If you asked a Rotarian “what does Rotary do?” they might say something like “Rotary is a global network of community volunteers” or “We are 1.2 million neighbours, friends, and community leaders who come together to create positive, lasting change in our communities and around the world.”
All this is true but a few words or a one-page article in a newspaper would never cover the multitude of projects that are undertaken, nor the diversity of skills our members bring to our clubs. Our differing occupations, cultures, and countries give us a unique understanding and perspective. Our shared enthusiasm for service helps us accomplish the remarkable. Our motto “Service above Self” truly conveys our humanitarian commitment and spirit.
It is not surprising that The Rotary Foundation is one of the top three charities in the world. Using Rotary Foundation grants, Rotary’s 35,000 clubs across the world develop and carry out sustainable humanitarian projects and provide scholarships and professional training opportunities that promote peace, fight disease, provide clean water, sustain mothers and children, improve education, and strengthen local economies.
The Foundation is a worldwide leader in the efforts to eradicate polio through its partnership with the World Health Organisation and others. The Rotary Club of Bribie Island has a small dedicated team of 30 members, who work tirelessly to help resolve some of the world’s most enduring problems. For the last two years, our Club was honoured to be awarded the Lionel McCray Memorial Trophy for the Most Outstanding Club in our District. There are so many projects that we could work on but have to restrict our commitments due to the lack of human resources.
August is Membership and Club Development Month in Rotary and we are asking you to join us. Age is no barrier – nor sex, religion, creed, occupation, or political beliefs. If you have recently moved to Bribie Island and want to make new connections then we are what you need. If you want to make business connections then Rotary is the place for you. Or, if you just want to make a difference, Rotary might be the answer. It is hard to walk into a room full of strangers and you may ask yourself – Would I know anyone in Rotary?
Well yes, you will. Four of our members have featured in Neil Wilson’s “Islander Extraordinaire” articles and you will know many of us from our monthly markets in Brennan Park. Members come from all suburbs on the Island and Sandstone Point. We are a friendly group who enjoy fundraising. Please come and see how you, as part of the Rotary family, can achieve change and have the satisfaction of feeling you are making a real and positive difference to our World.
If you are interested in coming along to a meeting or just want to have a chat about how you can contribute, please ring our Membership Director, Greg Whymark on 0418 158 701 or Anne Matthews on 0409 244 005.
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