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I Technology Intresects With Service Rushton Hurley Silicon Valley E Club President Gail introduced Rushton whom she heard speak in a previous session. He has been a language teacher, principal, teacher trainer and now the executive director for the non-profit Next Vista for Learning. A Rotarian since 2004 he is now the charter president of the Silicon Valley E club. Rushton described the Silicon Valley E club as having the same mission as all Rotary clubs: it is an organization that brings people together to better their communities through service. Many people have the inclination to provide service but without the time or being limited geographically they are unable to attend regular meetings. The solution: to have such individuals join meetings on-line on a weekly basis. He then highlighted the manner in which the club operates: - a meeting is created every Sunday evening with the content provided by members - it is asynchronous, members can tap in at their convenience during the week - as a result attendance is nearly 100% - any member of the public can enter the site without a password - entrance is Silicon Valley Rotary.com or Rotary.cool The members of this club are people of action in their communities who volunteer their services and raise funds. The club is able to bring in speakers from all over the world as well as sharing with the expertise of their own members. Without geographical barriers members can provide service that corresponds with their interests as well as their time. Although weekly meetings are held on line the club hosts social and service and fundraising activities in the San Francisco Bay area. After answering questions on this novel way of delivering Rotary service he was thanked by Ginny Lowood for his presentation that explained the workings of his unique club. Clearly, Rushton's enthusiasm was a major reason for his E club's success and he can expect future visits from us. II Walk for Altzheimer's Youla Thomas Youla described this annual walk as Canada's largest fundraiser for the support of those suffering from the disease and other dementias. Taking place in 400 communities in the country the event amassed a total of $9.6 million. These funds raised go to local programmes and services that improve the quality of life for people living with dementia and their families. Besides raising funds the walk sends a message of hope. Youla presented a series of photos of last year's event held in Ladner showing colour, excitement and enthusiasm. In this Covid-19 year the needed support for afflicted people is greater than ever. As well, the walk itself has had to be drastically changed to being held online. We will be able to watch, walk or contribute to fundraising from the safety of our own home. More ways of becoming involved will be made public in the coming days. Youla explained that we can all share by encouraging friends and family to join on: Sunday May 31 2020 9:00 AM PST IG Wealth Management Walk for Alzheimers Fundraising is important but, just as important, is the message that we care for those and their families who suffer with the disease. |
