Early fall in Colorado is one of my favorite times of year to enjoy the outdoors. Raised from a young age with a deep appreciation for nature, I love exploring new trails, catching breathtaking panoramic views, and being immersed in the quiet stillness of wooded land.
The importance of environmental stewardship and conserving the quality of our outdoors was instilled in me by my parents and grandparents while camping, fishing and hiking in Northern California, the Pacific Northwest and around the Great Lakes. As an adult I have found it necessary to be close to nature as a way to nurture my wellbeing. I have learned that the sights, sounds, and smells in nature have a profound impact on me by rejuvenating my spirit. I hope that this experience is one that is accessible to all, forever.
On Saturday, September 28th our Rotary District will be hosting its annual conference. This year’s theme is “Protecting the Environment” and will focus on what Rotarians are doing now and the impact we are having by engaging in projects that preserve our planet. The single day conference will be held at the beautiful new CSU SPUR Hydro building on the National Western Complex, downtown Denver. I hope you will join me and fellow Rotarians to hear from an incredible lineup of keynote speakers and attend several breakout sessions of interest to you. Two presenters of note have been featured in the Rotary Magazine are Salvador Rico and Kristen Wegner Guifoyle.
Until we see each other at the conference, at a Rotary meeting or working on a service project together, I hope you find time to spend outdoors. Perhaps taking a leisurely walk in the evening, a hike through the forest, or simply by sitting and observing the beauty of serenity around us.
Join your fellow Rotarians to hear from keynote speakers, participate in a variety of breakout sessions, and visit exhibits in the House of Friendship. Registration includes a continental breakfast and buffet lunch. Only $50 per Rotarian or $10 per Rotaractor. REGISTER NOW!
Join the Rotary D5450 WASH Committee in its 15th annual WASH Symposium in Denver. This year’s theme is Nurturing Resilience: transforming Challenges into Growth and will feature William Kamkwamba, Founder of Moving Windmills, who's inspiring story is told in his New York Times bestselling memoir The Boy Who Harnessed the Wind and in the Netflix film adaptation. This symposium addresses pressing challenges facing communities around the world such as climate change, population growth, and emergencies and highlights the critical importance of building resilience in water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH) initiatives.
REGISTER NOW FOR THE 2025 RI CONVENTION
Calgary, Alberta, Canada | June 21-25, 2025
Registration is now open for next year’s Rotary International Convention in Calgary, Canada! What a great way to get to interact with Rotarians around the world, learn from distinguished speakers, know The Rotary Foundation and all its programs and grants, and explore enlightening breakout sessions against the backdrop of Calgary's picturesque beauty nestled amid the Canadian Rockies. Experience the Magic All Around! Click Here for more information.
The annual Ethical Leadership Forum, in partnership with the newly merged Vail Edwards Rotary Club, is hosting Rotarians from all over Colorado for an inspiring morning of speakers, collaboration, and networking. Programming is inspired by the principles of what it means to be a Rotarian.
THOUGHTS ON THE FOUR-WAY TEST - Eloquently simple, stunning in its power, undeniable in its results, The Rotary Four-Way Test offers a fresh and positive vision in the midst of a world full of tension, conflict and uncertainty. Lee Mulberry (Highlands Ranch Sunrise) offers his perspective on the 4-way test which has been translated into more than 100 languages. Click Here to read more.
BOULDER ROTARY presents "Boulder Builds Peace Week", a series of events over an 11-day period around the International Day of Peace (9/21) that brings together many nonprofits, educational facilities and businesses that contribute to building peace. View the entire schedule and register here.
LITTLETON ROTARYis supporting Fostering our Youth, a free community forum on the challenges and opportunities for aging-out foster youth on Thursday, October 10. Event is free, but registration is requested.
GRAND LAKE Rotarymembers planted trees in July on the Grand Lake Golf course that was heavily impacted and scarred by the East Troublesome Fire in 2020. Club President Greg Finch said this project was special to the members because it involved "boots on the ground" rather than just writing a check.
There are lots of Club activities this month! Make sure to check out the CLUB EVENTS page and see all of the events happening around the District.
Post your story on your club's website or Facebook page, and then send the link to office@rotary5450.org.Doing so will give your club more exposure - readers will see the story on your club's site, which will let them know more about your club and members.
THE ROTARY FOUNDATION
The Rotary Foundation helps Rotarians to advance world understanding, goodwill, and peace by improving health, providing quality education, improving the environment, and alleviating poverty.
Igniting Change: The Rotary Foundation's Latest Impact and How You Can Amplify It
Rotary International is more than just a network; it’s a global movement. Central to this movement is the Rotary Foundation, a beacon of innovation and philanthropy dedicated to creating a better world. As Rotarians, you’re an essential part of this journey. Let’s explore the latest updates from the Rotary Foundation and discover how you can further elevate our collective efforts.
The Foundation's Latest Triumphs
Accelerating the End of Polio - Rotary’s fight against polio is legendary. With over 99.9% of the world free from polio, we’re on the brink of complete eradication. However, this final push requires continued vigilance and funding. The Rotary Foundation is leading the charge, ensuring that vaccines reach even the most remote corners of the globe. Your ongoing support is vital. Learn more about our efforts on the Polio Eradication page.
Championing Climate Resilience - Climate change is here and now. The Rotary Foundation is funding projects that combat climate change through reforestation, renewable energy, and sustainable agriculture. These initiatives not only mitigate climate change but also build resilient communities. Every tree planted and every energy-efficient system installed brings us closer to a greener planet.
Empowering the Next Generation - The future lies in the hands of our youth. The Rotary Foundation invests in their potential through leadership programs and youth services initiatives. These programs equip young people with the skills and knowledge to drive positive change in their communities.
Expanding Access to Clean Water - Access to clean water is fundamental. The Rotary Foundation is addressing this critical issue with sustainable water solutions, from drilling wells to innovative water purification systems, transforming lives and fostering healthier communities.
How You Can Elevate the Impact
Increase Your Support - Your contributions are the lifeblood of our projects. Consider increasing your support to amplify the impact of our initiatives. Whether through direct donations, participating in the Annual Fund, contributing to PolioPlus, or becoming a Paul Harris Society Member, every dollar makes a difference. Explore ways to enhance your giving, such as through the Endowment Fund or Major Gifts. Have us come speak to your club; we would love to inform, share, and help you understand how to participate more fully and answer questions.
Deepen Your Engagement - Rotary Clubs are the heart of our global network. Dive into club activities, take on leadership roles, and spearhead local projects. Your involvement can spark new ideas and drive change. Be an advocate for Rotary’s causes and inspire others to join our mission.
Leverage Your Skills - Put your talents to work for Rotary. Whether in marketing, grant writing, or technology, there’s a place for your expertise in our projects. Volunteer your skills to enhance our initiatives, streamline processes, or develop new strategies. Don’t stay on the sidelines—get involved!
Share the Rotary Story - Your voice is powerful. Share the successes and stories of the Rotary Foundation within your networks. Use social media, community events, and personal conversations to raise awareness and invite others to get involved. Tamie and her team are doing great work with communications—reach out to them to help amplify your stories!
In Closing - The Rotary Foundation’s work is a testament to our collective achievements. From eradicating polio to combating climate change and empowering youth, our efforts are making a profound difference. As Rotarians, you are the driving force behind this movement.
Let’s continue this journey with renewed energy and commitment. Together, we can overcome challenges, seize opportunities, and create a world where everyone thrives. For more information on how to deepen your involvement, visit District 5450’s website. Join us in amplifying our efforts—because together, we’re unstoppable.
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