As we transition into the cooler weather and bid farewell to Summer, let’s remember to listen to our members and our communities. We want to continue the conversation by asking “How are you REALLY?” to make sure that everyone has a voice and a safe place to be their authentic self. Thank you to everyone that took the Mental Health and Wellness survey. While most of our members are doing alright, there were some responses that were alarming. If you were one of the people who replied that you are struggling or not feeling fulfilled, please reach out to a healthcare professional. World Mental Health Day, on October 10th, was a time to raise awareness and break the stigma associated with discussing mental health and start the conversation. The talk was real and heartfelt. Most of us have some connection to someone who suffers from mental health/substance abuse issues.
This is something you can do in your own club by inviting mental health professionals and advocates to your meetings and perhaps having them to speak. Simply creating an environment where people are more comfortable talking about mental health sets a good example for your community – and provides a safe space for helping one another form the kinds of connections that strengthen our own mental health. Remember, that if someone takes even a half of a step back from what they have always been engaged in, please check and ask how they are. This may be the first warning sign that something is not right.
Engagement in service has been proven to help relieve depression. Rotary offers many opportunities to expand our impact on our communities and within ourselves. Last week 14 Rotarians from our District participated in the Learning to Lead event in Toronto, Canada. This is funded by our District and it is where we can get together to learn, mentor, engage, grow and get energized.
With over 400 Rotarians in attendance the leadership programs offered focused on the Governor line, Assistant Governors, Future Leaders, Rotaract, Public Image, Foundation, Membership, Diversity Equity and Inclusion, Mental Health, Trainers, and Young Professionals. If you are interested in expanding your knowledge of Rotary, please let me know and you may be considered to attend next year.
The organizers also created an event to raise money for the Foundation. It was a Zorb Ball competition that matched competitors against each other and as each contestant was eliminated (by being “bounced” out of the ring) the bracket grew. In the end, over $105,000 was raised. The entire event was full of energy, collaboration and team building. Check out the photos to see who from our District participated!
The Learning to Lead event is also a time to celebrate the work put in by our DGE’s (District Governor Elect’s). Our own Dave DeMers graduated with his fellow classmates and President Elect Stephanie Urchick provided the commencement speech at the Graduation.
CONGRATULATIONS DAVE!!
DG Julie M. Carney
Rotary District 7120
District Governor 2023-2024