D. G. Robert Leger's Message - July 2017

Dear Fellow Rotarians,

Every July 1, a Rotary Year ends and a new one begins. Around the world it is the change of leadership, the annual event where new leaders, men and women, take over at the level of the Clubs and also at the level of the highest spheres of our organization. Congratulations and our Best Wishes to the new Presidents as they take on the leadership of their club!

The International Theme for 2017-2018 is ROTARY: MAKING A DIFFERENCE. This year President Ian Riseley’s goals are focused on three major priorities of the RI Strategic Plan: Support and Strengthen the Clubs, Focus and Increase Humanitarian Service, Enhance Rotary’s Public Image and Awareness.

At the Rotary International Convention in Atlanta, President Ian reminds us that Rotary has also a role to play in protecting the environment. He has asked for every Rotary Club to plant at least one tree for each member sometimes between the beginning of the Rotary year on July 1st and Earth day which is April 22nd 2018. Together 1,200,000 Rotarians around the world can make a difference in our environment. District 7020 can do it and I count on you all to respond.

My vision for our District during my year as Governor 2017-2018 is to strengthen the clubs, ensure continuity and sustainability of the leadership in the clubs, which will make them stronger to serve better. Hence my theme: GROW STRONGER-SERVE BETTER.

Growing stronger is not only growing in numbers but also developing and implementing training programs to increase Rotarians’ knowledge of Rotary and develop more effective leaders. Growing stronger both individually and, of course, as clubs will help Rotary grow. Growing stronger is also supporting our Foundation since giving will allow us to continue the fight against Polio and to serve even more by doing bigger projects that help more people and have a greater impact which allows to reinforce and strengthen the RI theme Rotary: Making A Difference Fellow Rotarians, we are beginning a new Rotary year and I ask you to join Rosa and I in making this year a special one in helping our Clubs Grow Stronger-Serve Better so we can continue with the satisfaction of knowing that we are part of Rotary: Making a Difference.

J.M. Robert Léger
District Governor 2017-2018