Past Rotary International President Wilf Wilkinson is urging Rotarians in District 7070 and right across Canada to revisit their commitment to this worthwhile humanitarian cause. In keeping with this year’s Rotary theme – it is time once again for Rotarians “To Make a Difference”. Find out how you can help. .....
From The Canadian Landmine Foundation Rotary Subcommittee
Fellow District 7070 Rotarians,
When was the last time you stepped on a landmine? Probably never – aren’t we fortunate. If you live in Cambodia, Iraq or Syria, to name a few, you may have not been so lucky.
This far away reality of the effects of landmines and IED’s will come much closer to home in late September when Toronto hosts the 3rd Invictus Games. For many involved, they have had the benefit of resources and support from their countries. Yet, residents of most countries still affected by landmines have little to offer in support of their crippled compatriots. This is where we as caring and compassionate Rotarians come in to fill this void.
Rotarians in District 7070 have committed time and money to eliminate many ills that plague our world, including longstanding support of landmine eradication. We at the Canadian Landmine Foundation (CLMF) are asking Rotarians in District 7070 to renew their commitment to eliminating these hideous devices.
As with our efforts with polio, we continue to make progress on the landmines front – but not without setbacks. Landmine use is on the rise and funding has steadily declined over the past number of years. Canada was once the 3rd largest funder of landmine eradication but is now 10th. Overall funding for landmine relief is at its lowest point is 10 years.
Yet many are still suffering.
As many as 18 people, mostly each day to the catastrophic effects of landmines. Lives and communities are forever changed as a result. children and women, are losing their lives or limbs
It is now time for Rotarians to revisit their commitment to this worthwhile humanitarian cause. In keeping with this year’s Rotary theme – it is time once again for Rotarians “To Make a Difference”. ........
With a new Rotary year upon us we are asking clubs and districts to strongly consider supporting CLMF, an organization which has substantial and active Rotary representation.
Going forward CLMF’s efforts will concentrate its efforts on demining in Cambodia to make the most effective use of our funds. In Cambodia we have both state and local support for our initiatives, making contributions more meaningful, visible and lasting.
How can you help?
Consider a donation to CLMF as part of your International service budget.
Did you know that for as little as US$200 you are able to fund landmine clearing for a day – that’s another 100 square meters that are now safe to work, farm and play!!
Combine fellowship and “fun”raising by holding a “Night of a Thousand Dinners” Invite friends, neighbours, Rotaractors, Interactors as well as your club members. Use this gathering to not only raise money for a worthwhile cause, but also to build awareness and educate those in your community about the devastating effects of landmines.
Donations may be made as follows:
Online at WWW.CANADIANLANDMINE.org
Canadian Landmine Foundation
C/O LCMSDS Wilfrid Laurier University
75 University Avenue West
Waterloo, Ontario
N2L 3C5
NOTE: Tax receipts will be issued for donations of $20 or greater.
On behalf of the CLMF Rotary Subcommittee we thank you for taking the time to consider supporting our efforts.
Yours In Rotary,
Wilf Wilkinson Chris Snyder Gordon Dowsley Bob Butterill