The Executive member sf the Interact Club presented a summary of 2018-9 activities. This included a major food drive for Knights Table; Vow of Silence day in solidarity with those who do not have freedom of speech, a simulation exercise based on WWII experience of internment camps by Japanese living in Canada (to further their knowledge of Canadian history); participation at the Rotary Club Christmas Party, distribution of winter outerwear to homeless folks through Toasty Toes program and even teaching Rotarians our motto in sign language. A group of students also went to Mexico on a Project Amigo educational initiative.
One student who was part of the indigenous multicultural exchange with a First Nation community in B.C. talked of the transformative experience – living in a small settlement in Bella Coola. The first part of the exchange was a visit of a group of 15 students to Brampton at March break. (The B.C. students came in our winter and experienced snow and cold – they are in a temperate area in B.C. which is not as cold as the GTA). Both groups were very appreciative of Rotary sponsorship and both are committed to continuing their relationships.
The students inspired Rotarians at the meeting with their very full and active achievements and received a standing ovation.
On behalf of the Club Carole Berry thanked Heather McPhail and Beth Jones , both busy teachers at Central Peel, for taking on the administrative and supportive responsibilities of the Interact Club and exchange. Both go far beyond in their commitment to the students and community. The students were congratulated on their achievements.
Rotarians are encouraged to support Interact and the Leadership Program at CPSS starting in the fall. There are opportunities for presentations to the Leadership Program. There is an opportunity to be part of Project Amigo as a chaperone. This week-long work trip to Mexico will be held during March break 2020. For more information contact Heather McPhail at Heathermcphail@hotmail.com