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At last week's meeting I gave a recap of my experience at the District Conference. The conference provided a lot of useful information on running Rotary clubs, keeping members engaged and meeting current club challenges. There were many opportunities for networking and I met numerous person's from the Bahamas, the Caribbean and worldwide. Sessions dealt with current issues arising from the pandemic as well as member engagement and member attendance at meetings and highlighted numerous methods to tackle those challenges. Some methods suggested were traditional, while some methods were not traditional such as varying meeting times, frequency and location. There was also a focus on Rotary International's commitment to Diversity, Equity and Inclusion. Rotary places value on persons of all ages, genders, races, disabilities, faiths and cultures. Updates on the HANWASH project in Haiti were also given. RCSEN and numerous clubs in the district lent a hand in the project and it was amazing to see what was achieved. The project is providing clean water and sanitation to thousands in Haiti while also helping to sustain the environment. There were lessons on managing the projects that we do as a club and continuing to serve to change lives. We were also encouraged not to give up in the fight against Polio so that one day the world will be rid of this disease. Several presentations on ending Polio were given. I remember one in particular given by Robert L. Hall: Past Rotary International Director and Vice Chair End Polio Now. He encouraged Rotarians not to see Polio in the rear view mirror because there is still work to be done to eliminate the virus from all countries for good. He motivated Rotarians and encouraged us to continue our good work as we have accomplished much in the fight against the disease. Going to the conference was a great experience and participants also got to see the beautiful island of St. Maarten and attend all the fun activities that were planned for us. Johann Bain |
