Year End Message from District Governor Donna Barrett
During the past year, it has been my pleasure and an inspiration to meet so many wonderful Rotarians and Rotaractors who have embodied our theme Serve to Change Lives. As I visited clubs, I had the opportunity to appreciate first-hand Rotary’s capacity to bring together diverse and talented leaders who take collective action to bring lasting change in our communities and across the globe.
Your actions this year impacted the success of your club and our district. You contributed to Rotary’s quest to promote diversity, equity and inclusion by demonstrating open, collaborative and welcoming attitudes. You have been flexible- reaching out to meet people where they are, creating hybrid meetings and looking for ways to maintain Rotary connections. You have remained keenly aware of community needs, adjusting how you provide service, building on established community connections and exploring new opportunities for partnership.
In a world that needs to build good will and better friendships, you have supported global grant scholarships, youth exchange and embraced becoming Peace Builder Clubs. You have been forward thinking, seeking ways to increase our capacity to empower girls and sustain our environment.
Rotary generosity has continued throughout the year. Contributions to the Foundation are strong and will support our ability to do good works locally and internationally into the future. We can all be proud of how we are collectively responding to the humanitarian crisis in Ukraine. Rotarians contributed generously to the Ukraine Disaster Response and supported partner organizations such as Shelterbox. Collectively we have successfully accessed a Global grant to purchase a centrifuge to increase capacity for use of donated blood in Ukraine. Close ties to the Ukraine have enhanced the impact of our support in unique and meaningful ways.
Thank you to everyone who participated in our Better Together District Conference in May. Feedback identified fellowship, networking and the opportunity to hear inspirational speakers as highlights. 87 percent of those who provided feedback indicated that they felt more connected to Rotary as a result of their participation.
I wish to extend my gratitude to you for your continued commitment to Rotary and Rotary service. I look forward to supporting incoming District Governor John Nicoll as we Imagine Rotary and to meeting incoming RI President Jennifer Jones when she visits Edmonton on July 9, 2022. I invite you to join us.
Wishing each of you a relaxing summer filled with fun and special times with friends and family.
Yours in Rotary Service,
Donna Barrett
District Governor 2021-2022