Last week we were visited by Joel Weaver who is the International Service Chair for our district, 1070. A fitting role for an ex US Army man who now lives in the UK. Joel reminded us that International Projects tend to involve the ‘big ideas’ that can inspire people and attract new members to Rotary so we as an organisation we should do more to promote them.
We then heard about some of the International activities being carried out by our district. Some were well established ongoing projects like Shelter Box that we actively support whereby ready made disaster relief kits are stored for rapid deployment in the aftermath of huricans, earthquakes, floods etc. A similar project called Trade Aid dispatches boxes full of tools and equipment to allow people who have lost everything resume their trade as quickly as possible. This not only enables them to make a living but may also be key to the rebuilding of their communities.
Rotary Clubs can also be the creators of entirely new projects working alone, with their district and even teaming with districts in other countries. A recent example from our own club was working with a local organisation to supply a hostel in India with tables and chairs for their dining room. Other clubs projects range from supporting the creation of cheap prosthetic limbs to helping the fight against Rhino hunting.
Finally we heard that Rotary is working with David Attenborough to produce a Blue Planet type documentary aimed at raising awareness of the dangers of plastics in the ocean.
Big or small these are all very worthwhile projects that demonstrate being a Rotarian gives you a wonderful opportunity to make a difference with an enormous global team behind you.