Special prayer by Dan Whitney: Invocation focused on compassion, service, and the mission of Make-A-Wish in supporting children facing critical illnesses.
Guests
Nikki Lyons Lahey: Make-A-Wish New Hampshire
Announcements
Board Meeting:
Monthly Board Meeting scheduled for Wednesday at 4:30 PM.
The agenda will be distributed in advance.
Greater Meredith Community Outreach Event:
Meredith Rotary will participate in the Greater Meredith community outreach event at the Community Center.
Approximately 22 nonprofit organizations participated.
Members were encouraged to volunteer for table coverage shifts.
Thank you, Jack Foster, for leading.
Rotary banners and display materials will be used.
July 4th Parade:
The club discussed participating in the July 4th Parade.
The plan is to borrow a golf cart from the Laconia club, attach Rotary banners, and distribute bubbles and other giveaways.
Members enthusiastically supported repeating last year’s successful “bubble machine” theme.
Respond to Bonnie's email if interested in participating.
Big Brothers Big Sisters Fun Run:
Reminder shared about the Gunstock one-mile fun run/walk benefiting Big Brothers Big Sisters on Sunday, October 4.
Bruce, Gary, and Harry are leading a new effort to create a comprehensive Derby operations manual.
The manual will document:
Procedures
Timelines
Volunteer responsibilities
Set up and breakdown processes
Ticket sales
Trailer assembly and logistics
The goal is to create a “living document” that supports continuity and helps onboard new members. Members applauded the initiative.
Scholarships: The club awarded $41,500 in scholarships this year.
Presentations
Make-A-Wish New Hampshire
Overview:
Nikki Lyons Lahey presented on the work of Make-A-Wish New Hampshire, which is celebrating its 40th anniversary this year.
The organization grants wishes to children ages 2½–18 battling critical or life-threatening illnesses throughout New Hampshire.
Key Statistics & Impact:
Approximately 90–100 New Hampshire children qualify annually for wishes.
Make-A-Wish NH currently grants a wish every 4 days.
Last year, the chapter granted a record 100 wishes.
Currently reaching approximately 75% of eligible children statewide.
Examples of Wishes Shared:
Backyard pool installation for a child named Colin. “Rainbow backyard” wish for Violet.
Ninja Warrior obstacle course for Evelyn following open-heart surgeries.
Highland cows for a child in Gilmanton.
Emotional Paris trip surprise honoring a child’s late father.
Importance of Wishes:
Nikki emphasized that wishes:
Give families hope and a positive focus during treatment.
Help children reclaim a sense of childhood.
Provide emotional relief for parents and siblings.
She noted many parents mistakenly believe Make-A-Wish is only for terminal cases.
Rafting for Wishes Event:
Meredith hosts the annual “Rafting for Wishes” fundraiser.
The event runs 24 hours on Lake Winnipesaukee.
Teams raise funds while participating in shifts aboard large rafts.
Volunteers and new teams are actively being recruited.
Event dates: July 17–18.
Community Partnerships:
Nikki praised the Lakes Region community for its generosity and support.
Meredith Police and local businesses were recognized for helping create memorable wish experiences.
Strong emphasis is placed on relationships, volunteers, and local donations rather than government funding.
Member Stories & Testimonials:
Steve and Kevin shared personal experiences involving Make-A-Wish and children facing medical challenges, highlighting the emotional impact on both children and families.
Happy Dollars
Gary Dehnel: Connie's restoration of a WWII-era “Mother’s Service Flag” that is now on display at the library.
Richard Gerken: Granddaughter graduating and attending Penn State for mechanical engineering and rugby.
Fred Strader: Birth of a grandson.
Chuck Thorndike: Recovery update for a family friend injured in a skiing accident.
Jim McFarlin: Much appreciation for Make-A-Wish and the evening’s presentation.
Kevin Kelly: Seasonal travel updates.
Winner: Gary Dehnel donated his winnings back to Make-A-Wish.
