Morris McKinzie presented information about his military career and educational efforts to remind young people of RCRs military history.  Morris told us about his training at Gagetown in driving and mortar firing.  After boot camp he was assigned to NATO in Germany. The NATO was in Europe to act as a deterrent to Russian expansion.  This posting allowed him to travel throughout Europe from the Baltic to Spain.  He was later posted to a UN peacekeeping effort in Egypt.  Upon his return to Canada he left the forces to become an engineer with CP.

District Governor Jim Schlatman visited our club and outlined his goals and vision for this Rotary year.  Jim explained the new theme "Be The Inspiration" was created by RI President Barry Rassin and incorporates a wave, sail, and mast.  The power of a wave is important in everything we do and a wave is irresistible.  

Jim's view is Rotarians are people of action as noted in the new vision statement.  He urged us to make sure our club image is strong and inspirational.  We should also focus on membership development and foundation contributions.

 

We were also pleased to have Jillian Johnston from Days For Girls explain her groups efforts for the benefit of DG Jim.

 

After the meeting we visited the park benches at Glen Carin Park which finally had a plaque installed to recognize our 25 anniversary.

The city finally installed the plaques under the benches we donated for our 25th anniversary

President Bill's chaired his first meeting and held a club assembly to kick off the plans for the various avenues of service.

Members of the Rotary Club of London South joined Rotarians from the London Club and community members in helping Reforest London plant trees in South London.  In under two hours 275 trees native to this area were planted in Paul Haggis park.Kathleen  and Harry's Syrian family joined in the activity.

Mark Pope, Executive Director of Teen Challenge London, told about the programs operated by Teen Challenge.  They operate 9 locations in Canada to assist individuals needing recovery from addictions.  The 12 month program for adults operates out of a facility in Lambeth and provides counselling and personal growth programs with include faith based study, work and physical fitness.

Brittney Webb from Diabetes London brought us up to date on the impact of diabetes on Canada and London Specifically.  There are currently 11 million Canadians dealing with diabetes or pre-diabetic conditions.  90% of these cases are Type 2 diabetes.  Symptoms include always being thirsty, frequent urination, weight change, tiredness, and eyesight loss.  Complications from diabetes include poor recovery from wounds, long lasting bruising, urination, infections resulting in amputations, and blindness.

 

It is important to have regular physicals to check for diabetes, get rest, be physically active and have a balance diet.

 

Brittney told us about D-Camps for children from 7 to 17 held at Camp Woodeden.  Campers learn to manager their insulin and have fun just being kids.  It costs $1,000 per week per child to attend this camp which is staffed by knowledgeable medical and sports leaders.

DGN Tony Sheard shared his experience in streaming meetings.  Several district meetings have been streamed and the response has been favourable.  His own club in Southampton uses streaming to keep members in touch when they are out of town.  He shared some tips on which web services to use, equipment and potential problems.    

Carolyn Ferguson, Major Gifts officer for Zone 24 of RI, visited our club to remind us of the importance of Foundation giving.  The three important functions of the Rotary International Foundation are: ending Polio (only 4 cases this year), Rotary Grants (to do the work of Rotary), and fostering peace through Peace Centres.

Tracy Church, a researcher and consultant to non-profits described the changing environment for fundraising for non-profits and charities. 82% of Canadians donate to charities.  The average family in London donates $1,673 annually to charities.  The demographics of donors is changing.  Previously churches were the beneficiaries of donors, but as church attendance declines the nature of donations is changing.  Tracy underlined the importance of knowing donor demographics and donor objectives.  Board members, employees, and volunteers must be able to articulate the mission of the organization clearly to donors.  Those involved in charities must also give to the charities to show their support and commitment to the mission of the organization.  Philanthropist have varying motivations for giving - foremost is making an impact.  Tax receipts for donations is low on the priorities of donors. Some philanthropists prefer to remain anonymous, Tracy reviewed the reasons for this including a desire to keep personal information private from other charities, fundraisers, and family.  She gave many helpful hints for fundraising.