President Cathy Skene opened the meeting with the club's land acknowledgement and the singing of O'Canada led by Dave Morris.

Chair Announcements

First off, President Cathy dealt with her errors and omissions from last week’s meeting. An omission: She received an email from Doug Mckenzie to share.

Please express my appreciation for the wonderful Christmas card delivered by Lloyd earlier today. It was very nice to receive this during my convalescence at home.

I was well on my way to recovery six weeks ago from the second lung infection episode that had put me back into HSC. Sandie and I were doing a further 4 weeks of at home IV antibiotic treatments when I developed an abdominal abscess that had me readmitted to HSC once more 6 weeks ago. This most recent admission resulted in major emergency abdominal surgery.

I am now home again looking at 3 to 4 IV treatments per day for a further 6 weeks from now! For anyone keeping track, I have been in HSC for 12 out of the past 13.5 weeks. Sandie and I hope I am home for a long, healthy time after all this!

I have been reading the weekly bulletin trying to keep current with the club's activities. It does seem that club members are keeping busy with a list of projects.

Congratulations to Charleswood Rotary for a busy and successful year!

With Love, Doug

President Remarks

Last week President Cathy tried to share a short video of the unveiling of the Welcome to Charleswood sign, but her video refused to play. She showed a photo showing the sign. If you want to see the video ask her and she will show it to you on her phone. It was kind of fun to see the tarp come down exposing the sign.

And the error: Rotary was founded in 1905. And this is 2025. And President Cathy told us all last week that that means it’s Rotary’s 110th anniversary. Hmmm? Let’s celebrate the 120th anniversary. “Silly me, thinking that I could figure that out without a calculator.”

And if you looked at your December 2024 Rotary magazine you saw a familiar face: DG Peter Tonge being interviewed and photographed for an article on travel for folks with disabilities. And Peter should know: he’s been on the road a lot this past year. Jim Forestell noted that this is the first time that Winnipeg Charleswood has been mentioned in the international magazine. Let’s make sure it’s not the last. (See Rod’s happy Buck)

President Cathy has been asked to remind you to save can tabs, beer bottles and used postage stamps. You can bring them to any meeting. Dave Morris will then deliver them to Peter and Nancy. Can tabs are taken to Peter Tonge. They are sold to a recycler, and proceeds are used to purchase wheelchairs. Manitoba Possible provides what are called ‘day chairs’ to people who need them, but if you want a sports chair or other specialty chair to make life more fun, you need to buy your own. Chairs are very expensive. Thousands each. Tabs help cover costs for those who can’t do it themselves. Postage stamps go to Nancy Hansen. She then sends them on to a group in Australia who bundles them up and sells them to a stamp merchant. Proceeds are used to fund health and hygiene projects globally. Please keep the piece of the envelope that surrounds the stamp attached to ensure that it can be properly rescued. Beer cans are returned for recycling and proceeds go to Polio Plus. A few of the ways that you can help create magic in the world that don’t cost you anything except a few minutes of your time. Be sure to let friends, family and neighbours know that you will take their tabs and stamps off their hands. Cathy has been able to collect from a number of people who knew to save them, but didn’t know what to do with them.

And now a word from Joe Plntarics Former Executive Director of Tlicho Leagia Ts'iili Ko (former Rae-Edzo FC) of the Winnipeg Satellite Club, who has an offer that Cathy is certainly not going to refuse. Some fun in late January is always welcome.

Background:

• Joe recently moved from Yellowknife, Canada
• Previously lived in Winnipeg for many years
• Worked for 10 years with Tlicho Leagia Ts'iili Ko, Aboriginal group in the NorthWest Territories
• Currently working with Oak Table (oaktable.ca)
  • Established in 1981 at Augustine United Church
  • Provides services for under-housed and un-housed individuals
  • Supports people with physical and developmental disabilities

Key Information

• Event: Music to Warm Our Hearts
• Date: January 24th
• Purpose: Fundraising for food and amenities for those in need
• Performers include:
  • Echo Choir
  • Young performers Vaila and Roderick
  • Rotarians and a Rotaractor
  • A duo performance
• Tickets: $20 each
• Promises a lively evening with good music and fellowship

Joe expressed gratitude for being part of the Satellite Club and invited everyone to participate in the upcoming event, emphasizing its charitable purpose and the fun atmosphere expected. The meeting also included brief interactions about personal updates and community engagement, highlighting a sense of camaraderie among members.

Bridge of Hope Ukraine - Message from Mandy

Gratitude for Volunteers A heartfelt thank-you to all the volunteers who joined us recently! Your support has been incredible. With the 11 families we assisted on Saturday, we’ve now reached a total of 377 families supported since starting this project in October 2022.

Wrapping Up the Project As we approach the conclusion of this initiative, about 30 families remain on the waiting list. Some are returning for additional support, as their needs were not fully met during their initial visit. We plan to hold two or three more furniture drives before closing the project. The next furniture drive is scheduled for February 8th, and we’re in urgent need of donations for the store, which is currently nearly empty. Please spread the word and encourage people to visit bridgeofhopeukraine.com to contribute furniture.

A Special Moment from the Weekend Mandy had the privilege of joining Sandra and her daughter Riley for a furniture delivery to a family on Portage Avenue. This family, who recently arrived in the area, was living in a nearly bare apartment, with only an air mattress in their living room. Their gratitude was overwhelming, and the father expressed a desire to volunteer and help others. Moments like these remind us why this work is so meaningful.

Next Steps: Building Community To continue fostering connections, we’re organizing a social event to bring together the families we’ve supported. The goal is to help them build friendships and access other support networks. We’re also planning a volunteer appreciation dinner. Thank you, Gord Zacharias, for assisting in finding a venue—we’re considering dates in March.

Assiniboine Forest - Updates on Funding and Grants from Jack

On the financial front, we’re awaiting final payments for our ongoing projects, including $55,000 from the city and $20,000 from Trails Manitoba. Additionally, we’re applying for grants through the Winnipeg Foundation to support future initiatives, such as expanding trails or creating educational spaces.

There will be a board meeting on Tuesday, January 14, at 4:30.

This evening we welcome fellow Rotarian Eva Vida as our guest speaker. Eva is a long-time member of the Winnipeg Club and has served in many positions. She is currently the President of Rotary Foundation Canada, and is here to tell us about the foundation and its work. Eva shared insights into the foundation’s history, its global impact, and how it empowers Rotarians to make a difference. She highlighted the significance of the foundation’s financial transparency and its high ratings from independent evaluators, emphasizing its role in enabling projects locally and globally.

Flexibility in Contribution and Support

The Rotary Foundation offers multiple ways for individuals to contribute and support its mission. Whether through local initiatives or global projects, your involvement creates a ripple effect of positive change. Programs like the Bridge of Hope illustrate this impact by connecting local families with communities worldwide, fostering meaningful exchanges and support networks.

Global Outreach and Local Impact

The district has been actively involved in numerous projects, including aiding Ukraine through medical supplies and other essential services. While not directly managed by the foundation, programs like Shelterbox—an associate initiative—receive significant support from Rotarians, further demonstrating the organization's commitment to addressing immediate needs globally.

Funding Present and Future Needs

Rotary focuses on immediate, ground-level actions through current donations, but it also emphasizes planning for the future. The Endowment Fund plays a crucial role in this regard, ensuring the foundation’s ability to support new generations of Rotarians 20 or even 100 years from now.

The Endowment Fund: A Legacy for Generations

Contributions to the Endowment Fund are designed to last forever. The fund's principal remains untouched, with only the interest earned used to support projects. This ensures that the foundation's resources are preserved for future Rotarians to address the world's evolving challenges.

Professional Management of Investments

The fund is professionally managed by a team of 30-40 experts to ensure sustainable growth and security. Regular investment meetings, which include experienced professionals and Rotarians with financial expertise, ensure transparency and accountability.

The Multiplier Effect of Giving

Supporting the Endowment Fund not only secures long-term project funding but also increases the district's annual returns, enabling more impactful initiatives. For instance, the $30 million allocated for district grants is complemented by interest earnings, further amplifying the foundation's reach and effectiveness.

Supporting Future Rotarians Through the Endowment Fund

Contributions to the Rotary Endowment ensure that future Rotarians have the resources to pursue projects they are passionate about. Support can be provided in several ways, including outright cash donations or by designating the foundation as a beneficiary in your will. This can involve allocating a portion of your estate, such as 1% or 5%, to the fund.

Life Insurance as a Giving Tool

Another option is to designate the Rotary Foundation Canada as the beneficiary of a life insurance policy. It’s crucial to specify the correct entity—Rotary Foundation Canada—to avoid confusion. A dedicated life insurance policy for the foundation is another effective way to contribute.

Expert Guidance for Planned Giving

For those interested in exploring these options further, Carolyn Ferguson, a major gifts officer, is available to discuss planned giving strategies. She will be visiting on January 22nd and 23rd. If you'd like to meet with her, arrangements can be made by contacting the relevant organizer.

Recognizing Donors and Clubs

Donors and clubs are recognized for their contributions to the foundation, whether through the Endowment Fund, Annual Programs Fund, or the Polio Plus program. Participation, even with small contributions like $25 annually, is encouraged. In 2023–2024, 34% of Rotarians and 81% of clubs supported the foundation, demonstrating widespread commitment.

Paul Harris Fellow Recognition

Becoming a Paul Harris Fellow requires a contribution of $1,000 USD. Multiple Paul Harris Fellow status is achieved by additional $1,000 gifts to the Foundation. Consistent donations over ten years can elevate a donor to the Paul Harris Society. Members of this society contribute significantly, accounting for approximately 20% of the total donations to the Annual Programs Fund. Clubs can also earn distinctions, such as the “Every Rotarian Every Year” recognition, by ensuring all members contribute a certain amount.

Automating Contributions with Rotary Direct

Rotary Direct allows members to automate their donations, making regular giving seamless and ensuring consistent support for the foundation’s initiatives.

Online Donations: Simple and Flexible

You can easily make a donation to Rotary through their website at rotary.org. The process is straightforward and allows you to select the currency, such as Canadian or U.S. dollars. This flexibility ensures that donors can contribute in the way that works best for them.

The Convenience of Rotary Direct

For recurring donations, Rotary Direct is a convenient option. Contributions can be set up through a credit card or bank account with a minimum of $15 CAD. You can choose the frequency—monthly, quarterly, or annually—making it easy to align with your financial preferences. Supporting Rotary through Rotary Direct is not just practical; it aligns with the values of making a lasting impact.

Small Contributions Make a Big Difference

Even modest donations can have significant effects. For instance, $15 can fund life-saving polio vaccines, and $200 can provide livestock to a community, helping to transform lives. These contributions may seem small but have life-changing impacts on individuals and communities worldwide.

Your Club’s Generosity and Impact

Your club has demonstrated remarkable generosity. In the 2023–2024 period, contributions exceeded $6,600, including over $5,000 to the Rotary Foundation. This support has funded vital programs like Polio Plus. Additionally, your club has consistently had members eligible for the Paul Harris Society, reflecting a strong commitment to Rotary's mission.

Recognizing Sustaining and Paul Harris Members

Every Rotarian who donates a minimum of $25 USD annually contributes to achieving the “Every Rotarian Every Year” distinction. Sustaining members, who give $100 USD or more per year, play a crucial role in advancing Rotary’s work. These contributions not only provide individual recognition but also help clubs earn prestigious awards.

Measuring Your Club’s Economic Impact

Based on an analysis of member contributions, hours volunteered, and activities, your club’s annual economic impact exceeds half a million dollars. This estimate, which includes over 1,000 hours of work by the district governor, highlights the significant difference your club makes both locally and globally.

Global Impact of Your Support

Rotary donations have made meaningful impacts worldwide. Contributions have funded over 1,285 local and 485 district grants, enabling projects like providing clean water, delivering life-saving vaccines, and strengthening economies. From maternal healthcare in Nigeria to empowering students with disabilities in Korea, your support creates lasting change.

A Final Thank You

Your contributions are creating a ripple effect, empowering communities, and building a better future for generations to come. The Rotary Foundation raised over $417 million last year, reflecting the collective generosity of Rotarians like you. Together, we are making a profound difference worldwide. We are extremely grateful to Eva for taking time out of her busy day to spend the evening with us and explain how we can help the foundation.

Happy Bucks

• Caroline had a sad Happy Buck. Her dear Aunt Mary Cherry passed away last week at the age of about 92. The happy part is that Caroline feels so fortunate to have known her. She was the quirkiest, funnest, most lovely person. It’s always bittersweet, but she feels lucky to have known her.
• Rod had two Happy Bucks. Just returned from their honeymoon in New York. They were there for five nights and saw a lot. The other Happy Buck is more of a correction to an earlier statement “Buck”. His excellent memory reminded us our club was mentioned in the Rotarian magazine back in the early 2000’s (July 2002). He wrote a story that was published in a Chicken Soup for the Soul book, and it was about Rotaract. It was reprinted in the R.I. magazine. At that time, he was a member here, so the club was mentioned. Plus, it was about Rotaract.
• Chuck also had two happy bucks as well. He is still warming up after a ski trip to Falcon Lake. Also, he is happy to see that now when we arrive at Rotary at 5:15, it’s still daylight. The days are getting longer. Summer is coming.
• Eva was just happy to be here. Happy to see friends. She didn’t want to say “old friends” because that always ages her and everyone else—it’s not a good thing. But it’s great to be back with friends. Happy New Year to everyone. Thank you. Thank you.
• Alan is going to be away for a few weeks. He is going west to visit several familiar relations. His youngest daughter is having a baby in Canmore. His older brother is in Vancouver—actually White Rock. Neighbors from behind him, who lived behind him all the time his kids were growing up, have been living in Nanaimo for the last 10 or 15 years. He is looking forward to February and the rest of the year. He will go back again in April for most of the month. His youngest daughter is having her third baby.

Sarge Jack, had our guest Joe draw the winning ticket and lo and behold, Anya was the winner and she successfully drew the winning marble.

Next week we welcome Sonja Lundstrom and 3 guests, who will share information about the work of the Swedish Cultural Association Manitoba.

And that’s it for tonight. See you next week.

Ring Bell.