Rotarian friends,
Our new Rotary year begins July 1, and this is typically a time when we as Rotarians reflect on the accomplishments of our previous year and plan, with some sense of renewed excitement, for what’s to come. Our situation feels a little different this year, though, due to all that’s going on – a global pandemic, economic challenges, and the adjustment to a new “normal.” We are fortunate, though, that we stand together as Rotarians, “people of action” who use “passion, energy, and intelligence to make a difference in our local community and our world.”
Incoming Rotary International President Holger Knaack chose the 2020-2021 theme, “Rotary Opens Opportunities.” His words remind us that Rotarians choose to see the world through a lens of hope and work to “be the good.” Through our Rotary relationships, we have been finding ways to stay connected in online meetings and social get-togethers, through emails shared with Rotarian friends, and through personal texts and notes sent by mail. Although we are currently unable to serve the Rochester community in some of the ways we have in the past, we must challenge ourselves to adapt and participate in the many service opportunities available in our community. Because we are “friends, leaders, and problem-solvers who see a world where people unite and take action to create lasting change…,” and we must find ways to help rebuild our community going forward.
As Rotarians we can take comfort and have pride in knowing that we have already successfully responded to another devastating interruption in our world. Since 1988, Rotarians have participated both financially and through volunteerism to help prevent polio, reducing cases by 99.9%. Now, members of our organization are working, both locally and internationally to help find, fund, and implement efforts to reduce the spread of COVID-19, as well.
It is also important for all of us to realize that we cannot continue to support our local and international Rotary commitments without our ongoing financial support. Please watch your email inbox for your 2020-2021 Rotary Dues invoice. In order to help with cash flow and allow the club to better budget for expenses encountered throughout the Rotary year, preferred dues payment is by auto-pay. If you are not already using the auto-pay option, please complete the form, downloadable here, and return it to the Rotary office. Because Rotary International and District dues are invoiced in July, club leadership asks that all members make their 2020-2021 Rotary dues payment or auto-pay commitment prior to June 30, 2020.
I am grateful to you as a fellow Rotarian for your dedication to service and your commitment to an organization working both locally and worldwide to make a positive impact. I ask you to join me as we find new opportunities to serve. Despite our ever-changing world, together we can find ways to continue to make a difference around the world and in our Rochester community.
Yours in service,
Chris Colby,
2020-2021 President
The Rotary Club of Rochester
2020-2021 President
The Rotary Club of Rochester