Another meeting to pave the way for new Rotary club

THINGS are looking good for the re-establishment of a Rotary club in Kempton Park.

The first information session was a huge success with 40 people in attendance, of whom only 10 were existing Rotarians. Fifteen of the attendees expressed an interest in becoming part of Rotary.

A follow-up meeting will be held to take the discussion further, as well as to answer any further questions about chartering a club in Kempton Park. This will take place at OR Tambo Premier Hotel in Rhodesfield on March 9 at 6.30pm.

At the first meeting district governor Annie Steijn provided a brief overview of Rotary. Heidi Tucker, current president of Benoni Aurora, confirmed their support and mentorship for this initiative.

Rotary is an international organisation with clubs in more than 200 countries worldwide and a membership of just over 1,2 million. Rotary was founded by Paul Harris 112 years ago in Chicago.

One major worldwide project that Rotary has been involved with is the eradication of polio – with the support of the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation.

Rotary also involves the youth, ie Rotakids for primary school, Interact for high school and Rotaract for young adults. Various youth exchange programmes exist, as well as leadership programmes based on the values of Rotary for high school children.

Each Rotary club has its own culture and format. Rotary clubs identify projects within their communities and then obtain funds either by way of fundraising initiatives or grants from other districts/clubs and the Rotary International Foundation.

Rotary is not an exclusive club and is open to all, regardless of race, religion or political views. People who have a passion for giving back and helping those less fortunate are generally the people who join Rotary.

The Rotary Club of Benoni Aurora will provide guidance and mentorship for the next two years as the proposed club is established in Kempton Park.

For any further information, contact Grace on info@ortkempton.co.za.