Rotary uplifted by district governor
The Rotary Clubs of Benoni, Benoni Aurora, Benoni Van Ryn, Springs and Springs Park welcomed District Governor Annie Steijn to address them at a dinner, on August 27, at the Benoni Country Club.
Steijn, a Rotarian from Benoni, has already paid visits to 31 of the 85 Rotary clubs that fall within her district and praised the work done by the clubs thus far.
Rotary International is a service organisation which aims to provide humanitarian services, encourage high ethical standards in all vocations and help to build goodwill and peace in the world.
Steijn stressed the fact that there are a substantial number of people around the world who still need help.
“As a worldwide network we must strive to commit to service above self,” she said.
She discussed some of the community projects undertaken by the clubs, which she monitored during her visit, saying that there is much that can be changed in the lives of others.
“Looking at your projects, you are all lightening up Rotary in many, many ways,” she said, referring to the Rotary theme of this year, which is “Light up Rotary”.
Steijn addressed Rotarians on the expansion of the movement, placing strong emphasis on the need for younger members.
“Rotary’s future lies with our youth; invite the public and get them to know more about Rotary,” she said, adding that, in some of the clubs she has visited, the average age is 83 years and the membership statistics have stayed stagnant at 1.2-million Rotarians around the world for too long.
Rotary offers Rotaract, Interact and Rotakids clubs, affiliated to Rotary, for younger generations to get involved in community projects which are suitable for their age groups.
“Look into your club, if there are things that should be changed,” she said.
She also encouraged clubs to get together with other clubs, to share ideas and work together to reach even higher levels of success in enhancing the lives of their communities in need.
The Rotary Anns were addressed by District Governor Ann Elaine Stathacopoulos, and two more members were inducted into the Benoni club, followed by fellowship for the rest of the evening.
To find out more about any of the Rotary Clubs in Benoni, contact:
- Rotary Club of Benoni: Sam Grolman, 011 849 4675.
- Rotary Club of Benoni Aurora: Heidi Tucker, 082 442 6710.
- Rotary Club of Benoni Van Ryn: Neil Murray, 072 053 7498.
More Rotary news can be found at www.benonicitytimes.co.za.
