Bob Cranch a Paul Harris recipient

Bob Cranch was named a Paul Harris Fellow at a special Paul Harris Dinner on Monday Oct. 15. PP Warren Rasberry spoke at length about Bob's contribution to the club. Bob was speechless, literally.

Norm Bindon regaled us with the story of Paul Harris, an ordinary man who accomplished great things and a brief history of the Paul Harris Fellowship.  This Fellowship was created to recognize and honour Rotarians and non-Rotarians who have made significant contributions doing good in the world.

Bob's history of service in our community includes Parks & Recreation, the Life Saving Society, and the Brampton Curling Club.  As a member of our Rotary family, and a Past-President, Bob has been giving his guidance on the Bingo, the Glen, our Strategic Plan and is now helping the District develop and implement it's Strategic Plan.  Bob is always willing to lend a helping hand.

 

 Congratulations Bob. Well deserved.

Earlier in the evening Bob provided a  detailed presentation on our club's involvement in community over the past 70 years as well as our plans for a sustainable future moving forward, utilizing the Service Above Self Fund at The Brampton and Area Community Foundation.  Click on the presentation to view it.

Bob outlined the history of our club's fundraising efforts and our decision to look for a continuing gift to our community through our involvement with the Brampton Area Community Foundation. 
 

Following the presentation, President Denis Stephenson made a cheque presentation in the amount of $300,000 to Jim Boyd, President and CEO of of The Brampton and Area Community Foundation. The money will go to our club's Service Above Self Fund and provide a sustainable revenue stream to fund Rotary's work in the community.

Jim Boyd  informed us that since the BACF's inception ten years ago, the portfolio has grown to $6,800,000 and a total of $2,500,000 has been granted to charitable services.  There are 75 fundholders and 300 grants have been given to charitable service organizations. 

 Our celebration was hosted by Tim Lockhart, the emcee for the evening.  After a beautiful rendition of “Oh Canada!” by Dorean Boss, we heard from James Ramsbottom representing the club's International Committee.  James outlined a couple of the international projects that our club has been involved with.  The first project qualified for a Rotary International Matching Grant.  With Rotary International we were able to provide thirty water purifiers in India.  A second initiative involved the City Centre Rotary Club from Mississauga.  Funds were donated for a neonatal ventilator in the only public health care hospital in Alexandria, Egypt.