A Message from the District Governor
Dear Fellow Rotarians, Rotaractors, and Friends of Rotary in District 7080,
Looking back to the month of October, the month in which we celebrate Thanksgiving, I would like to take this opportunity to be grateful for what October brought. In October, I was fortunate to complete ten more stops on the Grand District Tour, World Polio Day was celebrated with several flag raising ceremonies, a new Interact Club in Oakville was chartered and many more celebrations and events were held. But I am most grateful for a wonderful day at the District Conference where we spread Aloha, recharged our Rotary batteries, and had tons of fun, all while listening to inspiring speakers, and get moving with Tai Chi and Zumba. I want to personally thank everyone who attended the event and a special thank you to the team who supported me and my vision during the planning stages and on the day of the conference. I could not have done it without this dedicated team.
And to all the members in our District I extend my gratitude for everything you do. Without members like you none of the events and projects would be possible. And with this, I would like to remind everyone that November is Rotary Foundation Month.
November is not just a month of changing leaves and coming winter—it is Rotary Foundation Month, a powerful annual reminder of the extraordinary things that happen when People of Action unite. This is the month we celebrate the charitable arm of Rotary, a force that transforms your generous donations into life-changing, sustainable projects around the globe.
From $26.50 to $4 Billion in Good
The story of The Rotary Foundation began in 1917 with a simple idea from Rotary International President Arch C. Klumph to set aside an endowment "for the purpose of doing good in the world." The initial contribution was a humble $26.50. Over a century later, that seed of generosity has grown into a monumental effort, having spent over $4 billion on life-changing initiatives.
This incredible legacy is built on the belief that we have a shared responsibility to make the world a better, more peaceful place. The Foundation empowers Rotarians to approach challenges like poverty, disease, and illiteracy not with temporary fixes, but with sustainable solutions that leave a lasting impact.
"The Rotary Foundation transforms your gifts into projects that change lives both close to home and around the world."
This November, as we celebrate The Rotary Foundation, we are reminded of the profound difference every single donation makes. Think of the tangible impact:
For as little as 60 cents, a child can be protected from polio.
A small donation can help provide clean water, fighting waterborne illness.
A larger grant can fund a global project, bringing lifesaving medical equipment or education to an underserved community.
The Foundation consistently receives the highest possible rating from independent charity evaluators like Charity Navigator, meaning you can be confident that your contribution is being used efficiently and effectively to "Do Good in the World."
Rotary Foundation Month is an opportunity to reflect on our collective power. As a Rotarian, a partner, or a friend of the organization, your support fuels this incredible engine of change. It is a call to increase your commitment, share the story of impact, and help us turn the promise of a healthier, more peaceful world into a reality. The challenges of the world are great, but our ability to overcome them is greater.
If you would like to find out ways to contribute to The Rotary Foundation or if you would like to book a speaker on this topic, please reach out to me or anyone on the Foundation Committee.
Thank you all for your continued dedication and support.
Yours in Rotary,
Susanne Zbinden
District Governor 2025-26
District 7080
Upcoming District Events
Mark your calendars for these important District 7080 events in November:
November 26: Q2 District Council Meeting
Organized by: District 7080
Location: University Club at University of Guelph, Guelph
Time: 5:15 PM - 6:30 PM
November 26: Q2 Presidents Meeting
Organized by: District 7080
Location: University Club at University of Guelph, Guelph
Time: 6:30 PM - 9:00 PM
For a full list of upcoming events, please visit the District 7080 website events calendar.
Stay Connected
We encourage all members to stay engaged with District 7080!
Visit our website: www.rotary7080.org
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