Greetings Rotarians,
Everyone knows WHAT they do,
We know HOW we do it,
Few people know WHY they do it…
Last week we had a great program! Our very own Chris Patton talked to us about the characteristics of leadership. She highlighted the importance of “finding your WHY” – fulfillment comes when we live our lives on purpose. Knowing your WHY gives you a filter to make choices. The future of Rotary and the service we give to our community both locally and internationally depends on strong leadership.
Our feature presenter was Mike Gawliuk from CMHA, Foundry Kelowna. Foundry Kelowna is a place where youth and parents in our community can find easy access to the help they need. Hosted by the Canadian Mental Health Association, Foundry unites over 25 local partners agencies to help address the health care of youth ages 12-24 and their families. Foundry Kelowna is transforming how mental health and substance use services are delivered in Kelowna. Mike thanked the Rotary Club of Kelowna for the donation of $25,000. Mike shared a story of prevention. He shared a story of a young man who may have ended up on the streets of Kelowna had he not walked through the doors of Foundry and got connected to resources. I think it would be safe to say listening to Mike many understand WHY we are Rotarians. Being a member of this club allows us to have an impact on young peoples’ lives. This week marks a full year since Foundry Kelowna opened its doors and in that time more than 1,500 youth have come looking for help. Foundry Kelowna is delivering great programs in our community, is a model of collaboration and provides early intervention and support to our youth.
Don’t miss next week’s program. The Rotary theme this month is “Basic Education and Literacy.” Mr Robert Mellalieu from Fair Vote Kelowna will be our main speaker with a presentation on electoral reform. For the short program, Peter Schultz will deliver a report from Rotary International and Bruce Telford will chair an Extraordinary General Meeting of the Rotary Club of Kelowna Foundation.
Before I sign off, I remind you that our dear friend Dick Dumond has had a difficult week. Dick’s wife, Shirely, has requested no calls or visitors as Dick needs his rest. As Chris Patton said, “send your love for Dick from your heart out into the universe and he will receive it.” Dennis Campbell and Rick Potter will keep the club informed as to how Dick is doing. Our thoughts and prayers are with Dick and his family…
In service,
Lenetta