2020 Is Behind Us – Bring On 2021
District 5870 Rotarians: Yes, the year 2020 is finally behind us. What a tough year right? I could list all the Rotary events effected by Covid-19 or the Club visits that had to be rescheduled. We were all effected in one way or another. However, it has been said by many, "The only time to look backward is to see how far you have come." I like it. Let’s do that:
Rotary Events - All District, Zone, and International events cancelled by Covid, where held virtually.
Membership – Of the 23 Districts in Region 36, District 5870 is ranked second in membership Gain/Loss numbers.
Foundation Contributions – District 5870 leads ALL other Districts in Region 36 in Annual Fund Giving.
Club Meetings – 98% of our clubs had meetings during the Covid period of 2020. 60% of those were either Live or Hybrid (live/virtual) meetings.
Grants Awarded – 3 Global Grants for $86,814. 35 DAP Grants for $96,700. One Matching Global Scholarship for $30,000. 7 Vocational Scholarships for $35,000. The District also gave $20,000 to the Polio Plus Fund.
We have six months remaining in the Rotary Year. There is still time to work towards and meet our District Goals – 1, 2, and 3:
- Each Rotarian “Touch” Rotary (outside their club) at least ONE time.
- Each club to add a net of TWO new members this year.
- Reach an average per capita giving of $300 to the Rotary Annual Fund.
Lastly, I would like to reflect on this past week’s tragic incidences at our nation’s Capital. It was unfortunate and certainly not the ideal way to start the new year, but it is what it is. As Rotarians, we should promote peace – always. We should promote peace in everything we think, say, and do. At many major Rotary events, the evening is concluded by the audience grasping hands, forming a gigantic circle, and sing a certain song. This song was written 65 years ago, but the meaning and message is still important today. I ask you to reflect on these words as you read them:
Let there be peace on earth
And let it begin with me
Let There Be Peace on Earth
The peace that was meant to be
With God as our Father
Brothers all are we
Let me walk with my brother
In perfect harmony.
Let peace begin with me
Let this be the moment now.
With every step I take
Let this be my solemn vow
To take each moment and live
Each moment in peace eternally
Let there be peace on earth
And let it begin with me
And let it begin with me
Let There Be Peace on Earth
The peace that was meant to be
With God as our Father
Brothers all are we
Let me walk with my brother
In perfect harmony.
Let peace begin with me
Let this be the moment now.
With every step I take
Let this be my solemn vow
To take each moment and live
Each moment in peace eternally
Let there be peace on earth
And let it begin with me
Let’s get back to work. Let’s go out and do good things for our communities and for Rotary. The world needs us now more than ever. Stay safe and Blessings to you all.
Rick Stacy
District Governor 5870
2020-2021