Ian opened the meeting with an acknowledgement of the Indigenous Peoples of all the lands which we inhabit today. Ian suggested we save our voices for next meeting.
2.Today’s Speaker
Our speaker today was Michael Beuhler from the Regina Open Door Society (“RODS”). Michael was introduced by our Dustin who had gotten to know Michael through his own volunteering at RODS> RODS is a non-profit organization which helps immigrants to Canada who arrive in Regina to transition into the community. RODS has about 150 full time staff working through 4 main programs, namely Settlement Services, Employment Services, Language Services and Children Daycare. Most newcomers are helped at some point in their first 5 years here by which time most have integrated somewhat either through their church , employment or groups of common ancestry. RODS maintains a Mentor program through which volunteers from the community are invited to participate with a newcomer family. Our own George noted that newcomer could be guided into the health care system earlier than they appear to currently be. Newcomers who are attending post-secondary education are eligible to apply for Bursaries of up to 4 $2500 bursaries per year to support education costs. In responding to a question from our Jessica Michael will give some thought to how RODS might partner with our club. Anyone wishing to volunteer with RODS can contact Michael. Most volunteers hours occur outside of office hours. Anyone wishing to receive a “I Am Glad We Are Neighbours” sign can contact RODS.
3.Birthday and Anniversary Announcements
Birthdays: Our gone but not forgotten Grant Wasniak – May 3
Anniversaries – none this week – but our Mark wanted to note that his anniversary will be next week and would appreciate a fulsome turnout by the club to celebrate at our next in person meeting May 8.
4.Reports and Announcements
Jessica advised there is still room for 3 more for the tour of the Legislature May 15th and lots more room for dinner. Meet just inside the front doors of the Legislature building.
Ian reminded us of the work being done by Dustin and his team on our golf tournament and encouraged us to respond when Dustin or someone on his team approached us to help. Al Goudie related how he reached outside of Rotary and got an immediate response for a 4 some. Justin recommended trying people outside Rotary as often as reasonably possible.
Ian advised our luncheon options will be somewhat expanded to match Eastview’s luncheon options. Apparently we should look for the Cheese Sandwich which is an Eastview favourite.
Ian reminded us that Tuesday is our club day to volunteer at the Regina Music Festival and that our help is very much appreciated
5.Attendance by Zoom: 15 members; 1 Visitor Gary Carlson from East View Club;
6.Upcoming Meetings and Speaker
May 8 – Our Monica Totten – Early Childhood and Maternal Mental Health
Mar. 15 – No Meeting – Social Night
May 22 – No meeting – Victoria Day
May 25 – Joint Meeting in Person – Eastview hosting
May 29 – No meeting
7.Meetings participants – many thanks to:
Zoom Invitations : Mitch
Chair: Ian
4 Way Test: Russell
Report prepared and submitted by, Russ Hart, Captain Red Team.
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