August Message from the DG

August: Rotary's Focus on Membership and New Club Development

A Message from the District Governor

Dear Rotarians, Rotaractors and all Friends of Rotary,

It is hard to believe that it is already August and that my first month as this District’s Governor is in the books. It was an amazing first month and I had the opportunity to meet many members, visit projects, volunteer and I truly enjoyed every day.

In July, I went on six official club visits, attended three Changeover and Club Celebration events, volunteered at Ribfest and helped pack backpacks for children in need. Then of course there was a Pride Parade, bidding farewell to Exchange Students, and the induction of several new members.

Check out the short reel below to see what I was up to in July! (And continue reading below the video...)
 

Rotary Theme for August: Rotary's Focus on Membership and New Club Development

The strength of Rotary lies in its people. Each new member brings fresh perspectives, innovative ideas, and a renewed energy that enhances the club's ability to make a positive impact. August, which is designated as Membership and New Club Development Month, is an ideal time for clubs to reflect on what makes their Rotary experience so meaningful and to share that passion with others.  
 
This month, clubs are encouraged to think about creative ways to attract and retain members. This could involve hosting open houses, leveraging social media to showcase impactful service projects, or simply inviting a friend or colleague to a meeting. The goal is not just to increase numbers, but to find individuals who are genuinely driven to contribute to their community and the world.  
 
Beyond individual membership, this month also emphasizes the importance of New Club Development. As communities and their needs evolve, so must Rotary. The formation of new clubs, including innovative models like corporate, passport, or e-clubs, allows Rotary to reach more people and address a wider range of challenges. These new clubs expand Rotary's reach and ensure its legacy of service continues for generations to come.  
 
Ultimately, Membership and New Club Development Month is a Call to Action. It is a reminder that every Rotarian has a role to play in building a stronger, more resilient organization. By celebrating our members and actively seeking out new ones, we ensure that Rotary remains a powerful force for good, creating lasting change and building a better world, one club and one member at a time.

District Conference – Register now to Secure your Spot

I am very excited to announce that registration to this year’s District Conference with the Motto “Spread a little Aloha… and Gratitude” is now open and that there is an early-bird special for registrations until August 25, 2025.

“Spreading Aloha” means we can share what it means to be “Living Aloha”. Living Aloha is a way of life that extends beyond the shores of Hawaii, offering a universal guideline for fostering meaningful connections and enriching one’s existence. Aloha for me signifies the following: Love, Peace, Compassion and a mutual understanding of respect. Living Aloha means living in harmony with the people and land around you with sympathy, grace and kindness. “And Gratitude” of course is just that, being grateful for what we have, for where we live and for how we can help others. For all of you who have heard my club presentation, you know what I mean!

We have a great day planned with amazing speakers, fellowship, a house of Friendship and so much more.

This year’s speakers include:
  • Joe Dittmar – Survived the 9/11 attack on the 105th floor of the World Trade Center in New York City.
  • DG Ramesh Ferris – Polio Survivor and Polio Plus Activist who will tell us about his journey.
  • David Nairn – Artistic Director from Theatre Orangeville speaking about a theatre program for neuro-diverse people
  • Natalija Vojno – Rotary Peace Fellow

Please register through the following link: discon7080.com

Welcome to our New District Secretary!

It is with great pleasure that I can now announce our new District Secretary!
 

Betty Jo Parent – District Secretary

Betty Jo is a member of the Mississauga West Club, where she has previously served as Club President. Betty Jo is very involved on the Youth Services Committee, both with Rotary Youth Exchange and as the RYLA subcommittee chair.

Thank you, Betty Jo for taking on this role. At the same time, I would like to thank our Executive Secretary PDG Lesley Barmania for taking on this role for some time and for staying on the team as a mentor and invaluable source of knowledge.

Please note: In the next edition I will highlight other members of the District Leadership Team.

Upcoming District Events

Mark your calendars for these important District 7080 events in August and beyond:.
  • August 21: District Council Meeting
    • Organized by: District 7080
    • Location: University Club at University of Guelph, Guelph
    • Time: 5:15 PM – 6:30 PM
  • August 21: Presidents Meeting
    • Organized by: District 7080
    • Location: University Club at University of Guelph, Guelph
    • Time: 6:30 PM - 9:00 PM
  • October 4: District Conference
    • Organized by: District Conference Committee
    • Location: Peter Clarke Hall at University of Guelph, Guelph
    • Time: All Day
    • Speakers include: Joe Dittmar, Natalija Vojno, David Nairn, DG Ramesh Ferris
    • For more info and to register: discon7080.com
For a full list of upcoming events, please visit the District 7080 events calendar.

Stay Connected

We encourage all members to stay engaged with District 7080!
I want to again thank you all for your dedication, energy, and efforts you put into your Rotary Clubs and District. And above all, thank you for your support during this coming year. Thanks to Rotarians and Rotaractors like you we can continue to do what we do best.
 
Let us work together, and Unite for Good!
Susanne Zbinden
District Governor 2025-26,
Rotary District 7080