Rotary International District 5050 is enhancing youth protection by introducing a new volunteer application process. This includes online training, references, and background checks to ensure a safe environment for youth. Adhering to these steps upholds our commitment to safeguarding children and promoting Rotary's values of integrity and service.
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October is Community Economic Development Month
Nearly 1.4 billion employed people live on less than $1.25 a day. Our members promote economic and community development and reduce poverty in underserved communities through training, well-paying jobs, and access to financial management institutions. Projects range from providing people with equipment to vocational training. Our members work to strengthen local entrepreneurs and community leaders, particularly women, in impoverished communities.
Learn more about how Rotary supports economic community development.
Governor's Message - October 2024
Rotary International focuses on two areas in October: Community Economic Development and our efforts to eradicate polio, with 24 October being World Polio Day. However, it struck me when I heard presentations at the recently concluded Action Zone in Toronto that the two are significantly aligned.
The focus on Community Economic Development aims to improve economic and social well-being in communities worldwide. Here are some of the ways that our efforts to eradicate polio have helped this focus area:
1. Reduction in Healthcare Costs: Eradicating polio reduces the financial burden on healthcare systems. Treating polio patients, especially those with long-term disabilities, is costly. Countries save on medical care, rehabilitation, and related healthcare expenses by preventing new cases. Funds can be redirected toward other pressing health concerns, improving overall health infrastructure.
2. Increase in Productivity: Polio causes paralysis and long-term disabilities, which prevent affected individuals from participating fully in the labor force. Eradicating the disease ensures that more people remain healthy and active economic contributors. There is a decrease in absenteeism due to illness, which increases productivity in workplaces and schools.
Rotary International's President-elect Stephanie Urchick unveiled the 2024-25 presidential theme, "The Magic of Rotary," during a recent address. Urchick stressed that this magic isn't about fanciful tricks but resides in every Rotarian's ability to make a positive impact. She recounted a poignant experience in the Dominican Republic that showcased Rotary's magic—providing clean water that changed lives.
Kathleen Olson, a member of the Rotary Club of Arlington, has been selected as the District 5050 Governor Nominee Designate by the District's Nominating Committee and will serve as District Governor in 2026-27.
Rotary District 5050 Annual Foundation Dinner was held on 18 November at the Bellingham Golf & Country Club to celebrate the good works locally and worldwide funded by Rotarians who contribute to The Rotary Foundation.
The District 5050 Nominating Committee, chaired by Past District Governor Brad Whittaker, met in early November 2022 to select the 2025-2026 District 5050 Governor.
We congratulate Assistant Governor for Area E Isabelle Hayer, whom the Nominating Committee has selected as our District Governor for 2025-2026. Her nomination, should there be no challenge within 14 days as per the District 5050 Bylaws, becomes official on December 1, 2022.