CrossRoads Church was originally located in Oriole Park and then a new location was built in 2003 at the current location in Red Deer County.  The large spaces made it a popular place for community organizations and schools to hold events and concerts.   

Crossroads is doing great work in our community and beyond, and this was a chance for us to learn about a like-minded organization making a meaningful impact. 

 

Tracy Minke, pastor of outreach missions, shared details of supports being provided in Uganda to enable high school school students to attend school on a regular basis, focus on academics and not have to travel long distances to do so.  Scholarships to universities are also available.  Haiti is the site of an technical school that encourages students to remain in school and learn valuable life skills.  Of particular interest to many our members was the Savings For Life Group projects in Rwanda where access to savings and loans possible for the most poor and vulnerable – those individuals (largely women) where traditional microfinance loans are even too large.  Group members discover that they already have the resources necessary to advance their lives and those of their children; basic money, time, and group management skills are extended throughout the entire community; members are helping other members.  It was encouraging to hear that projects are  focused on empowering others, becoming self-sustaining, and address needs identified by the community.  

CrossRoads also works in partnership with many local community organizations.  Focus is placed needs such as supporting vulnerable youth, single parents, those experiencing domestic violence and food insecurity.  Connections are made through the OutReach Centre, Julietta's Place, Dragonfly Centre, Hope Mission, and countless others. 

 

Robert Lampard shared that CrossRoads Church was a key player in the Rotary Water School Project that provided many schools and communities with the ability to sterilize water for drinking, using the power of the sun.  Rotary provides guidelines for the types of projects that are supported. These projects should aim to address community needs and align with Rotary's service priorities, which include promoting peace, fighting disease, providing clean water and sanitation, saving mothers and children, supporting education, and growing local economies.

 

It was clear that CrossRoads has a similar philosophy toward supporting communities both locally and internationally to Rotary.  We thank them for sharing information about how they also support others. 

 

A tour of the building was also held after the meeting and those in attendance all agreed that it was a wonderful facility and well set up for their outreach programs and use by organizations such as AHS, school communities looking for concert spaces, youth groups, and for weddings. Members also tried some of the features.

 

Darcy Mykytyshyn hosted the meeting held at CrossRoads Church.  Thanks were extended to Dwayne Holland, executive pastor at CrossRoads Church, for offering the space  for this RoadTrip meeting.  Debbie Valyear was Sarge. 

 

We welcomed guests from CrossRoads and from the various community agencies that are supported by CrossRoads outreach programs. 

 

Dagmar Knutson and her table were eager to eat first so led all in the singing of our national anthem.

 

Dagmar Knutson: Reminders re the 5th Annual Rotary Branches Out tree planting day to be held Saturday, May 31 at McKenzie Trails.  

Leigh Sands: Greetings to all who celebrated Mothers' Day yesterday.  Encouraged members to check out the Dress For Success event on Friday May 20. Join them as a panel of local community and business leaders to share their experiences and insights around leadership, growth and why giving back matters. Success Stories’ mission is to create a vibrant and supportive community that thrives on mentorship and collaboration. Together, we can lay the foundation for a city that truly champions each other. https://visitreddeer.com/event/success-stories-unplugged/

Dick McDonnell: Enjoyed a lunch at Zainab's Coffee House with Jerry Pasman.

Dawna Allard: Enjoyed the recent family time with many members present.

Dwayne Holland: Grateful to have his wife celebrate her first Happy Grandma Day yesterday. 

Debbie Valyear: Commented on the wonderful remembrances that were expressed at Kent Dorland's recent memorial service.  How great to have so many caring friends.

 

Gerry Winia still has open spots available to  work a shift at the Casino on July 14 and 15.  This event is a great fundraiser for our club and our turn has finally arrived!  Contact Gerry to pick your shift. Our new District Governor, Manon Mitchell,  will be in attendance at the meeting on July 14- maybe she will take a shift!

 

 

We will be having 3 Belize members of the Literacy Alive team here during the week of June 23-28.  They will be speaking at our meeting on Monday June 23 and sharing their experiences of the project with this club.  

Darcy Mykytyshyn, international service chair, is organizing a side trip to the Ponoka Stampede on June 26 that club members can join.  Please watch for more emails from him regarding that opportunity. 

 

Sawback's Brewing Company was a great location for the recent Rotary After 5 event.  The food was great, the music uplifting, and the conversation engaging.  Make sure you mark the 2nd Thursday of each month to attend- come for a little chat, come for a longer visit, get to know fellow club members.