Paul Harris Fellowship to Arie Vanderjagt
Members of the Rotary Club of Camrose honoured one of their own recently, naming long-time Rotarian Arie Vanderjagt a
Paul Harris was the founder of Rotary and Rotary Clubs have the opportunity to give a fellowship to someone in their area who exemplified the ideals of Rotary and who shares Rotary's commitment to world understanding and peace. It is the highest honour a club can bestow.
Arie has been part of the local club for many years, often serving on the executive (including a term as President) and always playing an active role in committees and projects. But it is because of his ongoing commitment to the club's motto of "Service Above Self" that Rotary chose to present this recognition, in celebration of Vanderjagt's enrichment of life in the club, the community and the world.
Due to his current health issues, the fellowship was presented by Rotarian David Stolee in a private visit to the Vanderjagt home.
Rotarians told Arie in a written message that (in part) "We honour your commitment . . .
to your family
as a devoted husband, father and now a grandfather!
to the family of Rotary and our club
your dedicated services as club president
your organization and enlivening of fellowship events
your trucks were always there and few worked harder at Big Valley
your skills at building for fundraisers, including playhouses and gazebos
your interest in young people and involvement with our exchange students
to the community
your membership on Centra Cam's Board and support of their work
your leadership in Habitat for Humanity builds
your talent in building sets for the Churchmice Players
and more, including chaperoning band tours and working on church renovations
to the business community
your integrity and commitment to service and quality
to the international community
your chairmanship of Rotary's International Service Committee
having your hair shaved to raise funds for the Colima, Mexico project
your travel to Mexico to help with the community projects
your support of other international groups and projects..."
Arie was reportedly "honoured, thrilled and overwhelmed" to receive this acknowledgement.