During this week's meeting, PDG Mark Humphries delivered a compelling presentation to our Club, shedding light on the vital role of the Rotary Foundation in underpinning our various Rotary Club of Berwick projects, facilitated through the District and Global Grant mechanisms.
The roots of the Rotary Foundation trace back to the 1917 convention when Arch Klumph, the outgoing Rotary president, proposed the establishment of an endowment with the noble aim of making a positive impact on the world. This visionary idea, backed by an initial contribution of just $26.50, ignited The Rotary Foundation, which has touched the lives of countless individuals across the globe. It's an expectation that Every Rotarian, Every Year, contributes $26.50 to sustain the Rotary Foundation's mission. If every Rotarian contributed just a little, great good could be done in the world.
Our Rotary Club of Berwick also has a Centurion Club, which used to have widespread support from our members when PP Rob Taylor (Dec.) used to run it. Rob encouraged each member to contribute $100 AUD annually. Looking back. It was a personal reminder and a gesture of respect that transformed this tax-deductible donation into a painless and gratifying experience, especially when our collective Club generosity was recognized.
It is essential to understand that our Club relies on the funding provided by the Rotary Foundation to bring our projects to fruition. While our Club's support remains steadfast, it's worth noting that over the past year, only six individual members, alongside the Club itself, have contributed to the Rotary Foundation. Imagine if the other 38 members put in $26.50 AUD each, that adds an extra $1000 AUD to our total contributions and adds to our ability to fund our work.
Despite this, the historical records of our Club's giving efforts proudly reveal a cumulative total of $387,176 US in support of the Rotary Foundation's invaluable work. It is a bit misleading because exchange rates change over time, but in today's money, that is $603896.25 AUD.
Please get in touch with Foundation Chair PP Jack Kraan if you would like to learn more about rejoining the Centurion Club, becoming an EREY (Every Rotarian, Every Year) member, or learning more about giving to the Rotary Foundation.
