We were joined by Carolyn Ferguson, Senior Major Gift Officer from the Rotary Foundation.  Carolyn currently resides in St Albert and is a newcomer to Alberta. 

The Rotary Club of Red Deer has donated more than $600 000 to the Foundation since it was chartered in 1923.  We currently have 56 Paul Harris Fellows (12 of which are +8).  Three members are major donors. 20 members are currently working toward their first Paul Harris designation.  

The Rotary Foundation is rated as 4 by Charity Navigator.  This top rating indicates that the Foundation received top marks for financial transparency and efficiency. Over 90% of donations go directly to programs- gifts are maximized for real-world impact rather than administrative costs. 

Founded in 1917 by Arch Klumph, the Rotary Foundation uses donations to “do good in the world”, making donations part of a century long tradition of humanitarian service. 

Donations to the Polio Plus campaign are used in the efforts to eradicate polio.  Current efforts are concentrated in fighting variant strains that are emerging along with focused efforts in Afghanistan and Pakistan.  Donations are matched 2-1 by the Bill Gates Foundation.  Only $3 protects a child against polio.  The Foundation has a goal of donating $150 million each year. 

Projects are supported with local and global grants in all of Rotary's 7 focus areas.  These projects show sustainable results, and align with RI practice and criteria.  Our Belize Literacy Alive project receives global grant funding. 

All donations are invested for 3 years and the earnings are used to fund needs.  Members are also able to create an endowment, ensuring a permanent source of giving.  Legacy gifts can be named endowments that focus ona particular project or focus area.  

Carolyn shared that giving to The Rotary Foundation is more than a charitable act.   Contributions are used to create lasting change in communities worldwide.  Support helps eradicate diseases, improve education, alleviate poverty and promote peace- all of which make a difference in the lives of millions!   “We should not live for ourselves alone, but for the joy of doing good for others”  (Arch Klumph, 1929)

Gerry Winia joined Carolyn in presenting the following Paul Harris Fellowships. Congratulations to:

Rod Boshnick (initial), Steve Chow (+4),Judith McIntyre (+6)