The Rotary Club of Toronto
Club 55 -  Founded 1912
November 13th, 2024     Volume 112     Issue 9
 
 
 
Club Assembly - November 6th
 
 
The Club Assembly meeting was filled with excitement and energy! President Binoy kicked things off by warmly welcoming everyone and expressing heartfelt thanks to all who attended.

Vice-President Pauline Lyons, along with Board Directors Mitra Goodarzi, Sergio Amatller, and Mark McQuitty, did a fantastic job explaining the Grant eligibility process and how charitable organizations can access Foundation funding.
 
They highlighted some of the impactful grants awarded over the past year to organizations like Camp Scugog, Sprint Senior Care, and local food banks.

Incredibly, over $1 million was donated in 2023-2024 to support these and other worthy causes. We are truly fortunate to be part of a Rotary club with a Foundation that enables us to make a significant difference both locally and globally.

A big thank you to our Vice-President and 3 Board Directors for presenting this information so engagingly!

President Binoy then welcomed a new member to our club. Treasurer Jeff Pollock introduced Beenish Jafri, sharing delightful stories from their university days and praising her as the smartest person he knew, always eager to partner with her on projects.
 
President Binoy also welcomed one visiting Rotaractor and two guests.

President Binoy also reminded us of the upcoming events in the busy holiday season. Inviting everyone to volunteer and get involved in all of these wonderful event. You can find all the details further down in this issue of the Voice.

To top it all off, two lucky Rotarians, Lori Brazier and Christine Cote, each won a bottle of wine! More prizes will be up for grabs at future meetings, so be sure to attend and enjoy the fellowship.
 
Written by Brinda Luckoo
Photos courtesy of Diego Ribeiro Galbiati
Rotarians enjoying the dinner and fellowship.
Jeff Pollock welcoming our newest Rotarian!
Great information session from Board Directors and VP Pauline Lyons
Rotary Flag Raising Event at Toronto City Hall
 
to commemorate World Polio Day on Oct 24th 
 
The Rotary Club of Toronto Charitable Foundation has once more donated $10,000 on behalf of its members to the Rotary Foundation (Canada) End Polio Now campaign.
District 7070 Conference
 October 25-27 
The Conference was a great event that allowed many Rotarians to celebrate the incredible work being done by many clubs across our district and to network with fellow Rotarians.
 

We were treated to some truly inspiring speakers with amazing life stories. Safia Ibrahim, a Polio survivor, shared her journey. Former Toronto Mayor David Miller enlightened us on how cities are stepping up to improve the environment. And the unstoppable Tracy Schmitt wowed us with her story of overcoming challenges as a 4-way amputee, sharing her 3 keys to becoming unstoppable: Always believe in your capabilities, Don't avoid failure and Jump!

The conference was not only informative and inspirational but also a fantastic opportunity to connect with other Rotarians in our District! 

Special shout out goes to PP Neil Phillips who was one of the MC for the conference and did an amazing job!
What you missed - District Conference Edition from PP Neil Phillips
 
The Rotary District 7070 Conference was held the weekend of October 25th at Nottawasaga Inn & Resort in Alliston.  There was a healthy contingent from RCT – I don’t have an exact count, but I’d say near 20 members were there at some point from Friday through Sunday.
 
I often hear people ask, “why go?”  Well not to sound too kumbaya, but it really is an extended time to experience fellowship, exchange ideas re committee work, discover new initiatives – and listen to some outstanding speakers.
 
This year provided all that, and more.  Friday featured a Hospitality Suite, which if you’ve been to Camp Scugog, you’ll appreciate.  Think a combination of cocktail hour and then late-night shenanigans.  Whether discussing project over Perrier or trading cowboy hats and drinks – much merriment.
 
Saturday morning featured powerful speakers covering topics as far-ranging as climate change, polio, dealing with neurodiversity, suicide and more.  The afternoon provided breakout sessions, and while I missed most due to my emcee duties, by the gales of laughter coming out of Mary Lou’s blanket-crafting room, I’d say fun was had by all.  I did try and squeeze into the House of Friendship – and it was PACKED with various clubs sharing projects.  The gala dinner was followed by music and dancing…and then an illicit series of roaming RCT speakeasy rooms. 
 
Sunday features a heartfelt discussion by a chap who accidentally ended up staying with the Beatles for a week at Maharishi Mahesh Yogi’s ashram in Rishikesh, India.  This was followed by an inspiring presentation by Tracy Schmitt who was born with what some would view as physical challenges – but hasn’t slowed her down from achieving a heart-stopping array of dreams.
 
All the above are mere words:  you need to come and experience it.  Hats off to the committee and District Governor Virginia O’Reilly for producing such a vibrant, varied, and successful weekend program.
 
Michele Guy closed out Sunday with a heartfelt, and absolutely on point, presentation as to why you should consider going to next year’s Rotary International Convention in Calgary.  Apart from supporting our Canadian cousins, it takes everything experienced at a district conference and ratchets it up exponentially.  Believe Michele – and the many others – who tell you it is an amazing experience.  She did a splendid job relaying why if you’re never experienced one – you should.
 
Next year’s District Conference is in Orillia at the Fern Resort.  I’ve already registered and have my lakeside cabin booked.  Hope to see some of you there!
 
Written by Past President Neil Phillips
 
Mosaic of Humanity Silent Auction
 
 
Bid on a unique 40x40 painting, created with values from our Rotary Club members and incorporated in the Rotary wheel. 
The dynamic wave background symbolizes movement, change, and power.
The artist is Reisha Felix (Artist and Founder) from ReiCreations Art
Bidding is open at our upcoming meetings through November.
60% of proceeds will support IDEA initiatives at The Rotary Club of Toronto.
For more information, contact: nikitaw.rotary@gmail.com
 
UPCOMING MEETINGS & EVENTS
Friday Nov 15th - Lunch at The National Club 
Remembrance Day Event
 
 
Special Guest : Colonel B. Christopher B. A. Brown CD (son of our Members Alex and June Brown)
 
 
Colonel Brown joined the Canadian Armed Forces in 1986 as a Trooper in the Governor General’s Horse Guards (GGHG) and then transferred to the 1st Hussars (1H) in 1996. Colonel Brown is a graduate of The Citadel, The Military College of South Carolina (BA) and the Royal Military College of Canada (MA). He has deployed overseas as Deputy Task Force Commander for Operation SAFARI in Sudan (2007-2008). 
 
He served as Commanding Officer of the 1st Hussars from 2010-2012. During this same period, he served as Commanding Officer of the 31 Territorial Battle Group (TBG 31-11) and was also awarded the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee Medal. Post-Command, Colonel Brown served as Deputy Director (Reserve) of the Royal Canadian Armoured Corps and Assistant Chief of Staff (Reserve) at the Division HQ in Ontario and Atlantic Canada.
 
Please Register with Sarah Olsen (admin@rotarytoronto.com)
 
 
Sewing Service Project - November 23rd
 
During the course of a morning, members of our club will make reusable sanitary pads for young girls in developing countries who do not have the luxury (nor the money to purchase) sanitary pads.
 
No sewing experience is needed! Team members are needed to trace pieces on material, cut material and sew the pad. Experts will be on hand to provide guidance.
 
The event will take place at the Manor Road United Church located at 240 Manor Road East. It's also a TTC friendly location!
 
We are looking for volunteers for this project! Open to Rotarians only
Please contact Lori Brazier at lori.brazier@rotarytoronto.com
 
Pictures from the last Sewing Service Project 
 
 
Senior Gift Packing - November 24th 
 
Volunteers are needed for Senior’s Holiday gift bag program/Packers and Drivers
 
Since 1961 our Club has been taking care of Seniors during the Holidays.  Because of Covid we switched from a luncheon to giving Seniors a substantial gift bag.  

This year we need your help on Sunday, November 24th, at 1:30 p.m. to pack 205 gift bags.  The event will take place at Manor Road United Church located at  240 Manor Road East, Toronto.
 
Then on Monday, November 25th at 10:00 a.m. we will need 9 drivers to deliver the gift bags to Seniors.
 
To volunteer please contact Jackie Davies at jcdavies@sympatico.ca
 
Picture from the 2023 gift packing
 
 
Holiday Hamper - Food Packing 
November 30th 
 
The Food Hamper packing will take place on November 30th at 9:00 a.m.at the Daily Bread Food Bank at 191 New Toronto St. In Etobicoke. The packing will take about 3 hours and then a number of people will be required to assist in the delivery of the hampers at two destinations to help unload. We need about 25 volunteers.
 
Make sure to volunteer to pack the food hampers!
 
 
Please contact Mitra Goodarzi at Mitra.Goodarzi@rotarytoronto.com 
for more information
 
Pictures of the 2023 Food Packing 
 
 
The Rotary Club of Toronto Children’s Holiday Party
Dec 8th 2024
 
Looking for joyful volunteers!
 
We are requesting many volunteers to assist with packing gifts, face painting, ushers and bringing holiday joy to the kids and their families. Please help make our 92nd Children’s Holiday party a huge success! 
 
We host over 150 children with disabilities and their parents and siblings. Activities included face painting, meeting with Santa, storytelling, a delicious lunch and a gift bag to take home. So we needs lots of volunteers!
 
Event will take place at the Sheraton Centre Toronto Hotel (Downtown) 123 Queen Street West, Toronto.
INTERESTED IN VOLUNTEERING?
 
Please Contact Lorraine Lloyd lorrainenelson5@gmail.com
 
Pictures from the 2023 Kids Holiday Party
 
 
2024 Tree of Remembrance 
Dec 5 to Dec 22
 
 
Our 2024 Tree of Remembrance will be coming to Sankofa Square (ex- Dundas Square) in the last week of November. Standing tall at 35 feet (approx.) as a symbol of unity, resilience, and community spirit.
 
We are seeking volunteers to help make this year's event an even bigger success. Volunteers are needed from December 5th to 22nd.

This initiative, in partnership with Sankofa Square, during the Winter Glow carnival, supports local charities and raises awareness of Rotary's ongoing commitment to service. Volunteers will assist with selling Remembrance ribbons and engaging with the public at the tree, which attracts over one million visitors annually.

Your participation in this meaningful event is crucial to its success and helps to raise funds for important causes. Sign up instructions for volunteers will soon be communicated. Watch out for it.

Thank you for your dedication and support, and we look forward to joining together in the spirit of service this holiday season.
 
New Member - Beenish Jafri
Beenish Jafri was born in Lahore, Pakistan and then moved to Toronto with her family.

She graduated from Schulich School of Business with B.A. in Business Administration and is a Certified Public Accountant.

She started her career at Ernst & Young Toronto and after doing public accounting for 6 years, Beenish moved into the solid waste industry and currently works as Assistant Region Controller at Waste Connections of Canada.

She is very interested in cooking, biking, tennis, badminton, golf and travel. Her interest in Rotary started with the Rotary Club of Lahore Pakistan, which is known for its amazing charitable work.
November Birthday Celebrations!
 
On Behalf of all our members, we wish a very Happy Birthday to everyone celebrating their birthday in November!
Rotary Club of Toronto
Membership Anniversaries
 
On behalf of the entire club, I would like to extend our warmest congratulations and heartfelt appreciation to those celebrating their Rotary Club of Toronto anniversaries this quarter (October to December 2024).
 
Your dedication, commitment, and invaluable contributions have played an integral role in our club's success and impact throughout the years.
 
Your unwavering support and tireless efforts continue to inspire us all, and we are honored to have you as part of our Rotary Club Toronto family.
 
Thank you for your service and for embodying the spirit of Rotary in everything you do.
 
Here's to many more years of fellowship, growth, and shared accomplishments!
 
Message from President Binoy
 
WhatsApp Group
 
We have 80 members on The Rotary Club of Toronto WhatsApp Channel - it's a great way to communicate with each other! Ask to join - any member can add more people to the group.
 
Would you like to write for the Voice or have a story or picture to share?
 
Contact Brinda Luckoo at brinda.luckoo@rotarytoronto.com
 
Want to join our club?
All Voice Bulletins are available here
Link to our Rotaract Club Activities and News here
Officers:
President: Binoy Luckoo
 
President-Elect: Dauna Jones-Simmonds

Vice-President:Pauline Lyons
 
Treasurer: Jeff Pollock
 
Executive Director: Carol Hutchinson
 
Voice Editor : Brinda Luckoo
 
www.rotarytoronto.com    416-363-0604
 
Charitable Foundation
President: Richard White
Vice President: Susan Hunter
 
RI President: Stephanie Urchick
Rotary Club of McMurray, Pennsylvania, USA
 
District Governor
Virginia O'Reilly
Rotary Club of Toronto East
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