It’s customary for a Rotary president in the final month in office to recap the past year on this page, and I am proud of all we have achieved together. But I want to focus on our future, and that begins with polio.
We have reached an astonishing 3 billion children with the polio vaccine, and we have averted an estimated 20 million cases of paralysis. But it’s not enough. We must continue supporting the End Polio Now campaign to reach zero cases and keep our promise to the world’s children.
Polio is not our only global commitment. In fact, Rotary has been working toward global peace even longer. Spreading Positive Peace through service projects and Rotary Peace Centers around the world is more important than ever.
A MESSAGE OF RECOGNITION AND GRATITUDE FROM THE ANNUAL FUND COMMISSION - DISTRICT 7030
Dear Rotarian friends of District 7030,
As we reflect on the accomplishments of the past Rotary year, I am extremely proud and grateful for the unwavering dedication and generosity shown by each and every one of you in District 7030 in contributing to the Annual Fund.
Your selfless donations have strengthened our efforts to promote peace, fight disease, provide clean water and sanitation, save mothers and children, support education, boost local economies, and protect our environment. That's the real impact we're having in communities around the world, thanks to you.
In a world that often faces immense challenges, our Rotary family is a beacon of hope and compassion. Your contribution to the Annual Fund allows Rotary to fulfill its mission to do good in our district by positively impacting lives and bringing hope where it is needed.
Thank you for your dedication, passion, and belief that Rotary has the power to make a difference. Together, we are moving towards a better world, and it is thanks to your selfless support that we can look forward to even greater achievements in the future.
We will publish at the end of the month the list of the most generous clubs. There is still time to contribute
.
Special thanks to all the members of the Annual Fund Committee.
With all my gratitude,
Dr. Sharon Cordner
Responsible
Annual Fund Commission - District 7030
CLUB PROJECTS
ROTARY CLUB OF PARAMARIBO QUOTA DONATES CHECKS TO 21 SOCIAL INSTITUTIONS
On June 7, 2024, a special ceremony took place at the Waaggebouw: the yearly presentation of checks by the Rotary Club of Paramaribo Quota to 21 social institutions. This event was organized to celebrate the service club's third anniversary. The total amount donated, USD 34.192, -, was raised from the proceeds of the Quota Men Cook Out 2023.
The Power of Service
The Rotary Club of Paramaribo Quota is renowned for its commitment to the community. Each year, the club organizes various activities to raise funds for projects benefiting a wide range of groups, including children with special needs, women in need and senior citizens. The largest and most well-known fundraising event is the Quota Men Cook Out (QMCO). During this event, men from Suriname and abroad prepare delicious dishes, which are then sold to support the club.
The supported Institutions include foundations for youth, children in need, homes for senior citizens, school children with special needs, foundation for women, the Salvation Army, homes for childcare, Association of Pediatricians Suriname, Autism Talent Development Center.
Allocation of Funds
The donated funds will be used for various essential supplies and projects, including:
purchase of tablets, mobile phones; renovation of kitchens and kitchen equipment; hairdressing courses for young people; installation of drip systems and garden materials; completion of laundry and drying spaces; purchase of wheelchairs and artistic materials; lighting and sanitary facilities; household appliances; senior day care activities and youth workshop equipment; computers, printers, and projectors for community work and homework assistance; sewing machines and lock machines.
Sources of Income
The Rotary Club of Paramaribo Quota generates its income primarily through fundraising activities, with the Quota Men Cook Out being the most prominent. This annual event, till now, held at the Torarica Pier, attracts more than 4,000 visitors and about 200 cooks. Additionally, the club receives donations from companies, individuals, and foundations for its projects.
Impact of the work of Rotary Quota
The presentation of these checks is an example of the impact service clubs like the Rotary Club of Paramaribo Quota can have on society. Through collective efforts and a deep-rooted dedication to the well-being of others, we succeed in bringing about positive and lasting change in many lives. The ceremony on June 7 not only marked the celebration of the club's third anniversary but also celebrated selfless service and the power of community.
ROTARY CLUB OF DEMERARA DISTRICT 7030 GRANT WASH PROJECT
In May 2024, the Rotary Club of Demerara (RCD) visited the community of Smith’s Creek in Region 1, Guyana, to complete our final water and sanitation project for this Rotary year.
Thanks to a Rotary District 7030 Grant and the assistance of Pastor Sherman of Smith’s Creek, RCD was able to provide access to safe drinking water to this community of approximately 90 households, comprising a population of 400+ people. Last year, we were able to do the same for the community of Imbotero and we are thankful to the District for allowing us the ability to further expand this initiative this year.
We were also fortunate to have the company of PP Ronald Burch-Smith from RC Garden City, who is Chair of the District Grants Sub-Committee. He was an honourary Demerara Rotarian for the weekend and we were happy that he was able to be a part of this adventure!
With the grant funds, ninety (90) filters and buckets were purchased, the buckets were cleaned and prepared and filter setup was tested in Georgetown. Rotarians then travelled more than 400km via land, water and air from Georgetown to deliver, assemble and demonstrate proper use and maintenance to the Smith's Creek residents. Further, Rotarians taught the residents to assemble the filters and they were able to learn so quickly that they assisted in setting up the remaining units for the Village.
The filters, purchased from Sawyer Products Inc, have been successfully utilized throughout the world in impoverished communities to provide residents with safe drinking water. The filters are small, easily portable, and can be attached to a standard faucet tap or hose spigot. Water can be stored in a simple 20L bucket. Filters are capable of filtering more than 500 gallons of water per day, and proper use and maintenance of the filter will allow for this filter to be used for 10+ years.
Thank you to Spads Inc, Repsol, Queensway Security Service Inc. and to all of the friends of Rotary who share our passion for making the world a better place and continuously assist us in making a difference!
For the first time ever, all of Aruba's service clubs joined forces to carry out a hands-on project, called "Together We Serve" at Ambiente Feliz on Saturday, May 25, 2024. These are the Aruba Rotary Club, the Aruba Kiwanis Club, the Palm Beach Aruba Kiwanis Club, the San Nicolaas Kiwanis Club, the Aruba Lions Club, the Aruba One Happy Island Lions Club, the Aruba Women's Club, Aruba International Quota.
The Stichting Ambiente Feliz, a foundation for people with intellectual or multiple disabilities, was founded in 1986. We offer residential care and daycare. The foundation consists of 2 locations; Cas Curason is located in Santa Cruz and focuses on supporting clients to become more independent by teaching them new abilities. Cas Briyante is located in San Nicolaas and offers care for people with multiple disabilities. With the help of professional caregivers, we aim to provide our customers with a better quality of life.
During the "Together We Serve" project, Cas Curason's building was painted and maintained, while guests took a bus trip around the island.
ROTARY CLUB OF GEORGETOWN CENTRAL LAUNCHES WELLNESS SPACE IN THE NATIONAL PARK
In observance of Mental Health Awareness Month, the Rotary Club of Georgetown Central on Saturday, May 25, 2024 launched a specially designated Wellness Space at the National Park – which was preceded by a Fitness Walk. This initiative is consistent with the Park’s development and Zone Plan and is in keeping with Rotary International and the District’s mandate for Clubs to support the thrust towards mental health awareness.
Guest Speaker for the event, Dr. Shivannie Persaud, of the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation and the Family Health and Wellness Clinic, shared valuable insights on general health and wellness. She emphasized that mental health awareness is part of an ongoing effort to reduce the stigma around mental illness and mental health conditions. She also highlighted the positive impact of regular exercise on mental and emotional well-being as well as the importance of a healthy lifestyle that includes relaxation and adequate sleep.
Green ribbon pins - a symbol of support for mental health awareness - were shared with the participants to raise awareness of mental health and break the stigma.
The Rotary Club of Georgetown Central is dedicated to continuously enhancing the Wellness Space, creating a more serene and rejuvenating environment for our citizens to relax and reconnect.
EDITOR'S FAREWELL
Dear Rotarians of District 7030,
As I bid farewell to my role as Assistant District Secretary, I wanted to take a moment to express my deepest gratitude to each of you for the incredible journey we've shared together. Serving alongside such dedicated and passionate individuals has been nothing short of inspiring.
Throughout my tenure, I have been continually amazed by the impact our district has made on communities far and wide. From our impactful projects to the meaningful connections forged, each experience has reinforced the true spirit of Rotary and its commitment to service above self.
I am particularly grateful for the support and guidance I've received from each of you. Your wisdom, encouragement, and unwavering commitment to our shared goals have been instrumental in shaping my journey within Rotary. Together, we have tackled challenges, celebrated successes, and strengthened our bonds as Rotarians.
As I move on to new endeavors, please know that the memories we've created and the lessons we've learned together will forever hold a special place in my heart. Rotary District 7030 is not just an organization; it is a community of like-minded individuals dedicated to making a difference, and I am honored to have been a part of it.
Thank you once again for allowing me the privilege of serving as your Assistant District Secretary. It has been a true honor and privilege.
