On October 28th we were joined by 7080 District Governor Suzanne Zbinden who presented on her vision and strategic direction for the District.
Vision and Strategic Direction
Suzanne Zbinden has already visited 31 of the clubs of the District (over 60%) with aspirations to complete her tour before the year is complete.
She opened with a personal story linking Rotary’s impact to her fellow Rotarian husband Richard’s life saved through a Rotary-related event, underscoring the deeper purpose of Rotary service. Any Rotary event, any Rotary action, any Rotary project, any amount raised has the potential to change, improve or save a life.
She framed her role as District Governor as a way to give back for that life-saving benefit.
The theme for the year is “Unite for Good,” encouraging clubs to collaborate with other organizations to amplify community impact.
Suzanne urged clubs to try at least one new and creative project or event this year to grow visibility and engagement, stressing learning from both success and failure.
She recommended clubs enter and track and continually review and revise membership and fundraising goals in Rotary Club Central to maintain long term focus and adaptability.
Suzanne highlighted the importance of succession planning and the risk of district dissolution or realignment if membership numbers fall below critical levels, stressing the importance of growth.
She introduced the idea of companion clubs for members unable to attend morning meetings, providing flexible membership options.
Foundation Fundraising and Legacy Giving
Suzanne emphasized the importance of supporting the Rotary Foundation with a goal of at least $100 USD annual donation per member to sustain district funding and grant programs.
She announced a matching challenge by herself and her husband: up to $25,000 in cash donations and up to $500,000 in endowment contributions matched for the year.
The last million-dollar campaign was about 6–7 years ago; a new campaign is planned to boost contributions through cash, bequests, insurance policies, and stock donations.
Suzanne encouraged legacy giving via wills as a painless way to support Rotary’s long-term impact.
She offered to connect members to resources and contacts for major gifts and foundation support.
Upcoming Service Opportunities
The district will participate in an Epic Day of Service on May 16, 2026, aiming for broad club involvement in community projects worldwide.
Over 36,000 Rotarians across 7 countries and 21 districts are expected to take part.
Projects can vary widely, including tree planting, river clean-ups, and shredding days.
The club is encouraged to register and plan activities around this date to increase visibility and community impact.