We're celebrating International Women's Day on March 8. March also is Water, Sanitation and Hygiene Month.
Rotary is filled with inspiring men and women! But it wasn't very long ago that Rotary was only open to men. The 1989 Council on Legislation vote to admit women into Rotary clubs worldwide remains a watershed moment in the history of Rotary. Women Rotarians are now serving their communities in increasing numbers and serving in leadership positions across Rotary. I am proud to be a woman in Rotary and honored to be able to lead District 6380 as its current Governor or as I like to say, your “CEEO Chief Encouragement and Excitement Officer." Let's recognize all women who are making a difference in our world by celebrating International Women's Day on March 8. Then on March 24, join in honoring Rotarians by attending our InspireX Speaker Series event, "The Impact of Women in Rotary."
In March, we also acknowledge Rotary’s commitment to creating healthier communities by supplying clean water and sanitation facilities which help prevent the spread of infectious diseases. Clean water is a basic human need but one that many individuals are denied. There are 2.5 billion people in the world who lack access to improved sanitation and 748 million people who don’t have clean drinking water. Access to clean water enables people, especially children, to live healthier and more productive lives. Sadly over 3,000 children die each day from diseases caused by unsafe water. Fortunately, Rotarians recognize the need for potable drinking water sources and reliable sanitation systems. This recognition is what motivates us to build wells, install rainwater harvesting systems, and teach community members how to maintain new infrastructure.
Did you know that Rotary has a Water and Sanitation Action Group (WASRAG) which is an association of Rotarians from around the world who are dedicated to this area of service? Members of a Rotary Action Group conduct hands-on, global service projects that advance the objectives of Rotary International.
Other important March events include the annual Great Lakes President Elect Training Seminar (PETS) held in Kalamazoo on March 10-12. Our Presidents-Elects attend this mandatory seminar which assists them in preparing for their year as club president. If you are a PE and have not yet registered, act now! There are only a few days left to register.
And, don't forget to register for our upcoming District Conference Celebration being held in Novi, MI on May 20 and 21. This year, my focus has been to Engage, Exciteand Have Fun and our Conference will be no different. You’ve worked hard to be innovative and have adapted to this prolonged pandemic by re-inventing how you "do Rotary." Let’s celebrate your successes together! Space is limited so don't delay. All those who register by March 15 for the Full Conference Package will be entered into our drawing for a $50 cash prize! Register: District Conference
Exciting Upcoming District-Supported Events
March 10-12: Great Lakes PETS (Incoming President Elect Training Seminar)
March 24: District 6380 InspireX Speaker Series, “The Impact and History of Women in Rotary”
Coming in April
April 3: The District Interact And Peace Committees present "Interact Day of Peace," a virtual conversation with youth about how they can become peace builders in their schools and communities. Register now at: Interact Day of Peace
April 23: All Member District Workday supporting Rotary's seventh area of focus, our "Environment" at Willow Run Acres in Ann Arbor. Plan to get your hands dirty supporting a great cause – WooWoo!!
Ongoing
Our District Peace Committee is taking Peace on the Road. Learn how your club can become a Peace Builder Club. To schedule a presentation, contact Committee Chair Marcia Lane (mlane0407@gmail.com)
Our new District DEIJ Committee also wants to schedule club presentations. To book a presentation for your club, email the committee at:RotaryDEIJ@gmail.com
Important Reminders:
What's coming up in your club? We want to hear! Share your club's events by posting on our District Facebook which expands our social media presence and informs everyone in the Districthttps://www.facebook.com/groups/rotarydistrict6380
Looking for a guest speaker? Check out our District Speaker list on the District 6380 website. https://rotary6380.org
The world needs Rotary! Our District, our communities and the world need your support more than ever. It is my hope that, together, we will continue to Engage, Excite and most importantly HAVE FUN! "WooWoo"!!
Foundation Highlights
Increased awareness and donations for The Rotary Foundation through seminars, club communication and the Foundation Gala
Increased PolioPlus awareness and donations (this was the largest single year since 2012) through club events and district presentations
Our District, Clubs and Members rallied and united in giving to Ukraine humanitarian efforts through the use of District Designated Funds, individual and Club donations to RI Disaster Response Fund, Shelter Box and also through personal donations directly to Ukraine Rotary Clubs
We're growing our members! Since last July 2021, over 100 new Rotarians have joined our District 6380 family. Let's all extend a warm Rotary Welcome to these new members!
Our Membership Team and Regional Membership Support Leads are available to give presentations to your club. For contacts, see: districtorganizationchart
