FOUNDATION MATTERS...

Doing good here in Traverse City or in the many locations we’ve worked in over the years, is what Rotary is really all about. The Rotary Foundation, the charity arm of Rotary International, has developed a powerful model for making our dollars count for far more than we have to begin with.

By committing to “Every Rotarian, Every Year” we are able to in turn multiply our gifts to the Foundation over a three-year period where each dollar grows, and is subsequently returned  and matched by numbers far larger than our original investment. We may not see it right away, but the monies grow, come back to us and then are regranted here and throughout the world. This year we are likely to see $30,000 from the Foundation to support our projects like the Hermes Rainbow Trust in Africa, a Hospital project in Peru, a School and Clean water Project in Haiti. Just some of the places we affect.

Roy Pentilla and Bill Donberg of Elk Rapids Rotary were the presenters of the day. Roy gave an overview of the Foundation and the Paul Harris points that are gained by committing to the “Every Rotarian, Every Year” program. Additionally, he spoke of the direct dollars going to the projects and not lost in administrative cost. The six areas that are supported by the Foundation are: Peace and Conflict Prevention and Resolution, Disease Prevention and Treatment, Water Sanitation, Maternal Child and Health, Basic Education and Literacy, and Economic and Community Development.

Donberg gave us a review of the Haitian water project in Trianon Haiti that has grown dramatically over the last few years of our areas’ involvement aiding many more people than when we first began work there. The goal to bring health and hope to Haitians in dire need of clean water and sanitation. We have worked with the Pure Water for the World a key NGO, that has helped Rotary and our clubs in particular make a significant difference. The work continues and so does the need. 

As you think about the “Every Rotarian, Every Year” campaign and what you may be able to do to be a part of it, keep this simple statement in mind.