Homelessness Community Forum 2024-09-14 04:00:00Z 0

Bingo Funds July Donation

   
 
 
This month, The Rotary Club of Sarnia is supporting the Free Sunday Public Swim Program through the YMCA at Tecumseh Pool for 9 weeks with a donation of $3,150.00.
Thank you, Jackpot Time for making this possible.
 
 
Bingo Funds July Donation 2024-07-17 04:00:00Z 0

Bingo Funds June Donation

 
Thank you to Jackpot City for allowing The Rotary Club of Sarnia members to volunteer for Bingos in order to earn funds for Community Projects.
For the month of June we are supporting a Women’s Personal Support Program through The Family Counselling Centre by making a donation of $2,500.
Bingo Funds June Donation 2024-06-25 04:00:00Z 0

Pancake Breakfast July 20

 
SAVE the DATE- Saturday, July 20th from 7 am - 11 am
Rotary Club of Sarnia Mackinac Pancake Breakfast
On the North Side of the Bluewater Bridges.
Come and enjoy pancakes and sausages along with Coffee and Tea donated by McDonalds Sarnia, and all water is donated by Kern Water & Ice!
Bring your own water vessels and plates and cutlery if you want to help us be more environmentally friendly.
Adult Meals are $10 each and include 3 large pancakes, and 2 sausages (if you are still hungry, we will give you an extra pancake). Children's Meals are $5 each and they include 2 pancakes and 1 sausage.
If you are looking to volunteer for the Breakfast email: kurtis.lush@gmail.com
All Proceeds from the Mackinac Pancake Breakfast go back to our local community and Rotary International Projects.
We are selling T-shirts this year and they are available at: https://shop.teamoutfitters.net/.../rotary-sarnia...
 
After you are done breakfast and watching all of the boats go up for the 100th year of the Mackinac Race, you can head to the South Side of the Bluewater Bridges where our Rotary Club along with First Hussars is having a Mackinac Extravaganza. This event showcases First Responders. There will be vendors, food booths, EMS personnell and vehicles. This event for the Public will run from 11 am - 3 pm. All proceeds to the Extravaganza go to the Affordable Housing Initiative and the First Hussars.
 
Pancake Breakfast July 20 2024-06-19 04:00:00Z 0

Pathways Action Grant

 
Another $7500.00 Rotary Action Grant goes to Pathways Health Centre for Children!
Pathways seeks to improve access to services where language presents a barrier. With increasing diversity in the Sarnia-Lambton community, we recognize the need to develop capacity, access reliable translation services, and produce materials to support the delivery of safe, quality care to those for whom English is not the primary language spoken in the home.
> Goals of the Project:
- Support real time language translation for appointments
- Support translation of resources, materials and signage
[ In the pic, Rotary Director Hani Dajani presents the big cheque to Alison Morrison and Marcy Draker of Pathways.]
Pathways Action Grant 2024-06-03 04:00:00Z 0

Scouts Action Grant

 
Scouts Canada Camp Attawandaron recently benefitted from a Rotary Club of Sarnia Action Grant of $10,000 for their Beaver Building Renovation & Climbing Wall!
[ In the pic Rotary Director Hani Dajani presents a big cheque to Rob Tuer, Camp Attawandaron Co-Camp Chair.]
Scouts Action Grant 2024-06-03 04:00:00Z 0

Maike Luiken, inducted as CAE Fellow

 

Rotarian and member of the Rotary Club of Sarnia Maike Luiken is being inducted as a Canadian Academy of Engineering Fellow.

Luiken is an adjunct professor in the department of electrical and computer engineering. She is being recognized for her commitment to science and engineering, with technological solutions and education as enablers of long-term sustainability for the planet and people.

Previously, she was Dean of Technology and later Applied Research at Lambton College and President of IEEE Canada. Luiken has assumed leadership roles throughout her career and served on Boards of Directors. She has led 'new' initiatives, including the Bluewater Sustainability Initiative and the global IEEE Planet Positive 2030 Initiative.

The Canadian Academy of Engineering is the national institution through which individuals, who have made outstanding contributions to engineering in  Canada,  provide strategic advice on matters of critical importance to Canada and to Canadians. 

Maike Luiken, inducted as CAE Fellow 2024-05-22 04:00:00Z 0

Community Living Sarnia Lambton Action Grant

 
Community Living Sarnia Lambton received $7,500 
for Summer Youth Adventure Camp - This exciting program offers a camp that is accessible to any child between
the ages of 4 and 18 with a developmental, intellectual, or physical disability through July and
August.
Community Living Sarnia Lambton Action Grant 2024-05-17 04:00:00Z 0
North Lambton Community Health Centre 2024-05-17 04:00:00Z 0

Degroots ProMix Fundraiser

  
The 3 Rotary Clubs of Sarnia-Lambton wish to THANK all of our generous supporters at our successful Pro-Mix sale on Friday and Saturday!
THANK YOU to Degroots, Sarnia Firefighters, our Rotarians, Rotary volunteers and Rotary families!
Degroots ProMix Fundraiser 2024-05-07 04:00:00Z 0

Bingo Funds

   
 
Thank you Jackpot Time for allowing our Rotary Club of Sarnia volunteers to participate in monthly Bingos!
This month, we are sponsoring 5 students to attend a 3-day “Seminar for Tomorrow’s Leaders” in London, Ontario ($2,500). This will allow these secondary school students to learn leadership skills, which they’ll then use back at their schools.
Bingo Funds 2024-05-07 04:00:00Z 0

Meeting with Mental Health Ministry

 
Our Rotary housing group had a chance to meet with Hon. Michael Tibollo, Associate Minister of Mental Health and Additions.  We spoke about the local opioid crisis in Sarnia-Lambton and the link to homelessness, and highlighted the local work that people are doing to bring new supportive housing to our community. 
Meeting with Mental Health Ministry 2024-04-22 04:00:00Z 0

Bingo Funds Donation

  
 
Thank you to JACKPOT TIME for allowing us to volunteer for monthly Bingos.  The Rotary Club of Sarnia is pleased to make a donation of $1,500 to St. Vincent De Paul to support this help centre which in turn helps many local residents.
Bingo Funds Donation 2024-03-10 05:00:00Z 0

Bingo Funds Donation

   
 
Our thanks go out to Jackpot City for allowing us to volunteer at Bingos to earn funds for community projects. This month we are donating $1500 to the YMCA Celebration of Youth for an award to a deserving secondary school student to be presented in the spring.
 
Bingo Funds Donation 2023-12-18 05:00:00Z 0

Adopt A Family

 
 
Thank you Jackpot Time for allowing The Rotary Club of Sarnia to participate in monthly Bingos to earn funds for community projects.
This month, we “Helped make children smile” by making a $2,000 donation to the Inn of the Good Shepherd’s Christmas Programs!
Adopt A Family 2023-11-29 05:00:00Z 0

Gymnasts for Change Donation

   
 
Once again, a Big Thank You to Jackpot Time Bingo for allowing our club to raise money for community projects.
This time we are supporting Gymnasts for Change (Athletes for Change) with $2,400 towards their on-line peer support for local athletes and parents of athletes who are or have been experiencing abuse.
Gymnasts for Change Donation 2023-10-23 04:00:00Z 0

Royal Air Cadets Donation

 
The Sarnia ‘Royal Air Cadets’ (ages 12 - 18) are the recipients of $1000 for their youth leadership program.
Thank you JACKPOT TIME for your support through our Bingos.
Royal Air Cadets Donation 2023-09-27 04:00:00Z 0

Lambton Centre Donation

  
 
Thank you, Jackpot City, for your continued support through our Bingos. We were able to donate funds for 200+ t-shirts for children attending summer camps at the Lambton Centre this summer. We are sure the children are enjoying their experiences!
Lambton Centre Donation 2023-07-26 04:00:00Z 0

Affordable & Supportive Housing Initiative

 
On July 15, the Rotary Club of Sarnia hosted a Breakfast for community leaders focused on Affordable and Supportive Housing.  More than 200 people came, including political leaders and business people, as well as representatives of charities and not-for-profits.  Rotary shared how other communities across Ontario are making new affordable housing available to those who need it, as well as offering support to those most vulnerable.  “It was an amazing event,” said Rotary organizer Heather Martin.  “We are preparing now for the next steps to make affordable and supportive housing a reality in our community.” The Club is grateful to Colonel Tania Lee and the First Hussars of London and Sarnia for helping to organize and host the event.
Affordable & Supportive Housing Initiative 2023-07-18 04:00:00Z 0

Safe Discussion at Library

 
The Rotary Club of Sarnia is hosting a special screening of the film “Safe” by Hamilton-based filmmaker John Butler.
The film showcases several supportive housing communities in southwestern Ontario run by a charitable organization called Indwell. Through interviews with residents, support workers and builders/designers, the film explores a success story that’s giving people hope.
The purpose of the event is to raise awareness about supportive housing options and foster public discussion. The screening will be followed by a panel discussion with local  leaders including Valerie Colasanti (General Manager, Social Services Division, County of Lambton), Scott Brush (Program Launch Manager for Indwell, Chatham-Kent), Jim Steele (previously Manager of Social Housing, Windsor) and Heather Martin (Wellington Ridge, Sarnia).

What: Film screening “Safe” and panel discussion
When: Wednesday, June 7, 2023
Where: Sarnia Library Theatre
Time: 7.00-9:00 (Doors open 6:30)
Cost: Free. People who can do so are invited to pay $10 or make a donation to  the Rotary Club of Sarnia Charitable Foundation (Affordable Housing Fund). Donations over $50 will receive a Charitable Gift Receipt. Proceeds of the event will go toward Rotary’s Affordable Housing fund, which supports new housing initiatives in Sarnia Lambton.
Viewer warning: the film contains strong language and mature subject matter.
 
Safe Discussion at Library 2023-05-12 04:00:00Z 0

Bluewater Health Donation

 
The Rotary Club of Sarnia was pleased to make a donation of $10,000 to Bluewater Health for the Youth Wellness Hub about to open.  Pictured are Mark Taylor (member), Kathy Alexander from the Bluewater Health Foundation and Myles Vanni (member).
The funds for the donation were raised through our Shetty Dinner raffle – many thanks to Dr. & Mrs. Shetty for making this donation possible!
 
Bluewater Health Donation 2023-05-11 04:00:00Z 0

Awards from the Inn

 
On Thursday April 6th  two Rotarians from the Rotary Club of Sarnia accepted Caring Hands Award from the Inn of the Good Shepherd.  Cathy Thompson accepted the award on behalf of Libro Credit Union and Rajni Saraf accepted the award on behalf of the Rotary Club of Sarnia.  Awards were presented by The Inns Executive Director Myles Vanni  who also is a Rotary Club of Sarnia member.
Awards from the Inn 2023-04-10 04:00:00Z 0

Diversity ED

 
Past Pres. Mike Elliott and Pres. Rick Marsh present $10,000 to Crystal Fach – executive Director of Diversity Ed. The Program is to support the Diversity ED drag show through buying sewing machines and materials, so they can make their own costumes for the show.
 
Diversity ED 2023-04-03 04:00:00Z 0

Family Counselling Centre

 
Rotary Club of Sarnia made a donation to Family Counselling Centre's APSW group. This donation will be used to help fund the community reintegration activities and planned events setup for the teams we support.
Thank you to Mike Elliott and Rick Marsh from The Rotary Club of Sarnia for coming by to deliver this generous gift for our programming to Family Counselling Centre's Doug Darrach.
Family Counselling Centre 2023-04-03 04:00:00Z 0

Petrolia Community Refridgerator

 
Petrolia Community Refrigerator Receives Rotary Grant "Service Beyond Self"
 
      Petrolia Community Refrigerator has received a grant award from the Sarnia Rotary. The theme of the "Service Beyond Self" award was recognized for PCR's ongoing efforts to support food-insecure people in the Petrolia community.
       The PCR is open 365, 24/7. In addition to food distribution, the PCR is engaged in "food rescue" with local businesses to help prevent food waste. 
       We partner with the Inn of the Good Shepherd to provide Mobile Market and Tax Clinic and the Salvation Army for lunch hot meals (2nd and 4th Fridays). Starting in April, the PCR will be partnering with LCDS to distribute Garden Fresh Box - a program sponsored by Lambton Public Health to promote healthy eating.
        Petrolia Community Refrigerator and all our volunteers extend our "thanks" to Sarnia Rotary for the grant and recognition of our efforts. This award is very special coming from Sarnia Rotary, a dedicated service group that does so much public service in our community.
 
Photo- from left to right: Les Whiting (PCR), MIke Elliot (Sarnia Rotary), Nicole Newman (PCR), Larry Leckie (PCR), 
             Rick Marsh (Sarnia Rotary)
Petrolia Community Refridgerator 2023-04-03 04:00:00Z 0

YMCA Donation

 
Thanks to the Rotary Club of Sarnia, more children in Sarnia will know how to swim!
We are pleased to announce that a $5000 Action Grant was presented this month for the Children’s Learn to Swim Program at the YMCA Rotary Club of Sarnia Aquatic Centre.
YMCA Donation 2022-12-20 05:00:00Z 0
West Lambton Community Health Centre Donation 2022-12-18 05:00:00Z 0

St Josephs Hospice Donation

 
St. Joseph’s Hospice has benefitted from a new Rotary Club of Sarnia $10,500.00 “Action Grant”. The Action Grant was made in honour of the Shetty Family, who have consistently worked to benefit Rotary Charitable Projects. The funds have been used for a new chair lift for the hospice therapeutic tub.
St Josephs Hospice Donation 2022-12-18 05:00:00Z 0

Citations for Sarnia Club

   
Rotary Club of Sarnia received citations from Uganda Scouts Association for helping fund the Students from Interact to participate in the Water for Life Project in Uganda as well as from Rotary International for attaining the clubs goals in 2021/2022.
Citations for Sarnia Club 2022-09-28 04:00:00Z 0

Little Free Libraries

Rotary Club of Sarnia “Little Free Libraries” have popped-up all around Sarnia! In collaboration with Literacy Lambton, the Rotary Club suggests you ”leave a book, when you take a book”.
You can find one of our Rotary Little Free Libraries at Centennial, Marcin, Twin Lakes and Germain Parks.
Little Free Libraries 2022-09-01 04:00:00Z 0

Jackpot Bingo

 
Funds earned by our Rotary Club through Bingos at Jackpot City, have been used to sponsor a secondary school student to attend the Adventures in Citizenship Conference virtually this year. Also we made a $500.00 donation to The Friends of Pinery Park for their educational and research programs. We are fortunate to have this wonderful park so close to home here in Lambton County.
Jackpot Bingo 2022-06-26 04:00:00Z 0

Victim Services Donation

 
Thanks to the financial support of The Rotary Club of Sarnia, (and 9 other partner agencies), Victim Services Sarnia Lambton and Sarnia Lambton Suicide Prevention Committee are launching a new program to support the loved ones of those who died by suicide. The “Community Navigator” will follow-up with loved ones on a longer term basis and check with them on critical dates, such as suicide victim’s birthdays, special holidays, etc., and ensure those loved ones receive needed enhanced emotional support. Interested individuals in this program can contact:
communitynavigator@
victimservices.on
Victim Services Donation 2022-06-22 04:00:00Z 0

Ukrainian Artist

Welcome Natasha Nikolenka, Ukrainian artist to Sarnia! The Rotary Club of Sarnia, in partnership with Vision Nursing Home, is pleased to announce that a limited number of prints by renowned Ukrainian mouth-artist Natasha Nikolenka have been produced and are ready for sale starting Monday 6 June, 2022.
Unframed prints are $50/ea., and can be purchased at Vision Nursing Home corporate office at 229 Wellington St., Sarnia. (Tel. 519-336-6551)
Vision Corporate office, is open 7 days a week, 8:00am - 3:45pm.
Sorry, at this time, we will only be able to take cheques or cash. (We do not have a credit card machine or app). Parking is a slight challenge, and we would like to encourage parking on the street on Crawford or even in the driveway into the old SCITS building.
All proceeds from the sale of prints will between the artist, Natasha Nikolenka, Ukrainian artist and new resident of Sarnia, and The Rotary Club of Sarnia’s Ukrainian Relief Projects.
Ukrainian Artist 2022-06-11 04:00:00Z 0

Spring 2022 Action Grants

 
Rotary Club of Sarnia announces more than $50,000 in
community Action Grants

SARNIA, 6 May 2022 
The Rotary Club of Sarnia is putting more than $50,000 to work
in the community through Round 1 of its 2022 Action Grants.
The Women’s Interval Home of Sarnia-Lambton is one of the recipients of the funds and
will be using the money to refurbish two of the ten resident rooms in the emergency
shelter. “Abused women and children in Sarnia-Lambton will benefit,” said the
organization in a statement. “These room renovations will provide numerous women
and children for years to come with a safe place to live when escaping from their
abusers and building a life free from violence. Last year the Women’s Interval Home
admitted 120 women and 51 children to our emergency shelter.”
“It’s a worthy project,” said Rotary Club of Sarnia President Mike Elliott. “We’ve not
donated to the Women’s Interval Home in several years and this is a project we’re
happy to contribute to.”
Grants to other organizations have been announced at the same time. “We’re very
happy to be putting this money to work in the community now,” said Elliott. “In the past
we would often make a large donation to a single organization over several years. Now
we are supporting many more organizations.”
Other recipients of grants in Round 1 of 2022 include:
- Alzheimer Society of Sarnia Lambton - completion of Outdoor Patio Space
- Hashtag Local Project – funding for Community Stories Within Acts of Local
Campaign
- St. John Ambulance Sarnia Lambton - support for 10 manikins for CPR training
- Sarnia Lambton Suicide Prevention – funding for Community Navigator role
- St. Joseph’s Hospice – funding for Bath and Shower Lift
- Pathways Health Centre for Children – funding for website redesign
- Safer Spaces Canada Project – funding for It’s All Drag Empowering Youth Art
Project
Spring 2022 Action Grants 2022-05-14 04:00:00Z 0

Lansdowne Public School

     
 
The Rotary Club of Sarnia, with help from Jackpot City Bingo funds, have made a donation of $500 to Landsdowne Public School to help with the increased cost of providing school lunches and snacks.
Lansdowne Public School 2022-03-24 04:00:00Z 0

Donation to Pathways

    
 
For February, The Rotary Club of Sarnia, with help from funds from Jackpot City Bingo, is making a donation of $2500 to Pathways Health Centre for Children so they can upgrade their web site.  This in turn will improve access for families to the valuable supports Pathway’s offers across Sarnia Lambton.
Donation to Pathways 2022-02-17 05:00:00Z 0

January Jackpot Bingo Donation

   
 
For the month of January, 2022, The Rotary Club of Sarnia, with help from funds from Jackpot City Bingos, is pleased to make a donation of $1000 to the Boys and Girl’s Club of Sarnia Lambton. Now that in-person school is back, the funds will help with food and snacks for the club’s after-school program.
January Jackpot Bingo Donation 2022-01-23 05:00:00Z 0

Fall 2021 Action Grants

 
Our latest Rotary Action Grants were awarded to:
 
Access Open Mind – BWH Foundation
$ 10,000
Lambton Mental Wellness Centre
$ 7,500
Lambton Mental Wellness & Family Counselling Centre
$ 7,500
Huron Home Boys’ House
$ 10,000
 
Thank you all for your hard work and dedication!
Fall 2021 Action Grants 2021-12-22 05:00:00Z 0

Alzeimers Society

 
 
The Rotary Club of Sarnia is pleased to announce the recipient of our October donation in collaboration with Jackpot City Bingo.
We are giving $1,500 to the Alzheimer’s Society of Sarnia Lambton for their “Pamper Day for Care-Partners” Project.
Alzeimers Society 2021-10-13 04:00:00Z 0

Lambton Literacy

           
 
 
The Rotary Club of Sarnia is pleased to make a donation of $2,000 to Literacy Lambton for their “Give-a-Book 2021 Holiday Campaign”.
The plan is for Literacy Lambton to give new books to numerous local agencies so that every child in Sarnia-Lambton will be able to enjoy a new book on Christmas morning.
Lambton Literacy 2021-09-25 04:00:00Z 0

Boys and Girls Club Donation

  
 
Thanks to the collaboration between Jackpot City Gaming, and The Rotary Club of Sarnia, $500 has been donated to the Boys and Girls Club of Sarnia Lambton. The funds will be used for food and snacks during the club’s after school program.
Boys and Girls Club Donation 2021-08-26 04:00:00Z 0

Back to School Kits Donation

   
 
 
Thanks to Jackpot City Bingo, the Rotary Club of Sarnia is pleased to make a $1,000 donation to the Inn of the Good Shepherd to go towards the Back to School Kits which are backpacks filled with the school supplies students need as they start a new school year.
Back to School Kits Donation 2021-07-24 04:00:00Z 0
Community Living Sarnia Lambton Action Grant 2021-07-22 04:00:00Z 0

Mayor Bradley

 
Today at the Rotary Club of Sarnia we heard from Mayor Mike Bradley and all things Sarnia! It was great to hear so many exciting things about the City of Sarnia! Thanks for sharing Mayor Mike!
Mayor Bradley 2021-06-22 04:00:00Z 0

Big Brothers Big Sisters

    
 
Thanks to Jackpot City Bingo, The Rotary Club of Sarnia is making a donation of $2,500 to Big Brothers Big Sisters as part of Mike Hurry’s post-pandemic cycle trip across Canada.  
We hope this donation will help  the organization to continue  to provide needed services for the kids in our community.            
Big Brothers Big Sisters 2021-06-21 04:00:00Z 0

Canadian Mental Health Association

     
 
The Rotary Club of Sarnia made a donation of $660 to the Canadian Mental Health Association (CMHA) virtual "Ride Don't Hide" fundraiser. This will help 2 persons get the help they need. Funding for this donation was provided by our fundraising partners at Jackpot City.
Canadian Mental Health Association 2021-05-31 04:00:00Z 0

Community Action Grants

Recently, The Rotary Club of Sarnia distributed over $48,000 to five deserving organizations for their community projects.
Family Counseling Centre, Community Living Sarnia Lambton, Kineto Theatre in Forest, the Eat Your Veggies program operated by the North Lambton Community Health and the YMCA Sarnia.
Community Action Grants 2021-04-22 04:00:00Z 0

Rotary Youth Conferences

     
 
Thank you to Jackpot City Bingo for your continuing support to the Rotary Club of Sarnia. We are sponsoring a student, Chloe Williams, to attend the Virtual Adventures in Citizenship Conference in Ottawa from May 1-5, 2021 and Annabelle Rayson, to attend the Virtual Seminar for Tomorrow’s Leaders in London on May 14-15, 2021. Total cost is $440.00 as these are virtual conferences rather than in-person.
Rotary Youth Conferences 2021-04-20 04:00:00Z 0

Eat Your Veggies Project

                          
 
Some of the funds raised for The Rotary Club of Sarnia through bingos at Jackpot City will be used to make a donation to the Eat Your Veggies program operated by the Opening Doors project.
 
The Opening doors project supports people in our community with mental health issues. This program provides clients and their families with garden fresh vegetables during winter months so they can eat a more healthful diet to support their mental health as well as redirecting money that would have been spent on vegetables to be use to purchase cleaning supplies during this pandemic.
Eat Your Veggies Project 2021-03-13 05:00:00Z 0

Birdhouses

    
    
 
The Rotary Club of Sarnia purchased 100 environmentally friendly birdhouses (recycle wood from new construction sites ) and donated them to Community Living Sarnia Lambton, Pathways, 39th Sparks, Girl Guides and Boys and Girls Clubs for their youth programs.
 
Clayton and his wife are the builders and are shown with their van full of birdhouses.  Prizes will be awarded for the best decorated houses on Earth Day.
Birdhouses Bill Boynton 2021-03-03 05:00:00Z 0

Celebration of Youth

              

Rotary Club of Sarnia Sponsors

Y Celebration of Youth Award   "International Ambassador Award"

The Celebration of Youth Awards is one example of the Y's commitment to invest in young people. Recognized regionally as one of Ontario's most prestigious awards for youth, the Celebration of Youth honours local youth, 17-20 years of age whose outstanding talents and achievements have made a difference in our community.  
 
The awards focus on youth who have demonstrated leadership, sensitivity to others, innovation, development of personal talents, overcoming personal challenge and service to community.  Special consideration is given to youth faced with financial barriers. 
 
Award recipients embody the YMCA core values of: 

  • Caring - we can be trusted to do the right thing; 
  • Honesty - We keep our promises, and we do what we say we will; 
  • Respect - We believe in the good within people; 
  • Responsibility - We are leaders, and set an example for others; 
  • Inclusiveness - We create a place for everyone at the YMCA.  

 
After completing a comprehensive application and interview process, the successful recipient receives a $1,000 award from proceeds the Rotary Club of Sarnia funds received from Jackpot City Bingo. 

Celebration of Youth 2021-01-29 05:00:00Z 0

Community Paul Harris Awards

 
10 Paul Harris Fellowships Awarded to Community Members During Covid-19
 
Bluewater Health’s Dr. Michel Haddad is among ten local recipients of Rotary’s highest honour, A Paul Harris Fellowship. Named after Rotary’s
founder, the awards are granted by local club members and honour the immense contributions individuals have made in 2020. This year’s award winners have all have one thing in a common: a determination to help the wider community through the COVID challenge.
As the Chief of Staff at Bluewater Health and also an intensivist, Dr. Haddad has been part of the leadership guiding the treatment of patients with COVID-19, and also preventing the spread within the hospital and the wider community. He exemplifies Rotary’s vision of “a world where people unite and take action to create lasting change.” Through his Twitter account, Dr. Haddad has been educating the public about COVID-19, strategies to protect oneself, and details on the latest research and evidence. He is widely recognized as a trusted source of information for the community on this topic. An early, strong advocate of masking, he encouraged local councillors to implement the mandatory mask bylaw we have today.
“I feel quite honoured and surprised actually to have received this recognition,” said Dr. Haddad when he heard the news from Rotary. “I truly didn’t expect it as I feel that I was just trying to fulfill my mandate to the best of my abilities as a hospital medical leader during these difficult times to ensure patient and staff safety and ensure best care to all of our patients while attempting to inform the community about what we can all do collectively to concur this pandemic.”
 
Other recipients have been named this year.
 
 Sharon LaPier, of LaPier’s Flowers and Gifts (Corunna), is being recognized for her “Service Above Self” in spear-heading a Mask-Making Team who have made and distributed over 3000 free masks to children and adults in our community during the Covid-19 pandemic. The team has given masks to school children, nursing homes, Aamjiwnaang and Kettle and Stony Point First Nations, and The Inn of the Good Shepherd for emergency use. Sharon's generosity continues as the team is still providing masks to those in need.
 
 Mike Germain, of Service Master (Sarnia), is being recognized for his generosity in supporting the Rotary Club of Sarnia’s annual pancake breakfast and work with the Inn of the Good Shepherd. Mike has donated his services and staff from Service Master on a consistent basis to assist Rotarians with their fundraising efforts and service projects.
 
 Zoya Shetty is being recognized for her commitment to giving back to our community. For several years she has donated exclusive Indian dining experiences to the St. Joseph’s Hospice Gala and the Rotary Club of Sarnia, as fundraisers. Zoya Shetty has raised thousands of dollars to support these initiatives in Sarnia during 2020.
 
 Marianne Hyatt is being recognized for her talents as the garden planner, leader of volunteers, and most dedicated gardener of the vegetable garden at Rotary. Marianne works part time at the West Lambton Community Health Centre. The harvest from the garden is distributed to the Inn of the Good Shepherd and other food banks in Sarnia and Forest, as well as to clients at the Health Centre. The garden serves as a source of therapy for the volunteers.
 
 Joan Spalding is being recognized for sharing her musical talents with Sarnia-Lambton during COVID-19. Joan is a singer/songwriter who plays many instruments including the guitar, double reed harmonica, banjo and mandolin, and also a three-time winner of the Canadian Open Singing Contest in Ontario. Since mid-March, she has performed daily online concerts to entertain those at home.
 
 Melanie Rogers and Jenn Cooper are being recognized for exemplifying Service above Self. They organized two very successful drives for the Inn of the Good Shepherd during the pandemic – Drive By Food and Drive By Bottle. The food drive saw over 45 volunteers collect over 16,000 lbs of food over 4 days. The bottle drive raised an astonishing $27,000 (sorting, counting and bagging took 13 days and filled four Beer Store transport trucks).
 
 Mike and Zack Fiddick are being recognized for their generous donations of meat to lunches at the Inn of the Good Shepherd for the past two years, serving approximately 80-90 meals on each occasion. The quality of the Fiddicks’ grassfed beef raised locally could not be matched, providing guests with the best possible meats.
 
About the PAUL HARRIS FELLOW
 
A Paul Harris Fellow recognition acknowledges individuals who have made a significant impact in their community, which the local Club acknowledges by making a US$1,000 contribution to the Rotary Foundation in their name. These contribution are spent on humanitarian efforts around the world. Paul Harris was the founder and organizer of the first Rotary Club in Chicago in 1905. He was founder of the Rotary idea, and the first president of the worldwide organization, Rotary International. Paul Harris died in 1947.
In 1957, the idea of Paul Harris Fellow (PHF) recognition was first proposed as a means to promote voluntary giving to the Rotary Foundation. The distinctive Paul Harris Fellow, lapel pin and certificate have become highly respected symbols of a substantial commitment to The Rotary Foundation by Rotarians, friends and honoured recipients around the world.
The Rotary Foundation is a non-profit corporation that supports the efforts of Rotary International to achieve world understanding and peace through international humanitarian, educational and cultural exchange programs - it is support solely by voluntary contribution Rotarians and friends of the Foundation who share its vision of a better world.
The Foundation was created in 1917 as an endowment fund for Rotary and has grown from an initial contribution of $26.50 us to more than US$1 billion. Polio Eradication has been a long term focus for the Foundation. Throughout the years Rotary has committed more than US$1.4 billion to global polio eradication. Rotary has received US$355 million in challenge grants from the Bill and Melinda Gates
Foundation.
Community Paul Harris Awards 2020-12-08 05:00:00Z 0

Inn Donation

 
Our Rotary Club would like to thank Jackpot City for funds provided to our organization through volunteering at Bingo Games and now during the Covid-19 Pandemic through other Bingo funds.
 
We have supported Operation Christmas Tree in past years and wish to support it again this year in memory of Maddy Hayes.  Maddy was the Charity Coordinator for Jackpot City Bingo and passed away from cancer in 2020. We have decided to give $2000 to the Inn of the Good Shepherd to support their many Christmas Programs that will help make Christmas a little more joyful for many community members
Inn Donation 2020-12-02 05:00:00Z 0
Mask Donation for Covid19  2020-11-02 05:00:00Z 0
Rotary gives games and devices to Community Living residents Bill Boynton 2020-05-07 04:00:00Z 0
Rotary Gardens for The INN Bill Boynton 2020-04-22 04:00:00Z 0

Rotary Zoom Meeting include Exchange Students

Regular weekly meetings as well as Board meetings have been occurring on ZOOM during COVID-19. It allows the good work of Rotary to continue in the community as well as club fellowship among members. We have passed our meeting links to former inbound youth exchange students who have been joining our meetings and updating our members on their lives since their exchange.
Rotary Zoom Meeting include Exchange Students Bill Boynton 2020-04-07 04:00:00Z 0

Rotary and Swiss Chalet provide Lunch 

Swiss Chalet and The Rotary Club of Sarnia provided the clients of The Inn of the Good Shepherd with a 1/4 Chicken dinner and dessert recently. The hot meal was enjoyed during these difficult times in our community.
Rotary and Swiss Chalet provide Lunch Bill Boynton 2020-04-07 04:00:00Z 0

Rotary Members living SERVICE ABOVE SELF

The Rotary Club of Sarnia is so proud of our members. Carolyn Leaver Luciani (Manleys) and Alex Botma (Botma Homes) each made a donation of an entire skid of food to The INN of the Good Shepherd. A skid of carrots and a skid of oatmeal will go a long way feeding families in need. They are living the Rotary motto of "SERVICE ABOVE SELF".
 
Rotary Members living SERVICE ABOVE SELF Bill Boynton 2020-04-01 04:00:00Z 0
Rotary Donates to Pathways Pool Refurbishment Bill Boynton 2020-03-31 04:00:00Z 0
Rotary Club Donates to the INN Bill Boynton 2020-03-31 04:00:00Z 0

Rotary Supplies New Cabins at Attawandaron

 
The Rotary Clubs of Lambton County made donations to pay for a circle of new cabins at Camp Attawandaron. As well, members enjoyed fun and fellowship helping with the construction of the bunk beds inside the cabins.
Rotary Supplies New Cabins at Attawandaron Bill Boynton 2020-03-31 04:00:00Z 0

District Governor connects during Foundation month

November is Rotary Foundation Month which is probably the most important month to reflect on why we are in Rotary. 
 
The Rotary Foundation is the heart of Rotary; it’s where we continually see how we are making a difference in the world. Take the time to reflect on what’s happening within your local community through funding from District Grants or in overseas projects in third world countries funded by Clubs and the District through Global Grants. The outcome is we are assisting those less fortunate than us with a better life. The massive amount of effort which Rotary has put into the Polio Eradication Program is without a doubt inspiring at a world-wide level, but this doesn’t just happen. It happens because Rotarians in every club are making an effort to raise awareness and funds to ensure our Foundation is adequately funded so we may ensure the world is a better place and that we get on and rid the world of this debilitating disease. 
 
District Governor connects during Foundation month 2019-11-03 04:00:00Z 0
Rotary online auction still looking for donations as volunteers prepare for Nov. 12-17, 2019 event J.D. Booth 2019-11-02 04:00:00Z 0

Local Rotary Clubs continue to engage in fighting Polio

Posted on Oct 17, 2019
Members of the Rotary Club of Sarnia are gearing up to mark World Polio Day by partnering with other Rotary clubs in the area.
 
On Sunday, October 20 there will a "Polio Walk in the Park" taking place from 10 a.m. to noon at Canatara Park.
 
But even before that—from October 17-24—Global Donuts and Deli—will be featuring a special donut with proceeds going to fight the battle against polio.
Local Rotary Clubs continue to engage in fighting Polio J.D. Booth 2019-10-17 04:00:00Z 0

2019 Rotary Pancake Breakfast a 'great success'

Posted on Aug 02, 2019

Hundreds of hungry watchers of the annual Port Huron to Mackinac race gathered on Saturday morning, July 20 in Point Edward’s Waterfront Park for a feast of pancakes and sausages in one of the area’s most popular fundraising events in support of the club’s community initiatives.

2019 Rotary Pancake Breakfast a 'great success' JD Booth 2019-08-02 04:00:00Z 0

Rotary Club of Sarnia Habitat Build

 
Thank you!
Hello Rotary Club of Sarnia Team! I just wanted to send you a note to THANK YOU for all your help with drywall on our Guthrie Drive Project. It was a great pleasure working with such a hard-working and friendly group! Our homeowners will be so grateful and excited to move into their new homes which you helped to build!
Rotary Club of Sarnia Habitat Build 2018-07-30 04:00:00Z 0

Hurricane Relief September 2017

 
Thank you Sarnia for coming out and supporting our fund raising efforts for Hurricane Relief.  Over $7,000.00 CND was raised to help support those in the greatest need through the local Rotarians in the affected areas. 
Hurricane Relief September 2017 2017-09-19 04:00:00Z 0