Posted by Marty Helman, Rotary International Director , Zones 28 & 32
To embrace current technology and to be a resource to all members of Zone’s 28/32, the Rotary International Director newsletter has been transitioned to an interactive blog style format that will be managed and moderated by the Zone leadership team. Look for the "In The Zone" July 2026 video from Marty Helman, our Rotary International Director, in our July 2026 Rotary District 7070 Newsletter (when it becomes available) , and on the Rotary Zone 28 and 32 website.
This month, Marty wished everyone a Happy Canada Day and a Happy 4th of July in Canada and the USA this week. She thanks Rotarians for their hard work in 2-26-26 and to Past Rotary International Director for her leadership. She tells us that the world needs Rotary more than even and encourages us to continue to the the great work as we go forward into a new Rotary year. Marty has started, today on her Rotary Impact Tour, in Edmonton, Alberta. .....Please Read more.....
Our District 7070 newsletter is meant to keep everyone in our Rotary family up to date on latest news from around the Rotary world, from the clubs in our District, from the various committees in District 7070 and beyond. We send it out to all active Rotarians and post it on to our District website and District Facebook page. We ask that you share this letter and keep your entire Rotary family and friends informed. Make sure they all get a copy. The deadline for your story submissions is always 4 days prior to the end of the month. Check out our District 7070 Facebook Page, Twitter, Instagram accounts and our District 7070 website for even more of the latest news about Rotary here in southern Ontario and around the world.
Posted by Niecy Dillon Tyrovolas , District 7070 Governor , 2025-26
In her June 2026 Newsletter, District 7070 Governor Niecy Dillon Tyrovolas talks about our District being BUSY in the very best way. We are celebrating Paul Harris Fellowship nights, Changeover celebrations, Scholarship presentations, New Club Charter nights, and amazing community projects that continue to make a difference every single day . She is so incredibly proud of our clubs, our members, our leaders, and the impact we are making together. One event that was especially meaningful to Niecy this year was our EPIC Day of Service. She thanks every club that participated and embraced the idea of making Rotary visible in our communities through action. She notes that June is Fellowship Month and encourages everyone to get together with your members! Have a fun breakfast, a lunch gathering, a backyard BBQ, an evening social, coffee, ice cream…whatever makes your club smile. Invite family, invite friends, invite community members…And most importantly… Invite Niecy! She loves seeing you all, hearing your stories, and celebrating the amazing things happening across our District. Niecy hopes to see ALL of you at our District Changeover Night as we celebrate US! This evening is about everything we accomplished together as a District. It will be a night of fellowship, fun, laughter, a few awards, probably a tear or two, and of course… plenty of hugs. We will celebrate the incredible 2025–2026 year and welcome Liz Compton and her amazing team as they prepare for another fantastic Rotary year. Please Read more. .........
Posted by Francesco Arezzo, Rotary International President 2025-26
Let's Carry The Momentum
In President Francesco's June 2026 Newsletter, he thanks each member of our global Rotary family. Your kindness, warmth, and dedication have changed his life. In every place he went, he saw Rotary members and our partners working side by side to create lasting, positive change, reminding him that our strength lies in shared purpose. He said, "Rotary is not something we attend, but something we do. We are not spectators. We act, and through that action, we transform our communities and ourselves." He urged us to keep our focus on building conditions for peace. He added that as we push toward polio eradication. The final mile is often the hardest, but we cannot falter in our promise to the children of the world. When we Unite for Good, there is no challenge we cannot meet if we stand together……..
Posted by Holger Knaack, Chair of the Trustees , Rotary Foundation 2024-25
In Past President Holger Knaack's Rotary Foundation June 2026 Newsletter, he says that over the last year , in his newsletters, we have heard about so many successful projects and the wonderful members and dedicated staff who make them happen, I ask that we, too, become part of this success story. He says, “Your donation to The Rotary Foundation already makes a difference. However, I would like to take it a step further and encourage you to think bigger: Consider making a targeted investment in the area most important to you…. In Rotary, your dreams of a better world can become reality with the help of The Rotary Foundation…. With your investment in polio vaccinations, you work to ensure that no child will ever contract polio again. With your investment in Rotary Peace Centers, you contribute to world peace. By investing in our Annual Fund, you ensure that effective projects will continue to be sustainably funded….Giving to the Foundation is about so much more than funding projects. It’s a way to show compassion and empathy for others." …
Posted by Christine Etienne, Rotary International Director , Zones 28 & 32
To embrace current technology and to be a resource to all members of Zone’s 28/32, the Rotary International Director newsletter has been transitioned to an interactive blog style format that will be managed and moderated by the Zone leadership team. Look for the "In The Zone" June 2026 video from Christine Etienne, our Rotary International Director, in our June 2026 Rotary District 7070 Newsletter (when it becomes available) , and on the Rotary Zone 28 and 32 website.
This month, Chris talks about the international Convention in Taipei, Rotary Fellowships , and says what a privilege and honour it was to serve as our Director of Rotary Zones 28 and 32 for the last two year. She adds that she is very impressed with the influence we have on communities with our many projects, and partnerships. Chris introduced us to our new District Marty Helman from Booth Bay, Maine (who has been a trustee fof the Rotary Foundation for the last 4 years. Marty thanked Chris for her dedication and leadership over the last 2 years. Marty said that the world needs us now more than ever. She recognized the many challenges we have today. We have to make changes. She added that the methodology of the 20th century does not work in the 21st century. She looks forward to meeting us and reviewing our many projects in our Districts this year and next.....Please Read more.....
What Is your Rotary Club doing to focus on Rotary Fellowships in the month of June 2026, or anytime of the year for that matter? Rotary Fellowships are groups of Rotary members, spouses, and Rotaractors who: Share a common interest in recreational activities, sports, hobbies, or professions, Further their vocational development with others in the same profession or field and enhance their Rotary experience by exploring new opportunities and making connections around the world. To find out how you can join or start a Rotary Fellowship,watch this videoand Please read more.....
June 2 at 7:30 PM - Ways to make your club Simply Irresistible
Whether you’re a club leader, membership chair, or just passionate about building vibrant clubs, this webinar will provide tools and insights to help every member feel inspired and involved.
Join on Zoom - click here to access the meeting links page (must login with your ClubRunner account, contact webmaster Bruce Goldsen if you don't have a login.
Whoa...the first Monday of the month is almost here again already! Yep. Monday Membership Meetup is June 2 - and it'll be a good one! Same link as last time - https://us06web.zoom.us/j/86755780910...
Public image doesn’t have to feel overwhelming. Join the Zones 28 & 32 Public Image Teams on June 2nd at 7:30pm EST for Public Image Made Practical.
We’ll walk step‑by‑step through creating your Rotary logos, downloading content from the Brand Center, uploading videos to Facebook, and scheduling posts on Facebook + Instagram.
After the follow along walkthroughs, bring your questions & ask us anything.
Learn the essential tools every Public Image Chair needs to confidently manage Rotary branding and social media. This practical session walks you through creating district and club logos in the Brand Center, downloading brand‑approved content (including video), uploading videos to Facebook, and scheduling posts across Facebook and Instagram using Meta’s Business Suite. You’ll leave with simple, repeatable workflows you can use right away.
On June 25, 2026 at Viva Retirement Communities, 51 Whitby Shores Greenway, in Whitby ON, we have sold out the Annual District Governor Changeover and District Awards Night as we as we say a heartfelt farewell to District Governor Niecy Dillon-Tyrovolas and her incredible 2025–2026 District Team, while we warmly welcome Incoming District Governor Liz Compton and her amazing 2026–2027 team as they get ready to lead us forward! This is not just a changeover… it’s a celebration of an incredible Rotary year, the friendships we’ve built, the impact we’ve made, and the exciting journey ahead. And who is going to win this year's District Awards to Rotary, Rotaract and Interact Clubs?
Starting at 6 PM on June 25 at Viva Retirement Communities. Cost: $35.00 per person . Registration had to be turned off.
What can you expect? A delicious dinner Cash bar District Awards recognizing some incredible people, clubs, and committees Fellowship, fun and lots of laughter A FEW speeches A sneak peek of what’s to come next year And as Niecy always says… probably a tear or two!
The Club Excellence Award recognizes the hard work clubs do throughout the year. Club leaders have until 30 June to set, achieve, and report the achievement of goals to be eligible for the 2025-26 Club Excellence Award.
The Epic Day of Service 2026 is a global volunteer event that took place on 16 May 2026, uniting Rotarians and communities to create meaningful change through service. The Rotary Clubs of District 7070 carried out Epic Days of Service throughout the month of May.
MISSION: To inspire and create a worldwide EPIC Day of Service, uniting Rotary clubs and community members in collective action to make a tangible difference in communities around the globe. Through this initiative, we aim to provide an accessible platform that empowers clubs to promote their projects, elevate Rotary's visibility, and amplify the incredible work being done in communities everywhere.
HISTORY: The EPIC Day is a grassroots event founded in 2022 by two Rotary District Governors -- Jeff Krause and Joanne Alfieri -- in Connecticut and Massachusetts. They were responding to Rotary International President Shekhar Mehta's call for all clubs to do a Rotary Day of Service. Under the coordination of Robert Friend, a broad team of Rotary leaders has grown the EPIC Day exponentially. In 2024, Districts in Colorado and Wyoming joined the team, bringing a new global website to help support public involvement and add fundraising.
OUR IMPACT: Currently in 7 Countries: United States, Canada, Brazil, Australia, England, The Netherlands, and Bermuda… 21 Districts with over 1200 clubs; … 10 States: Connecticut, Massachusetts, Pennsylvania, New Jersey, New Hampshire, New York, Vermont, Colorado, Wyoming, Michigan….. 1264 Projects…. Over 36,000 Rotarians and Community Members. Last year the fundraising component was implemented in the Colorado district and successfully raised over $150,000.
Well done. Be sure to go to the Rotary District 7070 Facebook page to see what they did. ......
For more than a century, Rotary and its members have been promoting peace and working to address the underlying causes of conflict in our communities and around the globe – a challenge that’s more important now than ever before. On May 20, we learned so much more in a special on-line presentation “Unite for Peace”– a high-energy hour of stories, music and more, showcasing the peacebuilding work of Rotary through our commitment to create lasting change that enhances international relationships, improves lives and communities, and creates a more peaceful world. Thank you to our leaders in Rotary Zones 28 and 32 for putting on a memorable show. Thank you to our very own Joe Solway, Rotarian form Bowmanville , Ontario Canada, and Rotary Zone 28's Assistant Public Image Coordinator, who produced the show.
Posted by Helen Walsh, Rotary Club of Northumberland Sunrise
What started as a simple conversation between Rotarians has turned into an exciting opportunity for fellowship, friendship, and adventure. Helen Walsh, Karen O'Hara (Rotary Club of Northumberland Sunrise) and Cathy Cavanagh (Rotary Club of Wellington) are inviting Rotarians, spouses, family members, and friends from across District 7070 to join a group tour to Ireland from May 18–26, 2028…..
Here is a note that I received from Past District Governor Ron Denham . Ron recently received an invitation to assist with projects in Nepal. Ron says that Nepal is a fantastic country, and Nepalese Rotarians are a joy to work with. It would be great if a club or group in District 7070 could reach out……
Join LIZ COMPTON (DGE) and her Committee for an inspiring weekend celebrating service, connection, and community impact. Meet fellow Rotarians and Rotaractors, learn from engaging speakers, and enjoy time together in the heart of North York
It is always with great sadness when we lose members of our District 7070 Rotary family. Everyone in District 7070 wants to express their deepest sympathies to our extended Rotary family. Please send your notices to Newsletter Editor Dave Andrews at dave.f.andrews99@gmail.com .....
Posted by Bob Wallace, Past District Governor, Past Rotary Zone Coordinator, and Current Chair of District 7070 Rotary Foundation Committee
In his June 2026 letter to Rotarians, Past District Governor Bob Wallace, and current Chair of the District 7070 Rotary Foundation Committee, encourages every Rotarian to set and meet their club and personal goals and make a conscious effort to make a donation to The Rotary Foundation, whatever you can afford, to the Annual Programs Fund, the PolioPlus Fund, the Disaster Response Fund, and to the Endowment Fund. Are you a member of the Paul Harris Society OR the PolioPlus Society? Is your club qualified to submit a request for a District or a Global Grant? . Please Read more.........
Posted by Lars Henriksson, Chair, District 7070 Rotary Foundation Grants Committee
Rotary and Rotaract Clubs that want to apply for Global and District Grants must be qualified. This is a requirement by the Rotary Foundation. Qualification is for one Rotary year. For a Club to become qualified, at least two members of the Club must complete the training provided by District 7070. Members have two options to meet this requirement. Either, by attending the yearly Foundation workshop in November. About 80 Rotarians attended the one for the 2026-27 Rotary year, held in Oshawa Saturday, November 15, 2025. Or, those who didn’t attend the workshop can take the two online modules and quizzes, posted on the District’s website. The modules for the 2026-27 Rotary year are now available on the District’s website, www.rotary7070.org
In addition, the Club’s President and President-Elect must sign and submit a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to the District. A copy of the MOU can be found on the District’s website. Please, contact PDG Lars Henriksson at pdglars.henriksson@gmail.com if you have any questions or concerns.
Remember, if your club wants a Global Grant, they must qualify and submit their request at anytime. The time for District grants for 2026-27 ended on May 31, 2026.
Posted by Lars Henriksson, Chair, District 7070 Rotary Foundation Grants Committee
District 7070 is introducing a new District Grant application process for the 2026-27 Rotary year, using ClubRunner. The new format will result in some important changes
To begin with, only qualified Clubs will have access to the application documents. Clubs applying for District Grants must enter the Member Area on the District’s website, www.rotary7070.org Once there, go the Grants to the left under the top banner. Click on Grants and then Submit A Grant Request. Complete and submit the request. ... Please read more......
Posted by Past District Governor Virginia O'Reilly, Chair, District 7070 Rotary Foundation Committee
Dear fellow Rotarians in District 7070,
Rotarians in District 7070 have been committed to The Annual Programs Fund of the Rotary Foundation. You should be proud of the difference that Rotary have made in the lives of millions of people throughout the world by the project funded by The Rotary Foundation.
I want to thank you for your past efforts and ask that you recommit to helping us raise funds for The Annual Programs Fund of the Rotary Foundation.
We are inviting you to join our efforts to continue for The Annual Programs Fund of the Rotary Foundation. To become a member of the Paul Harris Society you are asked to commit to making an annual donation of $1000 USD or more to The Annual Programs Fund of the Rotary Foundation.
We hope that with your commitment in joining the Paul Harris Society, we will make a significant difference in our world.
As a Rotary leader, you play a vital role in influencing Rotary’s future. By encouraging your club members to consider the legacy they want to leave, you help ensure long‑term funding that will support your district’s most meaningful work for generations to come.
Become a Rotary’s Promise Club. When every member of your club gives at least US$1,000 to The Rotary Foundation’s Endowment — either through a current gift or a bequest — your club earns the Rotary’s Promise Club designation. This honor recognizes the club’s enduring dedication to creating lasting change......
Raise for Rotary is a platform that allows individuals, clubs, and districts to create online fundraisers that benefit The Rotary Foundation. It is a great way to celebrate personal events and special occasions. Organizers can share their fundraisers through social media, email, and text, so family, friends, colleagues, and supporters can donate online...... Please Read more....
Instead of giving shots, some polio vaccinators in Afghanistan are introducing jet injectors, a technology used in some of the most remote communities. Spring-powered devices deliver a tiny stream of vaccine through the outer layer of skin in a split second. Just a quick press, a soft click, and protection delivered with a smile.Read how injectors help vaccination rates in the story: No needle, no fear, no pain.
World Polio Day is just around the corner (October 24, 2026) . We hope you have started your planning. Here are Some Resources to raise awareness and funds:
Far from the vaccination front lines, the fight against polio begins with Rotary members in places like a neighborhood pub, a commuter train, and a tulip field. World Polio Day fundraising is a golden opportunity for clubs to connect to the power of Rotary’s global network, bond members through a meaningful long-term project, and just as importantly, have some fun. So you want to end polio?
Posted by Past District Governor Virginia O'Reilly, Chair, District 7070 Rotary Foundation Committee
Dear Fellow Rotarians in District 7070,
Rotarians in District 7070 have been committed over the past nearly 40 years to raising funds to immunize children worldwide and our efforts are paying off. You should be proud of the difference that Rotary has made in the lives of millions of children by eliminating this dreadful disease.
I want to thank you for your past efforts and ask that you recommit to helping us raise funds to finish Rotary’s number one initiative of eradicating polio. Rotary is still committed to raising $50 million a year for this effort.
As such, we are launching the Polio Plus Society and are inviting you to join our efforts to continue to raise funds to eradicate polio. To become a member of the Polio Plus Society you are asked to commit to making an annual donation of $100 USD or more to The Rotary Foundation’s Polio Plus Fund until the last two countries, Afghanistan and Pakistan, are certified free of the wild polio virus.
A PolioPlus Society membership can completed here by clicking here.
A new way to connect prospective members with clubs
Rotary’s new system for managing prospective members is now live. In the new system, prospective members complete an interest form and choose a club to connect with. Club leaders will receive a notification when someone chooses their club, prompting them to review the membership inquiry. If the club's expectations don't align with the candidate's, they can reassign the inquiry to district leaders.
Club and district leaders can learn more about their roles and how the new system works in these resources:
Connecting With Prospective Members (PDF) — Learn how the system for managing prospective members works and explore the roles of clubs and districts in effectively connecting with prospective members.
Posted by Lee Ann Searight, Rotary International Membership Resources Specialist
Every month is a time when we should celebrate our members, recognize their contributions, and engage with prospective members. We have many resources you can use to promote membership in your club and enhance participant engagement. Here are 10 ideas for planning an exciting time for them:
As you prepare for the new Rotary year, remember that engaged members lead to a vibrant club. Members are more likely to be engaged when their needs are met, and the best way to understand your members’ needs is to ask about them. You can use a member interest survey and a member satisfaction survey to gather this valuable information that will help improve your club experience.
These surveys have a new, editable online format, so you can easily customize questions for your members. The guides below will help you do that. After members complete a survey, you’ll be able to view the results online.
Just as routine doctor visits help people identify health risks before they become serious, Rotary’s club health check can diagnose problem areas and prescribe remedies. Club leaders will find a checklist to assess their club’s well-being in the areas of club experience, service and social events, members, image, and business and operations, along with an array of resources to treat any problem areas. Regularly consulting those resources can help maintain your club’s health and preserve its value for club members and the community. A few examples follow, but review the entire document through the website listed below to ensure you’re taking full advantage of these valuable tools.
Past District Governor Mike Cooksey once told me that if you want more Rotary members, you have to ask. He told every Rotarian he saw to "Get your Ask in Gear". His words certainly reflect one of the District 7070 Action Plans. Our goal is to receive 100 inquires from the "Join Us" or "Interested In Joining Us?" button on the District 7070 Website. Here is our challenge to your club: By the end of this Rotary year we want over 45 Rotary Clubs to have a "Join Us" or "Interested In Joining Us?" button on their own club website AND for your club to have a "member conversion process" from these inquiries. It's up to you.
To see how we have done , Please Read more........
Whether you’re already using Rotary’s Service Project Center or are hearing about it for the first time, this dynamic resource hub supports you at every stage of your service project journey.
In the Service Project Center, you’ll find tools and resources all in one place to help strengthen the impact of your projects. There are documents, links, and guidance to design and manage measurable and sustainable projects, locate partners, exchange stories, share best practices, and more.
And now the Service Project Center is even more valuable and exciting to use with the addition of these new features:
A Resources page with links to project planning materials.
A refreshed, mobile-friendly Grant Center page and dashboard integrated into the Service Project Center, giving you seamless access to project resources and grant information.
An Impact page dedicated to supporting Rotary’s Action Plan that will debut with a fun game designed to test your knowledge of impact.
We encourage you to visit the Service Project Center for all your project planning needs and to check back regularly for new features and enhancements.
Rotary's Service Project Center – the hub for all your project planning needs – has a refreshed Impact page featuring a new video, a new game, Programs of Scale stories, and resources to learn more about how these initiatives are designed for stronger, more sustainable impact.
The new “Create Lasting Change” video highlights how Rotary partners with communities, invests in skills, and measures progress so results continue long after a project ends.
Share the video with your club, play the new game, and explore the Programs of Scale stories.
These tools demonstrate how service initiatives can build credibility with partners and donors and reinforce Rotary’s reputation as a strategic, results-driven organization.
Visit the Impact page today to learn and be inspired. Check back regularly for new features and enhancements!
Learn about Vocational Service and how to incorporate it into your personal and professional life through Rotary.
Vocational Service is one way that members and participants can serve at Rotary. It involves using our professional skills and expertise to serve the community, promote ethical practices, and inspire others.
As we work together to make a difference in communities, we want to better show people the lasting changes that Rotary members make in the world. Measuring our impact means we gather the information that allows us to do that. This handbook will help you plan how you’ll use measurement methods for all the service projects you carry out, whether they’re funded by your club, your district, or The Rotary Foundation.
You’ll find information about different approaches to measurement, practical examples, proven methods, and space for you to record your ideas or practice using the concepts. This will help you learn to plan and measure your projects and collect more relevant data.
Data is a powerful tool to help us learn what’s working and what isn’t. It also lets us create and share compelling stories about Rotary that propel people into action. Showing our impact through data can lead to new partnership opportunities and funding, attract new members, and forge stronger relationships in the communities we work with.
Rotary Action Groups recently celebrated their 20th anniversary, marking two decades of empowering clubs by using their specialized expertise to offer guidance. These global networks play a vital role in strengthening Rotary’s international service by helping clubs collaborate across borders to design effective, culturally informed, and sustainable projects. Their international experience equips members to address major global challenges, from expanding access to family health services to improving community wellness in diverse regions worldwide.
Discover how partnering with a Rotary Action Group can amplify the impact of your next international initiative and connect your club with trusted experts around the world.
Rotary recently developed the Service Project Essentials learning plan to help clubs deliver well‑designed, community‑centered, sustainable, and measurable service projects. The courses in the learning plan cover how to assess community needs, plan projects, build budgets, engage partners, and evaluate results. After completing the learning plan, you’ll be better equipped to:
Posted by Richard Mewhinney, Chair , Rotary District 7070 Areas of Focus Committee
On May 7, 2026, Richard Mewhinney, accompanied by Joan and John Barrett of the Scarborough Rotary Club had the opportunity to do a 1 hour talk show on Desert Stream Radio 106 FM in Amuria Uganda. This was a community Engagement segment for Ongutoi Health Centre III (A project that many clubs in District 7070 has supported). Radio is a critical communication tool in Uganda and more broadly Africa, given particularly in rural regions there is no other means to gain information. Therefore over 50 percent of Africans listen to radio every day!,,We were speaking on the availability and access to the Health Centre combined with the project Water Collection for Sustainability and the product Oranges equaling revenue for the Health Centre. What was intended as a 30 minute talk show was extended to an hour given the information being provided.
Posted by Eric Nejat, Rotary Club of Richmond Hill
It gives me great pleasure to email you the latest issue of RMMC Letter spring 2026, prepared by our secretary of RMCC Rotarian Mehrzad Hoesseini who is now the new chair of the Environment Committee of Richmond Hill Club. It includes events and activities of RMCC member clubs. I am sure you will enjoy reading it as well as I did.
Posted by Janet Thorsteinson, Rotary Club of Whitby Sunrise, Team DR
The best and most beautiful things in this world cannot be seen or even heard but must be felt with the heart - Helen Keller. This statement reflects the goal and mission of the District 7070 International Project to the Dominican Republic (DR).
Team DR has returned from 5 weeks of sharing kindness to their fellow man. 16 individuals, Rotarian and non Rotarians were drawn to help continue the mission. Our volunteers not only had fun learning simple construction skills but also helped Team DR change lives…by giving the gifts of water through grey water retrieval systems and well discovery, light through installing solar lights, warmth through clothing, nourishment through food bags, education through the SewGirls Kits and most importantly the gift of friendship to the people we serve......
Posted by Janet Thorsteinson, Rotary Club of Whitby Sunrisenies
#SewGirlsCanGoToSchool is a drive to end Period Poverty. The project, first started in 2015, has to date delivered over 2000 reusable menstruation kits to girls and women in the Dominican Republic. Our volunteer groups now see female graduation pictures on the wall of the homes of the families we help. Girls are able to continue with their studies without the worry of missing school. Organize your club. Create a hands on project. Your Club can help make the kits. The kits help raise girls up so that they are able to pursue dreams - to get education, delay early pregnancy, feel worthy and an equal to their male classmates, enjoy social engagements with their friends - all because they have something to menstruate on - something that we can make, something that is overlooked yet essential for females to succeed......
Posted by Mal Balachandran, Incoming Chair of District 7070 Youth Services
To our Rotary family in Rotary District 7070:
We are proud to highlight Sarah, a Rotaractor and RYLS (Our District 7070 Rotary Youth Leadership Symposium) graduate whose compassion and commitment to service reflect Rotary’s motto of Service Above Self. Sarah first learned about the Sew Girls Can Go to School initiative through RYLS and was inspired to take action. With the help of volunteers, she sews reusable menstrual pads to support girls and young women in the Dominican Republic, helping promote dignity, health, and access to education. To make her fundraiser even more meaningful, Sarah is also running 1 km for every $1 raised, with a goal of reaching $1,000. Please consider supporting and sharing Sarah’s fundraiser: GoFundMe: https://gofund.me/28e6c3429 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/soo.sarah.sews Sarah’s leadership is a powerful reminder that service has no age limit.
BELRAG was formed in 2011. We are a network of Rotarians and others passionate across the world who have a special interest in acting upon the mission and goals of Rotary International related to alleviating illiteracy; enhancing literacy teaching and learning globally, and helping to provide materials and equipment for literacy education at different levels. Like all Action Groups, BELRAG is an autonomous association of like-minded Rotarians, partners of Rotarians, and Rotaractors working in partnership with Clubs and Districts on basic education and literacy projects of mutual concern. Learn more about the history of BELRAG here.
Posted by Ally Buck, Rotary and Community Fundraising Coordinator with ShelterBox Canada on May 14, 2026
Here is the latest update from Ally Buck, the Rotary and Community Fundraising Coordinator with ShelterBox Canada. She is getting to know the Rotary Clubs and Rotarians that support ShelterBox. Ally is originally from Pictou County, Nova Scotia where she attended the Nova Scotia Community College’s Social Services/Community Development program. She relocated to Kingston, Ontario to attend Queen’s University where she graduated with her BA in Global Development Studies and is a member of the Rotaract Club of Kingston......
Rotarian Dr. Richard Godfrey says a revolution is underway to eliminate cervical cancer, the fourth most common type in women that is also highly preventable. Godfrey talks with the Rotary Voices podcast about bringing an early-stage treatment to patients that takes about 15 minutes. Listen to the episode now.
Posted by Wade Nomura WASHRAG Operations Team Chair TRF Cadre and Global Regions Coordinator
Welcome to our newest version of the WASHRAG Newsletter, where you will be receiving our latest information and updates thanks to our newest Ops Team member, Newsletter editor Justine Wienken. We look forward to hearing from all of you and encourage you to stay connected with us, as our goal is to network with all levels of experience in WASH, from the first timers to the professionals of WASH.
Posted by Bill Empey - Honouring Indigenous People, Rotary District 7070 Coordinator
Here is the latest Honouring Indigenous People Rotary News and Events, projects, blogs, photos, films, and resources. There are many major initiatives and resources available to you and your Rotary club. Your Club can help. Our District 7070 Action Committee's Areas of Focus Coordinator is Bill Empey from the Rotary Club of Toronto If you have a good news story, or want to help starting a project, please contact Bill. Here are some news highlights .........
Posted by Bill Empey Honouring Indigenous People, District Coordinator, Rotary District 7070
The 2026 Honouring Indigenous Peoples National Youth to Youth 2026 program welcomed four very special students from District 7070. The event was held at the Six Nations of the Grand River FN at the end of March. Fifty non-indigenous and indigenous students from communities across Canada, shared direct experiences and made new friends. … Please Read more….
We hope this message finds you well and thriving in your service to our communities! As we continue to inspire and empower the next generation, we are excited to share an incredible opportunity that aligns perfectly with your Rotary values - the Rotary Youth Exchange program.
The Program is more than just an adventure. It’s a transformative experience that fosters international understanding, cultural appreciation, and personal growth. By promoting the Program with our District’s Rotary Clubs, we can provide young people the opportunity to explore a new culture, develop lifelong friendships, and enhance their leadership skills. .....
As we continue to inspire and empower the next generation, we are excited to share an incredible opportunity that aligns perfectly with your Rotary values - the Rotary Youth Exchange program.
The Program is more than just an adventure. It’s a transformative experience that fosters international understanding, cultural appreciation, and personal growth. By promoting the Program with our District’s Rotary Clubs, we can provide young people the opportunity to explore a new culture, develop lifelong friendships, and enhance their leadership skills. We invite you to join us in championing the Rotary Youth Exchange Program in our District......
Rotary and Rotaract clubs can now designate a Programs for Young Leaders contact. And Interact club presidents can (with a parent’s consent) complete an optional self-registration form to receive resources and support directly from Rotary International. Both of these changes will help clubs and youth programs expand and grow stronger in part by enabling RI to distribute tools and information to club contacts. The Programs for Young Leaders contacts will stay connected with all of the youth programs their club sponsors, amplifying participants’ ideas and input and advocating for safe, inclusive programs. They will also serve as the main contact for any Interact clubs their club sponsors, attend Interact meetings, and find opportunities for Interactors to attend the sponsor club’s meetings and activities. Learn more about the Programs for Young Leaders contact. ....
Give us your 10K’s, your brewfests, your arts and crafts fairs! Rotary magazine editors frequently hear from members like you about the hard work that goes into your fundraisers and community events.
The monthly calendar is one of the prime spaces where the magazine showcases events that help communities thrive. Submit details to magazine@rotary.org, and we might put your event in the calendar.
Illuminating Our Impact with Public Image & Storytelling
We’re excited to announce the launch of the Zones 28 & 32 Ignite Award, a new Public Image recognition designed to celebrate Zones 28 & 32 clubs and districts that shine a light on Rotary’s impact through consistent branding and storytelling. This award honors those who not only share Rotary’s impact but do so with clarity, creativity, and brand excellence.
Use our new, Rotary-branded PowerPoint presentation to give potential members or community partners a concise overview of what Rotary is and what our members do. Customize the notes depending on your audience. You can share the slides in person or virtually. Download the PowerPoint presentation in English.
We're all Rotary brand ambassadors! Helping others understand how we make a difference as people of action is something all Rotary members can do. Use the resources in the improved Brand Center to publicize your work and strengthen the Rotary brand.
Explore the Service Project Center's resources and find inspiration
Your club makes a difference. Now tell the world about it! Rotary’s Service Project Center helps you plan, track, and share your projects by providing a streamlined hub for tools, resources, and ideas from clubs worldwide. The Service Project Center also makes it easier to share links to your project on social media, to inspire others to take action with you. Visit the Service Project Center
Our newest promotional campaign features videos of a diverse sample of members explaining how Rotary helps them further their passions and professions. The campaign’s initial rollout features testimonials by three U.S. members. Watch for future videos showcasing Rotary’s diversity of membership, breadth of experiences, and global reach. The testimonials are designed to complement Rotary’s People of Action messaging. Together, the videos and messaging work to deepen the public’s understanding of the many ways Rotary enriches members’ lives.
Visit the Brand Center to download these dynamic videos, and then post them on your social media channels and websites to introduce potential participants and members to everything they can find in Rotary. Lots more on Videos....
Rotary's mission is timeless, but what worked for Rotary and its clubs in the past may not be the most effective approach today. The world has changed, people have changed, and communication has changed. In a Rotary 360 blog post, Herb Silverman, president of the Rotary Club of Impact Ocala, Florida, USA, outlines some of the ways his club is embracing change and how other clubs can do the same. Modernizing communications is high on his list. Learn more about how to adapt our tools and embrace today’s opportunities.
We’ve given our blog in English a new name and a fresh look. Rotary 360 replaces Rotary Voices and will capture the Rotary experience from every angle. You’ll find inspiring stories from Rotary members as well as thoughtful, conversation-starting pieces from our partner organizations and experts in various fields. Explore our new blog and share it with other members and people in your community. If you have a story to tell, send it to us at blog@rotary.org.
We’ve given our blog a new name and a fresh look. The Rotary Voices blog is now Rotary 360, and it captures Rotary’s story from every angle. Explore the blog website and look for projects and ideas that showcase how Rotary takes action to do good in the world and build community connections. Those inspiring stories can help build brand awareness when shared on your social media channels, helping to attract members, volunteers, and donors. Explore Rotary 360.
Nearly a decade ago, while Jennifer Jones was the chair of the Strengthen Rotary’s Brand Committee, Rotary International conducted in-depth research to better understand how the public viewed Rotary, our members, and our work. What we learned was that we needed to reposition the Rotary brand by focusing on clear, consistent messages and a unified visual identity. Based on the committee’s recommendation, the Rotary International Board of Directors approved new brand guidelines, which included how clubs should use the Rotary logo.......
Rotary’s public image is shaped by the actions of every member, from how we conduct ourselves in meetings to how we represent Rotary at events and respond to needs in our communities. The club public image committee’s role is to create and implement a plan to tell Rotary’s local story, promote the club’s activities in the area, and raise awareness of Rotary’s work around the world. This list will help you assess how well your committee is shaping Rotary’s image.
Check the Club Public Image Checklist. See how many checks you have accomplished , and start working on the rest of the checks. Your 2024-25-26-27 Club Presidents already have a copy. Here is the checklist.
It's TIME TO GET YOUR CLUB NOTICED. Prospective members are checking YOU out - What will they see? Don't be left behind. REGISTER TODAY.
To assist the Rotary Clubs of District 7070 GET NOTICED, at the request of District Governor Niecy Dillon-Tyrovolas, the District Public Relations Committee is continuing the Rotary Club ClubRunner Website Refresh Program and Promotional Half Back Discount.
THIS PROGRAM IS NOW AVAILABLE FOR YOUR CLUB in 2025-26 and in 2026-27. Thirty-three of our District 7070 Rotary clubs have already completed the refresh program. These club websites are getting noticed by the public and potential members who are checking them out. When a prospective member looks to join a club, they look at YOUR club website. GET YOUR CLUB WEBSITE REFRESHED - REGISTER TODAY.
A few years ago, we asked Rob MacArthur, our District 7070 Public Image Public Investigator to carry out an investigation on all Rotary clubs with respect to their club's Public Image. Rob looked at your club's basic web site setup as well as social media channels and the way they were being used. A spreadsheet of the results was made available for our District Leadership Team and Assistant Governors to review. The Pie Chart included shows a graphical representation of the results. Where do you "think" your club fits in this chart? What is the Image that the public have, about your club? Here is what Rob found out... Please Read more....
Posted by David Andrews, Chair, District 7070 Public Image Committee
Our District 7070 Public Image Committee is calling for YOU (Rotaractors and Rotarians in the District) to join our District Public Image Committee. Our scope is to boost Rotary's Public Image and to assist Rotary Clubs in D7070 to do the same.
We are looking for YOU, Rotaractors and Rotarians who have experience in the field of Public Relations, Social Media platforms, and news writing. We want you to use those very special talents to assist clubs and our Committee . Are you that Rotarian? Are you that Rotaractor? Are you interested ? Please contact Dave Andrews at dave.f.andrews99@gmail.com and we can set up a time to chat about your interests.
Be sure to see the Public Image menu tab on our District Website and check out our District Facebook Page , Twitter account and Instagram account and the District Newsletters too, for some idea of what we do.
Do you have events or fundraisers that you want other clubs to know about? Perhaps a project with which you need their assistance? Here are just three ways you can get your event, your message , a story about your club, or your "ask for help" out to your neighbouring Rotary Clubs, RIGHT HERE IN THIS NEWSLETTER:. Please Read more .......
Did anyone in District 7070 catch the newscasts On Sunday, May 17 form Toronto's CP24? If you did, you saw a number of video segments of the Rotary Club of Pickering's Epic Day of service , packing 10,000 meals for kids Against hunger. Congratulations to President Don Alton and to Gloria Suhasini.
in Don's words: Here is the link to images (from 10am preparation to wrapping up at 4pm) and the CP 24 coverage of our Epic Day of Service, partnering with Kids Against Hunger: https://we.tl/t-GW6UcOToqsfyaujS
https://we.tl/t-GW6UcOToqsfyaujS . We had such an amazing event with the majority of the volunteers being kids and youth - from elementary to university level students. I personally thought we were going to mentor these young volunteers but I was humbled by how the youth were mentoring younger children as well as their ability to quickly join forces to enthusiastically work for such a great cause! Just fyi, I am checking if we can get the CP24 video from the broadcaster. Otherwise, we can use this for amplifying on social media so feel free to, if you would like to.
On Friday, May 15 our amazing Rotary Club of Etobicoke service team volunteered at The Scott Mission Etobicoke HUB to prepare food in the kitchen and general area that will be shared with the Mission's many food programs across Toronto. The Scott Mission has several men's shelters offering 136 beds along with three meals a day, a large walk in daily food program that together offer 420,000 nutritious and ready to go meals, and a Family Centre for Childcare and After School Programs that also has a Food Bank and a central Food Bank that provides around 49,116 bags of groceries a year. Thank you to our team for showing how much we care and are committed to helping our neighbours across Toronto.
As Rotary’s approach to building knowledge and skills shifts from a training model to a learning model, we’re putting participants at the center of the learning experience so they can direct their own learning and skill development.
Watch our webinar to explore how to create dynamic learning experiences through facilitated dialogue and idea sharing.
Rotary Basics is a comprehensive overview of Rotary’s extensive history, from how it was founded to how we operate today. The updated guide tells all about Rotary, including our structure, values, international offices, The Rotary Foundation, and more. It can help inform new members who are beginning their Rotary experience and refresh the knowledge of longtime members. You can even share it with nonmembers who want to learn more about Rotary.
Successful clubs set goals effectively. When club leaders plan for the future, they give the club a sense of direction. Whether you aim to welcome more members, complete more service projects, or improve the experience that your club offers, setting goals motivates members to work toward a common purpose. Rotary Club Central makes it easy for Rotary and Rotaract clubs to set their goals and track their progress. Club leaders can set yearly goals for up to three years and record the club’s accomplishment, and all members can view the club’s progress. Plus, new club leaders can use previous goals to make informed decisions about the club’s direction. It’s never too late to start planning for your club’s future. To get inspired, read this Rotary magazine story about clubs that benefited from using Rotary Club Central to set goals. Then visit Rotary Club Central to get started
Do you use WhatsApp? Get inspired with the latest Rotary news on our WhatsApp channel. Follow the channel here or look for it on the WhatsApp menu bar under Updates or Channels. Tell your members about this great way to connect with Rotary!
Follow Rotary’s social media channel Discover Rotary on Facebook and Instagram to stay informed about Rotary programs, offerings, events, and news. The channel features resources, tools, and learning opportunities to help your club or district succeed. Look for Discover Rotary on Facebook and Instagram and engage with us!
The Rotary Learning Center has a new mobile app that gives you a more direct and intuitive way to access the Learning Center. In addition to taking courses on your mobile device, you can also view your progress and explore other Learning Center courses and resources wherever you are. Download the Rotary Learning Center app from your app store, open the app, sign in to My Rotary, and explore!
Posted by Diana Edwards Supervisor, Rotary International Regional Membership Officer I Membership Development
Welcome everyone! I’m Diana Edwards, the Regional Membership Officer for zones 28 and 32. If we’ve not met yet I’m sure we will soon.
I wanted to share some new updates that’s happening in the Learning Center, please feel free to pass along as needed.
Mobile Update!
We launched the new mobile app. Anyone who had the Go Learn app should remove it from their phones. The app has had over 11,000 downloads since 27 May. (If you’re experiencing any difficulties, please contact learn@rotary.org).
2024-25 Highlights
15% of members use the Learning Center (this number remained the same compared to last year because we have done several data refreshes to have a more accurate count, there is also an unknown number of members being counted as non-members due to their My Rotary account not being connected to their club).
377,310 course completions which is a 23% increase from last year.
9,560 average number of unique learners that visit the Learning Center monthly, a 17% increase from last year.
64% of clubs have at least one member who visited the Learning Center this year up 15% from last year.
Posted by Sarah Remijan Director of Learning and Development Rotary International
You asked for a better mobile experience with Rotary’s Learning Center, and here it is! Introducing the new app, a more direct and intuitive way to access the Learning Center on your mobile devices.
It’s now easier than ever to complete your role-based courses, track your progress, and explore other courses and resources — wherever you are.
Rotary’s Learning Center has a new mobile app that makes completing your public image courses (and others!) even easier. RotaryLearn replaces the GoLearn app and gives you a more direct and intuitive way to use the Learning Center. In addition to taking courses on your mobile device, you can review your progress and explore other Learning Center resources wherever you are. Search for Rotary Learning Center in your app store, download and open it, sign in to My Rotary, and explore!
To get started:
Download Rotary Learning Center from your app store.
Open the app and enter your My Rotary username and password.
Find your courses.
If you’ve accessed the Learning Center previously through the Go.Learn app, you’ll find that the RotaryLearn app is a more streamlined experience. After you get started with RotaryLearn, you can remove Go.Learn from your mobile devices. If you have questions, write to learn@rotary.org. . Happy learning!
There are lots of tips and tools of the trade when it comes to Public Image, Membership, The Rotary Foundation and Governance, when it comes to you and your Rotary or Rotaract club. This is exactly what we have in store for you.
On Tuesdays, on a monthly basis , we will continue to present learning opportunities, in one-hour zoom sessions, for you and your club members, to help you with many ways that you can learn more about Rotary and really help your club.
Go to the District website calendar and register today.
In 2024-25-26, we had 9 sessions each Rotary Year : ( No sessions in the months: July, December & June) with sessions allocated as follows: 2 sessions on Governance; 2 sessions on Membership; 1 session on The Rotary Foundation; and 2 sessions on Public Image. Watch the District 7070 Calendar for the time and date. Stay tuned for more details, these sessions are being developed as we speak. And even more planned for 2026-27.
Do you have new ideas for Learning Tuesdays? What would you like to see? Please send your suggestions to Past District Governor Iosif Ciosa at iosifciosa@outlook.com.
Posted by Past District Governor Iosif Ciosa, Chair District Learning Committee
A New Rotary year has Started - Are you ready ? How about taking some of the Club Leadership Courses in the Rotary Learning Center...
Log in to MyRotary , go to the "Learning Center" and click on the course catalog, go to the CLUB LEADERSHIP section and take some of these courses to get you ready for 2026-27.
Posted by Iosif Ciosa, Chair District 7070 Learning Committee
To District 7070 Committees: From: Committee Chair: Iosif Ciosa
Learning 2026-27 Description Form : see below
Here is the 2026-27 Learning Description Form that we would like you to fill out and sent to Iosif Ciosa when you create the learning event that we will put on the District Website.
You may attach pictures, flyers, artwork or graphics (please make sure that pictures or graphics are not copywritten and are royalty free).
Each year, we’re thrilled to celebrate a year full of progress, innovation, and milestones! From the launch of Nova to powerful new features, this year has been all about giving you the tools to engage and inspire your members like never before. If you missed the changeover webinars from the 2025-26 year to the 2026-27 year click HERE and see the webinars. ....
The entertainer and philanthropist Dolly Parton died 25 August 2026. This Q&A was originally published in the March 2010 issue of The Rotarian (now Rotary) magazine. Later that year, she spoke at the Rotary International Convention in Montreal, Canada.
After you’ve discovered a world of culture at the Rotary International Convention in Barcelona, consider staying in Spain or touring Europe for a quick and easy vacation.
June 2 at 7:30 PM - Ways to make your club Simply Irresistible
A delicious dinner
In his June 2026 letter to Rotarians, Past District Governor Bob Wallace, and current Chair of the District 7070 Rotary Foundation Committee, encourages every Rotarian to set and meet their club and personal goals and make a conscious effort to make a donation to The Rotary Foundation, whatever you can afford, to the Annual Programs Fund, the PolioPlus Fund, the Disaster Response Fund, and to the Endowment Fund. Are you a member of the Paul Harris Society OR the PolioPlus Society? Is your club qualified to submit a request for a District or a Global Grant? . Please Read more.........
Past District Governor Mike Cooksey once told me that if you want more Rotary members, you have to ask. He told every Rotarian he saw to "Get your Ask in Gear". His words certainly reflect one of the District 7070 Action Plans. Our goal is to receive 100 inquires from the "Join Us" or "Interested In Joining Us?" button on the District 7070 Website. Here is our challenge to your club: By the end of this Rotary year we want over 45 Rotary Clubs to have a "Join Us" or "Interested In Joining Us?" button on their own club website AND for your club to have a "member conversion process" from these inquiries. It's up to you.
Here is the latest Honouring Indigenous People Rotary News and Events, projects, blogs, photos, films, and resources. There are many major initiatives and resources available to you and your Rotary club. Your Club can help. Our District 7070 Action Committee's Areas of Focus Coordinator is Bill Empey from the Rotary Club of Toronto If you have a good news story, or want to help starting a project, please contact Bill. Here are some news highlights .........
Rotary and Rotaract clubs can now designate a Programs for Young Leaders contact. And Interact club presidents can (with a parent’s consent) complete an optional 
To Rotarians in District 7070:
