Folks,

Good day and happy new year. I hope all of you are doing well. Amid the lengthy COVID situation we are all navigating there is always good news. On behalf of the Trustees of the Rotary Foundation eight clubs in our district received special recognition and sincere appreciation from club members for their generous support of the Annual Fund.

The Annual Fund recognition comprised of clubs for who achieved:

 Special congratulations to the following Rotary Clubs:

To all our members, thank you for your support in serving Rotary to tackle the world’s toughest challenges, both in your community and across the globe.

                                             Point of Conversation / Something to think about.

If you have been in Rotary awhile, you accumulate items of clothing and pins which you not only wear while “Rotaring,” but in your everyday life. Such was the case during a non-Rotary event I was attending lately I was wearing my Rotary membership pin and this year’s theme pin “Serve to Change Lives.”

Sitting near me that day, a young man noticed my lapel pins and asked if I was in Rotary. “I sure am. Have been for years,” I replied. Boldly and with some animosity on his voice he asked, “Why would you want to do that?” Realizing his tone was more negative than positive, I replied,” because we are the world’s largest peacemaking and leadership developing movement in there is. We make a difference and create better and stronger communities here in the U.S. and around the world.

He looked at me and said, “tell me more.” My one sentence softened his tone. It planted a seed. I began to share my story. I told him how Rotary has made an enormous difference in my personal life and taught me the importance of selfless service to other people. Rotary provides an avenue for one to understand and think about the importance of truthfulness, fairness, goodwill, creating better friendships to all who concern you. I shared how I was honored to impact the lives of many of our youth through youth exchange programs, leadership conferences and volunteerism.

My story planted a seed and changed his thinking about life in general. I told him, “Rotary is everywhere, you just have to look for it in your community.” “Thanks for sharing. I didn’t know it had such a positive influence.”  What is your story? Are there opportunities where you can share your story?

If we want to grow Rotary by increasing membership, providing quality programs, creating safe and healthy environments, then a wonderful place to is by sharing our stories with others. Start the conversation and spread the goodwill of positive influences of Rotary we must honor to grow.

 

In cheerful service,

Steve Wilder

Governor