108 Years of Rotary
February 23 marked Rotary’s 108th year of
existence. On this significant day I
would like to share with you what Rotary means to me.
Rotary Supports
Rotary and Rotarians provided much of the support I needed
to pursue my dream of travelling to Africa.
In fact, one of my first interactions with the Chilliwack Rotary Club
came as a result of my first trip to Ghana for which they gave me $500 to buy
school supplies for the school I worked at.
When I wanted to build a computer lab in Ghana, Rotary helped me to
raise the funds I needed. And when I wanted to pursue graduate studies, the
Ambassadorial Scholarship was there to make this dream come true.
Rotary Inspires
Rotarians around the world engage in service projects every
day, pursuing their motto of “service above self.” Rotarians are busy people – they have
families, jobs and other activities – but they are all willing to sacrifice
time, and sometimes money, to help make the world a better place.
Working together around the world, Rotary has done amazing
things. Thanks to their efforts Polio has nearly been eradicated. Rotary has given the gift of mobility to
individuals who can’t walk. Rotary has given the gift of education to children
who couldn’t afford it. Rotary has built homes for the homeless and provided
food to the hungry. The tireless efforts of Rotarians have improved the lives
of countless individuals in all corners of the globe.
Rotary Motivates
I strongly identify with Rotary’s motto of “service above
self.” From a young age, volunteerism
has been an important part of my life.
From walking dogs at the Chilliwack SPCA, acting as a ‘Big Sister’,
working with new immigrants in Ottawa, and building computer labs in Ghana, I
try to give back to my community (the local and the international ones)
whenever I have time. I know I am busy, but volunteering is important to be
because it allows me to contribute to the society which has given me so much!
When I look at what Rotary has done around the world, I am
motivated to continue doing what I can to help. The reality is, I cannot ‘fix’
the world. But an organization like Rotary and its committed volunteers can go
a long way in improving the situation.
Being a part of the Rotary family as an Ambassadorial
scholar has really demonstrated to me that change is possible. I have had the opportunity to witness and to
learn about what Rotarians are doing in Canada and the US, Ethiopia, Ghana and
Uganda. Each meeting I attend encourages me. During difficult school weeks and
times of home sickness, my Rotary club in Ghana provides laughter and
encouragement which helps me to move on. District 5050 at home has shown a keen
interest in my journey and I am constantly overwhelmed by their support for all
my endeavours. I am grateful for this opportunity to be an Ambassadorial
Scholar and excited for the adventures that lie ahead – and I am certain Rotary
will remain present in my life.
