October: Rotary's Focus on Community Economic Development
A Message from the District Governor
Dear Fellow Rotarians, Rotaractors, and Friends of Rotary in District 7080,
As the beautiful colours of autumn surround Southwestern Ontario, we approach a very special weekend: Thanksgiving.
This holiday on the second Monday of October is a time for us to pause, gather with family and friends, and reflect on the many blessings and abundance we enjoy. It is a moment of deep gratitude for our community, our livelihoods, and the ability to live in peace.
The spirit of Thanksgiving—of generosity, abundance, and giving back—perfectly aligns with the core values of Rotary and our commitment to Service Above Self.
As we give thanks, we are also reminded of the important Rotary work ahead in October:
- Community Economic Development Month: October is officially Rotary's month to concentrate on this Area of Focus. As you gather your own bounty, please consider how your club can champion projects that empower individuals, promote financial literacy, and create sustainable economic opportunities right here in our communities and around the world.
- World Polio Day (October 24th): We are so close to eradicating polio, one of Rotary's greatest commitments. We ask all clubs to plan an event, raise awareness, and support the final push to end this disease for every child.
This long weekend, whether you are celebrating with a traditional turkey dinner, enjoying the harvest season, or simply spending quality time with loved ones, we encourage you to reflect on the immense impact we can achieve when we unite for good.
Thank you for your tireless dedication. May your Thanksgiving be filled with warmth, happiness, and profound gratitude.
Check out the short reel below with a recap of a busy September 2025! (And please continue reading on below the video...)
Rotary Theme for October: Celebrating Rotary's Community Economic Development Month
October is a significant month on the Rotary calendar as we concentrate on Community Economic Development, one of Rotary's seven key Areas of Focus. This is a time to highlight how Rotarians empower individuals and communities to create sustainable, measurable, and long-term economic improvements in their lives.
October is a significant month on the Rotary calendar as we concentrate on Community Economic Development, one of Rotary's seven key Areas of Focus. This is a time to highlight how Rotarians empower individuals and communities to create sustainable, measurable, and long-term economic improvements in their lives.
The core of Rotary's Community Economic Development efforts is to provide tools, training, and support to help people lift themselves out of poverty. This includes:
- Building the capacity of entrepreneurs and local leaders.
- Developing opportunities for productive, well-paying work and vocational training.
- Providing access to financial management institutions and microfinance programs.
All Rotarians in District 7080 are encouraged to reflect on how their professional expertise (their vocation) can be leveraged this month to drive economic and community development—whether it's sharing financial literacy skills, offering business mentorship, or championing a new service project!
Let's make October a month of action, awareness, and impact as we work together to strengthen communities near and far!
Upcoming District Events
Mark your calendars for these important District 7080 events in October and beyond:
Mark your calendars for these important District 7080 events in October and beyond:
- October 18: Rotary Leadership Institute (RLI)
- October 23: Paul Harris Society and Major Donor Event
- Organized by: Paul Harris Society Chair DGN Rob Galloway
- Location: Galt Country Club, Cambridge
- Time: 5:45 – 8:45 PM
- By invitation only. If you are interested in attending, please contact Rob Galloway.
- 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!
We encourage all members to stay engaged with District 7080!
- Visit our website
- Follow us on social media
- Share your club's news and photos with us!
I want to thank you once again 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
Susanne Zbinden
District Governor 2025-26,
Rotary District 7080