Bill Avery educated the group on the remarkable system of health care in the Province of Alberta. He dazzled us with facts and statistics that had us oohing and awing. As the scribe was patiently awaiting the sing-a-long at the piano, the only statistic he could remember was that there are 104,000 employees in Health Care in Alberta. We can boast terrific size ratings that go from there!!
Bill then lead us in “You gotta have skin”, the song of the day set to the tune of “You gotta have heart”. The fabulous lyrics were written by Allan Sherman and if you were not able to attend on Tuesday, you should really google the song and have a listen and a laugh.
Small Donations Committee Cornerstone Youth Centre
Carl Smith, of the Small Donations Committee, introduced donation recipient Jane Wachowich, Executive Director of Cornerstone Youth Centre. Jane is a corporate lawyer and former owner of four businesses, prior to taking on the ED role at Cornerstone.
Jane learned of successful solutions to youth problems in the projects of Chicago where she learned they need food, support and a safe place to go. She talked about how many kids have lots of challenges, particularly in the ages of 11-15 where they are most vulnerable. The challenges include lack of guidance or help, food, fear of criminal justice system and “something to do”. Cornerstone is a grassroots organization which has 150 kids registered. The program is free, within walking distance of home, has teenage mentors, music rooms and includes a “When I Grow Up” program.
The program operates on an annual budget of $150K in a rent free building where they have a ten year lease. They have ambitious plans to improve programing and break the cycle of poverty. It is making a remarkable difference with minimal resources.
Rotary Club of Calgary Olympic Starratt Family Foundation
Tara Johnson-Ouellette, of the Rotary Club of Calgary Olympic spoke of their support of an upcoming Gala in support of the research of neuro-muscular disorders. This initiative was launched after Rotary District Governor Starratt learned of his young son’s neuro muscular disorder. There has been little research or education and as a result, his family has established the Starratt Family Foundation to do just that. The foundation works closely with the University of Calgary Medical School. Tara invited us to attend the inaugural Touching A Nerve Gala, hosted by the Starratt Family Foundation in partnership with the Rotary Club of Calgary Olympic scheduled to take place October 3rd. Visit the web link below or contact Tara or the Olympic Club for details.
“Touching a Nerve”
Saturday, October 3, 2015
Cocktails & Appetizers: 5:30 – 6:30 pm
Program & Dinner 6:45 PM
Location: Sheraton Cavalier, 2620 32 Avenue NE, Calgary
Curling Anyone?
Garth Toombs announced that there are opportunities for more curlers on Thursday mornings for a mixed seniors curling club...
