As we draw closer to the end of the year, I wanted to take a moment to reflect on the past month and all that we've achieved together through the Magic of Rotary. December has been a whirlwind of activity, celebration, and collaboration—a fitting conclusion to an incredible year.As we draw closer to the end of the year, I wanted to take a moment to reflect on the past month and all that we've achieved together through the Magic of Rotary. December has been a whirlwind of activity, celebration, and collaboration—a fitting conclusion to an incredible year.
On 17 December, the people of Vanuatu were struck by a devastating earthquake that has left widespread destruction in its wake. Homes have been destroyed, communities disrupted, and countless individuals and families face a long road to recovery. In times of crisis, Rotary’s global network of compassion and action shines brightest, and District 9800 is stepping up to provide support to those impacted.
The Journey
This story began a few years ago when Isaiah Lahai joined the Rotary Club of Glenferrie. Isaiah has an amazing story of survival: a refugee from Sierra Leone due to civil war; 14 years in five camps in Guinea; then making his way to Australia. Since arriving in Australia, he has supported his community back in Sierra Leone and particularly the Aladura Primary School in Buedu: the value of education in improving the lives of young people cannot be underestimated. Buedu is in a remote area in the far east of Sierra Leone near the border with Liberia.
Small Comforts from Community is a collaboration of Clubs within Rotary District 9800: a social impact project the success of which is reflected in the fact that this initiative has recently expanded. In addition to providing care bags and clothing to The Alfred and Upton House (Eastern Health), we now also distribute care bags to patients at the Royal Melbourne and St Vincent’s Hospitals. Over 1,500 care packs are provided each year to some of the most vulnerable members of our community, people being admitted to mental health wards in our local hospitals.
Exciting news! Registration for the Multi District Impact Summit are now LIVE, and you won’t want to miss out! This event is set to be an inspiring gathering of Rotary minds, all coming together to make a greater impact. Secure your spot today at rotaryimpactsummit.org!
November has been a dynamic month for District 9800, with inspiring events and impactful initiatives continuing to shape our Rotary year. Each interaction and milestone has further highlighted the passion and dedication that defines our district. Here’s a look at some of the key activities and updates this month:
Rotary Central Melbourne again held their successful Paul Harris Breakfast Foundation event for nearly 35 years and this year's on 12 November was not different. President Rhys welcomed all guests with a special mention of guests from Victoria Police Legacy: Chair Kate O’Neill and Community Engagement Coordinator Bob Raaymakers, and highlighted the partnership between Rotary Central Melbourne (RCM), Victoria Police Legacy (VPL) and World of Difference and the second Legatee Cambodian Tour, currently underway. He also reminded of the purpose of this marquee annual event, hosted by RCM: to raise funds for The Rotary Foundation.Looking for past stories
