On Monday evening the Bredgenorth Ennismore Lakefield Rotary Club celebrated the annual “changeover” meeting, a time to reflect on an incredible year of fellowship and service and to look forward to the year ahead. President Shannon Junkin reviewed the accomplishments of the year.
“The work of BEL Rotary continues to make a difference at home and across the globe” said Junkin. Local programs sponsored by the BEL Club this past year included (but are not limited to) the festive season “adopt a family” support for seniors, sponsorship of public skating, and the continued development and enhancement of Rotary Park and stewardship of the Bridgenorth Trail. Once again the club worked with children at the Shamrock Festival building bird houses, volunteered at the 150th Birthday celebration of Bridgenorth, the Chemong Lake Triathlon, the Chemong School Fun Fair and participated in the Lakefield Santa Claus parade where they won third prize! The club is actively involved in the eradication of Polio world-wide, supported Days for Girls, and the SOS Children’s Village in Penonome Panama with provisions including appliances, cooking wares and utensils and school supplies.
Once again the club hosted a very successful Polar Plunge, raising in excess of $50,000 to support the work of BEL Rotary as well as local charities.
President Shannon finished by sharing her own story of how she became a Rotarian. A former Rotary Exchange student she knew that Rotary was in her future. Where she located in the Bridgenorth area she visited the BEL Club and found the feeling of family and connection she was looking for. She has been a valued member since.
President Shannon was thanked by the club for her outstanding leadership and commitment this past year. “Shannon has brought energy, new ideas and a sense of dedication to the club”, said Courtney Usborne. “As well as service she has focused on the members of club, ensuring they feel a sense of belonging and know they are cared for and appreciated. She truly reflects the Family of Rotary”.
In recognition of her service, Junkin was presented with a Paul Harris Fellow. The Paul Harris Fellowship was established to recognize contributions of US$1000 to the Rotary Foundation, either by individuals or on behalf of individuals. Funds from the Rotary Foundation support programs at home and around the world to make lives better. Locally, foundation dollars have helped the fund the Adopt a Family Christmas Program, food sustainability and the purchase of books promoting peace and conflict resolution that were donated to local schools.
President Shannon will serve one more year as president. Thank you Pres Shannon and congratulations to the BEL Club on a very successful year!