and discussions Plus, those that signup will be the first to be offered charter membership in the RAGGE
Please share this message and call-to-action with your networks, including district and club advocates/champions, interested members of your zone, district or club, and even appropriate nonmembers of the Rotary family. Let’s make this happen for the good of all girls around the world!
In Rotary Service ~ Rotary Action Group for Girls’ Empowerment (proposed) Organizing Team Organizi
The 2025 Grants Management Seminars will be offered via Zoom on Saturday, February 15 at 9 a m & Monday, March 24 at 6 p m
Participation in one of these Grants Management Seminars is required for a Rotary and Rotaract Club to be eligible for a District Grant for the 2025-2026 Rotary Year.
Who should participate, you ask?
TWO members per club must participate:
1) the club’s President-Elect
2) another member who will be active in the application and implementation of the proposed grant
This change in the District Grant Policy will go into effect this upcoming grant cycle.
Be sure to attend the GMS to learn more about the District Grant process!
G L O B A L G R A N T
December 2024 Global Grants
Rotary strongly believes that good health care is everybody’s right However, evidence shows that 400 million people in the world can’t afford or don’t have access to basic healthcare.
Disease results in misery, pain, and poverty for millions of people worldwide Rotarians lead efforts both large and small, such as setting up temporary clinics, blood donation centers, Polio vaccination drives, and training facilities in underserved communities struggling with outbreaks and health care access. Special emphasis is focused on empowering girls to stay healthy, become more informed about their feminine hygiene and shed societal stigmas. In district 7600, Rotarians are keenly aware of the need for action to lessen the impact of diseases in less fortunate communities The Rotary Club of Innsbrook and Rotary Club of Calcutta Mahanagar, India, are spearheading a global grant to empower girls through nutrition, menstrual hygiene management and cervical cancer prevention
During adolescence, significant physical, emotional, and social changes take place The onset of menstruation, is one of the key markers of puberty and a significant event in the life of adolescent girls. This underscores the need for comprehensive health education and support systems to address the accompanying challenges.
Celebrating menstruation as a rite of passage into womanhood can be a powerful way to empower girls. Empowerment of girls happens by removing constraints that impede women and girls to make strategic life choices. It unlocks their full potential, benefiting not just them but society as a whole
Integrating menstrual health education into broader adolescent health programs that address nutrition, mental health, sexual and reproductive health, and disease prevention pave the way for a future where women and girls thrive without being hindered by their menstrual cycles and disorders.
Cultural taboos and stigma surrounding menstruation exacerbate the challenges faced by women and girls exclude them from community life The broader implications include missed educational opportunities and the perpetuation of gender inequality, as menstruation becomes a barrier to girls' education and women’s economic participation These interconnected issues require comprehensive strategies that include education, access to resources, and supportive policies
The objectives of the global grant are three-fold:
1 Addressing Malnutrition, which aims to improve the nutritional status of girls through awareness, supplementation, and food security initiatives
2 Improving Menstrual Hygiene Management by intervention to ensure access to affordable menstrual products and awareness programs, on Menstrual Hygiene Management (MHM), thereby enhancing girl’s health and reducing social stigma.
3 Preventing Cervical Cancer by increase awareness about the importance of screening and vaccination to reduce the incidence of cervical cancer It is important to note that the project will be implemented in collaboration with two local NGOs
The beneficiaries of the global grant are adolescent girls between the ages of 9-20 years, residing in the coastal areas of Sundarbans. It will Support 7000 individuals for Menstrual Health Management, help 700 beneficiaries for nutrition support, and vaccination of 1000 girls for protecting against cervical cancer
I hope this article inspires you to look for opportunities around the world, where you can make a difference in lives of those less fortunate communities Because of your continued support of district 7600 Foundation, district designated funds (DDF) are available for clubs to embark on similar projects Please let District Foundation members know of your plans. They will be happy to answer any of your questions and help you through a global grant application
Adeeb Hamzey, District 7600 Grants committee chair. Adeeb hamzey@gmail com
as seen on the socials
Ring the Bell for The Salvation Army ‘s
Red Kettle Challenge
LAST CHANCE TO RING!
The Best thing you can do for yourself and the Community This Christmas! Ring the Bell for the Salvation Army ! District 7600 Red Kettle Challenge District 7600 Rotary Clubs compete each year to win for their Communities Help feed, clothe and give hope this season to many families in need This is a great opportunity to volunteer and introduce a new prospect or young person to volunteering!
Red Kettle Challenge Message from Major Samuel Kim
Why: Spread Christmas cheer and raise money that stays in your community. All money that goes into a red kettle supports the local program and services of that Salvation Army Additionally, you gain visibility for your local Rotary Club
When: Pick a date that works for your Club between Dec. 1- 24, 2024
Where: A store in your community (usually a Walmart or Kroger) that has given approval to The Salvation Army
Time: We ask that your Rotary Club ring for an entire day (can be broken into shifts). For most locations that is between 10 am- 6:00 pm
How to Sign Up: Let Major Samuel Kim, Area Commander of CVAC know that you will be joining The Kettle Challenge at samuel.kim@uss.salvationarmy.org or 804.265.7521. Y ou will need to sign up with your local Salvation Army as well for your location.
Goal: Let’s see if we can raise $25,000 this year in the challenge
Any questions or concerns, please let us know. We appreciate all the work you do in the community and partnering with us for The Kettle Challenge
Be the winner this year, win a trophy for your Club!
The Rotary Club of Williamsburg has consistently won each year. Will they ring and win again for their community? A project of the Alumni Association Janice G. Henicheck ,President 570-574-1481
Jhenicheck2@gmail.com
The Best thing you can do for yourself and the Community This Christmas!
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District Office Contact Information Administrative Assistant - Tiffany Correll
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Rick Maddux
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