Rotary International President, Francesco Arezzo (Rotary Club of Ragusa, Italy) District Governor Jeff Ferweda, (Rotary Club of Genessee Valley, MI) Club President, Kurtis Lush
District website: https://rotary6330.org/ Club website: https://www.rotarysarnia.com/ Club Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/rotaryclubofsarniaontario
The Calendar below shows Rotary’s 2025-26 monthly themes.
ROTARY CALENDAR and THEMES
Month
July
August
Theme
Maternal and Child Health
Membership and New Club Development
September Basic Education and Literacy
October Community Economic Development
November The Rotary Foundation
December Disease Prevention and Treatment
January Vocational Service
February Peace and Conflict Prevention/Resolution
March Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene
April Environment
May Youth Service
June Rotary Fellowships
Click
LEARN ABOUT ROTARY CLUB OF SARNIA
Take the time to view a short video on Rotary’s Areas of Focus – Click here!
Click here to view a short and fun video of our RI President
PEACE & CONFLICT RESOLUTION
Rotary Focus Month of February
ROTARY TURNS 121 February 23, 2026
UNITE FOR GOOD
WATER, SANITATION, & HYGIENE
Rotary Focus Month of March
OUR ENVIRONMENT
Rotary Focus Month of April
DISTRICT 6330 CONFERENCE 2026
May 29 --- 31
4 Points Sheraton, Sarnia/Point Edward, ON 1498 Venetian Blvd.
Rotary Anthem
Right click here to open the link and listen to the Rotary Anthem!
THE ROTARY INTERNATIONAL PRESIDENT
FEBRUARY MESSAGE
2026
Let action define us
At last month’s International Assembly, President-elect Olayinka “Yinka” Hakeem Babalola called on members of the Rotary world to live out our presidential messages for the 2026-27 Rotary year: Create Lasting Impact
This February, as we observe Peacebuilding and Conflict Prevention Month, we have an opportunity to channel Yinka’s call to action into real change.
Peace is not simply the absence of war. A life free from conflict but marked by hunger, instability, or the inability to care for one’s family is not true peace. Peace requires liberty, opportunity, and respect for human dignity. Yet fear often blocks that path – fear of change of cultural loss, of people we don’t understand.
Fear isn’t defeated through avoidance or aggression. Knowledge is the first step toward peace. Rotary embraces this idea. Our Rotary Peace Centers and their peace fellows, along with other peace education initiatives, demonstrate how knowledge builds trust and helps communities find solutions to conflict.
In Colombia, decades of conflict have left deep wounds. The 2025 Rotary Foundation Programs of Scale awardee, Pathways to Peace and Prosperity, partners with the United Nations World Food Programme to expand opportunity, improve conflict resolution, and connect people with social services. Its goal is to break cycles of violence, poverty, and food insecurity so peace can take root.
In Maharashtra, India, People of Action honoree Swati Herkal built peace through prosperity. Her project confronted farmers’ declining soil health, rising debt, and illness caused by chemical fertilisers. She and her Rotary partners launched a regenerative agriculture program that revitalized the land, lowered costs, and restored stability. More than 1,100 farmers now participate and over 50 villages have adopted the model.
Rotary also advances peace by restoring dignity. In Chad, Rotary Peace Fellow Domino Frank, discovered that more than 1,500 women who fought in a rebellion had been erased from reintegration programs. His advocacy led to Chad’s first Rotary Foundation global grant and the creation of Corridors of Peace. More than 100 women – triple the goal – completed literacy and vocational training and formed a cooperative to support their families.
From Colombia to India to Chad, the lesson is clear: Peace is not a dream. It is the result of sustained action with a focus on true lasting impact. To replicate these successes, Rotary clubs can take three steps: Learn from peace fellows and other peace experts in our organization; apply a peacebuilding lens to community assessments; and prioritize impact over ceremony.
In a world filled with fear, Rotary cannot be satisfied with half-measures and empty words. If we are truly people of action, then action must define us. Together, we can Create Lasting Impact – across the globe, in our communities, and in ourselves.
FRANCESCO AREZZO President, Rotary International
THE ROTARY FOUNDATION TRUSTEE CHAIR
MESSAGE FEBRUARY 2026
Building peace at scale
February is Peacebuilding and Conflict Prevention Month, a perfect time to reflect on The Rotary Foundation’s mission to advance world understanding, goodwill, and peace. Whether improving health, supporting education, or alleviating poverty, peace is at the heart of everything Rotary does.
Rotary Peace Centers bring our ideals into the world by training the next generation of peacebuilders. Since 2002, more than 1,800 Rotary Peace Fellows have become catalysts for peace in over 140 countries.
I am often asked whether our peace fellows continue working for peace after their studies. The answer is a resounding yes. Many serve in United Nations agencies, government, nongovernmental organizations, and groups they’ve founded themselves.
Recently, I met with the recipients of our latest Programs of Scale award, Pathways to Peace and Prosperity in Colombia. This $3 million partnership with the World Food Programme is establishing four peace hubs that will train 1,000 people in conflict resolution and support 700 entrepreneurs in communities touched by conflict.
During the meeting, I thought I recognized one participant as Brigitta von Messling, a German peace fellow I worked closely with in Berlin 13 years ago. But so much time had passed I wasn’t sure. When I asked Gladys Maldonado, a leader of the Colombia initiative, she confirmed it was Brigitta:
Brigitta is based in my city, Cúcuta, and is an active member of my Rotary club. She does wonderful work with the United Nations as an observer of the 2016 peace agreement Columbia signed with rebels. She even travels to remote locations in the Catatumbo region, an area of northern Colombia that has experienced violence by armed groups.
She has my utmost admiration. I had the good fortune of meeting her three years ago. She’s incredibly intelligent, with a gift for recognizing the strengths of others.
Brigitta is invaluable to my country, my city, and my Rotary club. She connected me with the World Food Programme so we could build the Programs of Scale project, which has filled my city and country with hope.
What Gladys said about Brigitta echoes so many stories we hear about Rotary Peace Fellows worldwide: They are invaluable. They remind us that peace is built one person at a time.
Your support of The Rotary Foundation opens countless opportunities for transformation.
Babalola, a member of the Rotary Club of Trans Amadi, Nigeria, described how joining a Rotaract club as a teenager enlarged his perspective beyond the limited, privileged outlook he’d once had. That change in awareness came from observing the lasting impact his club had in the community, particularly from teaching people to read and write. Video access.
“As members of Rotary, we share a vision of a better future,” he said.
“To make this vision a reality, we must acknowledge and unleash the change within ourselves. We must focus not only on outcomes, but on impact.”
Change and impact are not the same, he added: “Change is only the beginning. Impact is what endures.”
Click here to listen to (view) the entire presentation.
“Rotary has shaped who we are and made us better people!”
“Wherever Rotary goes, good things follow.”
ROTARY INSPIRATION TO ACTION
Rotary’s Manual of Procedure
Rotary's Manual of Procedure (MOP) is a foundational document in Rotary that serves as a comprehensive guide for clubs and districts worldwide.
It provides clarity on Rotary’s policies, governance, and operational procedures, ensuring consistency and alignment with Rotary International’s mission and objectives.
By outlining key principles, including membership guidelines, club administration, and decision-making processes, the MOP helps maintain the integrity and effectiveness of Rotary’s service efforts.
For Rotary leaders and members, the MOP is an essential reference that fosters transparency, fairness, and efficiency in club operations.
It aids in resolving disputes, interpreting policies, and ensuring compliance with Rotary’s constitutional documents.
By adhering to the guidance within the MOP, clubs can function smoothly, uphold Rotary’s values, and focus on their core purpose—serving communities and fostering international goodwill.
If you are unfamiliar with the Manual of Procedure, you can find it online and look through it. It's something that every Rotarian should do to become knowledgeable about our great organization.
Click here to download the latest Manual of Procedure.
How well do you know Rotary? (15 Questions)
As Rotary turns 121 on February 23, I wonder how many can answer these questions correctly?
1. Who is the current President of Rotary International for 2025-26?
A) Stephanie A. Urchick
B) Jennifer E. Jones
C) Francesco Arezzo
D) Olayinka Hakeem Babalola
2. Which Rotarian was the first woman selected as President of Rotary International?
A) Stephanie A. Urchick
B) Jennifer E. Jones
C) Dawn Kennedy
D) Katherine Hahn
3. Who will be Rotary International’s President for 2026-27?
A) Jennifer E. Jones
B) Stephanie A. Urchick
C) Olayinka Hakeem Babalola
D) Francesco Arezzo
4. When does the Rotary International presidential term begin each year?
A) April 1
B) May 1
C) July 1
D) January 1
5. Who is the District Governor of Rotary District 6330 for 2025-26?
A) Lorna Gunning Fratschko
B) Jeffrey Ferweda
C) Dave Elliott
D) Katherine Hahn
6. Who is the District Governor Elect (next year’s DG) in District 6330?
A) Myrna Inglis
B) Dennis Dinsmore
C) Lorna Gunning Fratschko
D) Dawn Kennedy
7. Who is the District Governor Nominee (future DG nominee) in District 6330?
A) Susan Cruickshank
B) Dawn Kennedy
C) Katherine Hahn
D) Ross Barnett
…continued next page
8. Who is the Immediate Past District Governor of District 6330?
A) Dennis Dinsmore
B) Susan Cruickshank
C) Katherine Hahn
D) Myrna Inglis
9. Who is the District Secretary in District 6330 for 2025-26?
A) Susan Cruickshank
B) Myrna Inglis
C) Lorna Gunning Fratschko
D) John McDonald
Question 10 — Which of the following leadership roles does Rotary District 6330 officially use?
A) District Governor
B) District Governor-Elect
C) District Governor Nominee
D) All of the above
Question 11 – With whom do clubs most commonly interact as the district leadership representative during the Rotary year?
A) Rotary International President
B) District Treasurer
C) Assistant Governor
D) District Governor Nominee
Question 12 — What is the Rotary year?
A) January 1 – December 31
B) July 1 – June 30
C) September 1 – August 31
D) April 1 – March 31
Question 13 - Which body brings together club presidents and district leadership to discuss priorities and plans?
A) Rotary International Convention
B) District Council
C) Council on Legislation
D) PETS
Question 14 - Which Rotary body is responsible for amending Rotary’s constitutional documents and policies?
A) Rotary International Board of Directors
B) Rotary International Convention
C) Council on Legislation
D) District Council
Question 15 Who attends PETS)?
A) Incoming District Governors
B) Current Club Presidents
C) Club Presidents-Elect
D) Assistant Governors only
PAUL HARRIS SOCIETY
What's the Paul Harris Society?
The Paul Harris Society is the name given to those Rotarians who pledge a $1000 gift annually – every year. You may know these committed individuals they wear a flag below their Rotary pin that reads PHS.
One easy way to give at the $1000 level is through Rotary Direct sign up and an amount of money you designate is automatically deducted from your account each month. Learn more at www.rotary.org.
Members of the Paul Harris Society know that the need never ends -- and neither should the giving.
D6330 Long-time Paul Harris Society Chair is Rotarian Jamie Pole.
What your giving supports
• Vocational training for teachers establishing an early childhood education center in South Africa
• Water filters, toilets, and hygiene training to prevent fluorosis, diarrhea, and other diseases in India
• A scholarship for a medical professional in Italy to research treatments that minimize mortality rates among premature babies
• Peace-building seminars for 200 teachers and 1,300 students in Uganda
• Treated mosquito nets and medical services that prevent malaria in Mali
• Clean water and sanitation which assists in preventing disease
• Life-saving health care to mothers and children
• Peace and peace building
• Education and literacy
• Economic and community development
In District 6330 we are proud of the generous members in our Paul Harris Society.
We have over 32 of our clubs that now have members in the Paul Harris Society.
If you have any questions or need further information, please do not hesitate to reach out to your Paul Harris Society Coordinator, District 6330 – Jamie Pole!
Rotarian Jamie Pole RC of Sarnia
NEWS & INFORMATION IMPORTANT TO ROTARIANS
In District 6330, Rotary leadership – past, present, future
Above (left to right) PDG Mike Chaffee (2022-2023 - PDG Sonja Glass (2023-2024) –PDG Katherine Hahn (2024-2025) – DG Jeff Ferweda (2025-2026 – DGE Lorna Gunning Fratschko (2026-2027)
Above left - DGN Dawn Kennedy (2027-2028) Above right – DGND Peter Maranger (2028-2029)
ROTARY’S FEBRUARY FOCUS –PEACE & CONFLICT RESOLUTION
Today, over 120 million people are displaced as a result of conflict, violence, persecution, and human rights violations. Half of them are children.
We refuse to accept conflict as a way of life. Rotary projects provide training that fosters understanding and provides communities with the skills to resolve conflicts.
Rotary creates environments of peace
As a humanitarian organization, peace is a cornerstone of our mission. We believe when people work to create peace in their communities, that change can have a global effect.
By carrying out service projects and supporting peace fellowships and scholarships, our members take action to address the underlying causes of conflict, including poverty, discrimination, ethnic tension, lack of access to education, and unequal distribution of resources.
Our commitment to peacebuilding today answers new challenges: how we can make the greatest possible impact and how we can achieve our vision of lasting change. We are approaching the concept of peace with greater cohesion and inclusivity, broadening the scope of what we mean by peacebuilding, and finding more ways for people to get involved.
Rotary creates environments where peace can happen. Learn how Rotary is responding to the war in Ukraine.
Ukraine - At Rotary, we are deeply concerned by the ongoing loss of life and humanitarian hardship caused by the war in Ukraine. We’re using our deep networks and decades of experience to take meaningful action in the region.
ROTARY’S FOUR ROLES IN PROMOTING PEACE
Rotary and its members are:
• Practitioners: Our work fighting disease, providing clean water and sanitation, improving the health of mothers and children, supporting education, and growing local economies directly builds the optimal conditions for peaceful societies.
• Educators: Our Rotary Peace Centers have trained more than 1,800 peace fellows to become effective catalysts for peace through careers in government, education, and international organizations.
• Mediators: Our members have negotiated humanitarian ceasefires in areas of conflict to allow polio vaccinators to reach children who are at risk.
• Advocates: Our members have an integral role as respected, impartial participants during peace processes and in post-conflict reconstruction. We focus on creating communities and convening groups that are connected, inclusive, and resilient.
Find out more about what Rotary is doing and how you can support relief efforts.
NON-POLITICAL AND NON-RELIGIOUS
In these challenging times, you may be reminded that Rotary is non-political and non-religious. How does that affect individual Rotarians? That question was raised recently, and the following may offer some clarification.
To be clear, this means:
• Rotary does not endorse political parties, candidates, or religious doctrines
• Rotary does not take positions on partisan political issues
• Rotary welcomes people of all political and religious beliefs
At the same time:
• Rotary addresses humanitarian issues, peacebuilding, health, education, human rights, and the environment through its Areas of Focus
• Rotary responds to violence, disease, discrimination, and injustice when these conditions create humanitarian need
• Individual Rotarians remain free to hold and express personal views — but not on behalf of Rotary
In short:
Rotary stays neutral. Rotarians are not required to.
Promoting Peace
Rotary International works through its Seven Areas of Focus to respond to humanitarian need wherever it arises.
In today’s world, humanitarian needs have intensified due to conflict, displacement, and instability in many regions, resulting in widespread human suffering.
Rotary has responded — and continues to respond — by supporting people affected by conflict and crisis. This includes assisting civilians, providing humanitarian aid, and, here in Canada, helping welcome and resettle refugees, including those from Ukraine. Ukraine is just one example of Rotary’s broader commitment to easing human suffering wherever the need exists.
• This response is not political.
• This response is humanitarian.
Rotary does not campaign for or against governments or leaders. It does what it has always done best: recognizing human need and taking action to alleviate suffering.
Here are five Peace videos for your interest. They’re all short and enlightening – Just click each graphic.
And when you realize that promoting the Rotary Four-Way Test is also very much something that can help to build peace, you may be interested to learn more about the History of the Four-Way Test Click here or below – it’s a short video.
Summary of new polioviruses this week, cases and positive environmental isolates:
• Somalia: two cVDPV2-positive environmental samples
For details on the 2024 estimates and what they tell us about immunization globally, read the WHO-UNICEF press release and explore the WHO Immunization Data Portal
13 January 2026 News release
New Delhi
Fifteen years after recording its last case of wild poliovirus, the WHO South-East Asia Region with a quarter of the world’s population, continues to sustain its polio-free status while harnessing innovations and lessons from the polio programme to accelerate broader public health progress.
“This extraordinary achievement followed unparalleled efforts and demonstrates what can be accomplished and sustained through unwavering government leadership, a dedicated health workforce, and strong partnerships, including with communities,” said Dr Catharina Boehme, Officer-in-Charge, WHO South-East Asia Region.
On this date in 2011, an 18-month-old girl was paralyzed by wild poliovirus in Howrah, West Bengal, India. The extensive and intensive response that followed ensured that this remained the last case of wild poliovirus in the Region. Three years later, the WHO South-East Asia Region was certified polio free on 27 March 2014.
The Region continues to maintain strict vigil against poliovirus importation and protect children through vaccination against a disease that once caused widespread paralysis and death.
In 2025, more than 50 000 stool samples were collected across the Region and tested through a network of 13 WHO-accredited polio laboratories, including national, regional and global reference laboratories. Surveillance across the Region continues to exceed the standards required to maintain polio-free certification.
Click here to read the rest of the article.
ROTARY INSPIRATION TO PEACE
Peace does not begin with treaties or declarations; it begins when people choose understanding over judgment and service over self-interest. Through fellowship and service, Rotary International reminds us that lasting peace is built quietly, patiently, and locally—one act of goodwill at a time.
Rotary’s work shows us that peace grows where dignity is respected, needs are met, and hope is restored. When we serve together across borders and beliefs, we prove that cooperation is stronger than conflict.
Peace is created not by power, but by people who care enough to serve, to listen, and to stand alongside one another—exactly what Rotarians strive to do every day.
Rotary’s Birthday
On February 23, 1905, in a small office in Chicago, a young lawyer named Paul Harris gathered three friends with a simple idea: professionals connecting to build friendship, trust, and service.
From that first meeting grew Rotary International — now a global network of over a million members in nearly every corner of the world.
In 2026, Rotary celebrates 121 years of turning goodwill into action — through service, fellowship, and a shared belief that ordinary people can do extraordinary things when they work together.
Happy Birthday, Rotary — and thank you for the privilege of being part of the story.
SUPPORT THE ROTARY FOUNDATION
THE POLIOPLUS SOCIETY
Join the PolioPlus Society in District 6330.
Donations are matched annually 2-to-1 by the Gates Foundation up to US$50 million, generating a potential total of US$150 million toward polio eradication.
Raise awareness in your community by planning events or projects that support the fight against polio.
Visit endpolio.org to find the latest information and tools to help you share the story of our fight against polio and raise support.
Ending this disease forever remains our top humanitarian priority and needs our full commitment.
How can you take action? Donate to End Polio
Visit the PolioPlus Society Facebook Page. https://www.facebook.com/groups/polioplussociety
Click here to view a short video and learn more about GAVI – The Vaccine Alliance One of the greatest achievements in the history of mankind.
INTERNATIONAL DATES TO NOTE (plus links)
February Rotary’s Focus – Peace
Monday, February 2
World Wetlands Day
Did you know? - About 1 in 8 people make their livelihoods from wetlands in ways that also deliver food, water supplies, transport and leisure. Wetland landscapes positively impact mental wellbeing. Wetlands safeguard the 60% of humanity along coastlines against storm surges, hurricanes and tsunamis.
Wednesday, February 4
International Day of Human Fraternity
Friday, February 6
International Day of Zero Tolerance to Female Genital Mutilation
Did you know? Every year, over 2 million girls are subjected to female genital mutilation before their fifth birthday. The estimated health costs for FGM survivors is USD 1.4 billion every year.
Wednesday, February 11
International Day of Women and Girls in Science
A 2022 study found that one in two female scientists having reported experiencing sexual harassment at work. A shift in the structure and culture of science workplaces is urgently needed.
Friday, February 20
World Day of Social Justice
Strengthening a just transition for a sustainable future means making sure our move toward low-carbon economies benefits everyone, especially the most vulnerable.
Saturday, February 21
International Mother Language Day
Some interesting trivia –
Rotary Trivia #1: Why Rotary Is Called “Rotary”
When Rotary International was founded in Chicago in 1905, the club had no permanent meeting place.
Instead, meetings rotated among the offices of its four founding members — a lawyer, a merchant tailor, a coal dealer, and a mining engineer.
That simple practice of rotating meeting locations gave the organization its name — Rotary — and the name remained even after clubs settled into regular venues.
From the beginning, Rotary was built around flexibility and shared responsibility — qualities that continue to define clubs today, whether they meet in person, online, or somewhere in between.
The first four Rotarians. From left: Gustavus Loehr, Silvester Schiele, Hiram E. Shorey, Paul P. Harris.
Rotary Trivia #2: Rotary Anns — Influential, but Unofficial
Long before women were admitted as Rotarians in 1989, many women were deeply involved in Rotary through Rotary Anns — the spouses (primarily wives) of Rotarians.
While not members of Rotary International, Rotary Anns often organized fundraising, community service, hospitality, and international projects, and in some communities formed their own parallel service groups.
In practice, they frequently did Rotary work — just without Rotary membership.
Rotary Anns helped sustain and expand Rotary’s impact for decades. Their contributions laid important groundwork for the eventual inclusion of women as full Rotarians, showing that service was never limited by gender — only by policy.
Rotary history reminds us that contribution often precedes recognition.
Rotary Anns
"Rotary Anns" was a historical term used to refer to the wives of male Rotary club members, particularly in the early days of Rotary International.
The term originated in 1914, when Mrs. Ann Brunnier, the only woman on a train of Rotarians traveling to a convention, was affectionately called "the Rotarian's Ann."
While the term "Rotary Ann" is not as common today, it is still recognized as a historical term of endearment for Rotary spouses, and the term "Rotary Spouses" or "Partners" is more commonly used now.
Origin
The term "Rotary Ann" emerged from a specific incident at the 1914 Rotary Convention in Houston. A group of Rotarians from San Francisco were traveling by train, and the only woman on board was Mrs. Ann Brunnier. When the train stopped in Los Angeles, she was introduced as "the Rotarian's Ann," which quickly became "Rotary Ann."
Endearment
The term was not meant to be derogatory but rather a term of affection and camaraderie for the wives of Rotarians.
Evolution
In 1987, Rotary International admitted women as members, and today, women make up a significant and growing portion of the organization's membership.
Consequently, the term "Rotary Ann" has largely been replaced by the more inclusive terms "Rotary Spouses" or "Partners."
Historical Significance
The term "Rotary Ann" is still recognized as a historical term of endearment and is often used to acknowledge the contributions of women associated with Rotary clubs in the past.
Learn about other Rotary clubs! Make an effort to attend some of the online meetings available –
All Rotarians are encouraged to join local (and other) clubs to learn more about Rotary, get to know other Rotarians, gain a new perspective and appreciation for Rotary and Rotarians. Here is a list of online clubs where you can earn a make-up along with learning a whole lot more about Rotary! Why not visit them all?
• Rotary E-Club of Canada One – Rotary On Demand, Where you want, When you want!
• Rotary Club of One World
• Rotary E-Club of World Peace
Click here to attend this week’s posted meeting of E-Club of Canada One.
These meetings are posted online and available 24/7!
There’s also a Thursday morning Coffee Chat at 10:00 a.m. Eastern Time. Please join our Coffee Chat from your computer, tablet or smartphone. https://us02web.zoom.us/j/709771987
Club President for 2025-26 – Kurtis Lush
The hat is ready for our 100th President. The Rotary Club of Sarnia will celebrate 100 years in 2028. The club already has a hat ready for that special President who will lead the club during the celebrations of our 100th year of service to the community of Sarnia. Shown displaying the 100th Presidential Hat are past president, Mark Taylor (#96), immediate past president, Jamie Pole (#97), current president Kurtis Lush (#98) and current vice-president Joe Cebulski (#99), who also is the designated caretaker of the prized (#100) hat until that person is chosen later by the members. Special celebrations and projects will take place during 2028.
FEBRUARY PLANS
Date Presentation
February 3 Kelly Goetz, Project SEARCH
A ROTARY PARTNERSHIP
ROTARY CLUB OF SARNIA AND ROTARY CLUB OF GULU, UGANDA
About 5- or 6-hour drive north of the capital City Kampala, lies the town of Gulu, a hundred miles or so south of the South Sudan Border. Gulu is a busy town, still showing remnants of the Civil war that diminished only a few decades ago.
At the edge of town are two small, rural health Care facilities known as the Karin Health Care Clinics, serving families in Agonga and Unyama Districts.
Eight years ago, while serving on the Board of World Renew Canada, I had the opportunity to visit development projects in Soroti, East of Kampala. While in Uganda, through a connection made with Partners Worldwide, I found my way to Gulu and met with Hope Okeny, Director and founder of the Karin Clinics.
…contributed by Rotarian John DeGroot
The Karin Clinics had humble beginnings, with community members gathering in the shade of a Mango tree. In short order, a shipping container served as the home, followed by a brick building. Today there are two brick buildings, in two communities, both with water purification facilities, supplying area residents with a dependable supply of clean water.
I might be wrong on the date details, but we started working with the Rotary Club of Gulu and the Karin Clinics in 2020. Their first task was to undertake a community assessment. The Grant was completed and signed off in mid-2025 completed and signed off by Gulu Club, Rotary International, and Rotary Club of Sarnia In speaking with RI folks in Chicago, I learned that it is not uncommon for a project to take 5 years to go from start to finish. It took a long time to get the application in and approved.
Hope and her staff provide a broad range of services, often caring for those with Malaria, TB and HIV Aids. Staff often go out by bicycle providing out-patient services to those who don’t have access to physical clinics.
The Karin Clinics have grown to become community centres where lives of families are improved through education, pre- and post-natal care, income generating projects, improved farming techniques, and community savings and loan programs. An elementary school was opened in 2020.
My first visit to Uganda was in 2016, followed by another visit in 2019. Since that time, I have been quietly advocating and fundraising for the Karin Clinics.
At Gulu Rotary Club. Rotarian John, District Governor Raymond and Hope Okeney.
At Clinic. Two staff and Rotary signage
Hope Okeny and her family have visited Sarnia twice, connecting with supporters and friends.
Rotary Clubs in Watford, Grand Bend, Petrolia and the three Rotary Clubs in Sarnia have helped the Karin Clinics receive a substantial ($56,000 USD) Rotary Global Grant to improve the lives of families in the rural outskirts of Gulu, Uganda.
When I went last month, I was accompanied by 4 other Sarnians, and we spent 3 days visiting World Renew sites, including the Rhino Refugee Settlement in Nibbe.
We then spent 3 to 4 days in Gulu with Hope and Julius of Karin. We visited both Clinic sites and spent a day off-site visiting an outlying community where they delivered health care under a Mango tree.
I will add that one of my missions on this recent trip was to see first-hand where our Rotary dollars were spent. Mission accomplished!
Our Club, along with the Rotary Club of Gulu should be proud of our involvement and support.
Below, an enlargement of the Rotary signage –
With support from the Rotary Clubs of
• Sarnia
• Grand Bend
• Sarnia-Bluewaterland
• Petrolia
• Sarnia-Lambton AfterHours
• Watford
Click here to read about the Karin Community.
Click here to read and learn more.
Rotary International Global Grant No. GG1867188
At the clinic, babies receiving immunizations.
Mayor
Mike Bradley
Instead of an actual report on the topic of Mayor Bradley’s presentation to the Sarnia club, you may click the link below to read a professional summary by Cathy Dobson/The Independent on the mayor’s presentation to Golden K Kiwanis Club in Sarnia
Click here to read the full article by Cathy Dobson -
Photo by Cathy Dobson
Heather, Sandi, Johnna, Yvonne, Mike, Joe, Mark, Brian
Brian, Mark, Jamie, Bill Hoad, and guest Ron Robertson (former club president, 1990-91) Welcome!! In background (photo right) – Tony, Barry, Mike Hurry, Yvonne, Speaker Kevin, Heather, John, and Murray
Johnna, Carolyn, Bill Boynton, Allen
SPEAKER FOR JANUARY 13 –
SARAH REAUME [pronounced: Ree-ohh-mmm]
Rotarian Adelle introduced the speaker and Rotarian Yvonne thanked her.
Sarah Reaume is currently the CEO of Community Futures Lambton Sarah has an interesting mix of educational qualifications.
Sarah’s first degree is in Radio & Television, received from Ryerson University in Toronto. She later added credentials in Educational Management from Leicester University in the UK. And she also holds a master’s degree in TQM (Total Quality Management) from the University of Wollongong in Melbourne Australia.
Sarah has worked in major Canadian advertising agencies as an Account Director. She has been the Director of Marketing for two major Canadian shopping center developers. She has owned her own successful Marketing, Sales Promotion & Event Management consultancy. During this entrepreneurial phase, she was also Partial Load Business faculty for Georgian College. Her work at Georgian College opened a door to a position at the Higher Colleges of Technology in the United Arab Emirates.
During her 12 years with the Higher Colleges, she moved through several positions, spending the last 8 years of her tenure as Dean of Administration for the men’s and women’s campuses of the Higher Colleges in the Sharjah Emirate.
On her return to Canada, she joined Habitat for Humanity here in Sarnia/Lambton and spent nearly 10 years there as their CEO and another 2 years working on social enterprise and affordable housing projects with Habitat in the western GTA. In February of 2023, she joined the Community Futures Lambton team as CEO.
Currently Sarah and her team are working with new and existing entrepreneurs to establish or grow their businesses and this community.
Sarah’s presentation explained a new business transition program –BizLink Sarnia - to confidentially connect local business owners looking to sell with potential buyers, facilitating succession and new ownership through a digital platform and expert support, addressing a key need as many local businesses face closure due to succession crises.
It is a confidential intake and matchmaking program for buyers and sellers providing -
• Customized marketing tools and business listings
Buyers, Sellers Connected & Supported
• Connections with valuators, lawyers, accountants and other professional
• Access to financing and wrap-around business supports
• Succession planning education and coaching
This excellent and practical program has just arrived at the Sarnia-Lambton Community Futures website –January 2026! Kudos!
KEVIN ALLEN, Founder of Sarnia Blessings
For Sarnia Blessings founder Kevin Allen, the volunteer-run meal project’s new home at Wellings of Corunna is a match made in heaven.
Author of the article: Paul Morden Published in The Observer, Jan 24, 2025
The project needed to leave its previous location in a former Plank Road restaurant on Dec. 1, the same day Wellings wanted a new caterer in place.
“It was absolutely perfect,” Allen said.
The experienced chef and volunteers began making and delivering meals to seniors and surgery patients recovering at home as the COVID-19 pandemic began in March 2020, working from the kitchen of a city church and other temporary locations before leasing the vacant restaurant in early 2022.
But after their landlord said in the fall the restaurant building was to be torn down, Allen scrambled to find a new kitchen to prepare the 1,000 meals he and about 30 volunteers cook, portion, freeze and deliver each week. Sarnia Blessings also takes catering jobs and sells meals to the public to help cover its costs.
“We had a ton of catering booked for December, and we didn’t want to shut down,” Allen said.
Billy Yurchuk, general manager of Wellings of Corunna, an adult independent living apartment community, said it stopped including meals to help reduce membership fees and wanted to lease its kitchen beginning Dec. 1.
“My cousin is a member here,” and connected Wellings and Sarnia Blessings, Allen said. “We started conversations, and it became just a perfect match,” Yurchuk said.
Apartments at Wellings have their own kitchens, but Sarnia Blessings offers residents pay-as-you-go buffet dinners several times a week.
“That money assists Kevin in the work they do in the community by providing meals, and our members get beautiful buffet meals, currently three times a week,” Yurchuk said. “It was just a perfect attachment of two organizations, both providing good service to seniors.”
Along with the kitchen, Sarnia Blessings can use Wellings’ large dining area for meals and public events.
“It gives us an opportunity to generate some revenue, which we need because we’re not government funded,” Allen said. “We just run on donations and food sales.”
Its first Sunday brunch for the public, held recently, “was packed,” he said. “It was a success, so we’re going to do that once a month.”
There are plans to open Friday dinner buffets to the public in February and several special events are planned. Information about Sarnia Blessings and its events can be found on its Facebook page at facebook.com/sarniablessings.
Having to move during a busy time of year was the “biggest challenge we’ve had to face” but project volunteers came through, Allen said. “We’re inching every day to being a little more organized.”
Allen said Sarnia Blessings delivered 1,200 meals a week at the height of the pandemic, but after restrictions lifted, “I said, ‘I’m not sure if God wants us to keep this thing going or not.’ ”
But Allen said they found there was still a need among seniors still living at home, including many awaiting places in long-term care, as well as those recovering after medical care.
“We don’t refuse anybody,” Allen said of Sarnia Blessing’s tiered prices for its frozen meal deliveries.
“If someone can pay full price for our meals, they do that,” but reduced rates are available for those who need it.
Others in need are asked only for a donation, he added. “A lot of them are in that category where they can’t afford it.”
Sarnia Blessings soon will be selling its meals from freezers at DeGroot’s Nurseries in Sarnia and Zekveld’s Garden Market in Reece’s Corners, Allen said.
The project always needs volunteers and donations, he said.
Allen spent 20 years cooking for children’s camps before that part of his kitchen career was derailed by the pandemic.
“God laid it on our hearts to do it,” he said of Sarnia Blessings, which he runs with his spouse, Jan. “We’re going to keep it going. He has provided for us, so far.”
“We’re blessed to do this,” he said.
For more details, click here. https://www.theobserver.ca/news/local-news/sarnia-blessings-settling-into-newsite-at-wellings-of-corunna
Click here to view a video from their Facebook page.
Meals are cooked Wednesday, packed and frozen Thursday, then delivered Monday.
NEWS & INFORMATION IMPORTANT TO CLUB MEMBERS
Get involved! Join us!
At the Rotary Action Group for Peace, our purpose is rooted in Rotary International’s mission of advancing goodwill, understanding, and peace.
We aim to be at the forefront of building a sustainable peaceful world by providing a platform for individuals and communities to become intentional in peacebuilding – within themselves, their societies, and across the globe.
To achieve this, we focus on three core strategies:
Together, we cultivate the skills, relationships, and commitment needed to create a more peaceful world.
OUR ROTARY YOUTH EXCHANGE STUDENT – Gong
(Welcome to Canada, Gong!)
With that simple greeting, we are delighted to welcome Gong, our Rotary Youth Exchange student from Thailand to Canada and to our Rotary family.
Recently, Gong was invited to a Junior Sting AA Under-15 hockey game – Sarnia vs Woodstock Jr. Navy Vets team – at the Pat Stapleton Arena by Rotarians Ralph & Kitty. He enjoyed himself – as you can see below - and loves the souvenirs – an official Sting puck and an official Sting clapper! � � �����
Afterward he was treated to a Swiss Chalet supper with a chocolate dessert! A growing 16-year-old! � �� ���
LEARNING A NEW LANGUAGE
Gong (This is his nickname) already has a very good grasp of English. He has studied English in school in Chiang Mai in Thailand.
After a few months, he will have much more confidence, and he might even be mistaken as truly Canadian!
On the next page is a bit of an introduction to the language that Gong uses when he’s home in Thailand!
LEARNING TO COMMUNICATE
Thai alphabet briefly
• Type: Abugida (a writing system where consonants carry an inherent vowel)
• Origin: Derived historically from Indic scripts (via Khmer)
• Direction: Written left to right
• Spacing: Traditionally no spaces between words (spaces mark pauses or sentence breaks)
What it contains
• 44 consonant letters
• 15 basic vowel symbols that combine into 32 vowel forms
• 4 tone marks, crucial because Thai is a tonal language
• No capital or lowercase letters
• No punctuation in the Western sense (commas, periods are modern additions)
Why it looks complex
Thai has five tones, and the tone of a syllable depends on:
• the consonant class (low, mid, high)
• the vowel length
• the tone mark (if any)
• and whether the syllable ends in a live or dead consonant.
So, the script encodes sound, tone, and rhythm all at once.
Fun facts
• Vowels can appear before, after, above, or below a consonant
• The script is phonetic — words are generally pronounced as written
• Thai numerals exist but Arabic numerals (1, 2, 3…) are commonly used
…be sure to follow along for more Rotary Exchange student news!
THE ROTARY FOUNDATION (TRF)
Donations Are Important!
Clubs must qualify every year! The Rotary Foundation requires Clubs that want to participate in the District Grants program to qualify. To qualify, the club must:
• Be in good standing
• May not have any grant reporting that is overdue
• Have at least 2 members complete the District’s Qualification Training course and quiz
The Certification is valid for One Rotary Year only! Clubs must be re-certified for each Rotary Year.
Rotary Foundation Grants – There are two kinds of grants.
- Global Grants and District Grants:
Global Grants
• Must be in (at least) one of Rotary's Areas Of Focus
• Must be International projects involving at least 2 clubs in 2 different countries. One of these clubs is the host club - the club where the project will take place. The other is the international partner - the club that provides funding and possibly some expertise to help implement the project.
• Must have a minimum budget of USD $30,000
• Club funds are supplemented by the District Designated Funds as, and if, available
• Funds donated to the project from District Designated Funds are supplemented by The Rotary Foundation (World Fund) to fund these grants.
District Grants
• May be local or international in scope.
• Are usually smaller in scale. There is no minimum budget requirement.
• Will usually involve active participation by Rotarians.
• District 6330 clubs may apply for more than one District Grant in a single Rotary year, but are limited to a maximum of USD $3,000 per year in District Grant funding.
• Projects must be started and completed within one Rotary year - July 1 to June 30 of the next year.
Ready to Apply for A Grant? Will it be a District or a Global Grant?
3 simple questions to help you decide:
• Is the project in one of the areas of focus? – No? Consider applying for a District Grant.
• Is the project between Clubs/Districts in separate countries? – No? Consider a District Grant.
• Is the total budget for the project less than USD $30,000? – No? Consider applying for a District Grant.
• If you answer YES to all the above, consider applying for a Global Grant.
ROTARY’S FOUR-WAY TEST
A Thoughtful Start to any day
� � � � What is the Rotary Four-Way Test?
It's a short ethical guide used by Rotarians worldwide to help evaluate decisions, both personal and professional.
It was created in 1932 by Herbert J. Taylor, who later became Rotary International President. Facing financial and moral crisis in his company, he developed this test as a litmus test for integrity and fair conduct.
The test asks four questions of the things we think, say or do:
• Is it the TRUTH?
• Is it FAIR to all concerned?
• Will it build GOODWILL and BETTER FRIENDSHIPS?
• Will it be BENEFICIAL to all concerned?
It may seem simple, but in a complex world, those questions are anything but easy — and that’s part of their power.
� � � � � Why Should We Consider It?
Because Ethics Matter — now more than ever.
The Four-Way Test:
• Brings clarity to grey areas.
Click
• Encourages honesty and accountability, not just in public life but in our quiet decisions.
• Fosters trust — a commodity that seems scarce in many parts of today’s society.
• Helps cultivate respectful dialogue instead of divisiveness.
• Serves as a universal framework: it’s non-religious, non-political, and applicable across cultures and professions.
In a world of misinformation, polarization, and moral shortcuts, it gently but firmly asks: Are we making the right choices for ourselves and for others?
the 4-way test above and open the link to hear the Four-Way Test by RC of Saskatoon Nutana.
� � What Does the Four-Way Test Mean in Today’s Context?
In a global landscape marked by challenges — climate change, inequality, misinformation, and conflict — the Four-Way Test is a compass. It reminds us:
• Truth is not just about facts, but integrity.
• Fairness challenges us to consider others, not just ourselves.
• Goodwill and friendship are the foundations of peace, community, and collaboration.
• Benefit to all concerned asks us to be stewards, not just beneficiaries.
In Rotary, it’s more than words. It shapes how Rotarians lead projects, build partnerships, and serve their communities — from clean water initiatives to polio eradication. But beyond Rotary, it’s an invitation to live more ethically and courageously.
� � Closing Thought
The Four-Way Test isn't about being perfect. It's about trying to do the right thing, every day, in big ways and small.
Click here to listen to a short video about the Four-Way Test history!
THE ROTARY FOUNDATION
EREY – Every Rotarian Every Year
Click here for a short video.
Our Every Rotarian, Every Year (EREY) initiative encourages all Rotary club members to contribute something each year to The Rotary Foundation. We hope that you can consider at least $100 USD every year to help us reach our goal to support the Rotary Foundation financially each year.
Sustaining member. One who contributes $100 USD every year is a Sustaining Member. With EREY, we encourage you to contribute an amount you can afford every year.
Click here to listen to We are the World.
A LITTLE HUMOUR
TO VIEW PREVIOUS NEWSLETTERS online in magazine format, click below -
COMMUNITY SERVICE THROUGH THE YEARS
Pathways Health Centre for Children (Founder)
Bluewater Health – Maternal & Child Health Wing
YMCA – Swimming Pool
Inn of the Good Shepherd
Lambton College
St. Joseph’s Hospice
Huron House Boys’ Home
Community Living, Sarnia Lambton
Community Concerns for the Medically Fragile (Standing Oaks Home)
Rotary Youth Leadership Awards (RLYA)
DOW Centre for Children and Youth
Big Brothers – Big Sisters
Canada Food Grains
Scouts Canada – Camp Attawandron
Goodwill Industries
Rayjon Haiti Project
YMCA Youth Scholarship
Lambton County Music Festival Awards
Family Counselling Centre
Access Open Minds
Habitat for Humanity
Point Edward Minor Hockey Association
Junior Achievement
Numerous Schools – LKDSB and SCCDSB
…and much, much more
But no -
When tomorrow comes, this day will be gone forever. In its place is something that you have left behind. Let it be something good. *
