I’ve been reflecting on my membership in Rotary as my anniversary date comes around for another year.
What an interesting a rewarding experience I have had for the last 13 years since joining the Semiahmoo Rotary Club.
At the time, I realized that my two children were now adults, not needing my daily hands-on in their lives. Both my parents and my husband’s parents were being cared for and my time had been freed up somewhat.
Although, I was still working and operating my home-based graphic design business, I was looking for something meaningful in my life.
An acquaintance suggested that I visit her club for a Thursday morning breakfast meeting.
That was the beginning of something wonderful for me.
When I arrived she was late. My first though was, “OMG. I don’t know anyone here.” I didn’t need to panic.
Many members came over to me, welcomed me and started chatting, and I felt at home in this vibrant group. Many have become close friends.
Over the years, I have become involved in most aspects of the club, but found my niche with the chairing of the annual Wine and Dine, registration for our Charity Golf Tournament and becoming the director of public relations, a position I have held for several years.
I also found myself becoming a real member of our local community through meeting so many other residents who are involved in various aspects in making this community a vibrant and welcoming place to live.
The energies and commitments of so many, Rotarians and non-Rotarians alike, is truly remarkable.
As well, I realized the extent to which so many of our local businesses are giving back to this Peninsula where they operate.
They are amazing.
For the last several years, I have, with the help of all five clubs, written this monthly Rotary Roundup column for the Peace Arch News.
It is time for new blood and a new viewpoint.
I am passing this responsibility to another member of our club, Brenda Gibson. She is excited to bring her points of view to these articles, and keep you, the public, abreast of what Rotary is doing both locally and around the world.
I know you will enjoy the column under her direction, and I welcome her and thank her for undertaking this responsibility. I’m sure my club will have other projects for me to become involved with.
Thanks for reading.
If you are interested in Rotary, visit a club. You will be amazed at who you will meet.
Valerie Giles writes monthly on behalf of the Semiahmoo Peninsula’s five Rotary Clubs –valeriegiles@shaw.ca
