2025 Camp Scugog Members' Retreat
May 23rd to 25th
Dear Fellow Rotarians and Rotaractors,
What an extraordinary weekend we shared together at Camp Scugog from May 23-25! Our members-only retreat exceeded every expectation – a remarkable fusion of impactful service, deep fellowship, meaningful connections, and unforgettable memories.
Words cannot fully capture the incredible dedication and enthusiasm each of you brought to this retreat. The sheer volume of work we accomplished together was nothing short of phenomenal even though the weather did not collaborate with us, but what truly set this weekend apart was the infectious energy, laughter, and genuine care you all demonstrated.
To every single Rotarian and Rotaractor who joined us – whether you were swinging a hammer, wielding a paintbrush, washing cabins, organizing supplies, preparing meals, cleaning the kitchen, telling stories, or simply bringing your wonderful presence to our group – you made this retreat absolutely magical. Your individual contributions, big and small, combined to create something truly special. The laughter echoing through the camp, the satisfaction of completing meaningful projects together, and the bonds strengthened over shared experiences – these are the moments that make our Rotary family so precious.
Special Recognition
Our heartfelt gratitude goes to several individuals who made this retreat exceptional:
Camp Scugog: Our deepest appreciation to Camp Executive Director, Dana Leahey, and her team for welcoming us with open arms and providing us with this remarkable opportunity to serve while enjoying your beautiful facilities.
Our Exceptional Camp Boss: Past President Susan Howson, your extraordinary leadership over the past 15 years has been the foundation of our retreat's success. The meticulous planning, attention to detail, and countless hours you invest behind the scenes ensure that every moment of our weekend runs seamlessly. Your dedication and expertise have created a tradition that enriches our club year after year. We are truly fortunate to have your guidance.
Our Culinary Champions: An enormous thank you to our talented Chefs and Past Presidents Bill Morari and Geoffrey Johnson, along with their incredible crew, who created culinary masterpieces that delighted us all weekend long. Your passion for excellence and generosity of spirit made every meal a celebration. The food was absolutely outstanding and became a highlight that brought us all together around the table in true Rotary fashion.
To our chefs, special Thank you for putting together some delicious "Taro Cake" appetizers and the Poached Egg "Rougaille" from my home country, Mauritius.
Our incredible dishwashing and kitchen cleaning crews, whose tireless dedication kept our kitchen spotless and our dishes sparkling clean throughout every meal at Camp Scugog. Behind every delicious breakfast, lunch, and dinner was their hard work ensuring we had clean plates, utensils, and a hygienic space to gather and share meals together. Thank you for being the unsung heroes who made our Camp Scugog experience truly special.
Our Outstanding Project Leaders: Each of you stepped up with remarkable leadership and made our service projects both effective and enjoyable:
Carpentry Team: Past President Jayson Phelps and Errol Paulicpulle – your skilled guidance and hands-on leadership transformed a piece of bare grass to a wonderful greenhouse - the "Bird House", which will be dedicated to our long-time member, Maureen Bird, who has done so much work at Camp Scugog.
Paint Cabin Team: Past Presidents Michele Guy and Bert Steenberg, and their “trainee” Kaitlynn Almeida – your expertise in paint mixology and handling of other paint equipment helped create beautiful transformations.
Paint Crew: Past President Anny-Sandra Hamel – your enthusiasm and direction brought out the best in everyone, making transforming the basement lounge into a bright space where the children attending camp can play.
Cabins Power Wash Crew: Past President Jeff Dobson led his team with enthusiasm and some hot coffee to clean up the cabins’ exterior, even whilst the rain was pouring down and the team got completely soaked.
Clothes Donations Organizer: Under the leadership of Past President John Fortney and June Brown, volunteer teams successfully organized and sorted donated clothing, shoes, and games to support camp staff members.
Decoration Team: Lorraine Lloyd and her team’s creative vision in designing our stunning Canadian-themed dining room brought warmth and beauty to our Saturday evening gala, creating a memorable atmosphere that perfectly complemented the occasion.
An Invitation to Experience the Magic of Rotary
For those who weren't able to join us this year, you missed something truly extraordinary! Our Camp Scugog retreat offers a unique opportunity that you won't find anywhere else – the chance to make a real difference while forging deeper connections with your fellow Rotarians in a beautiful, relaxed setting.
Imagine spending a weekend where meaningful work feels like play, where every meal is a celebration, and where you return home feeling energized and more connected to your Rotary family than ever before. Picture yourself learning new skills, sharing your expertise, and discovering hidden talents you never knew you had. This retreat offers the perfect balance of purpose and pleasure, service and socializing.
Next year's retreat promises to be even better, and we want YOU to be part of it! Whether you're handy with tools or have never picked up a paintbrush, whether you're a longtime member or relatively new to our club, there's a place for you at Camp Scugog. Come experience firsthand why those who attend year after year describe it as the highlight of their Rotary calendar.
The memories we create, the friendships we deepen, and the impact we make together will stay with you long after the weekend ends. Don't let another year pass without experiencing this incredible tradition.
Mark your calendars now and plan to join us next year at Camp Scugog – we promise it will be an experience you'll treasure forever!
With gratitude and Rotary fellowship,
Thank you
Written by President Binoy Luckoo
Pictures Courtesy of: Past President John Fortney, Brinda Luckoo, Sefer Ozalp, Mariglen Qorri, Brent Thomas, Kaitlynn Almeida, Rama Appadoo, Sergio Amatller, Neisely Eugene (sorry if I missed anyone)
Message from Past President Susan Howson - the "Camp Boss"
A Century of Service: The Rotary Club of Toronto and Camp Scugog
For over a century, The Rotary Club of Toronto has embodied the spirit of "Service Above Self," transforming lives through community action and fellowship. Since our founding in 1912, we have championed causes that strengthen our city, from supporting youth development to advancing healthcare and education initiatives.
Among our most meaningful partnerships is our longstanding relationship with Camp Scugog—a partnership that perfectly exemplifies our commitment to serving those who need it most.
Camp Scugog: A Haven for Underprivileged Children
Camp Scugog provides transformative summer experiences for children facing social and economic challenges. For many of these young campers, this may be their first opportunity to swim in a lake, sleep under the stars, or simply enjoy the carefree joy of childhood away from urban pressures. The camp offers more than recreation - it provides hope, builds confidence, and creates memories that last a lifetime.
Our Partnership in Action
The Rotary Club of Toronto's support for Camp Scugog extends far beyond financial contributions. Each year, our members roll up their sleeves for our annual volunteer weekend at the camp, demonstrating our belief that true service requires both resources and personal commitment.
During these weekends, Rotarians work side by side to prepare the camp for its summer season. We paint cabins, repair infrastructure, build new facilities like greenhouses, and tackle countless maintenance projects. Every brushstroke, every repaired board, and every hour of labour directly impacts on the experience awaiting underprivileged children who will soon call this place home for a week or more.
More Than Maintenance—A Mission of the Heart
These volunteer weekends represent something profound about Rotary's approach to service. We don't simply write cheques; we invest ourselves. Our members find deep satisfaction in this hands-on work, knowing that their efforts create safe, welcoming spaces where disadvantaged children can thrive.
The impact extends beyond the physical improvements. For our Rotarians, these weekends offer renewal and fellowship—working together in the peaceful lakeside setting strengthens our bonds as a club while reconnecting us to our fundamental mission of service.
A Legacy of Impact
Through our partnership with Camp Scugog, The Rotary Club of Toronto continues a tradition that spans generations. We have helped ensure that economic circumstances don't prevent children from experiencing the joy, friendship, and personal growth that summer camp provides.
Every child who discovers their love of nature at Camp Scugog, every shy camper who finds their voice around a campfire, every young person who returns home with newfound confidence - they are the true measure of our century-long commitment to service.
The Rotary Club of Toronto Charitable Foundation funded four new cabins in 2023-2024 to house camp staff and a nurse's station.
Geothermal heating and cooling system partly funded by The Rotary Club of Toronto
As Past President, I am proud that our club's support of Camp Scugog exemplifies the very best of Rotary's mission: bringing people together to take meaningful action that changes lives and strengthens communities. This partnership reminds us why we serve and inspires us to continue this vital work for the next generation of children who deserve the transformative power of a summer at camp.
Thank you to everyone who attended The Rotary Club of Toronto’s Camp Scugog Members Only retreat.
I also want to say THANK YOU to the following members and organizations that donated to our Camp Scugog weekend this year:
Past President Susan Howson
Camp Boss
Fun Memories!
But let's be honest - it wasn't ALL backbreaking labour! Some clever souls knew exactly when to clock out for some well-deserved R&R.
Past President Anny-Sandra and her husband, decided the event was the PERFECT backdrop for their own little romantic subplot - because nothing says "date night" like volunteering together, am I right?
And then there were the "other shenanigans" - you know, the kind we probably shouldn't put in the official newsletter but definitely made for the best stories later.
The cherry on top? We turned the whole thing into a double birthday celebration for Saleem and Lola! Because why have a regular event when you can have cake, chaos, and celebration all rolled into one unforgettable weekend!
Written by Brinda Luckoo
Pictures courtesy of President Binoy , Past President John Fortney, & Mariglen Qorri
Fresh faces, Fresh Perspectives!
10 First-Timers discovered Camp Scugog this year - hear some of their honest reactions and favourite moments from some of the first timers.
Vedant Modi:
My time at Camp Scugog as a new member of the Rotary Club was truly extraordinary. I truly experienced the aim of the Camp when they say Camp Scugog supports children, youth, and families who face socioeconomic barriers by fostering personal growth, connection. Being part of an initiative that uplifts lives in such a meaningful way was both heartwarming and deeply fulfilling.
Encouraged by fellow members to give the camp a try, I discovered that attending once was all it took to make it an annual tradition.
Our team of carpenters proudly constructed a brand-new “Bird House” from scratch. This project was a beautiful representation of hope and renewal, and seeing it come together through teamwork was incredibly rewarding. Every piece of wood we placed felt like a step toward creating a space that brings joy and comfort to those who need it most.
Building connections with fellow club members was equally impactful. Working side by side with individuals who share the same dedication to service and compassion made me feel instantly welcomed. As a new member, this experience was a wonderful way to immerse myself in the Rotary Club culture—a culture defined by kindness, unity, and the shared goal of making a difference. The enthusiasm and commitment of seasoned members inspired me to fully embrace the mission of the club.
If you’ve ever thought about joining or taking part in this annual camp, I wholeheartedly encourage you to do so. The $160 fee is a small investment compared to the joy of contributing to such a meaningful cause, the relationships you’ll build, and the personal growth you’ll experience. Camp Scugog is more than a place; it’s a transformative experience for everyone involved. Let’s continue to create moments of connection and joy, one camper, one project, and one year at a time.
