Jim Forestell was next at the lectern. He had the honor of presenting what has become an annual tradition at our Christmas meeting, the presentation of a Paul Harris Fellowship to a deserving individual from our community. This individual does not have to be a Rotarian. The following is Jim`s presentation:
President Bob, members and guests
Most of our members know that the Foundation of Rotary International was set up at Rotary`s 1917 convention, with a meagre donation of just $26.50. But the Foundation grew and in 1929 was able to make its first big gift of $500 to the International Society for Crippled Children, the organization which later grew into Easter Seals.
When Rotary founder Paul Harris died in 1947, contributions began pouring in to Rotary International, and the Paul Harris Memorial Fund was created to build the Foundation. This then led to the Paul Harris Fellowship, in which so many of our members are fellows. Since that first donation of $26.50 in 1917, the Foundation has received contributions totaling more than $1 billion. The goal for the last Rotary year alone was $300 million.
We Rotarians have a tradition of supporting the Foundation by honoring members and others with Paul Harris Fellowships. The Paul Harris Fellow recognition acknowledges individuals who contribute, or who have contributions made in their name, of $1,000 US to The Rotary Foundation. Presidents, astronauts, humanitarians and many others have been honored, and tonight the club’s executive is pleased to honor one of our members who has brought credit to the club and has made Charleswood a better place, simply by doing good in his community.
Alan Roberts, would you join me up here?
For many years Alan has represented the club in our responsibilities as Custodians of the Assiniboine Forest. He has been tireless in the quest to improve the forest, to determine its needs and to find ways to finance major and minor projects there. He has overcome the frustrations of dealing with governments and foundations, as well as troublesome weeds, and has spent many hours in the woods with little help.
Alan`s efforts in the forest have made us all look good, and it gives me great pleasure to present him with the multiple Paul Harris Fellowship pin. I know Alan will be proud to wear this symbol of recognition from the club he serves so well.
Please join me in thanking Alan for his efforts on our behalf.
Alan`s short, concise response to being given the Paul Harris Fellowship (Multiple), was “I am totally astounded, I did not expect this at all”.
