As spring approaches, we're delighted to see Rotary blossoming throughout our District. Pat and I have enjoyed tremendously visiting all the Rotary clubs and nearly all the Rotaract clubs in District 5040. Some of the many initiatives and successes that we see at clubs are profiled on our website.
At our District Conference, April 28 to 30, we'll also learn more about how clubs succeed in connecting with communities.
Throughout the world of Rotary we are celebrating this March 13 to 19 Rotaract Week. Rotaract is an increasing and vital part of our District. Rotaractors are engaged in club initiatives, in working with Rotary clubs, Rotarians and community partners, and they're increasingly part of our District committee work.
This month marks the return of the first Rotary Youth Leadership Awards (RYLA) camps since COVID cancelations. RYLA South, at Camp Elphinstone, on the Sunshine Coast between Gibsons and Sechelt, takes place March 25 to 28, for 15- to 18-year-olds. Registration has closed, but Rotarians and Rotaractors may visit March 26 to learn more about this excellent leadership learning experience, but if you are planning to visit you must register by March 19. Clubs have received that information.
Our Rotary Foundation contributions continue to be impressive, thanks to the generous contributions and fundraising efforts from so many Rotarians and Rotaractors. Kudos to clubs that continue to plan dinners, walks, and other fundraisers, and continue to encourage members to support our annual fund, polio, and the several disaster funds that are currently open.
Learning opportunities continue this spring. Our club Presidents Elect have recently returned from their President Elects Training Seminar (PETS) and are working with their clubs to get ready for the next Rotary year. You can check the District calendar for other opportunities, notably the Foundation Grant Management Seminars coming soon, and then the “Rotary Conversations” (Year Ahead) planned for later in the spring in different locations.
John
John Berry
District Governor 2022-23