I have visited 63 of our 64 District 5950 clubs! It’s inspiring how your clubs come together and continue living our Rotary motto, Service above Self. I have been moved by stories of Rotarians living our Rotary Vision: “Together, we see a world where people unite and take action to create lasting change — across the globe, in our communities, and in ourselves.”

 

Clubs creatively fund raise to support local and global causes. The Rotary Club of Springfield --
in a town of approximately 2,000 people -- sold over 500 bouquets of roses last week. This record-setting amount at an increased price generated their best fundraising year ever. The Rotary Club of Edina reimagined their annual gala this year, organizing small gatherings of 10 people or fewer.  Instead of 250 people in a ballroom, members hosted fellow Rotarians and guests at 14 gatherings that celebrated countries and cultures like Korea, India, Germany, and Morocco. Generous sponsors and club members raised more money than anticipated.  Springfield and Edina both raise funds to support local food shelves and other organizations that need our help more than ever this year.  

 

It has been wonderful to connect with many of you in our Zoom sessions with the YMCA and James White as we continue our discussions about Racial Equity: Creating a Better Story. I have heard how you are taking the material to your Rotary clubs and also your workplaces. In our club visit to the Rotary Club of St. James, we learned the club is reading the book White Fragility together. They use one meeting a month to discuss a chapter at their lunch tables. Club President Pam Steinle organizes discussion questions for the tables. In our YMCA Zoom sessions, one member reported using the lessons she is learning to lead discussions with the board of directors of her non-profit. Another member is using the material at her workplace to begin a racial equity program. I know these sessions will lead to lasting change in me and in our communities.  

 

After 63 club visits, I can honestly say, I am the luckiest District Governor EVER because District Governor-Elect Marianna Khauv and District Governor-Nominee Lloyd Campbell joined me at all of our club visits. Really, I think we are the luckiest district because we have these outstanding individuals leading the coming years!

 

Rotary continues Opening Opportunities for service, active learning and wonderful friendships!

Yours in Rotary Service,