Rotary Club Burlington Central
Bulletin for September 17, 2015
Submitted by Janet Canavan
This morning our meeting was chaired by Mike M. filling in for vacationing Bryce. Doug B. led the Anthem and the Toast, Catherine B. recited the 4 Way Test and Nancy B. introduced and welcomed our guests Brad Spencer (PATH), Agustina Perez Saucedo, Exchange Student, Charmaine Thomas and David Wood, guest of Karmel.
A few updates included best wishes for Marie C. who is on the road to recovery, Jim B. mentioned the Breakfast Program is “a go” again this year and helpers are required to complete the Food Serve Program online. David W. is determined to become active again and is seeking assistance from Club members. He extended a heartfelt thank you to Karmel S. and is keen to renew his membership. Welcome David.
Our sincere condolences are sent to the families of Ron L. and Owen M. on their recent losses. Dean provided an introduction to our recently arrived exchange student from Argentina- Agustina Perez Saucedo. Nancy B. provided an update on our outbound student and all signed a birthday card. Polio Plus Day is October 23rd and volunteers are needed. And, if anyone has ideas for the 4 Club Public Relations Committee, Mike would love to hear from you. Many Rotarians are, or will be, celebrating significant Anniversaries this year. Bill M. has enjoyed lots of holidays this summer. Dean R. is off to Europe for a wonderful trip including the opportunity to visit 4 former exchange students. Erik A. completed a trip to Idaho and Montana –the last two states on their American tour.
Roy C. introduced the guest speaker, Brad. He is a Rotarian with the Hamilton Club and came to share information about PATH Employment Services. His talk- Disability Yesterday, Today and Tomorrow- was a summary of this career with the Federal Government Employment Service, Goodwill Industries and currently with PATH. Historically, Mohawk College has assisted people with disabilities and Brad clarified through his presentation and discussion-that times have changed. There is still lots to accomplish however.
What does disability look like? It is very diversified. Actually the word handicap derives from “cup in hand”, “hand out”, “spare some change”. People seeking assistance come from all walks of life and experiences-physical, emotional, cognitive, and psychosocial. It is oftentimes the ability within that goes unrecognized. He drew our attention to the significant accomplishments of Albert Einstein, Helen Keller and Beethoven. There are many people in our communities with powerful stories and a need to be included in society. His message was clearly that accommodation helps everyone and there is a need for respect and to de-label. It is getting better.
One billion people in Canada are living with a disability, of those, 1.8 reside in Ontario. Due to the anticipated population explosion of the “baby boomer” generation, by 2036, it will be 1 in 5, with age being the #1 cause. By 2025 the goal is that Ontario will be totally accessible. The sooner the better. Lawrence L. thanked Brad and noted that the Club will make a donation to Polio Plus on his behalf.
Our meeting was adjourned.
