The convention brought together thousands of Rotarians from around the globe.
In June, Calgary, Canada, welcomed 15,000 Rotarians from around the world–including six members from the Rotary Club of Santa Barbara Sunrise–for the Rotary International Convention.
The event lived up to its theme, Magic All Around, and it also delivered inspiration at every interaction. Ideas were everywhere–in the Saddledome arena where featured speakers shared stories; in the Hall of Friendship where project ideas were at every booth; in workshop-style sessions; and in conversations over a cup of tea between activities.
Our club members brought home white cowboy hats and enthusiasm for the many ways we can unite for good. Ask Graham Sharp about Disaster Aid USA for District 5240. Ask E. Russell Smith about Group 8 Shark Tank. Ask Marjorie Woodruff about a ready-to-go literacy program. Ask Luz Maria Ortiz-Smith about preventing cervical cancer. Ask Liz Alves about a deliciously easy fundraising idea. Ask Boris Alves about a fire trailer that can be deployed in rough terrain, or a bike ride for peace between Goleta and Carpinteria, or combination solar and wind powered units that can be deployed for sustainable energy in remote areas, or why the convention’s land acknowledgment felt so powerful or… (He was very excited.)
Attendees got to hear from outgoing RI President Stephanie Urchick about The Rotary Foundation endowment nearing its $2.025 billion goal. And they heard from RI President Francesco Arezzo about what it means to be people of action in Rotary. Actress and Activist Geena Davis took to the stage to reinforce the importance of inclusion. And Katharine Hayhoe spoke about climate change framed by the Four-Way Test, urging attendees to have more conversations about the environment.
“My heart and my brain were full by the end of the convention,” Liz said. “Thank you to the club for supporting this trip, and I hope I can help you feel what I felt, which is that we have the potential to do amazing things together.”
Learn More
To explore more about the projects and service initiatives of the Rotary Club of Santa Barbara Sunrise, visit our website.
For a broader look at how Rotary District 5240 clubs are making a difference across our region, visit the People of Action website.
Rotary is an international leadership organization. It’s made up of local business, professional, and civic leaders. We meet regularly, get to know each other, form friendships and through that, we’re able to get things done in our local and worldwide communities. Rotary is a leader in the effort to eradicate polio worldwide, brings clean water and education to people in need, and promotes peace. The Rotary Club of Santa Barbara Sunrise was founded in 1985 and is a diverse group of 50 members. The club meets on the first and third Wednesdays at 7:00 am at the Santa Barbara Club located at 1105 Chapala Street in Santa Barbara. For more information, call (805) 884-6428.