At every Rotary International Convention, there is a huge trade show called the House of Friendship. Here there are booths and displays related to Rotary Clubs and District projects, Rotary Fellowships, Rotary Action Groups, Rotary licensed vendors and a variety of other Rotary and non Rotary related booths and displays. There are usually food vendors and a main stage for daily entertainment. You didn't have to go far in the Toronto 2018 House of Friendship to find some familar faces. Over at booth 702, "Helping Babies Survive", neonatal physician and member of the Rotary Club of Halifax, Dr. Doug McMillan had his club banner on display. With the sponsorship of the Rotary Club of Halifax and the support of the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP), the "Helping Babies Survive" booth sought to interest Rotarians (through their clubs and Districts) in this aspect of Maternal and Child Health with the potential for future global grants (or other cooperative activities).
The booth highlighted actions plans and had educational material and equipment available for “hands on” demonstrations. It also provided information showing “benefits” and how a Rotary Global Grant may be established. Please contact Dr Doug and/or the Rotary Club of Halifax if you or your club is interested in exploring project ideas for improving survival rates for babies around the world.
(This photo shows L-R Erick Amick from AAP in Chicago, 2017-18 District Governor Don Sword and Dr Doug McMillan at the "Helping Babies Survive" booth.)
The City of Summerside thought the Rotary House of Friednship at the Metro Toronto Convention Centre was a great place to showcase what their community has to offer to businesses and residents. So over at booth 1031, convention attendees were greeted by the smiling faces of Summerside Mayor Bill Martin as he invited them to "Come Grow With Us". They had brochures and give-aways including souvenir lobsters! :)Mayor Bill also happens to be an active member of the Rotary Club of Summerside and he was accompanied at the booth by fellow Rotarian Bruce MacDonald and Tara from the City of Summerside. Mayor Bill said that the booth at the House of Friendship was one of the best trade shows he had seen with very interested and engaged attendees. He said that they had been several very promising connections made during the days that the House of Friendship was open.
(photo L-R - Mayor Bill, Don Sword, Tara and Bruce).