Dear Rotarians and Rotaractors in District 7070,
Chi Miigwetch (Big Thank You) to each of you for making this an extraordinary year for HIP. As we celebrate our 10th anniversary and reflect on the success of our second National event—there is so much to be grateful for and proud of.
While we are just beginning to understand the full ripple effect of HIP’s programs, the positive feedback we’ve received from youth, teachers, and parents is a testament to the impact of your dedication. I wanted to share an email I recently received from a past participant, Emma Giberson, whose words encapsulate the transformative power of the work we do together: .....
Hey John,
I just wanted to reach out to you as I am applying for scholarships for post-secondary, and I felt as though you, and the rest of the members from the HIP organization, deserve a thank you. As I write up my personal statement in these applications, I am always brought back to the amazing experience HIP gave me. It truly allowed me to learn more about myself, what I am passionate about, and those around me.
Still to this day, I am inspired by the amount of young minds that came together in BC to discover what the path of reconciliation looks like. Countless times I am brought back to the stories and activities from the elders, especially when Elder Steven Point did the rock activity with us. It taught me that everyone on this planet is worthy, equal, and deserves to be valued.
I want to thank you, the HIP organization, and all the Rotary clubs that allow this conference to happen every year. It truly is an amazing opportunity, and I know that every person that has and will get to walk through the adventure of HIP will agree. I hope this email finds you well.*
Sincerely,
Emma Giberson
This email is just one example of the countless lives you have touched through your efforts.
As we wrap up 2024, I am incredibly excited about what lies ahead in 2025. Planning and preparations are well underway for our 3rd National Youth event. New volunteers are stepping up to lend their support in key areas, and our new strategic plan positions us to amplify our mission further.
Most importantly, I want to express my deepest gratitude to each of you. Your time, commitment, and unique gifts have propelled HIP forward. This journey over the past decade has been filled with hard work, but it’s clear we are now poised to create a lasting difference.
Regardless of your beliefs or spirituality, I hope the next few weeks provide you with time to spend with loved ones, decompress, and reconnect with the land and all of your relationships. Your contributions have made HIP what it is today, and I am truly honored to work alongside you.
Here’s to another impactful year ahead—I look forward to all we will accomplish together in 2025!
Mi'kmaq - Wela'lin, Squamish - Ayak̓w^əstəŋ, Sto:lo - Kw'as hoy, Lil'wat - Kúkwstum̓ckacw, C ree (Plains Cree) - Kiitoski, Ojibwe - Miigwetch, Inuktitut – Nakurmiik, Mohawk - Niá:wen, Blackfoot - Aapíísawahkoma, Merci/Thank you!
John Currie (he/him)
Executive Director, HIP
Past President, Rotary Club of Pickering