For over 150 years, the Carp Fair has been more than just a celebration of agriculture; it’s a community tradition that connects people across generations. Similarly, the Rotary Club of Kanata is committed to bringing people together through service, fostering unity and purpose both locally and globally. What connects them is a shared mission: creating spaces where people can come together, celebrate community, and make a lasting impact.
Kathleen Vermeer, a long-time resident of Carp and dedicated community member, embodies this sense of community. Her story is rooted in service, dedication, and an unwavering belief in the power of community. As a proud member of the Rotary Club of Kanata, she has expanded her service, and works tirelessly to amplify impact, particularly with local youth, in Kanata, Carp, and beyond.
Thank you Kathleen for taking the time for a quick ROK Q&A!
1. What inspires you to participate in community service and volunteer work?
"Growing up in a family that always encouraged giving back and being part of the community, it’s something that was instilled in me from a very young age. My grandparents were always involved in their church, helping out with fundraising and senior events. My grandmother often donated her time making sandwiches for church functions and funeral receptions.My mom was always involved in fundraisers for our kids’ teams and clubs, and now she’s on the board of her local Legion. My dad has always been the guy who would lend a hand, whether that was rebuilding a deck for a friend, helping someone move, or visiting friends in the hospital.I see this being passed down to my own daughter, as she donates her time, and also in my niece and nephews, who are now starting to give back by helping those who need it."
2. Why did you decide to join the Rotary Club, and how has it helped you expand your impact in the community?
"I wanted to be involved in a club that I felt listened to all its members, that respected each member, and treated them equally regardless of sex, age, or race. The Kanata Rotary does a lot for various charities within the community and internationally, and they support many of the causes that my family and I have been part of.We’ve raised funds for the Kanata Food Bank, and we’ve worked with the Cadets for tree planting and spring street clean-ups. The Wine and Chocolate event was a lot of work, but it was a great event. Our annual Music Trivia night is another amazing night, with fantastic mystery envelope prizes."
3. What would you say to someone who is considering joining Rotary or getting involved in community service but feels unsure about where to start?
"Service will take different forms for different people, and throughout your own lifespan, it changes. Start small and do what you feel is in your wheelhouse, and grow from there.You can be the quiet one who organizes the finances and does the graphics for the website, or you can be the person greeting people at the fair and hosting the event. Rotary has many different aspects within the organization, and there is something for everyone who wants to join in."
4. Why do you think it’s important for everyone to experience the joy of giving back?
"I think that doing something—even something small—for someone else gives you an energy that cannot be bought or replicated any other way. It’s the internal satisfaction of knowing you made a positive difference in someone’s life."
5. As someone who has seen the power of community service firsthand, what are your hopes for the future of our community?
"I hope this area will always be community-oriented and retain its inviting small-town charm. I hope that the residents of West Carleton and Kanata—or anyone from the general area—will join us in growing the club and strengthening the community. It’s a great place to live and work, and I hope it stays that way."
___
The Rotary Club of Kanata is grateful for members like Kathleen who truly embody the Rotary spirit of #ServiceAboveSelf.
Kathleen and other members of the Kanata Rotary are thrilled to be returning after a hiatus to the Carp Fair this year! We invite you to stop by the Rotary Club of Kanata booth to say hello, learn more about how you can get involved, and experience the joy of community service firsthand.
The Carp Fair runs at the Carp Fairgrounds, located at 3790 Carp Rd, Carp, ON, K0A 1L0. For more details on the schedule of events, visit www.carpfair.ca.
We look forward to seeing you there!