Dear Rotarains, Rotaractors and the whole Rotary family in District 7070,
Day one – July 1st . We all expected our new Rotary year to look a little different this year and I wasn’t quite sure what to expect for the start of my term as Director. Our current global environment has certainly changed my schedule, so what to do? I poured myself a coffee, sat at my computer and opened my email. The very first email caught me off-guard, but truly brought everything into perspective for me.
The email was a letter from General Secretary, John Hewko, inviting all Presidents of Rotary Clubs in Zone 32 to submit a qualified Rotarian to be considered by the nominating committee for the Zone 32 Director 2022-2024. My successor, on the very first day of my term!
“Succession Planning helps build the bench strength of an organization to ensure the longterm health, growth and stability”- Teala Wilson ......... ......
It all made sense! It’s all about building our bench strength and the strength of our team in Zones 28 and 32. We are a leadership organization after all! The training we offer to all levels; clubs, districts, zones and international, is globally admired and revered in the NGO world and is also parallel to similar professional development training offered by top 100 corporations at a hefty price. We are developing great leaders of the future for Rotary.
COVID-19 has changed the way we meet, the way we learn, but more specifically the way we lead. This reset has allowed us to take steps in aligning our districts to provide a more cohesive team approach, concentrating on specific areas of support for our clubs and districts. It’s pushed our members and leadership teams alike out of their comfort zones, and has identified leaders at every level within our organization.
Our number one internal goal and focus is to Grow Rotary. The opportunity is before us and we are seeing new club models evolving and developing. Clubs with a specific focus such as human trafficking, clubs that involve veterans, alumni and essential service workers.
Your cadre of experts are available and waiting to help. Direct your attention to this monthly newsletter.
I want to congratulate each of the Coordinators and the teams currently in place, they are working hard to support you and are available as speakers to your meetings or training events. I would also like to introduce Doug Logan and Herb Klotz who have been named Rotary Coordinators for July 1, 2021, also Eileen Rau who will be a Regional Rotary Foundation Coordinator and Karen Oakes as Endowment Major Gifts Advisor. I couldn’t be prouder, nor more optimistic for our long-term health, growth, and stability. Our bench is strong, and as my first month of Director is coming to an end, I am already looking forward to my successor being identified and for them to start this exciting journey!
Yours In Rotary,
Valarie
Valarie Wafer
RI Director
Rotary Club of Collingwood, South Georgian Bay
valarie.wafer@gmail.com