About Us - President's Message

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Since its beginning in 1905, Rotary International has grown to be one of the largest and longest serving voluntary organisations in the world. Founded by Paul Harris and three associates in Chicago, it now has over 1.2 million members in 32000 clubs in over 200 countries. The Rotary Club of Quesnel was chartered in 1955. For more than 50 years members have volunteered countless hours to make this community a better place for everyone. Through fund raising activities and “hands on” projects, Rotarians continue to give back to the community, demonstrating humanitarian service and high ethical standards which build good will and encourage peace in the world. Rotary International President, DK Lee, has set a target to reduce infant mortality in the world. This can be achieved through local community projects and through the world-wide projects supported by Rotary International. With personal donations, the members of the Rotary Club of Quesnel support the Rotary Foundation in its efforts to eradicate polio from the world, provide clean water in Ethiopia and malaria nets to children in Tanzania, and fund Shelter Boxes for disaster victims in earthquakes and floods etc. The funds raised from local activities are given back to the community to meet the needs of many organisations and projects. These activities include the Billy Barker Day Pancake Breakfast in July, Beer Festival in October, Wine Festival in April, and, of course, the long standing Rotary Auction, in November. The Club is also grateful to have received a direct access grant from BC Gaming, which is then given to deserving projects in the community. The first Quesnel Rotary Auction was held in 1957 and has continued as the major fund-raiser for the club. Over the years the Auction has evolved into a much anticipated community event. Many local projects have been successfully completed as a result of the annual auction. Some of the more recent projects include the sound system at the Seniors Centre, refurbishment of the Cenotaph, furnishing the patient lounge at GR Baker Hospital, and the accessible lift system at the recreation centre pool. This year should see the completion of the Hospice Facility for Palliative Care for which the Rotary Club of Quesnel raised $100,000 over a period of five years. The success of the fund raising in the community would not happen without the tremendous support of all residents and businesses. Whether you are donating items for sale in the auction, prizes for fund raising events, attending events, or buying items in the auction, you are supporting the community and helping Rotary make this a better place for everyone to live and work. On behalf of the members of the Rotary Club of Quesnel, I thank you sincerely for your continued support and for your confidence in Rotary to “Make Dreams Real”. In Rotary Service, Liz Neave President 2008-09