In October, I urged district Rotary members to join the PolioPlus Society by pledging at least $100 annually to The Rotary Foundation's (TRF) PolioPlus Fund until polio is eradicated. As November is Foundation Month, I now encourage annual contributions to both the PolioPlus and Annual Funds. TRF supports global projects promoting peace, health, education, and economic growth. To focus resources on giving, the District opted out of a Foundation Dinner this year. TRF’s “Every Rotarian, Every Year” (EREY) initiative also aims for 100% member participation in donations and service. Sign up on MyRotary.org and make your pledge today!
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December is Disease Prevention & Treatment Month
Disease results in misery, pain, and poverty for millions of people worldwide. That’s why treating and preventing disease is so important to us. We lead efforts both large and small. We set up temporary clinics, blood donation centers, and training facilities in underserved communities struggling with outbreaks and health care access. We design and build infrastructure that allows doctors, patients, and governments to work together.
Our members combat diseases like malaria, HIV/AIDS, Alzheimer’s, multiple sclerosis, diabetes, and polio. Prevention is important, which is why we also focus on health education and bringing people routine hearing, vision, and dental care.
Learn more about how Rotary fights disease.
Governor's Message - November 2024
In my message for October, I encouraged all district Rotary members to join the District’s PolioPlus Society by pledging a minimum of $100 annually to the PolioPlus Fund of The Rotary Foundation (TRF) until polio is eradicated worldwide. This month is Foundation Month, so my message is to give annually to the TRF’s Annual Fund and the PolioPlus Fund.
The Foundation funds many humanitarian projects in addition to its efforts to eradicate diseases like polio, such as promoting peace, fighting disease, providing clean water, supporting education, and growing local economies. Contributions enable these global initiatives, amplifying Rotary’s reach and influence in our seven focus areas.
This year, the District has chosen not to have a Foundation Dinner. The thought is that the meal cost has grown significantly, and the money would be better spent giving it to TRF. Our Foundation Committee chair, a past trustee of TRF Dean Rohrs, is working on other ideas to promote the foundation and to recognize clubs and individuals for their support.
Shawn O'Donnell Sr., a dedicated Rotarian since 1993, has been selected as Rotary District 5050’s Governor for 2027-2028. With a history of service, including terms as Everett-Port Gardner Rotary Club President and Assistant Governor, Shawn has been active in training and committee roles across the district. He and his family, who manage their restaurant group in Washington and Montana, have been involved in numerous community projects and hosted Rotary events. A longtime wrestling official and avid mountain biker, Shawn is also recognized as Mukilteo’s 2024 Citizen of the Year. Shawn and his wife Tina reside in Mukilteo.
Rotary's PolioPlus program has faced many challenges, much like Miss Vicky’s journey. From raising an ambitious $100 million to a staggering $10.4 billion with partners like WHO and UNICEF, our commitment has only grown. Over the past decade, we’ve reached over 3 billion children, delivering more than 10 billion vaccine doses.
Despite setbacks, including a surge in cases in 2008 and recent vaccination hurdles in Afghanistan, hope remains. Wild polio cases dropped to just 10 in 2023, and new strategies, including the injectable vaccine, are enhancing our efforts.
Recent conferences reaffirmed our resolve, with 87% of Gaza's children vaccinated in the latest campaign. As Rotarians, we must remain focused on achieving a polio-free world by 2029. Together, we can overcome obstacles and continue this vital mission!
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.
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.