The Rotary Club of Toronto
Club 55 -  Founded 1912
September 30th, 2025     Volume 113     Issue 7
 
 
 
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The Hearts Behind Service

Indigenous Partnership Committee Member Stories

As we reflect on National Truth and Reconciliation Day, we’re proud to spotlight two of our members who are walking the path of learning and service through our Indigenous Partnership Committee (IPC) . Olena and Diego share why they chose to get involved, how the work has impacted them, and what reconciliation means in action.

Their stories remind us that reconciliation begins with awareness & connection, and highlight the heart of Rotary: service, community, and belonging. Watch their videos and be inspired to see Rotary through their eyes.

   

Curious to learn more about IPC? View our recent Instagram post to learn more about IPC's impact and reach out directly to Bill Empey or Steve Smith to get involved.

 

A Focus on Reconciliation

September 19th Lunch Meeting

On Friday, September 19th, our Indigenous Partnership Committee hosted the Youth In Truth & Reconciliation luncheon where club members, committee members, and representatives from key Indigenous institutions gathered to discuss issues affecting Indigenous youth.

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I was especially touched by our youth speaker, Oliver Snyder, who shared his experience in Nova Scotia, where Indigenous and non-Indigenous youth came together to learn from one another. Through him, I learned about the teaching of Two-Eyed Seeing—respecting Indigenous ways of knowing while also drawing from science, using both perspectives together to build a stronger society.

This event reaffirmed exactly why I joined the Indigenous Partnership Committee: not only to give back, but also to learn, unlearn, and grow in my understanding of Canada’s founding communities—the Indigenous peoples—and their ongoing journey.

Written by Ololade Alakija
FORE - RCT's Annual Golf Tourney
 
The Rotary Clubs of Toronto Annual Golf Tournament took place on Tuesday, September 16th at Richmond Hill Golf Club. It was a perfect day on the links with not a cloud in the sky. This year, we had a joint tournament with four other Rotary Clubs throughout Toronto. 

Although our numbers were a bit lower than last year, the fellowship and camaraderie were exceptional.
Our members showed great attendance, and while we didn't win any key awards, the spirit of the event was truly inspiring. Next year, we plan to open the tournament to additional Toronto Clubs, aiming for a sold-out event. Mark your calendars now for September 15th, 2026, and stay tuned for more details.

Let's make the 2026 tournament even bigger and better! Don't miss out on the fun, fellowship, and fantastic golf. See you on the greens!
 
Written by Jayson Phelps
The 6th International Dinner Series: A Middle Eastern Feast to Remember! 
 
Our culinary passport took us to the heart of the Middle East for the sixth edition of our International Dinner Series — and wow, what a journey it was! Hosted at the cozy and flavourful Jerusalem Restaurant, the evening was a delicious celebration of vibrant spices, warm hospitality, and unforgettable bites.
 
  
 
We dined family-style, sharing a mouthwatering spread that included tender Lamb & Beef Shish Kababs, juicy Shish Tawook (chicken), savoury kofta, and even grilled liver — all perfectly paired with sides that stole the show: creamy hummus, smoky baba ghanouj, crispy falafel, fresh tabbouleh, tangy mixed pickles, sautéed tomatoes, and the most heavenly fried eggplant we've ever tasted.
 
  
And just when we thought it couldn’t get better — enter the Baklava. Flaky, sweet, and utterly divine. The perfect finale to a wonderful feast.
 
But the real magic? The laughter, the stories, and the sparkling camaraderie around the table.
Huge thanks to our amazing KNK team — Neil, Kaitlynn, and Kai — for orchestrating another unforgettable evening. We’re already counting down to the next delicious destination!
Written by Brinda Luckoo
 

UPCOMING MEETINGS & EVENTS

Meetings

 
Friday, October 17, 2025
The National Club
Noon

Events

Club Events
 
 
Oktoberfest is Back!
October 9th
 
 
Join us on Thursday, October 9, 2025, at St. Lawrence Hall (Corner of Jarvis & King St.) from 7:00 PM – 10:00 PM!
 
It’s going to be a lively evening with great food, drinks, dancing, and a live band. All in support of a wonderful cause: The Daily Bread Food Bank. Every ticket ($150) gives $40 towards two Holiday Hampers.
 
We’re aiming for 120 guests to make it a night to remember, with a silent auction and plenty of chances to connect with friends and fellow Rotarians.
 
Bring a guest or two, it’s the perfect night out for friends, colleagues, and family, all while supporting a great cause.
 
Time to party!
 
 
 
District & International Events
 
 
October 24-27th
 
Almost a month after the walk...its District Conference Time! Do you have your flip flops/onesies/heart full of fun ready? If you have not registered, please do so today as there are only about 15 spots available. 
 
October 24
 
District 7070 is hosting their World Polio Day on Thursday October 16th at the Rotary Global Classroom at Durham College in Oshawa.
The event will begin at 6pm with a light dinner and the program will begin at 7pm.
June 13-17th, 2026
 
 

 

 
WhatsApp Group
 
For all members who have joined or wants to join the WhatsApp Group, please note that we will use your first name & last name - no business name or acronym please. Thank you.
 
 

Want to see a story or pictures of your latest meeting, project, or social in The Voice?

Send us your stories using the newsletter submission form.
 
Officers:
 
President: Dauna Jones-Simmonds
 
President-Elect: Pauline Lyons

Vice-President: Sergio Amatller
 
Treasurer: Jeff Pollock
 
Executive Director: Carol Hutchinson
 
 
www.rotarytoronto.com    416-363-0604
 
Charitable Foundation
President: Richard White
Vice-President: Susan Hunter 
 
 
RI President: 
Francesco Arezzo
Rotary Club of Ragusa, Italy
 
 
District Governor
Niecy Dillon-Tyrovolas
Rotary Club of Whitby Sunrise
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