Recent events have reminded us more than ever of the international scope of Rotary.  With 1.4 million members in 46,000 clubs around the world, Rotary International is a powerful force for peace.  The world’s first International Peace Park, the Waterton-Glacier Peace Park, was a Rotary initiative that started right here in Alberta.  So, it is not a surprise that our Rotary Club, and others around the world, acted quickly in response to the humanitarian crises caused by Russia’s unprovoked invasion of Ukraine.  Working through Anna Wieczorek, a member of our club who lives in Warsaw, our International Services Committee immediately provided $5,000 for needed medical supplies from their existing budget.  We have issued an appeal for more donations to give Anna resources to continue working directly with Ukrainian refugees in Poland.  Our club’s Foundation has answered that call with an additional $5,000 contribution.  Individual members are also making contributions and the ISC will work with Anna to identify the greatest needs. (click on the following link if you would like to make a donation to the Rotary Club of Edmonton - Community Service Trust via ATB Cares. )  We will keep members posted on the use of these funds at our Monday meetings.

 

Our speakers continue to be on topic too!  For example, on March 21 we heard from Canada’s Ambassador for Women, Peace and Security, Jacqueline O’Neill (who hails from St. Albert) who spoke very bluntly about importance of women in the peace process and about the international situation today, including the differential treatment refugees of colour are receiving in some cases.  The well respected Hill Times of Ottawa has named O’Neill as one of the 50 most influential people in the capital.  There is no better way to engage directly with a wide variety of experts and decision makers (as well as connecting with fellow Rotarians) than attending our regular Monday meetings either in-person or virtually.