Fellow Rotarian John Hayto highlighted plans for the Annual Whistler Ski Weekend, one of RCoV’s most anticipated fun fellowship events. Members were reminded that the weekend offers:

• A full schedule of optional activities, including skiing, snowboarding, snowshoeing, village walks, and relaxed social gatherings.

• Group dinners and informal meet-ups, providing time for members, families, partners, and guests to strengthen connections outside regular meetings.

• Flexible attendance options so members may join for the full weekend or individual events depending on availability.

• A continued focus on fellowship, with the weekend serving as an opportunity for both long-time members and newer members—to build relationships in a relaxed setting.

Further details regarding accommodation options, registration timelines, and meal arrangements will be circulated in the coming weeks.
Interested? Email Johnhayto@gmail.com

 

The Rotary Foundation

A detailed presentation provided by John Bathurst on November 25th provided clarity on how member contributions support Rotary's mission and create measurable impact worldwide:

• Global Service Impact:  Rotary Foundation support a broad spectrum of humanitarian initiatives including clean water and sanitation projects, maternal and child health programs, education initiatives, environmental sustainability, peace-building efforts, and ongoing disease prevention campaigns.  The Foundation also supports international scholarships and vocational training, helping develop future leaders committed to service.
• Distribution of Funds:
  • Annual Programs Fund (APF):  A significant portion of member donations flows into the APF, which finances global grants, district grants, vocational training teams, youth programs, and community-based projects.  These funds return to districts on a three-year cycle, allowing local clubs to access grants for projects they care about most.
  • Endowment & PolioPlus Funds:  Long-term gifts support the Endowment Fund, providing stable, permanent income that ensures Rotary can sustain major initiatives for decades to come.  The PolioPlus Fund, a flagship component, directs resources specifically toward global polio eradication - including vaccination campaigns, surveillance, and emergency response.
• Sustainability and Planning:  The foundation's three-year investment cycle means consistent, recurring donations are essential.  Predictable contributions allow Rotary to plan long-term projects, respond rapidly to crises, and maintain the stability of global programs.
• Member Engagement:  Members were encouraged to create or update their My Rotary accounts, which help track giving, simplify contributions, and open access to grant resources and learning tools.  This engagement strengthens each member's personal connection to Rotary's global mission.

• Go directly to "My Rotary" https://my.rotary.org/en and sign in
• Once signed in, click on the "Donate" button and proceed with your donation
• For annual giving, we recommend the Annual Fund Share, however, donations to Polio are welcomed

• Go to https://my.rotary.org/en/signup
• Use the same email account as used for all other Rotary communication
• Complete your information
• Last Step:  Sign into your new "My Rotary Account" as outlined above to make your donation.

 

 

This week, the Rotary Club of Vancouver welcomed Mayor Ken Sim for a dynamic fireside conversation moderated by Rotarian Jason Boudreau of VELA Wealth.
With 100 members and guests in attendance, the session offered a candid look at Vancouver’s progress, priorities, and preparations for global events ahead.

Some topics covered include: 

• Financial Recovery & Public Safety

Mayor Sim outlined the city’s significant financial turnaround, noting that reserves have grown from under 3% of revenues during the pandemic to 9.6% today. For the first time in over a decade, both the Vancouver Police Department and Vancouver Fire Rescue Services are fully funded. Despite inflationary pressures, property taxes remain at 0% increase, effectively reducing the burden on residents.

Public safety remains a cornerstone of the Mayor’s agenda. While violent crime is at a 23-year low, he emphasized that root causes—particularly mental health and repeat offending—require stronger provincial leadership. The Mayor reiterated ongoing advocacy for bail reform and mandatory care for individuals with severe mental health challenges.

• Local Business, Investment & FIFA 2026

Mayor Sim highlighted efforts to support economic vibrancy through streamlined permitting, improved public safety, and stable tax policy. Looking ahead, Vancouver will host seven FIFA World Cup matches, an opportunity he compared to hosting 30–40 Super Bowls. He emphasized the transformative economic impact expected for hospitality and tourism, and the importance of showcasing a safe, welcoming city to the world.

• Downtown Eastside & Community Well-Being

Mayor Sim outlined the City’s five-point strategy addressing the Downtown Eastside, including managing encampments, supporting mental health care, and curbing organized crime. He noted that more than 600 individuals have been identified as needing substantial mental-health intervention, underscoring the urgent need for enhanced support from the Province.

• Granville Entertainment District & City Reputation

In preparation for FIFA, Vancouver will allocate significant engineering and public safety resources to ensure the Granville Entertainment District is safe, vibrant, and visitor-ready—approached with compassion and without displacement.

• Looking Ahead

The Mayor confirmed his plans to seek re-election and emphasized the importance of civic engagement, particularly voter turnout. He concluded by thanking members for their commitment to the city and the community.