Rotary International’s theme for 2011-2012 is “Reach within to embrace humanity”. One could take that and translate it into Rotary’s most basic philosophy of “how can we help”. As an organization of business professionals that does not take religion or political preferences into account when looking at different requests for assistance, we are able to get to the root of situations and do anything we can to ease suffering both within our local community as well as internationally.
The Rotary Club of Barrie has had a long tradition of taking a leadership role within our community. By providing guidance, materials or monetary assistance we have enhanced the lives of countless numbers of people within our region. Our commitment to the Royal Victoria Hospital, Georgian College, the YMCA and the Barrie Public Library is just a small sampling of how our club supports our local community as a whole. Individuals with more specific needs are also considered, and if possible, those needs are met. The environment has received greater attention from our club as we realize that this precious commodity must be protected. By joining forces with the Nottawasaga Valley Conservation Authority we have enhanced the local wetlands and provided funding to help educate people about protecting this resource. By planting numerous trees around the city annually, building the Rotary Islands in Kempenfelt Bay as well as diverting as much waste as possible from our own fundraising projects, we are attempting to not only make our city more sustainable but demonstrate the need for everyone to pitch in.
Rotary is an international organization and as such, the Rotary Club of Barrie also assists around the globe by helping to build schools and provide financial assistance so that students can attend those schools. We have helped provide fresh water where none was available by assisting people overseas to dig new wells. Certainly the largest international project is Polio Plus where Rotary has crossed borders previously closed, created cease fires so that workers could inoculate villagers and virtually wiped polio off the map. We are “this close” and we must not stop until the job is completed. Through our group study exchanges and student exchange program Rotary continues to promote international understanding and goodwill.
I would encourage everyone to participate in Rotary events such as the Kempenfest beer tent, Oktoberfest, the Fun Run or the Rotary Auction as these fundraising projects provide us with the means to do the work that is required both locally and internationally. Please remember that none of our fundraising revenue is used for administration, club organization or manpower requirements by our club members.
As a long time and active member the Rotary Club of Barrie, it is clear to me that the more you put into Rotary; the more you will get out of it.
Stuart McMillan
President
Rotary Club of Barrie