For the last 3 years our zone, Zone 28, has been well represented by Jeffry Cadorette. His knowledge and terrific sense of humour made him a friend of our District. Replacing Jeffry will be Valarie Wafer, a member of the Rotary Club of Collingwood, South Georgian Bay.
 
Joining Rotary in 2005 made a profound impact on Valarie’s life, giving her a new viewpoint of the world and how substantial differences happen when we work together.  Valarie was governor of District 7070, which covers the greater Toronto area, in 2013/14. Now residing in Collingwood, Valarie’s home club is the Rotary Club of Collingwood South Georgian Bay.
 
Valarie is the previous franchise owner of six Tim Horton’s restaurants in the GTA.  Her company was a strong advocate for people with disabilities, especially in the area of employment. She continues this advocacy in many aspects of her life, including serving on a local hospital and university board. 

She has continued to serve at an international level with roles such as: International Trainer, member of International Convention Host Committee, Rotary International Presidential Representative and, most recently, she has been elected to serve on the board of Rotary International 2020-2022. 

During her tenure as a Rotarian, Valarie has participated and led many initiatives including Vocational Training Team Leader to Australia in 2010 focusing on youth mental health, National Immunization Day in India 2012, and has traveled to Kenya and Tanzania to audit long-term Rotary Foundation grant activities.

Valarie, and her husband of 33 years, Mark, are both Paul Harris Fellows, Bequest Society members and Major Donors to The Rotary Foundation.