2022-08 August

JAulgyu2s0t222022 Meet the second Programs of Scale grantee page 24 Member survey points to Rotary’s road ahead page 46 Eco club takes on plastic page 48 The Way of Tea A revered Japanese tea master spreads his messa e of peace page 30

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It starts with an invitation W e’ve all taken our own path to be- lence requires us to maintain high standards for our come a member of Rotary. Some of members as well. you joined because your father was a Rotarian. Some of us signed up I believe we are all determined to advance DEI because an employer tapped us on across Rotary. This is rooted in the deepest traditions the shoulder and asked us to attend a meeting. Others of our organization, and it will ensure that we remain became members only after a U.S. Supreme Court rul- vibrant and relevant for decades to come. ing made it possible. Yet each of us entered through one mechanism — an invitation. A few years ago, our Rotary Board set the ambi- tious goal of increasing the share of female members An invitation that unlocks our imaginations and to 30 percent by 2023. We have less than a year to go, allows us to know that everything and anything is but I believe we can meet and exceed this target. possible. Each one of us has that same opportunity — the honor to extend an invitation. We need Rotary leaders to rise from every conti- nent, culture, and creed. We need young members and It is awe-inspiring to imagine how we can look young thinkers to take on larger roles and responsi- out across our communities and identify our future bilities. We need to listen to new Rotary members just leaders. It’s often tempting to attract people who as keenly, and with as much respect, as those with are exactly like us. It’s a special form of ingenuity to many years of membership. consider how people who are seemingly very different can, in fact, share our values and have some of those During our recent convention in Houston, we same talents, just waiting to be unleashed. heard from astronauts about their journeys into space. We reflected upon a time in the 1960s when It’s time for Rotary to take our next step in advanc- U.S. President John F. Kennedy urged the world to ing diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) across our dream, with his declaration that we would “go to the organization. moon [and do] other things, not because they are easy but because they are hard.” Embracing an experience where people feel included is more than just making our membership Fully committing Rotary to DEI and meeting our numbers more diverse. It’s about making our meet- ambitious membership targets may seem as unlikely ings and events places where we can speak openly as a moon shot. But I know that when people of ac- and honestly with each other, where our members tion are committed to a big goal, we make it worth feel welcome and safe. This means removing barriers every ounce of our energy. for entry and opening doors for inclusion. Our values remain our strength — and our commitment to excel- JENNIFER JONES President, Rotary International PHOTOGRAPH: TRISH BADGER/ROTARY INTERNATIONAL Jones addresses the closing general session of the Rotary International Convention on 8 June in Houston. AUGUST 2022  ROTARY  1

Members of the Rotary Club of København at the Islands Brygge Harbour Bath in Copenhagen. 2  ROTARY  AUGUST 2022

WELCOME Photograph by Ulf Svane YOU ARE HERE: Copenhagen, Denmark LOCAL GREETING: Hej! A CENTURY OF SERVICE: Chartered in August 1922, the Rotary Club of København, Denmark’s oldest Rotary club, is as vital as ever. “We try to be relevant,” says Pia Allerslev, 2021-22 club president, noting that a recent meeting featured the Ukrainian ambassador to Denmark as the club looks for ways to provide humanitarian aid to that besieged country. YEARLONG PARTY: The club’s centen- nial celebrations included a visit from then-RI President Shekhar Mehta, who met with Denmark’s Princess Bene- dikte. “The princess is an avid supporter of our club and participates in many meetings and events,” Allerslev says. WHAT TO SEE: In addition to Tivoli Gardens and The Little Mer- maid statue, Allerslev says her favorite attraction is Islands Brygge Harbour Bath, one of several pristine open-air swimming facilities in the city. THE CLUB: There are 244 Rotary clubs and more than 8,000 members in Denmark. The Rotary Club of København meets Wednesdays at the Odd Fellow Palace. — paula m. bodah AUGUST 2022  ROTARY  3

ROTARY GENERAL OFFICERS OF ROTARY TRUSTEES OF THE ROTARY INTERNATIONAL, 2022–23 FOUNDATION, 2022–23 August 2022 PRESIDENT CHAIR EDITOR IN CHIEF ART DIRECTOR Jennifer E. Jones Ian H.S. Riseley Wen Huang Jacqueline Cantu Windsor-Roseland, Ontario, Sandringham, Australia Canada MANAGING EDITOR PRODUCTION CHAIR-ELECT Jason Keyser MANAGER PRESIDENT-ELECT Barry Rassin Marc Dukes R. Gordon R. McInally East Nassau, Bahamas SENIOR EDITOR South Queensferry, Scotland Geoffrey Johnson SENIOR EDITORIAL VICE CHAIR COORDINATOR VICE PRESIDENT Larry A. Lunsford SENIOR STAFF WRITER Cynthia Edbrooke Nicki Scott Kansas City-Plaza, Missouri, Diana Schoberg The North Cotswolds, England USA CIRCULATION ASSOCIATE EDITOR MANAGER TREASURER TRUSTEES John M. Cunningham Katie McCoy Ananthanarayanan S. “Venky” Jorge Aufranc Venkatesh Guatemala Sur, Guatemala COPY EDITOR Chennai Mambalam, India Kristin Morris Marcelo Demétrio Haick DIRECTORS Santos-Praia, Brazil Send ad inquiries and materials to: Marc Dukes, Alberto Cecchini Rotary magazine, One Rotary Center, 1560 Sherman Roma Nord-Est, Italy Martha Peak Helman Ave., 14th floor, Evanston, IL 60201; phone Boothbay Harbor, Maine, USA 847-866-3092; email [email protected] Patrick D. Chisanga Nkwazi, Zambia Holger Knaack Media kit: rotary.org/mediakit Herzogtum Lauenburg-Mölln, Jessie Harman Germany To contact us: Rotary magazine, One Rotary Center, Wendouree Breakfast, Australia 1560 Sherman Ave., Evanston, IL 60201; phone Hsiu-Ming Lin 847-866-3206; email [email protected] Jeremy S. Hurst Taipei Tungteh, Taiwan Grand Cayman, Cayman Islands Website: rotary.org/magazines Mark Daniel Maloney Drew Kessler Decatur, Alabama, USA To submit an article: Send stories, queries, tips, North Rockland (Haverstraw), and photographs by mail or email (high-resolution New York, USA Geeta K. Manek digital images only). We assume no responsibility for Muthaiga, Kenya unsolicited materials. Muhammad Faiz Kidwai Karachi Karsaz, Pakistan Aziz Memon To subscribe: Twelve issues at US$12 a year (USA, Karachi, Pakistan Puerto Rico, and U.S. Virgin Islands); $16 a year Won-Pyo Kim (Canada); $24 a year (elsewhere). Contact the Gyeongju South, Korea Akira Miki Circulation Department (phone 847-424-5217 or -5216; Himeji, Japan email [email protected]) for details and for airmail Urs Klemm rates. Gift subscriptions available at the same rates. Aarau, Switzerland Bharat S. Pandya Borivli, India To send an address change: Enclose old address Mahesh Kotbagi label, postal code, and Rotary club, and send to the Pune Sports City, India Greg E. Podd Circulation Department or email [email protected]. Evergreen, Colorado, USA Postmaster: Send all address changes to Circulation Patricia Merryweather-Arges Department, Rotary magazine, One Rotary Center, Naperville, Illinois, USA Dean Rohrs 1560 Sherman Ave., Evanston, IL 60201. Langley Central, Lena J. Mjerskaug British Columbia, Canada Call the Contact Center: USA, Canada, and Virgin Enebakk, Norway Islands (toll-free) 866-976-8279. Elsewhere: GENERAL SECRETARY  847-866-3000, ext. 8999. Vicki Puliz John Hewko Sparks, Nevada, USA Kyiv, Ukraine Unless otherwise noted: All images are copyright ©2022 by Rotary International or are used with Yoshio Sato permission. Okayama-South, Japan Published monthly by Rotary International, 1560 Sherman Ave., Julio César A. Evanston, IL 60201. Rotary® is a registered trademark of Rotary Silva-Santisteban International. Copyright ©2022 by Rotary International. All rights El Rímac, Peru reserved. Periodicals postage paid at Evanston, Illinois, USA, and additional mailing offices. Canada Publications Mail Agreement Elizabeth Usovicz No. 1381644. Canadian return address: MSI, PO Box 2600, Mississauga, Kansas City-Plaza, Missouri, ON L4T 0A8. This is the August 2022 issue, volume 201, number 2, of USA Rotary. Publication number: USPS 548-810. ISSN 2694-443X (print); ISSN 2694-4448 (online). GENERAL SECRETARY John Hewko 4  ROTARY  AUGUST 2022 Kyiv, Ukraine

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August 2022 Vol. 201, No. 2 CONTENT FEATURES 1 President’s message PHOTOGRAPH (OPPOSITE): MINMIN WU 2 Welcome On the cover: An advocate 24 of peace, Japanese tea CONNECT master Genshitsu Sen, a Recognizing a member of the Rotary Club woman’s worth 8 Staff corner of Kyoto, travels the world, 9 Letters to the editor lecturing and conducting Programs of Scale grant- 11 The specialist tea ceremonies. winner Together for Healthy An engineer plants urban forests Families in Nigeria helps Photograph by Minmin Wu families by focusing on the to fight climate change fundamental needs of women 6  ROTARY  AUGUST 2022 OUR WORLD By Diana Schoberg Illustrations by Gwen Keraval 12 A problem hiding in plain sight Rotarians are bringing awareness 30 of fetal alcohol spectrum disorders Peace through to remote places a bowl of tea 15 Rock the boat Saving wetlands with art A visit with Japanese tea 16 People of action around the globe master and longtime Rotarian 18 The whole world is watching Genshitsu Sen From team rosters to stadium cuisine, our national pastime By Go Tamitami and Wen Huang has become a global game Photography by Minmin Wu 20 Bang for your buck The Rotary Foundation’s unique model 42 maximizes donors’ impact One Rotary, OUR CLUBS many cultures 48 Virtual visit Each club’s camaraderie Rotary Club of Eco Milano, Italy and service are rooted 50 Where are they now? in its unique community Mariko Noguchi, a former Rotary By Rotary Magazin Ambassadorial Scholar who was (Germany and Austria) born deaf, removes barriers for people with disabilities 46 52 Dispatches from our sister magazines 54 Rotary in the news United in friendship 55 Calendar and service 56 It’s easy being green How to make your club more RI’s recent member survey eco-friendly reveals where Rotary is today, 58 Trustee chair’s message while suggesting where it 59 New directors and trustees needs to go tomorrow 63 2023 convention | Crossword 64 Last bite The many tastes of adobo: marinated, stewed, fried, and flaked

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CONNEC STAFF CORNER PHOTOGRAPH: COURTESY OF MANUEL VIEDMAManuel Viedma  Senior partner, Research and Evaluation I was born and raised in Wisconsin. E ducation Bachelor’s in political science from the University of Wisconsin-Madison, My mother’s family came from Germany a master’s in Middle Eastern studies from and settled there as farmers. She is the the University of Texas at Austin, and a third generation born in the United doctorate in political science from the States. My father came from Mexico and University of Chicago met my mom there. L anguages English, Spanish, and Arabic  In college, I learned about the Iranian case studies, ethnography, and econo- Revolution of 1979, when a popular metrics. One has to intensely study uprising toppled the monarchy. I became methods for rigorous analysis and interested in the religious elements coherent argumentation.   of the revolution. How did a faction of clerics, led by Ayatollah Ruhollah Khomeini, take control of a popular uprising against the shah and establish an Islamic republic? Follow us to get updates, Questions like this piqued my curios- I’m able to apply my skills in statistical share stories with your networks, and tell us what ity about revolutions and prompted me analysis to my work at Rotary. I conduct you think. to pursue a master’s in Middle Eastern membership surveys, collect and analyze studies. I learned Persian and wrote a data, and run focus groups. For example, Rotary.org thesis on Iran. At the same time, I when the COVID-19 pandemic hit, I used began to expand my studies to include a series of data to determine what kind [email protected] revolutions in other regions — Mexico of effect such global crises would have and Bolivia, and countries in Asia. I on Rotary membership. We also studied @rotary examined revolutions and authoritarian whether clubs decreased their giving to politics — how popular uprisings often The Rotary Foundation after having a /rotary lead to periods of authoritarianism in global grant application denied.   their aftermath. @rotaryinternational Then, we translate our statistics into I tried to enter Iran and do my research Rotary magazine findings and communicate them to One Rotary Center but could never secure a visa. Instead, I Rotary members. Rather than putting 1560 Sherman Ave. traveled to Cairo for a summer, learning a regression table in front of people Evanston, IL 60201 Arabic. I lived in an area called Nasr City, (your eyes would glaze over), we pres- one of the centers of Egyptian conserva- ent the findings in terms everyone can The editors welcome comments tism. I also traveled extensively in Latin understand. For example, we might say on items published in the America. My archival work in Sucre, something like, “A dissatisfied member magazine but reserve the right to Bolivia, coincided with the Independence is 20 percent more likely to leave Rotary edit for style and length. Published Day celebration, during which then- than a member who is very satisfied.”  letters do not necessarily reflect President Evo Morales delivered a stir- the views of the editors or Rotary ring speech. I was able to stand close to Much of what we know about Rotary International leadership, nor do Morales, the first president to come from the editors take responsibility the country’s Indigenous population.     comes from surveys that allow us for errors of fact that may be to collect information from members expressed by the writers. While I pursued my doctorate in throughout the world. (Read key findings from Rotary’s latest all-member survey 8  ROTARY  AUGUST 2022 political science, I took courses in on page 46.) statistics, linear modeling, qualitative — as told to eva remijan-toba

Letters to the editor OVERHEARD ON MENTAL NOTES mistakes. Have fun. Laugh!” It reminded SOCIAL MEDIA me of trying to use my college Span- I want to thank Kate Silver for her excel- ish while visiting my son in Nicaragua, In April we lent piece about the good things music where he was working on a Rotary wrote about the does for aging brains [“Melodies and project. My feeble attempts to habla all-female Black Memories,” May]. In 1991, Roy Ernst, español were often greeted with smiles Mambas Anti- a professor at the Eastman School of and chuckles. However, I agree with Ms. Poaching Unit, Music in Rochester, New York, started Gear; it was fun, and the people seemed which protects the New Horizons Band, made up of to love that I tried. white rhinos and seniors with little or no experience in other endangered performing on musical instruments. The — Karl Hertz, Thiensville, Wisconsin animals in premise was that making music, not South Africa. simply listening to it, would have more POSITIVE PRESS benefit for the mind. Ernst has seen the ___ concept grow internationally to over The features in the May issue are a This is fantastic! 150 performing groups. Besides nour- refreshing antidote to most media these Such a brave ishing the mind, such programs have days. In “Melodies and Memories,” we group of women created communities of caring seniors learn about the power of music to make taking on who support, encourage, and love the latter part of life better for some peo- poachers to save each other. In times like this, what could ple who might otherwise be written off. the white rhino. be better? In “The Business of Healing,” we observe Well done, ladies! good arising out of tragedy in Minneapo- Keltie Grant — Lew Sbrana, Healdsburg, California lis. And “The Library Where the ‘Books’ ► via Facebook Are Human Beings” illustrates how shar- Music can improve the mental, social, ing one’s story with others can transform What an amazing and physical health of everyone from lives. These articles remind us why we group of women, prematurely born infants to centenar- are Rotarians. and their ians. As the ending paragraphs of this dedication to their article demonstrate, even people with — Daniel E. White, Green Valley, Arizona jobs is incredible! severe dementia tend to move or dance Machel Considine when they hear music. We need to em- TEAM RHINO ► via Instagram phasize the health benefits of music and dance for people of all ages. Given that On behalf of the International Rhino the number of Americans with dementia Foundation (IRF), I wanted to thank you is predicted to triple by 2060, supporting for your recent article “White Rhinos Music Mends Minds is essential. and Black Mambas” [April]. IRF has been dedicated to fighting to save the — Joyce Shaffer, Bellevue, Washington five rhino species in Africa and Asia for more than three decades, with a focus on The article about how music can be protection, monitoring, and habitat res- medicine for memory loss was extremely toration programs. It is vitally important informative. I love music and played the that more people become aware of the piano in a dance band in high school. My plight of South Africa’s rhinos and the mother is 97 years old and has difficulty people who are working hard to protect with short-term memory. I think we will them for future generations. place music in her apartment. It is a critical time for rhinos. Poach- By the way, the layout for this month’s ing is again on the rise in many countries, magazine is fantastically inviting. The col- including South Africa, after a brief and orful photos and graphic design caused welcome downturn during the COVID-19 me to be glued to every page. Congratula- pandemic. The damage to local econo- tions to the whole editorial staff. mies due to the decrease in tourism over the past few years is creating conditions — Charles Shumate, Anderson, Indiana where individuals may be tempted to turn to poaching. GIVE IT A TRY It will take a collaborative approach to In “Learning the Lingo” [The Special- combat poachers and reverse the declines ist, May], Caroline Gear’s advice about of rhino and other wildlife populations. speaking a foreign language made me It is encouraging to know that Rotary smile. She said, “Don’t be afraid to make AUGUST 2022  ROTARY  9

FIND A CLUB ANYWHERE IN THE WORLD! Tsakane Nxumalo of South Africa’s Black Mambas Anti-Poaching Unit was featured in our April Use Rotary’s free cover story. Listen to an audio version at rotary.org/white-rhinos-and-black-mambas. Club Locator and find a meGeettRinotgaryw’shfreeereClvubeLroycaotour agpop ! and find a meeting wherever you go! wwwww.wr.orottaarryy.o.orgr/gcl/ucblulobcalotocrator members have already answered this call grateful to my beloved community for ac- Do you need Rotary-branded by educating each other about rhinos and cepting me for who I am. merchandise? getting involved. We encourage others to join their efforts to conserve these imper- — Huey-Ming Tzeng, Galveston, Texas Then shop with Rotary-licensed iled species. vendors, many of which are local I am conflicted in writing this letter. Rotarian-owned businesses. Those of us who care about and work Rotary is such an awesome organiza- together to help rhinos call ourselves Team tion, but I was personally offended by Shop now at Rhino. Welcome to Team Rhino, Rotary. the “Diversity Strengthens Our Clubs” on.rotary.org/shop ad. It’s a great concept; Rotary should — CeCe Sieffert, Chief Conservation be building on diversity. But LGBTQ+ 3 , / (Shop With A Licensed Vendor_EN-20.indd 1 6$66 3 ( ( / 6 7/13/20 3:56 PM people represent at least 10 percent of Director, International Rhino Foundation the population, according to some $0(1 / $1$ / $%( / studies, and the people depicted in the DIVERSITY DILEMMAS ad are organized as boy, girl, boy, girl, :+ $ 7 ' , 6 $ < $ 7 % $ < boy, girl. This may have been an over- I was puzzled when I saw the “Diversity sight, but as a gay man, I immediately 121((' 36$ 7 Strengthens Our Clubs” ad in a recent thought that Rotary might want only issue. Why do we continue to experience certain kinds of diversity. (0 , 56 <(6 , 7'2(6 the hurdle of inviting prospective Rotary members from all racial, ethnic, and — Stuart Lucker, Kirtland, Ohio '(1 (6( 25( , / / < religious backgrounds? I always enjoy the magazine and appreci- PHOTOGRAPH: BOBBY NEPTUNE %5($' 0$ , 1 Although I am the only Asian American ate its outstanding visuals; however, I in the Rotary Club of Galveston, Texas, I was deeply disappointed by the cel- 527 $5<' , $ / 6 felt welcome when I was a prospective ebration of “diversity” in which the member. A friend of mine from Taiwan only persons with gray hair and in a +2$ ; ($5 / < recently visited my club. On her first visit, wheelchair were one and the same. It is one member invited her to his home for regrettable that no one on staff noticed $66 , 6 7 6 0( / 726 a gathering. On her second visit, another the unconscious stereotyping. member asked me how to greet her. I was 0( $ 1:+ , / ( :$ , 7 ( deeply touched by their kindness and in- — Martha Bassett, Vancouver, tention to build a genuine friendship with ( <( 6 3 ( 7 '2* people from different backgrounds. I am British Columbia $*$0( 6$0( 72<28 / , 0 , 7 7 723 08 / ( % / 2*6 $ 6 3 6 6 3 (' 10  ROTARY  AUGUST 2022

THE SPECIALIST Shahzad yard. You plant in four layers — shrub, subtree, tree, Qureshi and canopy — and use a mix of species.  Made for Rotary Club of the shade Karachi New The result is a forest that can grow 10 times Central, Pakistan An engineer plants urban faster than a standard plantation. By some estimates, forests to fight climate change Founder, it produces 30 times more oxygen, absorbs 30 times Urban Forest more carbon dioxide, and is 100 times more biodi- I became interested in urban forests in 2015, verse. During the initial period, the trees grow faster when Karachi, Pakistan, experienced a heat To learn as they compete for natural light. The forest hosts wave that was blamed for the deaths of more more, go to small animals, birds, and bees and other insects. than 1,200 people. Karachi is known as a urbanforest.pk. This technique is now being used across the globe concrete jungle, with less than 1 percent tree and is one of the most popular methods to “rewild” cover, so it became painfully obvious that we needed human settlements. more trees.  I decided to try it in Karachi at the end of 2015. My professional background is not in forestry. I Our pilot forest started out covering 600 square studied textile engineering and currently run an yards in a public park. Once it was successful, we e-commerce venture. But my interest in the subject expanded the forest to the whole park, which is grew when I heard about a technique for creating tiny 14,000 square yards. It is self-sustaining, with forests that become self-sustaining within three years, recycled wastewater, an organic vegetable garden without chemicals or pesticides and using only native that provides food for the community, a natural species. The technique, called the Miyawaki method, playground for kids, a lake, and a composting and re- is based on Japanese botanist Akira Miyawaki’s work cycling area that absorbs waste from 100 households in regenerating natural forests around the world. around the park. Since then, we’ve created 24 more forests in Pakistan. The Miyawaki method involves planting native spe- cies together, usually two to eight plants per square This method is applicable anywhere. We raised funds from our Rotary club and crowd-sourced from corporations and individuals. Given the existential threat of climate change, we want to encourage and help Rotary members worldwide to establish their own Miyawaki forests. — as told to cary bickley Photograph by Khaula Jamil AUGUST 2022  ROTARY  11

OUR WORL FIGHTING DISEASE A problem hiding in plain sight Rotarians are bringing awareness of fetal alcohol spectrum disorders to remote places 15 When Tami Eller was 6 months old, ily, and in 2019 she traveled with a Support Rock the grandparents raising her began Rotary Foundation-funded vocational The Rotary the boat noticing troubling signs: Her head training team from Alaska to the Foundation’s seemed unusually small, and she Australian state of Western Australia work in global 16 wasn’t hitting growth milestones, to help with a Rotary project called health at Have a heart though other aspects of her devel- Making FASD History. Both places rotary.org/give. opment seemed on track. have high levels of the disorder. 18 The global Eller, whose mother had a history While in Australia, Eller had a game of of substance abuse, was identified familiar experience. “Whenever baseball as having a fetal alcohol spectrum you give a presentation on FASD disorder (FASD), a range of condi- to a large enough group,” she says, 12  ROTARY  AUGUST 2022 tions resulting from exposure to al- “there’s always someone who says cohol during a mother’s pregnancy. either, ‘That’s me’ or ‘That’s some- Since her condition was discovered one I know.’ When we were present- early, she was able to get the treat- ing to the teachers in Australia, they ment and help she needed. She said, ‘Oh, that’s what we’ve been had occupational therapy for her missing this whole time. That ex- handwriting and an individualized plains what we’re seeing.’” education plan, which helped her succeed in school and eventually Knowledge about FASD has earn a master’s degree in counsel- come a long way since fetal alcohol ing psychology. Yet as an adult, she syndrome, the most pronounced faces challenges daily: Her hands of the spectrum of disorders, was are very small, with underdeveloped first identified about 50 years ago. muscles; some tactile sensations, Today, for instance, we know that such as clothing tags against her people with fetal alcohol syndrome, skin, are painful, evoking a fear re- which often causes distinctive facial sponse; she can’t take on too much features, represent just a fraction of work or it impacts her health. those affected by prenatal alcohol exposure, meaning FASD is largely “Growing up,” she says, “I always a problem hiding in plain sight. kind of knew what happened. And I now know how my brain works dif- “Fetal alcohol syndrome is the ferently, and what accommodations most visible part of that spectrum. I need. If I hadn’t had early iden- But facial features are only im- tification, and those interventions, pacted in the third to fourth week I probably wouldn’t have gotten as of gestation,” explains Marilyn far as I have.” Pierce-Bulger of the Alaska Cen- ter for FASD, one of the vocational Today, Eller is a “self-advocate,” training team members. Only 4 per- meaning she was affected by pre- cent of people with prenatal alco- natal alcohol exposure and now hol exposure meet criteria for full works to educate others about the fetal alcohol syndrome. Another disorder. The longtime Alaskan is 80 percent with brain-based dif- the associate director of community ferences don’t have the associated programs at Alaska Child and Fam- facial features.

ILLUSTRATION: GETTY IMAGES ROTARY STAFF The range of problems on that spectrum include damage to execu- tive function, sensory processing, attentional control, visual and lan- guage processing, fine motor skill, and more. Thus, the more inclusive term: fetal alcohol spectrum disorder. Worldwide, FASD is a huge problem, and more often than not, those with the condition don’t get the kind of support Eller received. In recent years, Rotary clubs have started to take on the issue. In South Africa, which is estimated to have the highest rate of FASD in the world, a global grant helped develop an interactive sports-based educa- tion and prevention curriculum for South African youth to warn them about the dangers of fetal alcohol spectrum disorders. In and around Warsaw, Poland, another global grant developed support for fami- lies and family-run group homes to care for children with FASD, with services in speech therapy, psycho- therapy, education, and other areas. Rotary members got involved because they were concerned about “the destruction of so many lives and the pressures FASD places on people in some very poverty- stricken communities,” says Bruce Dufty, a member of the Rotary Club of Western Endeavour, Australia. In some predominantly Indigenous communities there, 20 percent of children have been diagnosed with disorders related to prenatal alco- hol exposure. In 2015, Dufty started making inroads into various communi- ties, working to build trust. He regularly made the nine-hour jour- ney from Perth to the small town “FASD is a preventable disability. That is the thing we have to remember.” AUGUST 2022 ROTARY 13

A vocational training team 90BY THE NUMBERS from Alaska visits Perth, Australia, to help address the problem of FASD. Estimated percentage of individuals with prenatal alcohol exposure who show no outward physical $1symptoms of Leonora, which is located in a easy, but not easy. It’s a simple so- program for diagnosis and assess- BILLION region that is home to some 16 lution, but hard to implement.” ment of children in Leonora, and Indigenous languages and where another phase that focused on early Estimated one in seven people are members That chat, along with the com- intervention and prevention. annual costs of Aboriginal communities. munity assessment begun by Dufty, for caregivers eventually led to the formation of “Probably the most successful of people with “When we started,” says Lou- the vocational training team. The part was the preventative side,” says ise Hancock of the Rotary Club of grant application benefited from Dufty. “And that’s actually starting 16%FASD in Alaska Osborne Park, Australia, and chair years of community involvement to pay some dividends. We’re get- of Making FASD History, “we had before it was submitted. ting some young people no longer Rate of children no idea how big it was going to be becoming pregnant very early.” in Leonora, and how much time and effort it The team members flew to Aus- Australia, born was going to take. It was certainly tralia to talk to people about rec- “FASD is a preventable disabil- with FASD the biggest project our club has ognizing, preventing, and dealing ity,” says Pierce-Bulger. “That is the ever undertaken.” with the disorders. “We organized a thing we have to remember.” PHOTOGRAPH: LOUISE HANCOCK meeting with the Western Australia In 2018, Alaska Rotarian Diane police,” Hancock says. “We ended It remains to be seen if the Fejes, then-governor-elect of Dis- up with 120 police at that educa- results will follow a similar (non- trict 5010, traveled to the Interna- tional session. They were dying for Rotary) project in Western Aus- tional Assembly, the training semi- more information.” tralia’s Fitzroy Valley, which saw a nar for incoming district governors. decline in the number of women In a conversation with her Western “People flew in from all over,” who reported drinking during Australian counterpart, Charles says Michael Jeffery, a member of pregnancy from 61 percent to 32 Johnson, he mentioned Making the Rotary Club of Barrow (Nuvuk), percent. But the project has brought FASD History. Alaska, who traveled to Australia. the issue to the fore. “They kept having to change the “We realized we had a lot of the venue because more and more “We feel satisfied that it’s been a same issues, with the wide geogra- people were interested in partici- very worthwhile project,” says Han- phy, where you fly and drive a lot,” pating. We also presented at their cock, “and that we’ve made a sig- Fejes says, “along with the intro- district conference, so we were able nificant difference in a remote town. duction of alcohol into populations to get the message out to Rotarians Now hopefully the mainstream ser- that typically did not have it and the all over Western Australia. It was vices will learn from the work we’ve way FASD affects people for the rest very successful.” done and repeat it in other regions. of their life. The only prevention is And we’re also hoping in 2023 we’ll to not drink in utero. So it’s very In addition to the Alaskans’ visit, be able to send a team of our own to Making FASD History included a Alaska.” — frank bures Short At the Rotary Convention in June, 2021- Look back at Rotary’s 2021-22 takes 22 President Shekhar Mehta presented achievements in General Kailash Satyarthi, a leader in the fight Secretary John Hewko’s to end child labor and slavery, with the Report to Convention at Rotary Award of Honor. rotary.org/conventionreport. 14  ROTARY  AUGUST 2022 Illustrations by Miguel Porlan

PROFILE Karla Klay I n 2006, the Marquette Com- Rotary Club of panies purchased a 1,000-acre Rock the boat Galveston, Texas site for what was described as the largest development in Saving wetlands with art the history of Galveston, Texas. One problem: a large ecosystem com- posed of wetlands, coastal prairies, and sand dunes was in the way. Conservationists fought the plans, including Karla Klay, founder of a nonprofit called Artist Boat and now a member of the Rotary Club of Galveston. “Why are we going to give nature away for profits?” Klay asks. “We can’t get it back.” Klay founded Artist Boat in 2003 to combine her two loves: art and marine biology. She believes that people who experience the natural beauty of Galveston’s wetlands will be more inclined to save them. So in addition to creating “ocean art” and giving eco-tours for adults, Art- ist Boat has connected with more than 80,000 school-age students through its programs, which include a kayak adventure where kids pad- dle through the wetlands and paint watercolors of what they see. In 2011, in the wake of a global financial crisis, Marquette defaulted on its loan. Between 2013 and 2015, Artist Boat raised nearly $7 million from federal and state grants and a few generous supporters, and bought more than 300 acres of wet- lands. This was the start of Artist Boat’s Coastal Heritage Preserve. It has since added another 500 acres and hopes to save a total of 1,400 acres with its One-in-a-Million campaign: 1 million people, each donating $10, with the goal to pre- serve the land and build an environ- mental education center. “The great gift of being human is that our eyes see beauty and our minds feel beauty,” Klay says. “We all benefit from saving places that we get to see and feel forever.” — j ezra mccoy Members of the inaugural Antoni Slodkowski, a Pulitzer Prize- Nominations for Rotaract class of Rotary Peace winning journalist and former Rotary and Interact clubs to Fellows began arriving Youth Exchange student in Japan, where receive the Rotary Citation on campuses 20 years he now works, received the 2021-22 are due 15 August. Learn ago this month. Rotary Alumni Global Service Award. more at rotary.org/awards. Photograph by Patricia Badger AUGUST 2022  ROTARY  15

OUR WORLD People of action around the globe By BRAD WEBBER 390 B.C. First recorded cleft lip surgery United States Venezuela PHOTOGRAPHS: COURTESY OF ROTARY CLUBS The Rotary Club of Duvall, Since 2009 the Rotary Club of Washington, celebrated Valentine’s Barquisimeto-Nueva Segovia has Day by hanging 133 double-sided overseen more than 350 surgeries hearts from light poles along a to correct congenital craniofacial mile-long stretch of Main Street, deformities in children. In late April where they loomed large from the club, based in the capital of late January through early March. Lara state, administered nine cleft Bearing messages sponsored by lip and palate surgeries. Patients residents and businesses at a cost and their mothers are interviewed of $50 each, the signs raised about by club members who are $13,500 for food pantries and specialists in children’s maxillofacial other organizations serving youth, surgery. Proceeds from the club’s seniors, and the needy in the golf tournament fund the surgeries community northeast of Seattle. and follow-up care, which costs The club was inspired by a long- about $150 per patient. “Children running fundraiser of the Rotary with these malformations generally Club of Loveland Thompson Valley, require several surgeries, and our Colorado, whose sign subscriptions club guarantees them all,” says routinely sell out within hours. Rafael Cárdenas, a club member. “Our goal is to change lives ClCubluobfoFfpDoufvpaoll permanently.” $450 million Club of BarquisimetoC-Nluubevoaf FSpeogofvpioa Sweethearts candies produced in 2022 16 ROTARY AUGUST 2022

Greece 287,000 After governmental delays hampered the replacement of critical firefighting equipment damaged in responses acres in Greece to two major fires in 2021, the Rotary Club of Kos destroyed by stepped in. Rotarians staged a dance marathon and a wildfires in 2021 musical, raising $2,300 to purchase nearly 2,000 feet of firehose, nozzles, and pipe connections for the island’s fire department. “It’s better to prevent than to cure,” says Stavros Amaris, immediate past president of the club, paraphrasing Hippocrates, a famous son of Kos. Emergency preparedness is top of mind for the club, which also has organized blood drives and directed money to the Kos ambulance service. ClubColufbFpoof Kfpoos Madagascar Kazakhstan 26.1% Addressing needs caused by The Rotary Club of Astana recent famine, clubs in District in late 2018 inaugurated its people in 9220 delivered 800 packages first inclusive playground in Kazakhstan of rice, water, cooking oil, and a country sorely in need of ages 14 and other staples, as well as hygiene such opportunities. Named younger products, to the community of Kunshyaq, or “Sunshine,” the 81% Ankiliabo in April. “Lately, the playground has specialized kere [famine or hunger in the swings, ramps, merry-go- Poverty rate local parlance] has taken on a rounds, and other equipment in Madagascar great magnitude because the to accommodate children with climate conditions do not allow and without disabilities and the population in this area to instill values of tolerance and live properly through agriculture empathy. While the municipal and livestock,” says Narindra council of the capital city, now Razafinimaro, immediate past called Nur-Sultan, donated president of the Rotary Club of the land, Rotary members in Antananarivo-Anosy, which led Astana, led by Past President the effort. The Rotary Club of Lyazzat Alshinova, generated Saint-Denis-La Montagne, in the about $55,000 from club French department of Réunion, members, other District 2430 another island in the district, clubs, embassies and other contributed about $2,700. organizations, and proceeds from an art auction and ball. CluDbisotfriFcpt o92fp2o0 The playground is such a hit that the club, composed of Kazakhstanis and expatriates, raised funds for a second one in the capital. CClulubbooffFApostafpnoa AUGUST 2022 ROTARY 17

ESSAY I n 1903, baseball’s National and American The whole world Leagues faced off for the is watching first time under a slightly From team rosters to stadium cuisine, outrageous name: the our national pastime has become a global game World’s Championship Games By Scott Simon (later shortened to the World Series). 18  ROTARY  AUGUST 2022 At the time, no teams were based south or west of St. Louis. The Series’ reach didn’t truly cover the United States, much less the world. But now, baseball has become a world game. While all major professional sports organizations, from the NBA to the NHL, have international players on their rosters, there is something uniquely varied about Major League Baseball: It has fans and followers all over the world. And its teams include players from around the globe — from Aruba, the Bahamas, Colombia, Cuba, the Dominican Republic, Mexico, and Venezuela to Japan, South Korea, Taiwan, and Australia. The broadening of MLB began 75 years ago in New York City. On 15 April 1947, Jack Roosevelt Robinson broke the game’s unofficial color barrier when he walked onto the grass of Ebbets Field in the uniform of the Brooklyn Dodgers. Jackie wore number 42, which every player in baseball now wears in his honor each year on 15 April. In 2022, it may be hard to appreciate what his historic moment meant. When Jackie Robinson took the field, segregation was common in much of the United States. The armed forces that had so bravely stormed the beaches of Normandy were racially divided. U.S. students were learning about the Emancipation Proclamation and the Declaration of Independence, with its assertion that “all men are created equal,” but many of their classrooms remained segregated. And so it was for our national pastime, baseball. The American League and the National League were for white players only; they called themselves the major leagues while excluding Satchel Paige, Josh Gibson, and many of Illustrations by John Garrison

the greatest athletes to ever play was interested, but not distracted. lime salt seasoning. Scott Simon the game, who were restricted to Like life, baseball is a long It’s a long way from the old hosts a long- the Negro Leagues. Today, some running show on of those great Black players are season. From late March to refrain, “Buy me some peanuts and NPR, contributes enshrined in baseball’s Hall of October across the United States Cracker Jack.” You can now tour to CBS Sunday Fame, a small, often posthumous and Japan, baseball is part of the the world at an MLB concession Morning, and recompense for the careers they hum of the day, game reports in the stand. I recommend that you do. is the author should have been able to enjoy. hourly news alongside weather and of nine books, traffic. The drama of the season A s I write this during the including Jackie Jackie Robinson took the field builds over time. 2022 season, the most Robinson and a year before the U.S. military exciting star in baseball, on any the Integration was desegregated by presidential A nd then, there’s the food. continent, may be Shohei Ohtani, of Baseball, decree, and seven years before I’ve never heard a fan the deeply talented Japanese- Home and Away, the U.S. Supreme Court struck return from a football or born star who plays for the Los and My Cubs: A down segregated schools. All those soccer game and rave about Angeles Angels. He was named Love Story. advances came later than they what they ate. Nor from an All-Star last year as both a should have. Yet it’s fair to say that basketball, hockey, stock car pitcher and a hitter, upending Major League Baseball helped racing, or lacrosse, for that matter. decades of baseball wisdom (or move history. But a baseball game, usually lasting at least custom) which held that more than three hours (too long, pitchers were too depleted between W hile diversified rosters but that’s another story), under the starts to be swinging a bat. Well, surely helped build sun like a picnic, is an opportunity the player they call “Shotime” baseball’s global fan base, other to enjoy costly, caloric snacks we does both powerfully. Another factors came into play. Part of the often wouldn’t permit ourselves. of today’s greats may be Roki game’s appeal is its relatability. You Besides, it’s a scientific fact, though Sasaki of the Chiba Lotte Marines, don’t need to stand 6-foot-9 like I can’t prove it, that nothing you in Japan’s Nippon Professional LeBron James and other basketball eat in a ballpark counts in your Baseball Organization. In April, stars or be 6-8, 384 pounds like daily diet. I guess you can call it Sasaki hurled a streak of 17 hitless, Daniel Faalele, who in April was one of the miracles of baseball. scoreless innings with no walks, an drafted by the NFL’s Baltimore effort deemed “perfect” in baseball Ravens. Some of baseball’s greatest Much like MLB rosters, ballpark parlance. players — such as the Astros’ Jose cuisine has become increasingly Altuve (5-6) and the Dodgers’ diverse, multicultural, and Those extraordinary players on Mookie Betts (5-9) — wear dazzling. There are fat, toasty different sides of the ocean — as conventional suit and shoe sizes. Cuban sandwiches sold in the well as other MLB standouts, such stands at Tampa Bay Rays games. as Mike Trout, Fernando Tatis And while football and hockey Chicago’s South Side team, the Jr., Juan Soto, Mookie Betts, and can be both balletic and exciting, White Sox, offer elote, grilled corn Freddie Freeman — remind us that I find them hard to watch without on the cob dashed — no, rolled even after more than a century, thinking of the prevalence of and slathered — in toppings such there are still records to be broken, concussions and other serious as chili, salt, and butter. The North precedents to be shattered, and injuries. I respect the artistry of Side Cubs offer heavy Italian beef new ways to rejuvenate the game. players in big-league soccer (called sandwiches, sopping and loaded “Buy me some chana masala and football in most of the world). But with spicy giardiniera. chapulines!” all that running and kicking usually results in just a few chances to L.A.’s Dodgers have long been shout, “Gooooooal!” celebrated for their Dodger Dogs, grilled or steamed, but now they Baseball’s rhythm, with time also offer a plant-based dog, between pitches and changing smoked with maple hardwood. sides each half-inning, encourages The San Francisco Giants offer conversation. Tom Ricketts, chair a carne asada burrito bowl and of the Chicago Cubs, met his wife, Ghirardelli hot fudge sundaes. The Cecelia, when both were habitues Twins — in Minnesota, the home of the bleacher seats in Wrigley of tater tot hotdish — sell Korean Field. “It’s the nature of baseball,” fried chicken, chilled sesame he once told me, “that we had peanut noodles, and chana masala, plenty of time to talk.” the spicy chickpea dish that is a staple of India. And in Seattle, the My father, blushing and pièce de résistance at Mariners stammering, explained the facts of games are chapulines: toasted life to me during a Cubs-Cardinals grasshoppers dusted with chili- game at Wrigley Field. I was 12 and AUGUST 2022  ROTARY  19

OUR WORLD GOODWILL Bang for your buck The Rotary Foundation’s unique model maximizes donors’ impact G arry Browne has built a For Browne, supporting the $440.9 spent in the way it was intended,” successful career in Foundation comes down to wanting Stack says. marketing and brand- to make a difference. “I could choose MILLION ing. So when it comes to to put my funds to something else,” Sustainable results: Donors want asking for donations to he says, “but I’m very keen to try to funds raised assurance that their giving will have The Rotary Foundation, he sticks to create an impact and make the by The Rotary lasting impact, long after their in- what he knows. world a better place.” dividual contribution is spent. Foundation That’s why sustainability is built “You’ve got to excite them with “When I was club president, I in 2020-21 into the criteria of all global grant the fact that you have something always used to say that there are two to support projects. If it’s a project providing unique and different,” says ways you can help in this world,” programs that a water well or a medical machine, Browne, a director of Rotary Foun- says Browne. “One is to give of your spur positive, the Foundation seeks assurance dation Australia. time, and the other is to put your lasting change that it will be maintained. If it’s an hand in your pocket. I like to think economic development project, the And what makes the Founda- Rotarians actually do both.” 530 Foundation wants to know that tion unique and different? Rotary skills are being passed on to future members. Every project that is Here are some other reasons to members of generations. funded by a Foundation grant is support The Rotary Foundation: The Rotary carried out by a club. Every schol- Foundation Ease of giving: It’s as easy as log- arship is supported by a club. And Range of giving options: Depend- Cadre of Techni- ging in to your My Rotary account. every vocational training team is ing on your passion, you can direct cal Advisers who You can also use Rotary Direct to overseen by a club. your donation to promoting peace, helped Rotary set up recurring giving on a monthly, fighting disease, providing clean members plan quarterly, or annual basis. It’s a safe “The importance of Rotary vol- water and sanitation, saving moth- and review and easy way to fulfill your commit- unteers can’t be overemphasized,” ers and children, supporting educa- service projects ment to the Foundation. No matter says Rotary Foundation Australia tion, growing local economies, or how you send your contributions, by Chair Maurie Stack. protecting the environment. “Our including your member ID, you’ll seven causes have been selected to ensure that the amount you give ac- Stack says a global grant project ensure that funds are directed to cumulates over the years and you with $100,000 in funding has the what long experience tells us are the can be recognized. potential to be valued at $150,000 areas of greatest need, which hap- when you add the volunteer time pily align with the United Nations Legacy for the future: Stack spent by the host and international Sustainable Development Goals,” knows that not every Rotary mem- sponsor clubs. “The bang for your says Stack. In addition to support- ber is able to make a large financial buck is pretty strong,” says Stack, ing Rotary’s areas of focus, donors contribution in their lifetime. But by an Arch Klumph Society member. can give to PolioPlus, the Annual making provisions in your will to Fund, or disaster response, among provide ongoing financial support Helping to maximize a donation’s other options. to the Foundation, you’ll ensure that value is the Foundation’s low over- funding will be available for the pro- head. Rotary consistently ranks in Transparency and efficiency: grams you’re passionate about, year the top tier of organizations in terms “I’m comforted by the fact that the after year. of its ratio of program expenses to Foundation is strict in its account- administrative expenses. In fact, ability. At the end of a project, you “Your kids won’t be saddened by 92 cents on the dollar are used di- have to account for every cent of the fact that you handed over rectly in program awards and op- the money you received. You have $10,000 or $20,000 to the Founda- erations related to carrying out to produce receipts, you have tion,” adds Stack. “They’ll be proud those awards. Charity Navigator to produce bank statements. You that you gave generously to your recently gave Rotary a perfect rating have to satisfy an officer at the community.” — maureen vaught of 100 for financial health, account- Foundation that the money was ability, and transparency — stating that donors can “give with confi- dence” to this charity. 20  ROTARY  AUGUST 2022

Diversity strengthens our clubs New members from different groups in our communities bring fresh perspectives and ideas to our clubs and expand Rotary’s presence. Invite prospective members from all backgrounds to experience Rotary. REFER A NEW MEMBER my.rotary.org/member-center

The ROTARY ACTION PLAN INCREASE OUR ABILITY TO ADAPT A CONVERSATION WITH NICKI SCOTT “We can achieve harmony and amplify the sound if we all play the same tune instead of a staccato selection of solos.”

Learn what your club can do at MEET NICKI SCOTT. A change-management consultant and a member of the Rotary rotary.org / ac tionplan Club of The North Cotswolds, England, Q. Why is increasing our ability to adapt one of Scott helped develop our Action Plan as the priorities of the Action Plan? part of Rotary’s Strategic Planning Committee. She is the 2022-23 NICKI: Everyone, and every organization, vice president of Rotary is looking to make a greater societal impact. International. It’s an enormous opportunity for Rotary to be a thought leader and a sought-after partner. I also see Rotary doing more to build on But if we want to lead in a time of accelerating the work of others, to share leadership. change, we need to become — and to be In Great Britain and Ireland, we host Volunteer seen as — more agile and relevant. Expo, an event where all kinds of people and organizations can come together and Q. What are the challenges? collaborate. We don’t have to reinvent the wheel every time. NICKI: As an organization, we’re very fragmented and hierarchical. We have rules, Q. What structural changes will increase Rotary’s officers, titles, and committees instead of teams. ability to adapt? The more administrative layers you have, the NICKI: More regional autonomy is key. What more removed you are from the actual work. might work for one region might not be a cultural fit for another. We need to look at leadership as something We can be much more regionally focused anyone at any age can own. You don’t need 40 without losing the ideals of a global years of experience before you can significantly organization, or losing the power of a global contribute. Remember, Paul Harris was only 36 brand. We can achieve harmony and amplify when he started Rotary. the sound if we all play the same tune instead of a staccato selection of solos. Q. Where are you seeing opportunities? Q. What makes you most optimistic? NICKI: Before the pandemic, a large percentage NICKI: Rotary has something powerful of Rotary members didn’t really think or see to offer. There are a lot of well-meaning beyond their club. They didn’t have a sense organizations out there, but good intentions of themselves as a global network of change- don’t always translate to results. Rotary has the makers. During the pandemic, people were infrastructure and the integrity that people are joining virtual meetings in different districts and looking for, and the connections in communities countries and seeing for the first time all the to know what is really needed. We know how things Rotary was doing. to get the job done. We are people of action. We’re capitalizing on this momentum. I worked with a team in Great Britain and Ireland that started a Rotary global hub, an online platform that connects people to clubs but also gives them the opportunity to participate based on causes rather than location. And their involvement can be episodic rather than tied to a weekly meeting at a specific time. It is proving very successful in both attracting new and retaining existing Rotarians.



Recognizing a woman’s worth Programs of Scale grant-winner Together for Healthy Families in Nigeria helps families by focusing on the fundamental needs of women By Diana Schoberg • Illustrations by Gwen Keraval I n March 1994, at the Anaheim prenatal and maternal care. Families in Nigeria, is receiving the Hilton and Towers, Emmanuel Zinser spoke up. “I can help.” Foundation’s second $2 million Adedolapo Lufadeju and Rob- In 1995, Lufadeju and Zinser Programs of Scale grant, an award ert Zinser struck up a conversation. that will build on the program’s past The two men were district gover- started a small maternal and child success to accomplish even more in nors-elect, and they had traveled to health-care project in Nigeria’s the future. California — Lufadeju from Nigeria northern state of Kaduna. Today, and Zinser from Germany — for Ro- their interventions have spread “This is really about chang- tary’s annual International Assem- across the country and are chang- ing the way societies and health bly. As they spoke, the men discov- ing the lives of millions of families systems address the fundamen- ered that their interests overlapped. — all because of that serendipitous tal needs of women,” says John Zinser listened intently as Lufadeju encounter 28 years ago. “The story Townsend, chair of the Rotary Ac- described a visit he’d recently made of our project is a story of Ro- tion Group for Reproductive, Ma- to a hospital maternity ward in Ni- tary friendship,” Lufadeju says. “I ternal, and Child Health, and chair geria. At the time, five out of 100 thought it was something I would of the ethical review board at the babies in that country died in their do as governor and go away. But it Population Council. “And that’s first 28 days. Lufadeju had learned has lasted the better part of my life.” important because women are the that the high rate of newborn fa- drivers of family and development. talities resulted, in part, from poor In June, The Rotary Founda- If a woman dies or is seriously dis- tion announced that the program, abled, the entire family is affected.” known as Together for Healthy AUGUST 2022  ROTARY  25

A mother helps Ultimately, Together for Healthy for funding from Germany’s Federal says. “We got similar results: more weigh her child as Families in Nigeria wants to reduce Ministry of Economic Cooperation women coming to clinics for deliv- part of a growth maternal and neonatal mortality in and Development, which has been eries, and more clinics built by the monitoring the target local government areas contributing since the very first government to accommodate the and promotion by 25 percent. To do so, it aims to project, including $1.36 million to- increases in attendance.” exercise at Dei Dei improve maternal health and access ward the most recent global grant Comprehensive to family planning services while project. “Right from the beginning, Then, a prominent gynecologist Health Centre in strengthening health systems at they were the co-funders,” Zinser from Germany recommended fo- Abuja, Nigeria. the national, state, and local levels. says. “Not once, but always. You cusing on quality assurance across It also aims to increase the use of can convince somebody once for the broad field of obstetrics: that is, maternal care and family planning co-funding, but if you convince quality of the facilities and equip- PHOTOGRAPH: COURTESY OF JAN-PETER SANDER/RMCH services by educating community them year after year, you are on the ment, quality of the process, and members about their benefits, and right track.” quality of the outcome. In 2008, to train health care workers to im- Rotary members began collecting prove skills and track data on ma- Nigeria is a prime location for data on maternal deaths to help ternal and neonatal deaths so that maternal and child health work. determine which interventions interventions can be tailored to The country accounts for 23 per- made the most sense — looking at specific needs. cent of maternal deaths and 11 per- not just how many mothers died but cent of neonatal deaths worldwide, why. A scientific review, published Together for Healthy Families says Jan-Peter Sander, the lead con- in 2011, reported that the project in Nigeria is sponsored by Rotary tact for the Programs of Scale grant. had reduced maternal mortality by District 1860 (Germany) in partner- The Rotary Action Group for Repro- 50 percent. “That encouraged us,” ship with Districts 9110, 9125, 9141, ductive, Maternal, and Child Health, Lufadeju says. and 9142 (Nigeria), as well as the which has targeted large projects in Reproductive, Maternal, and Child Nigeria, grew out of Zinser and Lu- Soon after, the federal govern- Health action group. Rotarians and fadeju’s early work. “With interest ment of Nigeria was working on Rotaractors in Nigeria coordinate because of [the grant], we will grow Maternal and Perinatal Death Sur- project activities, oversee training, and grow,” Zinser says. veillance and Response, a maternal lead advocacy efforts, and engage death audit recommended by the with the government. Members in As they plot their course for- World Health Organization. Mem- Germany lend their technical and ward, the program’s planners can bers of Rotary realized that their administrative expertise to sup- find inspiration from their earlier quality assurance work was similar, port management, monitoring, and progress. After their success in and they began collaborating with evaluation. The group has applied Kaduna, Rotary members in Ni- the government on that work. They geria and Germany partnered on had been working with a German a larger Foundation grant, which statistician to translate their data expanded the work to almost 100 into an electronic format, and in local government areas across six 2018 the digital platform that he states. “We were focusing on these developed was integrated into the local government areas because Nigerian health system. The plat- a majority of births in Nigeria form allows statistics to be reported are delivered at home,” Lufadeju automatically, a first for the region, Lufadeju says. Ultimately, Together for In collaboration with the Nige- Healthy Families rian government, what began as an in Nigeria wants to eight-state electronic surveillance reduce maternal project spread nationwide. The Ro- and neonatal tary project trained medical officers mortality in at the local, state, and national lev- the target local els on collecting and reviewing the government areas data, and it supported government by 25 percent. officials in introducing a bill, later passed by the Nigerian parliament, that required the accurate reporting of maternal deaths. “We have made maternal death in Nigeria a notifi- able condition. It can no longer be hidden. It is now in the public,” 26  ROTARY  AUGUST 2022

Lufadeju says. “The government Ready to scale up? can use this information to employ more staff, do their budget, concen- Programs of Scale is a Foundation program trate on areas of need, and make that awards grants to Rotary or Rotaract clubs sure their national planning in- or districts that have demonstrated evidence- cludes aspects of maternal health.” based interventions in one of the areas of focus. The grants fund large-scale, high-impact projects The Together for Healthy Fami- that can attract partners while tapping into lies in Nigeria program of scale will Rotary members’ capacity and enthusiasm. take the lessons learned from the The first Programs of Scale grant was awarded previous phases and perfect the in 2021 to Partners for a Malaria-Free Zambia, system in three Nigerian states and a program led by Rotary members in Zambia the federal capital territory. and the United States. “We want a good model that If your club or district is interested in applying we can replicate in other states in for the next Programs of Scale grant, start by the country, and in other parts of considering the following questions: Africa,” Lufadeju says. The col- laboration is key to the project’s Is your project successfully achieving sustainability. “From the start, measurable outcomes, and is that there was this connection with the assessment based on strong evidence? government because we were think- ing about sustainability and future Does the project solve a problem for the funding,” he says. “If you want to target population that can be sustained do a project in Africa, if you do it beyond the program timeframe? without the government, traditional rulers, or political leaders, when you Is there a clear and logical implementation finish, the project dies.” plan to effectively grow the program? The program builds on the com- D o the implementing partners have the prehensive work that Rotary has ability and leadership to deliver a larger done in eradicating polio in Nigeria, program over several years? which “developed a sense of trust and a sense of scale,” Townsend Are all stakeholders fully committed, says. “You’ve got to think about including co-funders? [polio] in a national, regional, and global perspective, and certainly To learn more, visit rotary.org/programsofscale. maternal health relates to that. This is something that requires a KE Y DATE S big scale, and Rotary in Nigeria is particularly well-placed. There are June 2022: Grant competition launch clubs all over the country, its mem- August: Concept notes due bers are influential, and there are October: Invitation to submit full proposal sent increasing numbers of women in February 2023: Site visit (virtual and/or in-person) leadership. And they are committed April 2023: Award decision to doing things that really make a difference for society.” AUGUST 2022  ROTARY  27

“Education for all, particularly when started at an early age, is critical to a culture of peace. Education opens minds and encourages critical thinking. Tsehai Loves Learning gives this opportunity to millions of African children.” — Sharon Ashton, a member of the Rotary Club of Addis Ababa-West FINALIST Tsehai Loves Learning Location: Ethiopia Areas of focus: Basic education and literacy, peacebuilding and conflict prevention Proposal: Tsehai Loves Learning is a shift the community mindset around gional bureaus of education, and popular national TV show produced early childhood education in Ethio- Whiz Kids Workshop, an Ethio- by Whiz Kids Workshop that aims to pia is strong, and Rotary members pian social enterprise that focuses improve school readiness with help and Whiz Kids Workshop see great on pre-primary educational media from a 6-year-old female giraffe potential to scale to other countries. and play-based learning. It was co- sock puppet named Tsehai. The founded by Bruktawit “Brukty” Ti- Tsehai Loves Learning curriculum Rotary role: The program is spon- gabu, a member of the Rotary Club has been successfully implemented sored by the Rotary Club of Addis of Addis Ababa-West. in 40 public schools in Addis Ababa Ababa-West, as well as seven other and has already demonstrated im- Rotary and Rotaract clubs in Ethio- Expected outcome: Increase proved learning and social-emo- pia. Rotary members would serve as school readiness and learning out- tional outcomes in students. This “literacy champions” by reading in comes by 80 percent to 90 percent project would expand the curricu- schools as volunteers and distrib- for more than 88,000 students in lum to other parts of the country by uting materials. Rotary members public schools in 11 cities. creating and distributing materials, would also serve in technical advi- training and motivating teachers, and sory and advocacy roles with gov- Sustainability tip: The curriculum developing a pilot peace education ernment stakeholders to ensure full and characters are locally developed program to understand its e ective- adoption and sustainability. and aligned with the national early ness and readiness for future scaling. childhood development and educa- Primary partners: Ethiopia’s tion policy. Community engagement Judges say: Rotary’s potential to federal ministry of education, re- is core to program success. 28 ROTARY AUGUST 2022

FINALIST “We hope to see the elderly engaged Dementia care in stimulating, enjoyable, and Location: Italy personalized Area of focus: Disease prevention and treatment activities. Dementia will no Proposal: The program aims to im- Expected outcome: Increase new longer be perceived prove the quality of life of elderly diagnoses of dementia by 10 per- as a shameful people with cognitive disorders by cent and diagnosed patients par- disease.” creating a new clinical path with ticipating in rehabilitation services quality public and voluntary ser- by 80 percent. Reduce emergency — Andrea P. Rossi, a member vices and by reducing the social room admissions of patients with stigma of dementia. dementia in crisis situations by at of the Rotary Club of Cesena least 70 percent. Judges say: The program creates a and an expert in palliative care new dimension of People of Action Sustainability tip: By partnering by supporting vulnerable popula- with the regional health author- tions in a country with a rapidly ity, the program would become aging population. While the main the strategic plan of the regional community members being helped government and training would be are people living with dementia, this included in certification and profes- program supports family members, sional education requirements. particularly women, who are in the “sandwich” phase of caregiving for both their children and parents. Rotary role: Members of the Ro- tary Club of Cesena, in partnership with members of the Rotaract Club of Cesena, the Rotary Club of Ce- sena-Valle del Savio, and the Rotary Club of Valle del Rubicone, would advocate on behalf of Alzheimer’s patients and work with program partners on quality planning and supportive systems. The program sponsors are already mobilizing additional investments in demen- tia care from other organizations to prepare for future expansion. Primary partners: The regional health authority of Romagna (AUSL della Romagna) and the University of Bologna. HPV VACCINATION A fourth program team had been invited to submit a full proposal for the 2021-22 grant, but ultimately withdrew from the competition due to global supply chain issues. The Rotary Foundation applauds their e orts in program design, as well as their acknowledgment that they would not be able to commit to implementation within the competition time frame. The members from the Rotary Club of Padma Rajshahi, Bangladesh, supported by the Rotary clubs of North Columbus, Georgia, USA, and Kristiansand, Norway, as well as the Rotaract Club of Metropolitan Rajshahi, Bangladesh, continue to push forward with their program design and remain committed to advocating for HPV vaccination when supplies are available. AUGUST 2022 ROTARY 29

PEACE THROUGH A BOWL OF TEA BY G O TA M ITA MI A ND WE N H UANG PHOTOGRAPHY BY MINMIN WU

Genshitsu Sen demonstrates the Urasenke school style of tea making. “Chadō cleanses the mind and promotes humility and courtesy,” he says.

I In July 2011, Genshitsu Sen, the former grand mas- ter of the Urasenke tea tradition and a member of the ship, the remains of 1,102 crew members still lie PHOTOGRAPHS: COURTESY OF THE URASENKE FOUNDATION the Rotary Club of Kyoto, Japan, traveled to Hawaii, entombed in the wreck. where 60 years earlier he had established the first Urasenke chapter outside his native land to promote A news clip of Sen’s visit shows the grand master the practice of chadō — literally, “the Way of Tea” moving purposefully, dressed in a black kimono which — and through it, to spread the message of peace, hung starkly beneath his solemn expression and thick reconciliation, and brotherhood. mane of silver hair. He wore white split-toed socks in the Japanese tabi fashion. The elaborate tea service On that trip, Sen had a special mission. He had was laid out on a lacquered black table in the center been invited to perform a devotional tea offering cer- of the assembly room, where more than 200 Japanese emony at the USS Arizona Memorial in Pearl Harbor and American guests, including politicians, war veter- to console the souls of all the war dead. The media ans, civic leaders, and Urasenke chadō practitioners, hailed it as a symbol of the healing process between were gathered to witness the time-honored ritual. the United States and Japan, whose bitter enmity had cost so many lives and caused so much destruction Employing a piece of square silk cloth known as during World War II. fukusa, he purified the tea implements before placing green tea powder in a ceremonial bowl and ladling For Sen, this tea offering ceremony was also very in hot water from a steaming kettle. With a bamboo personal. whisk, Sen prepared two sacred portions — one koi- cha, or “thick tea,” and one usucha, or “thin tea.” In 1943, he was drafted into the Imperial Japanese Navy and became a pilot in its air force division. In the last days of the war, the Japanese naval command as- signed him to the Special Attack Force, which was tasked to fly suicide missions against Allied naval vessels. Fortunately for Sen, a hidden hand intervened to save him, but before he could discover who had kept him from climbing into a cockpit for the last time, the end of the war arrived. Many of his comrades had plunged to their deaths. The swarms of doomed pilots who targeted Allied warships took the lives of an esti- mated 7,000 American, British, and Australian sailors. The toll among the attacking pilots was also severe — as many as 3,800 flew to certain death. The faces of those comrades still live in Sen’s memory, along with the other ghastly consequences of war. After its end, he dedicated his life to rebuild- ing peace and harmony in the world, an ideal deeply embedded in the tea ceremony. At Pearl Harbor, early on the morning of 19 July 2011, Sen was ushered into the gleaming white, open- air memorial that is built above the sunken hull of the Arizona. Nearly half of those killed in Japan’s surprise attack on 7 December 1941 were members of the Arizona crew. Of the 1,177 fatalities aboard 32  ROTARY  AUGUST 2022

LEFT: Sen performs a devotional tea offering ceremony at the USS Arizona Memorial in Pearl Harbor to console the souls of all the war dead. BELOW: More than 200 Japanese and American guests witness the time-honored Japanese ritual in the memorial’s assembly room. Once each bowl was prepared, he carried them to the memorial’s inner shrine, where the names of American sailors who perished during the attack are carved into a towering memorial wall. There, he lifted his head toward the heavens and raised the bowl in outstretched arms as an offering to those lost souls. After a time, he lowered the bowl to a wooden offering table. Then, Sen joined his hands in prayer to make a final silent entreaty. He called into that hall, and into the hearts of the congregation, the spirit of peace and reconciliation. All eyes were on him and, in silence, the symbolism was deafening. “I have lived 88 years, and this event here today is going to be the most memorable event for myself personally,” Sen said at the end of the ceremony, add- ing that it is the responsibility of those alive today to confront the past and carry its lessons into the future. Edwin Futa, a Japanese American who is originally from Hawaii, has known Sen for more than two de- cades. The tea offering at Pearl Harbor resonated with Rotary members around the world, says Futa, who served as RI general secretary from 2000 to 2011. “The event was broadcast in 32 countries, and many Rotar- ians watched it or read about it,” says Futa. “What Sen did embodies Rotary’s perpetual quest for peace and our efforts to overcome division.” Kyoto: capital of peace and tranquility Surrounded on three sides by mountains, Kyoto lies in a valley known as the Kyoto Basin in the southwest of Japan’s main island of Honshu. Originally named Heian-kyō — literally translated as “capital of peace and tranquility” — Kyoto was the seat of the impe- rial court from 794 until 1868, when Emperor Meiji moved the country’s political center to the city now known as Tokyo. Kyoto’s deep history has endowed the city with 1,600 classic Buddhist temples, 400 Shinto shrines, palaces, gardens, and architectural treasures. Artis- AUGUST 2022  ROTARY  33

tic expressions such as kabuki, geisha, and ikebana winds through a leafy green ABOVE: Byōdō-in (flower arrangements) flourished here, along with the martial traditions of samurai warriors. garden under a canopy of Temple is in the city of neatly manicured pines. By Uji in Kyoto Prefecture. During World War II, Kyoto was reportedly placed passing through the garden, The ancient city of near the top of the list as a potential target for an atomic Kyoto boasts 1,600 bomb attack. However, Henry L. Stimson, the U.S. sec- retary of war, maintained that the city should be spared. it is expected that chadō classic Buddhist participants leave all their temples. Various historical accounts indicate that Stimson’s decision was driven by two factors: First, he feared worldly thoughts and de- potential outrage from the Japanese people as well as the international community for destroying a city sires behind as part of the transition from the stress- that stood as a shrine of Japanese art and culture. And second, though he never publicly acknowledged this ful materialistic world to the sublime tranquility of a motivation, Stimson had visited Kyoto with his wife in the 1920s and came away impressed by its beauty. chadō gathering. Call it realpolitik or call it sentiment. Either way, At the end of the path lies the porch of the main the atomic bombs rained down their massive de- struction on Hiroshima and Nagasaki, and the glory building, which houses a variety of rustic tearooms of Kyoto was preserved. A cultural and spiritual hub, Kyoto today is a living museum of Japanese tradi- with plain clay walls. The unadorned architecture con- tions, among them the ancient tea ceremony. The city is home to Japan’s three prominent chadō schools, veys the dignity of the family’s ancestry of tea masters. including the institution known as Urasenke. The building’s overall aesthetics mirror those of the Konnichian: “Hut of This Day” Japanese chadō itself — simplicity, subtlety, and a deep A light spring rain is falling on Kyoto’s traditional sense of regard for nature and human fellowship. wooden buildings with curving, elongated roofs, and its lush bamboo thickets are shrouded in mist, adding Inside a small tearoom, sliding doors made of a mystical air to the tranquil gray surroundings. wooden lattice and covered in a translucent Japa- Sen lives at the historical Urasenke Konnichian (Hut of This Day) tearoom compound on Ogawa Street in nese paper allow natural light to filter in from the Kyoto. Home to the Urasenke chadō tradition, the es- tate was established in 1646. gardens just beyond. A lacquered black table cut low The cedar-roofed entry gate resembles a samurai to the floor stands toward the back and is set with helmet. From the gate, visitors follow a stone path that tea-making implements. In the center of the room lies 34  ROTARY  AUGUST 2022 a hearth where glowing charcoal keeps the chill of the March morning at bay. A lone incandescent lamp bathes the room with soft light, creating a solemn and mysterious atmosphere. Finally, Sen, dressed in a gray robe, strides into the room, standing straight and putting his visitor at ease with his cheerful and sonorous laughter. Stand- ing straight at 5 feet, 10 inches, he radiates the dig- nity of character for which he is known. His thick gray hair is combed neatly to the back, rendering his long eyebrows more prominent. His eyes exude gentility and warmth. One is intensely aware that Sen, having turned 99 in April, has witnessed many turbulent events of the 20th century. He is an oracle of history. One couldn’t help bowing to his wisdom, vision, and humanity.

“ I have inherited the time of my comrades. ... They transferred their lives to me. For their sake, I must persevere, live well, and live long enough to fulfill my destiny.”

Urasenke traditions meet Rotary values The conversation starts with Rotary. “I tell you, Ro- chartered at the time of Japan’s economic takeoff. The unbridled pace of economic development was poised tary is a large part of my life,” he says, his eyes spar- to threaten our city. Many historical monuments and cultural sites faced demolition, and our environment kling. “My father introduced me to Rotary in 1954, suffered severe damage.” when I was 31. I had a feeling that I would never be Sen and his fellow Rotary members reached out to the media to educate the public and businesses able to live my life without it. Rotary’s values fit per- about the importance of preserving historical sites and the environment. His club hosted symposiums, fectly with the tenets of our Urasenke chadō tradition, inviting politicians, businesses, and civic leaders for policy discussions. As a result, they were able to stop such as Wa (harmony), Kei (respect), Sei (purity), and or divert construction projects that could have dam- aged or even erased Kyoto’s historic character. “We be- Jaku (tranquility). Therefore, as soon as my father came a strong community voice, and the Rotary Club of Kyoto-South quickly gained the trust and support spoke to me about the philosophy of Rotary, I already of the people,” he says. considered myself a member. Not long after, I joined In 1964, upon the death of his father, Sen acceded to the position of Urasenke grand master, representing the the Rotary Club of Kyoto. I remember some senior 15th generation in the Urasenke line. Despite his new re- sponsibilities, he remained a dynamic member of Rotary members telling me that Rotary should not be a place and was elected president of the Rotary Club of Kyoto. for merely fun and enjoyment, but a place for self- “We expanded the influence of Rotary in the Kansai region of Japan,” he recalls. “We raised funds at our cultivation, for learning, and for serving our commu- meetings to assist people in need, both in Japan and other parts of the world. We had cultural exchange pro- nity. These words ring in my ears to this day, motivat- grams and joint projects with clubs in other countries. Our club established a scholarship program called ing me to dedicate my life to service and to reach out Winds of Hope for international students who come to study in Japan. At the same time, I took groups of into the unknown and face challenges.” young Japanese to countries around the world, meet- ing with government officials, royal family members, At times Sen appears to be savoring a memory, “Sharing this bowl especially when recalling key Rotary events in which of tea with others, he’d participated. His voice rises as he leans forward, they, too, become sharing experiences as if he were unwrapping family one with it and treasures. nature. We can “In 1954, I helped charter a new club in Kyoto — find a lasting the Rotary Club of Kyoto-South,” he says. “Many tranquility in our prominent people in the community joined. I real- own selves in the ized that to grow Rotary, we had to take action to company of others.” help our community. Our accomplishments needed also to be recognized by our Sen makes a ritual community. That was very tea offering in prayer important. Our club was for peace at Angkor Wat, Cambodia. PHOTOGRAPHS: COURTESY OF THE URASENKE FOUNDATION 36  ROTARY  AUGUST 2022

The goodwill ambassador TOP: Sen introduces chadō to Sheikh Genshitsu Sen headed the Urasenke family and Mohammed bin Zayed its chadō tradition for 38 years as Sōshitsu Sen, Al Nahyan, president the traditional name carried by the head of the of the United Arab Urasenke family. He transferred the name to his Emirates. eldest son in 2002. BOTTOM: Sen explains the traditional art Under Genshitsu Sen’s leadership, Urasenke objects employed in established chadō learning centers and local chadō to then-U.N. associations for its followers in more than 100 Secretary-General Kofi cities around the world. In the 1970s, a scholarship Annan and his wife, was created to welcome non-Japanese students Nane Maria. to a program now based at the Urasenke professional college in Kyoto. So far, more than AUGUST 2022  ROTARY  37 400 scholarship recipients from other countries have studied there. “We hope that chadō will bring the hearts of all people in the world together,” Sen says. Upon his retirement, Sen began devoting more time to peace missions. He was selected as a Goodwill Ambassador for UNESCO, Japan- UN Goodwill Ambassador, and chairman of the board of the Rotary Foundation Japan. In 2020, he received France’s Ordre National de la Légion d’honneur, with the rank of Commandeur. “With a tea bowl in my hand, I have traveled to 63 countries and regions in Europe, America, Asia, and Africa,” he says. “I have introduced the philosophy and culture of chadō to many heads of state, secretaries-general of the UN, members of the U.S. Congress, royal family members in Europe, and UNESCO officials. Chadō is my means, a tool that calls for world peace and respect for the humane hearts and minds of human rights.” Edwin Futa, a past general secretary of Rotary International, has participated in many chadō functions in Japan. He says that ceremonies conducted by Sen carry a powerful message of healing divisions and creating peace. In the 15th and 16th centuries, when samurai warlords started to fight for control of Japan, Futa says the Zen concepts of harmony and respect embodied in chadō helped forge consensus among rivals. When a samurai returned from the battlefield, he would remove his armor and sit down to seek inner peace with a bowl of tea prepared in the chadō manner, Futa says. Since the tearooms had tiny entrances, one had to crawl to enter. Members of the ruling class, who always carried swords with them, had no choice but to remove their swords from their waists. “Such rules meant that you leave your weapons and ego behind,” Futa says. Chadō cleanses the mind and promotes humility and courtesy, no matter a person’s personality — a tearoom will calm even a feisty and aggressive heart, says Sen. “Chadō emphasizes self-cultivation and teaches practitioners to cherish life and respect others,” he says. “It is not a ritual or a performance. The practice comprises a philosophy that can easily be understood and accepted by the world. We all like to drink tea. When sitting at a tea table, there is no difference between the world’s high and low, every individual is equal. Every country and every culture are treated equally.”

and civic leaders. Regardless of where we’d go, whether After a brief moment, the silence ends. The cloud there were Rotary clubs there or not, we would always lifts. Sen opens his arms with a smile and says with the promote the Rotary philosophy and convey our mes- enthusiasm of a young man: “Because of the loss, I feel sage of peace and harmony.” that Rotary is my family. It relieves me of my loneliness and makes me feel cherished. Whenever I attend club Sen’s work gained him wide recognition in the activities and meet with young Rotary members, I feel Rotary world. He served as a Rotary International especially close to them, as if I were at home with my director from 1988 to 1990 and a Rotary Foundation children. I thank Rotary and the chadō for making me trustee from 1998 to 2002. In 2003-04, he chaired the young and giving me love and energy.” committee for that year’s Rotary International Con- vention in Osaka. The convention drew more than Drinking tea with the master 45,000 people from around the world, setting an at- tendance record. Promoting peace was a dominant As for the secret of his longevity, Sen says he neither theme; Sadako Ogata, a former Rotary Ambassado- smokes nor drinks. When he was young, he dabbled rial Scholar and United Nations High Commissioner in martial arts (judo) and trained for many years as an for Refugees, told the audience that her experiences equestrian. In 1967, he was chosen as a reserve rider as a scholar helped her understand the causes and for Japan’s national equestrian team, and he has long consequences of conflict. served as president of the Japan Equestrian Federa- tion. In 2008, he accompanied the Japanese equestri- A life to honor those lost ans to the Summer Olympics in Beijing. Sen’s peacebuilding mission was born of his experi- In all these endeavors, “tea drinking calms my mind,” he says, while demonstrating the Urasenke style of tea ence in World War II. In 1943, he was a sophomore at making. “When my mind is quiet, I read books, which enriches my knowledge and helps me concentrate.” the Kyoto-based Doshisha University when he entered Our tea prepared, Sen asks, “How is the taste?” the Imperial Japanese Navy’s air force. A year later, The lustrous concoction comprises a thick foam over the dark mixture of powdered green tea beneath. in October 1944, with Japan losing the war, the navy There is a sweetness in the astringency. Each sip began forming the Special Attack Force. According to the Mainichi Shimbun, a newspaper in Japan, Sen joined 200 of his comrades in training for suicide missions designed to sink enemy ships with aircraft filled with explosives. Sen feared that he would soon suffer a tragic fate, as had one of his ancestors, Sen no Rikyū, who was ordered by a 16th century feu- dal lord to perform the samurai ritual of seppuku, a self-disembowelment and painful death. On the day appointed for his suicide run, as Sen was braced for death, a superior officer, out of the blue, scratched Sen’s name off the mission roster. The officer ordered him to stand down despite his repeated pleas to join his comrades. Instead, Sen was dispatched to a military unit in western Japan. After the war, Sen met with a former senior officer and asked why he had been spared. The officer replied, “Think of it as your des- PHOTOGRAPH: COURTESY OF THE URASENKE FOUNDATION tiny.” This is the burden Sen now carries with grace. “It was a terrible feeling to have survived,” he says. “My fellow officers and friends died, and my wife also passed in 1999, leaving me alone. For this reason, I often have an inexplicable feeling that I have inherited the time of my comrades and those who should have lived. They transferred their lives to me. For their sake, I must persevere, live well, and live long enough to fulfill my destiny.” Sen tilts his head upward and closes his eyes. An aura of sadness replaces his good Sen served in the humor as joy surrenders to a former Imperial sense of loss and the isola- Japanese Navy’s air tion of old age. force division during World War II. 38  ROTARY  AUGUST 2022

Japanese tea ceremony The Japanese tea ceremony ( , chadō or “the Way of Tea”) is a comprehensive cultural practice that embraces the arts, religion, philosophy, and social life. It is a ceremonial way of preparing and drinking green tea, typically in a traditional tearoom with a tatami floor. Guests can enjoy a host’s hospitality in an atmosphere removed from the bustle of everyday life. Tea was introduced to Japan in the 8th century from China as a medicinal beverage mainly drunk among Buddhist monks and the upper class. It was not until the 14th century that the beverage gained popularity among people of all social classes. Around the same time, a more refined version of tea parties developed with Zen-inspired simplicity and a greater emphasis on spirituality. From these gatherings, the tea ceremony has its origins. The father of the modern Way of Tea was Sen no Rikyū (1522-91), who advocated an austere, rustic simplicity. Most of today’s schools of tea ceremony, including Urasenke, Omotesenke, and Mushakōjisenke, developed from his teachings. Over the past centuries, masters of tea ceremonies have elevated tea preparation and drinking to an art form. A traditional venue is surrounded by a garden; the tranquility and simplicity encourage a calm spirit. A stone lantern is placed close to a stone basin near the entrance, where visitors wash their hands. The ceremony is traditionally held in a tatami room. Guests bend to enter through a low entrance, which symbolizes humility. Decorative elements include an alcove (tokonoma) where a scroll or seasonal flowers are displayed. After a bow, guests ideally sit in a seiza kneeling position on the tatami floor. The host typically prepares the tea in front of the guests. The main equipment includes the tea whisk (chasen), tea container for the powdered green tea (natsume), tea scoop (chashaku), tea bowl, sweets container or plate, and the kettle and brazier. Japanese sweets are served before tea and are supposed to be eaten before the tea is drunk. The tea bowl is placed onto the tatami mat in front of you. Pick the bowl up with your right hand and place it on your left palm. With your right hand, turn it clockwise 90 degrees so that its front is no longer facing you. Drink the tea in a few sips and place it PHOTOGRAPHY: ALYCE HENSON/ROTARY INTERNATIONAL back onto the mat. Bow and express gratitude after receiving and finishing your tea. Toward the end of the ceremony, there will be time to inspect and appreciate the tea bowl by lifting it. Once finished, turn the bowl so that the front now faces the host. Tea ceremonies of varying degrees of formality and authenticity are offered by many organizations across Japan, including at some traditional gardens, culture centers, and hotels. Kyoto and Uji are among the best destinations. These images depict Adapted from an article in scenes from a formal Japan-guide.com tea ceremony in 2011 at Okura Tokyo hotel.

brings a new sensation, the taste luxurious but refined At the Hotel Okura with a distinct flavor of the season. Kyoto, Sen addresses a group of Rotary The talk turns to Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. Sen members about had been invited to address a group of 200 young Ro- humanitarian relief tary members at the Hotel Okura in Kyoto about hu- efforts in Ukraine. manitarian relief efforts undertaken by Japanese clubs and districts. “The tragedy of my early years is repeat- time provides the opportunity for Rotary to expand ing itself,” he sighs. “The political leaders in Russia our influence and gain the support of our community. have launched an unprovoked war against Ukraine, We need to get more young people to join Rotary and despite the condemnation of the international com- our peace mission.” munity. I always wonder what Rotary can and should do during such difficult times. We have to do some- While donations to help the people of Ukraine are thing to prevent another global war.” important, Sen believes that moral and spiritual sup- port are equally needed. “Young people need to be Sen pauses for a moment, deep in thought. He more vocal in their opposition to wars,” he says. “We raises his tea implement as if he were holding a shield must not forget about those who died during World to protect the world from war. What can be done to War II. We are here today because of their sacrifice.” secure peace for the future? He says the question al- ways weighs heavily on his heart. His faith rests with It is approaching noon. The morning mist has dis- the younger generation. sipated. A ray of sunshine announces itself by lighting up the shoji paper of the sliding doors. The damp air, “In the past, I was most worried about our envi- along with the lingering fragrance of fresh soil and ronment and climate change,” he says. “I was run- new plant life in the garden, reinforces the sense of ning around and calling for human coexistence with serenity that envelops the place. nature. Now, however, the situation is even worse. First, it was COVID-19. Then, the war in Ukraine. Through Rotary and his profession as a tea master, Some misguided leaders are even threatening the Sen seems to have found the perfect vocation — work- world with nuclear weapons. This should worry ing tirelessly to secure peace and understanding while every citizen, especially young people. This trying also seeking to avoid any conflict that could lead to the horror of another world war. 40  ROTARY  AUGUST 2022 “He is not only a master of the Urasenke tea tradi- tion, but also a spiritual leader of Rotary in Japan,” says Futa. “His existence is a miracle in itself, and his life is a reminder of the infinite possibilities of life.” Go Tamitami is a Tokyo-based writer and TV producer.

Our dreams become reality Take action to: when we engage and build — Imagine DEI. Expanding Our Reach: partnerships that can Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion change the world — Imagine a Welcoming Club Experience: Comfort and Care — Imagine Impact: Expanding Rotary’s Reach Media Tour — Empower Girls Learn more: rotary.org/initiatives22-23

Rotaract pride AUSTRALIA MROCUNOALTENTAYURRYE, S Meagan Martin, Rotary Club of Gold Coast Passport, and editor of Rotary Down Under Australia is one of the most successful multicultural societies in the world, and one of the most accepting of the LGBTQ+ com- munity. About half of the country’s current population was either born overseas or has at least one foreign-born parent. Australia legalized same-sex marriage in December 2017. Rotary and Rota- ract clubs reflect the changing communities and have enthusias- tically embraced RI’s policies on diversity, equity, and inclusion. For example, in Brisbane, the capital of Queensland, the Rotary Club of Woolloongabba has supported LGBTQ+ organizations such as the Queensland Council for LGBTI Health and Open Doors Youth Service. In 2020, the club helped charter the Rotaract Club of Wool- loongabba Pride, which supports the local LGBTQ+ community. Meanwhile, in 2020-21, District 9640, which has redefined the boundaries of club development, chartered five Rotary clubs, two Rotary satellite clubs, three Rotaract clubs, one Interact club, and one Rotex club. “We added 383 new members to our 58 Rotary clubs in 365 days,” said Past District Governor Andy Rajapakse. “Sixty- three percent of them were female and 24 percent were under 40.” Currently, there are about 25,000 Rotarians across 1,000 Rotary clubs in Australia. The country has about 70 Rotaract clubs with a combined 900 members. The Rotaract Club of Woolloongabba Pride celebrates diversity, equity, and inclusion. Each club’s camaraderie PHOTOGRAPH: COURTESY OF ROTARY DOWN UNDER and service are rooted in its unique community CROSS COUNTRY DISTRICTS Rotary is both an international Grant Daly, past governor of District 9400 organization and a local community leader, with its 1.4 The three Rotary districts that Members of Rotary clubs in million passionate members span South Africa (9350, 9370, and urban areas have traditionally been providing service through more 9400) also include six neighboring industry executives who are more than 48,000 clubs worldwide. countries — Angola, Botswana, Es- formal. Rural clubs have historically While all Rotary and Rotaract clubs watini, Lesotho, Namibia, and part attracted mostly medium and small are grounded in the same values, of Mozambique. Within these three business members who are very so- no two are the same, because each districts are more than 200 Rotary cial and less formal. community has unique needs. clubs and 3,600 Rotarians. The dis- tricts have about 60 Rotaract clubs However, both urban and rural Insa Fölster of Rotary Magazin, and 640 members. clubs are constantly changing as the Rotary publication for they strive for diversity and gender Germany and Austria, recently surveyed people in the Rotary world to discuss Rotary culture in their countries. Those six accounts are reprinted here, along with new glimpses of the Rotary culture in Ukraine and the United States. 42 ROTARY AUGUST 2022

Since 2016, Brazil has AN ARMY OF led the Rotary world VOLUNTEERS in the number of GREAT BRITAIN AND IRELAND reported World Polio Dave King, Rotary Club of Day events. Gosport, England, and editor of Rotary magazine in Great Robust youth clubs BRAZIL Britain and Ireland Nuno Virgílio Neto, editor of Revista Rotary Brasil  England, Scotland, Wales, Northern Ireland, and the PHOTOGRAPH: COURTESY OF INSA FÖLSTER otary began in Brazil in 1923 with the founding of the Rotary Club of Republic of Ireland are five countries across two very R Rio de Janeiro. Today, there are about 2,400 Rotary clubs and 50,000 different islands in terms of their characteristics and cultures. Rotarians organized in 31 Rotary districts. Brazil has hosted three Ro- Yet Rotary members are all tary International Conventions: in Rio de Janeiro (1948) and São Paulo (1981 connected by the common bond and 2015). There have been three Brazilian RI presidents: Armando de Arruda of service. There are 38,653 Pereira (1940-41), Ernesto Imbassahy de Mello (1975-76), and Paulo Viriato Rotarians in the United Kingdom Corrêa da Costa (1990-91), whose Preserve Planet Earth program inspired and Ireland, reflecting a steady the creation of The Rotary Foundation’s new area of focus, the environment. decline in membership in recent decades. Of those, 21 percent are Due to Brazil’s territorial expanse and its diverse economic, social, and female, and the most common cultural characteristics, the country’s members range from people in business age range is 70 and over. RIBI to teachers and retirees. Membership in Brazil is growing with an influx of has 57 Rotaract clubs with a women, who now make up 30 percent of Brazilian Rotarians. And a hallmark combined 577 members. But of Rotary in Brazil is its clubs for young leaders. There are nearly 800 Rota- these are not typical times. With ract clubs, which total 8,500 members, as well as nearly 700 Interact clubs. clubs meeting online, fundraising opportunities are extremely Since the 1980s, Rotary has been a close partner with the Brazilian Min- limited. Rotary is searching for istry of Health in the fight against polio. The last wild polio case in Brazil new solutions. occurred in 1989, but Rotary members continue to volunteer at the annual National Immunization Days. Since 2016, Brazil has led the Rotary world in Since the start of the the number of reported World Polio Day events. pandemic, an estimated 12.4 million Britons volunteered in their SOUTHERN AFRICA communities, joined by millions more in the Republic of Ireland. equality. Women were not admitted economic opportunity, and peace In May 2021, RIBI launched its to Rotary until the 1980s, but the and conflict prevention. first Volunteer Expo, a two-day clubs in Southern Africa’s districts digital showcase. More than boast a 40 percent female Rotar- The Southern Africa region 5,500 people registered for the ian membership. In recent years, is very receptive to intercountry Expo, 40 percent of them Rotary the concept of flexible e-clubs and committees. To date, clubs main- members. The message of the satellite clubs is slowly gaining trac- tain close relationships with their Volunteer Expo was to make tion. Members focus on issues such counterparts in Asia, Europe, and volunteering more relevant as water and sanitation, malnutri- North America through youth ex- to the next generation and tion, early childhood development, changes, community projects, and provide opportunities that are joint conferences or webinars. compatible with the busy work lives of younger people. The post-pandemic challenge will be to welcome these future Rotary members into clubs now that they have a taste for volunteering. Rotary in the UK has also developed satellite clubs, passport clubs, and clubs that no longer meet formally for dinner, but perhaps at a café on Sunday morning with children in tow. AUGUST 2022  ROTARY  43

Service as a way of life INDIA Sneha Pathak, Rotary Club of Queen’s Necklace During the pandemic, Rotary members in hat better example of unity members, the club can undertake India delivered food to people in need. very large projects. A typical on- W in diversity could there be line fundraising appeal collects pledges totaling $50,000 within a than Rotary in India? In a few hours. In 2020, during the first country with 22 constitutionally wave of the COVID-19 pandemic, recognized regional languages and the club carried out a project worth several thousand dialects, Rotary almost $2 million to distribute 10 speaks only one language — that million meals to people in need. of Service Above Self. Indian festivals are usually cel- Today, India has about 4,500 ebrated with great joy. During Di- Rotary clubs and 177,000 Rotar- wali, the festival of lights, the en- ians, and 2,900 Rotaract clubs and tire club comes together for a gala 104,000 Rotaractors. The Rotary night. When the pandemic began, Club of Queen’s Necklace is lo- no physical meetings were held, cated in India’s financial capital, but Zoom meetings were well- Mumbai. Its members come from attended and featured speakers a wide cross-section of profes- from around the world. Members sions and businesses. There are a have also held virtual events, such healthy number of women in the as a magic show, a talent show, and 241-member club. Social initiatives workshops. Meanwhile, delicious and fellowship make up the club’s food baskets make their way to the culture and contribute to a strong homes of all members each month. connection between all members. With generous donations from Traditional and punctual JAPAN Kyoko Nozaki, editor of Rotary-No-Tomo At present, Japan has PHOTOGRAPHS: (INDIA) COURTESY OF INSA FÖLSTER; (JAPAN) COURTESY OF REIKO TOKIYAMA 84,604 members across 2,224 Rotary clubs. It also has 306 Rotaract clubs and 2,574 members. Many clubs hold a reg- ular one-hour meeting where they eat lunch and listen to an inspirational speech or presentation by an expert. Members in Japan are typically very punctual. They consider fellowship very impor- tant and sometimes hold evening meetings so they The Rotary Club of Kyoto-South hosts a project at Daigoji Temple in Kyoto. have more time to social- ize. For membership development, Rotary leaders infection, and distributed box lunches afterward. in Japan attach great importance to recruiting As the COVID-19 restrictions were gradually lifted, people who understand the philosophy and fellow- members looked forward to eating with their table- ship of our organization. mates and engaging with each other more freely. For example, the Rotary Club of Yokohama Rotary clubs in Japan participate in the Ro- (about 200 members) holds regular meetings at a tary Yoneyama Memorial Foundation scholarship prestigious hotel. Before the pandemic, members program, which awards scholarships to about 900 gathered around tables to enjoy a meal together. inbound foreign students each year. To date, Rotary After the pandemic began, they held their meet- Japan has supported more than 20,000 students ings in places with theater-style seating to avoid from more than 100 countries and territories. 44  ROTARY  AUGUST 2022

Oh Ukraine, my Ukraine UKRAINE Mykola Stebljanko, past governor of District 2232 and editor of Rotariets magazine in Ukraine Rotary’s commitment to peace has been on full In April, members of the Rotary Club of Lviv International, Ukraine, packed display in Ukraine. Thanks to the generosity of donors supplies for delivery to communities in need inside the country. around the world, The Rotary Foundation has raised more than $15 million in contributions that are helping provide people with essentials such as water, food, shelter, medicine, and clothing.   While many organizations raise money, Rotary is unique because our members are local. Rotarians and Rotaractors work at the front line, assessing the growing needs and helping deliver international humanitarian assistance to those who need it most. For example, the Rotary Club of Lviv is responsible for unloading and organizing relief aid from European countries, then facilitating its delivery to humanitarian hubs across the country. Some members of the Rotary Club of Kharkiv-International have traveled to border countries to help refugees adapt to their new situations. As people have witnessed Rotary’s extraordinary work, they have joined our organization to help. Between February and June, Rotary in Ukraine added about 100 members. A delegation of Rotary members from Ukraine made the long journey to Houston to be with their Rotary family at the Rotary International Convention in June, even though there were no commercial flights out of Ukraine due to the war. Their presence drew a rousing welcome at the opening ceremony. “WE’RE LIKE THE UNITED NATIONS” UNITED STATES John Hewko, RI’s general secretary and CEO, from a speech at the 2022 Rotary International Convention PHOTOGRAPH: COURTESY OF OREST SEMOTIUK Four years ago, the Rotary Club of 19 vaccines became available, club they were turning in applications Plano West, Texas, had 21 members. members handed out information and their friends were turning in Alex Johnson, the club’s 2020-21 about them in underserved com- applications to join the club.” president, acknowledged that its munities. But the project that trans- membership makeup at the time did formed the club was one in which And because of this effort in a not reflect the community that it they engaged even more with their predominantly African American served. The members had a median community — delivering meals di- and Latino neighborhood, people age of 67, only five were women, and rectly to families in need during the from across the community started he was the only person of color. pandemic. showing up to help. The club drew African American, Latino, and Although the club had estab- The impact was swift. As the LGBTQ+ members — and it also lished a reputation for service, it months passed, as Johnson recalled became younger. hadn’t positioned itself as a re- in a story in the August 2021 issue source for community action. So of Rotary magazine, “80 percent of Today, Plano West has more than the club members changed their the people who showed up to serve tripled its size to 65 members. Its approach. They began to distrib- on our projects weren’t members of median age is 49, and 57 percent of ute after-school meals to public the club. But they would show up its members are women. “We have school children, forming close ties two or three times and all of a sud- immigrant members from eight with teachers. They reached out to den, they’re like, ‘Well, this is kind countries,” Johnson told Rotary local police officers. When COVID- of cool.’ And before you know it, magazine in 2021. “We’re like the United Nations.” AUGUST 2022  ROTARY  45

UNITED IN FRIENDSHIP AND SERVICE he motive power of Rotary is ROTARY MEMBERS: A SNAPSHOT 65 Average 24% Percentage T friendship,” said Paul Harris in his age of of Rotarians male address to the Rotary convention 59 Rotarians 50% who are women Average Percentage held in Edinburgh, Scotland, in 1921. His age of of Rotaractors female who are remarks were greeted with a round of 25 Rotarians women Average age applause — and were endorsed 100 years of Rotaractors, male or female later by current members of Rotary. THE PANDEMIC’S IMPACT In the most recent annual survey of Rotary members, 45 percent of respondents cited friend- 50% District and club 65% District and ship as the reason they remain in Rotary, and 84 leaders who club leaders percent said they were satisfied with their ability to reported doing who reported connect with friends through Rotary. Meanwhile, fewer service raising fewer 42 percent of respondents cited the opportunity to projects during funds during make an impact on their communities as the rea- the pandemic the pandemic son they remained in Rotary — another response that would have delighted Rotary’s founder. Gathering this kind of information is one of the reasons we survey Rotary members every year. The 2021 all-member survey, which was conducted last fall by Rotary International and drew nearly 70,000 responses from Rotarians and Rotaractors, will contribute to the long-term success of Rotary’s Ac- tion Plan and its strategic initiatives. It also ensures that Rotary leadership understands and responds to the expectations and experiences of new and longtime members. On a more local level, clubs and districts can use this information to attract and engage new and current members. 93% 61%WHY MEMBERS STAY 59% 48.2 WHY MEMBERS LEAVE Rotary members Rotary who were either members Rotarians who Volunteer hours 61% very likely (78 who thought participated in (in millions) Percentage of Rotarians who joined percent) or rather their clubs global grants contributed Rotary in 2016 and had terminated likely (15 percent) had made by organizing by Rotary their membership by 2020. Why? to remain a a positive projects, members in member of their impact on their volunteering, a 12-month C lub does not represent club over the next communities and/or period ending my values 12 months donating in October 2021 Club’s lack of impact money Cost Personal circumstances Conflicts within club Time 46  ROTARY  AUGUST 2022

Rotary International’s recent member survey reveals where Rotary is today, while suggesting where it needs to go tomorrow What members like … and what they don’t like TAKEAWAYS about their clubs … FROM THE DATA V irtual meetings without in-person Friendship and fellowship interaction To engage new members, include L earning new things from guest Weak, unresponsive club leadership them in club speakers meetings, introduce P oor time management (starting or them to other club Interesting discussion topics ending meetings late) members, or invite them to serve in a O pportunities to get involved in the Cliques leadership role for a local community committee or project. Irrelevant, uninteresting guest speakers H ybrid meetings that allow clubs If cost is a burden, to host different speakers and Exclusivity and lack of diversity consider decreasing allow members who have difficulty membership dues or attending in person to participate Rituals and unneeded formalities like offering flexible prayers and songs membership options. 57% Rotary members who 63% Rotary members Diversify your said their clubs were who said they membership by primarily meeting online enjoyed their virtual inviting someone at the height of the club meetings, outside of your COVID-19 pandemic. but also reported immediate social That number has since missing personal circle to join your diminished to 12 percent. interaction club. 53% WHAT TO KNOW ABOUT As a member’s NEW MEMBERS comfort level Percentage of increases, so does Rotary members 82% their satisfaction as a who are very Rotary member, so informed about Percentage of new members who found ensure that members how clubs spend their clubs through friends, colleagues, feel welcomed, their dues or other members respected, and valued for who they are. 1-3 Number of meetings that most potential members attend before AUGUST 2022  ROTARY  47 deciding if they want to join the club 1-3 Period of years after joining a club in which new members are highly suscep- tible to terminating their membership.

REMOVING BARRIERS SAILING CHALLENGE DOWN UNDER GO GREEN LAST BITE OURCLUBS identified with my own values, and to meet “The club had a difficult birth,” says VIRTUAL VISIT people who think like me and to work to- Müller. “We thought that having a new gether, that was very interesting.” idea and being friends with a lot of Rotary Eco club experience, it would be received positively. draws “The historic clubs have lost a lot of Instead, there was a lot of opposition. Peo- members,” says Franz Müller, a past gov- ple didn’t want something different, which ‘members of ernor of District 2041. “In the last few they said could distract people from their the future’ years, our district has lost 20 percent of activities. But in November, we received members.” our charter. And at the district conference Rotary Club of Eco Milano in May, the governor used our club as an Olderico Caviglia, a marketing special- example of the direction of the future of When Lorenza Mazzoni joined her first ist, was keenly aware of this problem. Five Rotary. So that made us happy.” Rotary club in 2017 in a small town out- years earlier, he had helped charter the Ro- side Milan, it had a sizeable membership tary Club of Milano Digital, which is an Members of the new club range in of around 45 people. Less than four years online club. age from 34 to 76. About half live in the later, the number had fallen by at least a Milan area, while others reside elsewhere third. “This has happened in many clubs “It’s a club that continues to function in Italy; there are also members in Poland in Italy,” Mazzoni says. “During the pan- well,” Caviglia says. “It was a success, but it and Switzerland. The club meets once or demic, I think it got worse.” lacked a purpose. Besides, we have to think twice a month in person and the rest of of who the members of the future are.” the time online. Mazzoni, who works in customer ser- vice at an international health care com- To determine who those members “We can meet more frequently, and pany, also left the club — but she didn’t might be, Caviglia conducted a survey of we can be more agile with the things that leave Rotary. Instead, she joined the new more than 1,000 young people, including need to get done by meeting on Zoom,” Rotary Club of Eco Milano, Italy, one of a Rotaractors, Interactors, and university says Mazzoni. growing number of clubs in nontraditional students. formats dedicated to a particular issue or The core of the club’s identity is pro- cause — in this case, the environment. “Out of the 1,000, only four said they moting environmental sustainability, The new club began in late 2021 with 24 would belong to a traditional club,” he with the United Nations’ 2030 Agenda members, including 11 who were new to states. “They also said they would be in- for Sustainable Development serving as Rotary. What drew the newcomers also terested in a thematic club on the environ- an overall framework. The current focus drew Mazzoni, who became the club’s ment, and a smart club — figital, a mix of of its members is on plastics. charter president. physical and digital.” “I’m a chemical engineer,” says Müller, “The idea of identifying with a cause,” By mid-2021, he and Müller had pro- “and I had begun to occupy myself with she says, “resonated with my personal posed such a club: Eco Milano. the problem of plastics because they re- ideals. And the idea of having a club that main in the environment forever if they “We didn’t decide to do a club just to are not recovered and treated.” create a club,” Caviglia says. “We started a club responding to the specific requests The club is working on a series of infor- of those who are the future members. mational videos and publications aimed The world of Rotary is born and dies at different age groups to educate them with clubs that bring people together. So about plastic use. clubs have to think about who those fu- ture members are.” Like many clubs in Europe and beyond, the Eco Milano club is responding to the Not everyone was so excited to see this new club. 48  ROTARY  AUGUST 2022