Happy New Rotary Year, everyone!
 
Often, people look to a new year as a new start.  In Rotary, Rotaract and Interact, that may be the case: a change in leadership, new club officers, or maybe a new club program or focus. A new year is a good reason to “resolve” to improve in an area of growth, whether driven by self-reflection or a collective goal shared by many.  Continuous improvement is a healthy mindset for every person and organization.
 
While a new year often signals transition, it does not mean we have to abandon the foundation that makes our clubs who they are.  In fact, we should build upon the foundation and progress made by our outgoing leaders and the leaders and members who have helped us get to where we are today.  Continuity in terms of working together year after year to reach long term goals is what helps clubs be vibrant and healthy.
 
Just as club presidents and board members set goals for their clubs, your district leadership team does the same.  We’ll be covering progress on our multi-year strategic plan in future messages, but in the interim, I want to share some of my personal goals I have for this Rotary year:
  1. Raise Rotary’s visibility in the community.  We’ll host workshops that teach clubs how to engage with the news media, leverage available promotional tools, position Rotary at high-profile community events, and inspire all current members to be ambassadors for this great organization.
  2. Continue our legacy of supporting The Rotary Foundation (TRF).  Our TRF supporters are incredible!  Over the last two years, our District has been among the top ten districts in terms of per capita giving out of more than 500 districts worldwide.  Yet 26% of our members chose not to donate last year. Donations to the annual fund come back to our district in the forms of district designated funds (which can be used to support district and global grants). We will be providing new and engaging ways for people to give in hopes all our members will give.
  3. Foster opportunities for “connection.” The 2023-24 district theme is “Connect” and that has limitless possibilities – connect with each other, connect and collaborate across clubs and organizations, and connect with our communities to ensure Rotary and its service is still relevant to those who benefit from it.  We have planned district socials in each county, and will be hosting additional events for the sake of business networking and bringing new people into our Rotary family.
These are just three of many areas that I’ll be focusing on during this year, as well as supporting our clubs achieve their own goals.  I look forward to sharing more of these focus areas, and progress on those things, in the months ahead.
 
 
Our new Rotary International theme for 2023-2024 is “Create Hope In the World.” Rotary International President, Gordon McInally, asks us to come together to reduce the stigma of mental health. More and more people are facing mental health issues, yet seeking help is often viewed as a sign of weakness.  But “nothing could be further from the truth,” McInally said at the 2024 International Assembly.  Mental health and suicide touches many.  It’s touched my own family.  Perhaps yours, too.  This new initiative is an opportunity for Rotary to be brave and start talking about where we can make a difference.
 
Finally, I’m excited to share that we’ll will continue our district’s tradition of holding creative and engaging events to bring our members together and celebrate our club’s success, provide education, raise awareness of Polio eradication, and raise crucial funds for The Rotary Foundation.  Keep an eye on our website and district calendar for details as these events are announced.
 
With July being “transition month” in Rotary, I want to pause and thank outgoing Governor Gary Chow for his steadfast leadership over this past year reminding all of us that as People of Action, we have the power to Be The Change to create lasting change in our communities and in ourselves. And a big thank you and hearty congratulations to all of the outgoing club presidents on a job well done.
 
For any needs that you and your club may have, our district team is here to support you.  Our goal is to provide you the resources and support needed to ensure your success. Please reach out to us with any questions you have.
 
I consider myself extremely lucky to be able to serve as Rotary District 5150’s District Governor, and I look forward to serving alongside you all as we continue to do great things to CHANGE LIVES locally and globally.
 
Yours in Rotary,
 
 
Laine Hendricks
District 5150 Governor 2023-2024