I am writing this update after just finishing the half-way point in my club visits.  I am truly enjoying my visits with all of you and hearing about your unique strengths and plans for the future.  In this update, I want to focus on the 100th anniversary of the Rotary Foundation.
 
The 100th anniversary of the Rotary Foundation is a major milestone for one of the best humanitarian organizations in the world today.  This entrepreneurial journey began with a small meeting of fellowship in 1903.  Today we are an organization of over 1.2 million in over 200 territories and countries.  Our results are measured in lives saved, gallons of clean water, conflict resolution and hope for the future.  The Polio Plus story alone is a testament to the power of sustained focus and collaboration that is achievable.  The skills we have honed in this journey can be applied to some of the greatest challenges we face here at home and across the world.
 
I feel truly blessed to have the opportunity to serve as District Governor.  To have this honor during the 100th anniversary is truly special and I am committed to making our District, bigger, better and bolder.
 
I have developed some very aggressive goals for the 100th anniversary: 100 new members, 100 members to the Rotary International Convention in Atlanta and $100 per member contribution to the annual fund.  To the list I am now adding a target of $265,000 in total giving for the Annual Fund and Polio Plus.  This target is based on the first Foundation donation of $26.50 and represents a 33% jump in giving from last year or a special anniversary gift of $67,000.  I and many of my Rotary friends are willing to make a special contribution for this major milestone when we reflect on the amazing story of our Foundation and the unique opportunity of a 100 year anniversary.
 
Rotary has prepared some special promotional materials for the 100th anniversary.  Please review these materials and help me to spread the word in your community and throughout the District.
 
There are many ways members, clubs and the District can support achievement of this special anniversary gift.
  • The District has already approved $10,000 for Polio Plus and I am asking the District to consider another gift for the Annual Fund.
  • A team is working on our silent auction and our quilt auction for the Foundation dinner.
  • Clubs can create a special event in their communities to promote the 100th anniversary and to raise money.
  • Funds from all Tree Peonies sold by the date of the Foundation dinner will be given to John Germ
  • Clubs are looking for sponsors for our Foundation dinner. A separate booklet will be developed for these ads that will include compelling information about Rotary, the Rotary Foundation, District 7170 and the ways we support our communities and the world at large.
  • Club members can consider a number of alternatives for the Foundation Dinner including:
  • A special gift for the 100th anniversary
  • Accelerating achievement of a Paul Harris Fellow, joining the Paul Harris Society or becoming a Major Donor
  • Becoming a sustaining member or making use of direct deposit
  • If you are a member thinking of making a bequest at some point in the future, perhaps timing all or part of that goal with the 100th anniversary would be a special gesture
 
I am sure many of you will think of additional ideas.  My goal is for District 7170 to impress President John Germ and his wife with our capabilities and our dedication to improving our communities and the world at large.  I truly appreciate all of the communities in District 7170 and the capabilities that our members represent.  We can make a difference.
 
Our team for the Foundation dinner is developing a detailed package on all of the above programs that will be distributed to all club Presidents and Secretaries.  Thank you for all that you do.