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Chair Lynne Webber welcomed all members present including Guest Speaker Janet Hay. Karen Denham was introduced by Michelle Crawford as a visitor. Karen is the Queensland Microfinance Manager with Good Shepherd Microfinance. Karen and Michelle holidayed in New York last year and visited the Manhattan and Greenport Rotary Clubs. Those celebrating birthdays and membership anniversaries were recognized, with special mention made and congratulations offered to Vice President Kevin Love who is celebrating 20 years as a Rotarian. Truth or Tale was shared by Lynne Webber with memories of a trip to New Orleans where the medicine to treat illness is like no other! Lynne provided an update on the visit to Royal Talbot where the gardens were restored, and the result a wonderful outlook and place for therapy. 19 people participated in this community event, with thanks offered to all involved, and special mention to Marjorie and Lyn for their work in ensuring everyone was well catered for. Announcements Please let Marjorie know ASAP if you would like to attend the District Assembly being held on May 26 at Tabcorp Park, 2 Ferris Road, Melton – email marbern.bigpond.net.au@clubrunner.email to confirm attendance. With his Director's hat on, Frank reminded those present that the End of Financial Year presents an opportunity to consider a tax deductable donation to the Foundation Committee. Kevin highlighted the Changeover Dinner on Friday 28th June and encouraged all to consider attending. This is a great way to celebrate Neville’s leadership and year as President and welcome Warwick into the chair, showing our support for him as President in the year ahead - RSVP by 14th June via TryBooking https://trybooking.com/BCFRL
Guest Speaker Member of the Canterbury Rotary Club Janet Hay was welcomed for her presentation talk about “A new way to do charitable giving”. Inspired by the work of Noble Peace Laureate Muhammad Yunus (Founder Grameen Bank – see yunussb.com) and representing the Rotary Action Group for Microfinance and Community Development (www.ragm.org), Janet provided insight into her work and the opportunity that exists for Rotary Clubs and Members to move from hand out to a dignified pathway out of poverty through microfinance. She suggests that we don’t just give money, that we lend money. Janet explained microcredit, microloans, social business (focus on a social cause) and what can be achieved in local communities when businesses ‘do good’. She referenced her work with Rotary in Sri Lanka and a project ’10 for Tamils’ that she is involved. Janet highlighted the opportunities that exist to focus on long term international development beyond humanitarian responses. One platform for long term investment is www.kiva.org which she recommends. Janet reminded us that there are 4 measurements of a good business – people, planet, profits and purpose. Her presentation is available for those who would like a copy including references to useful resources such as the book ‘Dead Aid’. Janet may be contacted by email – janethay1122@gmail.com |
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