I have been on my journey for a quarter of this Rotary year – and as we all say “Where has the year gone?”

This journey has not been about places but people – extraordinary people - Rotarians!  I have been privileged to meet amazing people, heard amazing Rotary stories, seen amazing Rotary projects and have been made to feel so welcome in every Club.

Every Club is involved in projects large and small, and I am amazed by the dedication and enthusiasm of the people who call themselves Rotarians. It is not just the range and scope of projects that impresses me – it is also the diversity of individuals and groups that are being helped as a result of these projects.

I am in awe of the ability of Rotary and Rotarians who continue to Make a Difference every day.

 
 
The Presidential Citation, of Ian Risley, has set achievable challenges;
  • Pay dues on time.  Record and report volunteer hours and service projects
  • Support and strengthen clubs;
  • Focus on and increase humanitarian service;
  • Enhance Rotary’s public image and awareness.
  • There is also an Environmental Challenge of New Trees - Making a difference through the year until “Earth Day”, 22nd April to plant one tree for each member.
 
   My District Goals for 2017/2018 are:
 
:  Membership --- looking for a Net 3 gain
 
:  Supporting the Rotary Foundation which is our own “home charity” and the
 
:  Polio Plus Campaign --- and to raise donations by 10%
 
 
 
My International Programme is:
 
“Days for Girls” is an international project I have chosen for us to support this year. It is a feminine hygiene program changing the lives of girls as they approach maturity.  It is an amazing program that presents each girl with a hygiene kit, in a bag, and this enables a girl to stay in school.  For example in Kenya absenteeism has gone down from 25% to 3%, and in Uganda from 36% to 8%.  Volunteer networks have made these kits and taken them all over the world; they educate girls about their menstrual cycles and encourage them to make their own kits. These kits only cost $20 each, are fully washable and can last up to 3 years – that’s less than $7 per year to give these girls dignity and a future.    www.daysforgirls.org    
                                                                                           
The District Conference will have the theme of “Journeys that are Making a Difference”. It is May 18th to 20th at Wairakei Resort Conference Centre, Taupo. Taupo was chosen because Hobbit Holes were too small for a Rotary conference and Taupo is central in the District.  There is on-site accommodation at Wairakei Resort.  Registrations are now open online and there is an incentive for “Early Bird” registrations and first-time registrants. Saturday afternoon, Rotary will join with “Greening Taupo” and plant trees.
 
Our challenge is to Make a Difference in 2017/2018 - remember that doing things together is far better than on your own.
 
Leonie Tisch
Governor 2017/18
Rotary District 9930