D-2452 DG's Newsletter March 2022

District 2452 Governor’s Newsletter March Edition

District 2452 Governor’s Monthly letter .” Dear fellow Rotarians, Rotary International has designated March as Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene month to bring greater awareness and support for these critical needs. Clean water, safe sanitation, and healthy hygiene are basic human needs, but millions of people throughout the world – including in our own communities – do not have access to resources to meet these basic needs. Water and sanitation is one of the seven areas of focus of The Rotary Foundation. Our giving to The Foundation and accessing grants to improve water and sanitation should be a key focus of each of our Clubs. Water and Sanitation District committee is an important source of information and Chair, PDG Jamil Mouawad is always ready to help. He has significant experience in water and sanitation through our signatory project in Lebanon. During my club visits I was able to visit many projects and see at first hand the huge difference Rotarians in our District have made, and continue to make. It is pleasing to see that so many of our Clubs are involved in this important area of human need, whether funding wells, providing water tanks and reticulation, offering solutions to make water safe, installing toilets, establishing rainwater harvesting systems, or building reservoirs and dams. Clean water is a basic human right that many are often denied. Nearly 1400 children die each day from diseases caused by lack of sanitation and unsafe water. When people have access to clean water, they live healthier and more productive lives. One of significant events of February was RI President Shekhar Mehta and Rashi’s visit to Rotary Majlis at Dubai EXPO 2020. RIP honoured us with personal visit as District 2452 and Rotary International received a gift by UAE Rotary Clubs of an exceptional promotional tool to public image and membership attraction by promoting our principles practices and activities. In February we celebrated the Charter of one new club in UAE named RC Dubai Down Town and the start of a new provisional club named Dubai Universe. I would like to congratulate our new clubs and wish them a successful start to serve our community with sustainable projects and impressive programs. I am sure the leader’s wisdom will bring the clubs to great heights. We also conducted successful online DTTS 2022-2023 and a couple of PETS in person. I wish IDG George and his team a very productive year ahead. Dear friends only two months left before District 2452 9th Conference start. We couldn’t meet in person last 2 years because of pandemic, this year I do hope that we’ll have a chance meet physically and enjoy the company of friends across district and beyond. I would like to encourage you to fit May 19-22 in your busy schedule and come to Yerevan. You’ll be really surprised by the hospitality of Armenian people and enjoy your time there. Stay safe DG Ashot Karapetyan

RIP Shekhar Mehta’s Presidential Message We have overcome so many challenges these past two years and changed numerous lives. It brings me great joy that we have worked so hard this year to grow Rotary through the Each One, Bring One initiative. The result has been excellent growth in membership. Let us keep up the momentum. I am happy that you have put a spotlight on all we do by organizing projects around the world in our Rotary Days of Service. The future looks brighter than ever for Rotary and our 1.4 million members. On 11 March 2020, the World Health Organization declared that COVID-19 constituted a pandemic, and two years later it is important that we continue to draw on our expertise in our disease prevention and treatment area of focus to help people worldwide cope with the continuing challenges. The pandemic continues to defy all expectations, but we cannot be frozen in fear. Our work is too important. It is also important that we make time for each other, and I urge you to register for the upcoming 2022 Rotary International Convention in Houston. It is a great way for all of us to safely celebrate Rotary service. We can continue to build hope and spread peace in the world by using our resources to help the most vulnerable and keeping our faith in the future. The pandemic has had an especially devastating impact on girls worldwide. On the first anniversary of the pandemic, Henrietta Fore, the executive director of UNICEF, said that “immediate action is needed to mitigate the toll on girls and their families.” This need, unfortunately, remains just as strong a year later. The ripples of the pandemic have affected girls in unique ways — stunting their educational attainment, weakening their job prospects, and contributing to other terrible results such as child marriages and increased human trafficking. Data from UNICEF reveals why our action is so essential. In the 2010s, important progress was made toward eliminating the practice of child marriage, and UNICEF estimates that 25 million such marriages were averted worldwide. Unfortunately, the pandemic reversed those positive trends, and as a result an additional 10 million girls are vulnerable to becoming child brides by the end of this decade. This is why our focus on Empowering Girls is such vital work, and I am delighted that at this year’s virtual International Assembly, President-elect Jennifer Jones committed to continuing this initiative for another year. In my travels, I have witnessed many wonderful examples of club projects that back our Empowering Girls goals. But all Rotary members know that real change requires big efforts sustained over many years. This is the power of our global grants and actions taken within our areas of focus. I encourage clubs to think of innovative ways to empower girls when designing their grant projects. Every step we take to improve education, health care, and economic opportunities for girls makes an important difference in helping them achieve their full potential. With opportunity we create hope, and with hope we address the root causes of conflict around the world, setting the stage for sustainable peace. None of us know how long the COVID-19 virus will linger — and as an organization that has worked tirelessly for decades to eradicate polio, we understand better than most the difficult work that lies ahead for the world. That is why we need to remain focused on the future and on what is possible — not feeling nostalgic for the way our lives were, but looking hopefully to a future that uses this opportunity to Serve to Change Lives. I look forward to continuing this good work with you.

March 2022 John F. Germ Trustee Chair 2021-22 In the mid-18th century, Benjamin Franklin wrote: “When the well’s dry, we know the worth of water.” Right now, in the 21st century, many of us take water for granted because we have been fortunate to live in places where clean water is plentiful. But that’s not the case for millions of others around the world. The United Nations estimates that 2 billion people — about 1 in 4 people on the planet — lack safely managed drinking water. Just under half of the world’s population lives without access to safely managed toilets and sanitation systems, and nearly a third lacks basic hand washing stations with soap and clean water. Isn’t it astounding that, in an age of instant information and space tourism, we still haven’t managed to guarantee the necessities of water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH) to so many? Rotary is doing something about it; WASH projects are among the most funded within our areas of focus: Since 2014, Rotary clubs have carried out more than 2,100 global grants related to WASH by using $154 million in Foundation funding, impacting countless people. In addition, Rotary’s WASH alliance with USAID, more than a decade strong, is considered Rotary’s largest partnership outside of PolioPlus. Rotary and USAID have committed a combined $18 million in WASH funding to large-scale strategic efforts at the national level in countries such as Ghana and Uganda. The partnership unites the technical expertise of USAID’s development professionals with the local leadership and advocacy of Rotary members to find workable, sustainable WASH solutions in hundreds of communities. You can learn more at riusaidwash.rotary.org. The theme of World Water Day, 22 March, is Groundwater: Making the Invisible Visible. This is an opportune time for clubs to learn more about WASH issues and take action collectively to create and sustain momentum for expanding access to universal WASH services. Rotary members can bring attention to the WASH challenges that impact us locally by sharing the stories, experiences, and WASH needs of those we serve globally. We can be proud of the work that Rotary clubs and our Foundation continue to do to provide communities with clean water and working sanitation and hygiene systems. But let’s not stop there. This month, let’s look out for our neighbors around the world whose wells are running dry or who lack toilets or soap. Rotary has the resources, partnerships, and passion to improve WASH services for millions in need worldwide. And most important, we have the people who can make it work — you and me.

MARCH-is Water and Sanitation Month Clean water, sanitation, and hygiene education are basic necessities for a healthy environment and a productive life.

Rotary International President EXPO2020 Visit Margarita Poposka DRRE 2022-2023 Dear fellow Rotarians, Rotaractors and Interactors of District 2452, It is with immense pleasure and excitement that I’m getting closer to overtake the position as District Rotaract Representative for RY 2022-2023 to continue the success of our amazing District Leadership. Guided by the vision to Elevate Rotaract, we have an exciting year ahead to implement and update Rotaract policies to reflect the new status and create an inclusive, innovative, and flexible membership experience. You are a Rotarian whether your club is called Interact, Rotaract, or Rotary. To experience a true membership in any formation you need to get engaged and find your heart at service. When we bond we make the impact bigger and this is exactly what we will be working on with DGE George Azzar and the District teams of both Rotary and Rotaract. We didn’t need to wait for Rotary international to tell us we need to collaborate. We already did! Let’s just escalate it to a more strategic plan and accelerate our common vision together. Rotaractors have always been an important factor for the Rotary Family and shifting it to a new membership type under Clubs instead of just program gives Rotaract many another ways to showcase its impact and synergize the involvement. Recognizing and allowing Rotaract Clubs to apply for Global Grants is also a new major step, as we already come from a strong platform of sustainable and impactful recognizable projects, especially in our District. The dual membership is a strong bond between Rotaract and Rotary in order to bridge the membership gap that provides young leaders like us with expanded opportunities, enhanced professional and personal development and growth within our ambitions. It enables Rotary to learn from our innovative ways as well, to be open for our energy and to accept our enthusiasm - all for the benefit of the community. Over the next period we need to work on strategies for cultivating this relationship, including the dual membership, joint meetings, service projects and more. It is this connection that will prepare us for the upcoming Rotaract journey and will create life-long Rotarians after. I consider myself as a product of Rotary, as I was a Rotary Exchange Student. After I had opportunity to charter a new Rotaract Club, later be a President once again and overtake various positions in the Clubs and the District. Rotary and Rotaract indeed changed my life and I will make sure to be a leader that will help many others to experience this benefit as well. Let us all stay connected with our vision, inspire our members and Clubs, continue to look after each other and continue to look after our communities with Service above Self! Yours in Rotaract, Margarita Poposka DRRE 2022-2023

Rotary International President EXPO2020 Visit On Saturday 26th of February we had the great honor of hosting RIP Shekhar Mehta and his spouse Rashi Mehta at our Rotary Majlis of Friendship. The visit began with a warm welcome from DDG Hassan Al Rais followed by a continental breakfast. After the breakfast, a presentation was given about Rotary in the UAE and Rotary's role at EXPO. During this visit we also had the great pleasure of hosting many PDG's, and DG Ashot Karapetyan where he gave a small appreciation for Rotary's great effort in UAE. Afterwards, dignitaries and guests began a tour around EXPO and its many attractive pavilions. The tour began with the UAE pavilion, where we had a deeper look into its roots and heritage and its growth and development over the years. Afterwards, we stopped by the Saudi pavilion where everyone got to see its many attractions that were displayed in such a beautiful and futuristic way. Moving on, everyone then moved to the Indian pavilion where we were welcomed with warm hospitality and an inspirational tour of the pavilion. Then, the last stop on the EXPO tour was the USA pavilion were we got to see all the different inventions and creations the USA had to offer. Overall, it was a very successful event here at the Rotary Majlis of Friendship that left everyone happy and delighted. https://www.rotaryexpo2020.com/post/rotary-international-president-expo2020-visit

Rotary International President EXPO2020 Visit Then, the last stop on the EXPO tour was the USA pavilion were we got to see all the different inventions and creations the USA had to offer. VIDEOS/click to watch/ Overall, it was a very successful event here at the Rotary Majlis of Friendship that left everyone happy and delighted. Click for more photos

20 Years of Rotary in The UAE GALA On February 27 2022, the Association of Rotary Clubs in the UAE hosted a GALA dinner celebrating the great milestone of being present for 20 years in the UAE. The gala was held at the Baniyas Ballroom in the Grand Hyatt Hotel and hosted over 300 attendees, including Interactors, Rotaractors, Rotarians and, Guests! Video/click to watch/ The event began with a speech from Past President, Pasquale Della Penna and was followed by a welcoming speech from our District 2452 Governor, Ashot Karapetyan. We were honored to host and listen to a speech from the Rotary International President, Shekhar Mehta! After this, the attendees were served with dinner as they watched the Celebration of 20 Years of Rotary in UAE video. Additionally, 2 new clubs were chartered and welcomed to the Rotary family, namely Rotary Club of Dubai Downtown and Rotary Club of Dubai Universe Overall, it was a great event with many visiting Rotarians from all around the world. We look forward to many more wonderful events! Click for more photos https://www.rotaryexpo2020.com/post/rotary-international-president-expo2020-visit

New Clubs in 2452 2 new clubs were chartered and welcomed to the Rotary family, namely Rotary Club of Dubai Downtown and Rotary Club of Dubai Universe.

News from Rotary International The future is inclusive Todd \"Bowtie\" Jenkins Rotary Club of Fayetteville, Arkansas Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) Task Force member 1You have worked with such companies as Walmart, Google, Facebook, American Airlines, and Kellogg’s. What can Rotary learn from these companies regarding DEI? There is no one right way or one-size-fits-all to make DEI (diversity, equity, and inclusion) work. As individuals and as an organization, we must understand that we are all on a journey. These big companies have done a great job of understanding the business case for practicing DEI — that the most diverse companies are more likely than ever to outperform less-diverse peers. Rotary must use its connections to continue to activate an inclusive growth-mindset and become something the world hasn’t seen before — an organization where inclusion is at the core of everything we think, say, or do. 2You speak to Rotary clubs and districts worldwide about DEI. Are there frequent questions you hear, and how do you address them? There are certainly some common themes. One common question is: \"Where do we start?\" This is a great first question. It is vital to assess your community, where you are at, and understand where you wish to go. Then, most important, build a plan to get there, and live out your plan in behaviors and actions. Another question is: \"How do we connect with diverse communities?\" This one should be so easy for Rotary because connection is all about building relationships — authentic relationships! Get to know people who are different from you, and partner with marginalized communities through service projects or meaningful events. A third, frequent question is: \"How do we get buy-in?\" This is where it is so important to make sure that DEI efforts extend to all activities and involve everyone. Make sure there is a commitment to the work at the highest levels of the club and district, and if you can, make sure all the goals have measurable results. 3As more clubs and districts work to set up specific committees to address DEI, what advice do you have for them? Don’t shy away from having hard conversations, but make sure you are able to answer two questions: Whom will this conversation benefit, and what are we looking to accomplish? We all come to these efforts differently, so we need to create spaces to listen and ask tough questions around representation, culture, systems, policies, and programs, all while avoiding the tendency toward shame and blame. I have learned to practice curiosity with compassion — looking to understand different views and perspectives. The more we practice these traits, the better we will become. 4How optimistic are you for the future of diversity, equity, and inclusion within Rotary? Hope is all we have, and it is part of why I believe Rotary is ready to do the work. Rotary brings hope every day to communities around the world. This work and commitment are not meant to always be exhausting. Yes, you will have challenging times and conversations. However, I have seen in my profession that small changes in DEI work can make a big difference. You should celebrate the small wins. COVID-19 has taught us so many lessons, including that of gratitude. So don’t forget to smile and enjoy the process of doing the right thing. — ARNOLD R. GRAHL

News from Rotary International President-elect Jennifer Jones’ office at Rotary International World Headquarters in Evanston, Illinois, feels different from those of her predecessors, but that’s in no way a result of the fact that on 1 July she will become Rotary’s first female president. On the wall hangs a recent gift from a friend — a black scratch-off map on which Jones can record every Rotary destination she visits during the next two years. It’s September, two months since she took office as president-elect, and on the map, only Chicago has been revealed — many planned events were canceled or postponed due to a rise in COVID-19 cases. Today, Jones is the only person on the 18th floor of One Rotary Center. There are no phones ringing, no fingers tap-tap-tapping on keyboards in the cubicles outside her door. One could do cartwheels through the Rotary boardroom and nobody would notice. You’re going to be Rotary’s first female president. What does that mean for Rotary? When I was selected, although the process was virtual, everybody went around the \"room\" to reflect on something that was said during the interview. One of the points that was repeatedly emphasized was that I was selected for my qualifications, not because of my gender. I didn’t enter the interview with gender being at the forefront of my thinking. However, I do think that for our organization, it was an incredibly significant moment. Diversity, equity, and inclusion is so important not only for Rotary but for our world. Maybe my nomination is happening at the right time. When I gave my acceptance speech at the 2021 virtual convention, I mentioned my 10-year-old niece during the opening. She had given me a drawing of herself that included the words, \"Different is always better. Different is me.\" I loved it and was so proud of her for proclaiming this statement, so much so, that I ended the speech using her exact words. [Being different is] nothing to apologize for. One of our core values is diversity, and this is another way that diversity is represented. It’s just that it took 117 years for that to happen. What does diversity mean for our organization? There is diversity in our Rotary world, but is there diversity in our own most immediate sphere, our own clubs? When we have diversity of thought, diversity of age, diversity of culture, diversity of gender, diversity of vocation, we bring that to the table. That is our secret sauce. That’s what allows us to solve things in ways that others can’t. We’re looking at it through that kaleidoscope of experience that we bring to the table. There are going to be clubs that say, \"No, we’re good. We’ve got diversity figured out.\" And maybe they do and maybe they don’t. But I think we are uniquely poised as an organization at this time in history to be the honest brokers of these kinds of conversations. Because we’re nonpolitical and nonreligious, we have the ability to host this type of dialogue and do it in a safe space where we respect each other. How will you redefine the role of Rotary president? I don’t know that I’m approaching the presidency from a perspective of change. I’m looking at it from the perspective of how we exist as a relevant organization in today’s culture and climate. How do we do things that are proactive and positive for our future? Maybe it’s a bit of a shift in what we’ve been striving for over the past several years, in terms of reaching specific demographics. Perhaps we need to walk it more authentically. If we’re going to ask more women to join our organization and we’ve seen negligible results, perhaps this is an opportunity to inspire others to look forward and say, \"If she can do it, so can I.\" If we’re looking for younger members and younger thinkers to be in our organization, then we need to exhibit that behavior. We need to showcase why it’s important to them — to make sure we’re giving people meaningful, intentional things to engage with in our organization. The biggest thing that I’m hoping I bring to the table is not gender but communication — how we communicate these things to our frontline members and others who are part of our family, to understand that being different right now is a good thing and that it doesn’t change who we are. Our DNA remains true. Our core values stay true. Those are things that don’t go out of style. But can we look at things through a little bit of a different lens right now? Read More

Rotary projects around the globe In response to the deepening humanitarian crisis in Ukraine, The Rotary Foundation has created an official channel for Rotary members around the world to contribute funds to support the relief efforts underway by Rotary districts and has designated its Disaster Response Fund as the main avenue for contributions. Now Rotary districts can transfer unallocated District Designated Funds (DDF) to support the Disaster Response Fund, directly supporting these Ukraine-specific humanitarian grants. All funds need to be received into the Disaster Response Fund by 30 April 2022 in order to qualify for use in support of the Ukrainian relief efforts. Although the Disaster Response Fund will be the main avenue for Rotary Foundation support, Rotary and Rotaract clubs are also encouraged to create their own responses to the humanitarian crisis in Ukraine. In addition to support provided through the Disaster Response Fund, the Foundation is coordinating with partners and regional leaders, exploring effective solutions to the increased humanitarian needs. We are in contact with the United Nations High Commission on Refugees – USA to prepare for and respond to the needs of those being displaced in Ukraine and to neighboring countries. ShelterBox, our project partner for disaster response, is in communication with Rotary members in Eastern Europe to explore how it may offer support with temporary transitional housing and other essential supplies. The Rotary Action Group for Refugees, Forced Displacement, and Migration is also mobilizing its resources to assist in this crisis. A million people have fled Ukraine and are in dire need of emergency aid. The United Nations estimates that number could grow to as many as 5 million people displaced. Rotary clubs in Europe and around the world have stepped up their relief work, some working on the ground to help displaced families. Rotary Projects Around the Globe March 2022 by Brad Webber Mexico About 150 Californians from District 5340 joined members of five District 4100 clubs in Baja California to raise six houses (and partially build another) for families in El Trébol, a rural community near the U.S.-Mexico border. Project Mercy, a San Diego nonprofit, installed cement slabs and cut much of the lumber in advance of the daylong burst of energy on 4 December. “It was awesome to see the two districts come together to help these people in need get a leg up in their lives,” says Kim Muslusky of the Rotary Club of Rancho Bernardo Sunrise (San Diego). The $52,000 project was funded by Rotary members.

Rotary projects around the globe United States Racial tension and sustained protests after the fatal shooting of a Black man by a sheriff’s deputy in August 2017 led to soul-searching in Thomasville, Georgia. Recognizing inequities in safety, education, and economic opportunity, local officials created a task force and looked to a trusted source of inspiration and knowledge — area Rotarians — to help tap the hidden potential of the community. In early 2019, Spark Thomasville, a business incubator, assembled its first class of a dozen budding businesspeople, drawing from minority communities. Members of the Rotary Club of Thomasville, including André Hadley Marria, governor-nominee of District 6900 and Spark’s current director, stepped up with workplace acumen and a $1,500 district grant. Six club members regularly mentor the participants, who aim to succeed in such fields as video production, beauty and nail salons, and catering. The result: nearly 30 entrepreneurs and 10 full- time businesses and counting. “One of the real stars is a husband-and-wife team who started grilling barbecue pork ribs at their home and selling them to their neighbors. They’ve progressed to having their own restaurant,” says Michael Bixler, another club member and coach in the program, which focuses on financial literacy, basic bookkeeping, and communication skills. Bulgaria Publicizing the plight of stray dogs and urging prospective pet owners to consider adoption, the Rotaract clubs of Varna and Varna Euxinograd International teamed for an event that featured 10 sociable dogs from a local shelter. The Lend a Hand — Save a Paw festival drew about 200 visitors, some with their own furry wards in tow, to the Sea Garden park in April 2021, reports Viktoria Harizanova, a project coordinator from the Rotaract Club of Varna, based in the Black Sea resort, Bulgaria’s third largest city. “The clubs prepared activities, a professional photographer, a dog training lecture, a handmade leash workshop, and entertaining games for all ages,” Harizanova says. The endeavor was overseen by about 10 Rotaractor volunteers and personnel from the Animal Hope Varna shelter and Presi Vet, a clinic that offers discounted spaying and neutering. Sales of greeting cards, leashes, and magnets, coupled with donations, raised more than $1,200 to fund about 45 spay/neuter procedures.

Rotary projects around the globe Nigeria Despite constraints forced by the COVID-19 pandemic the past two years, the Rotary Club of Lagos Island has provided more than 5,000 cataract surgeries through its vision camps, including 400 in October, since the project began in 2017. \"The members who visit the venue look over the files of patients, greet the patients, and interview them to make sure that all the treatments have gone well and that they were all provided with a fully free eye operation,\" says club member Hiro Rupchandani of the Mission for Vision, which is scheduled for this month in Lagos as well as in Kano, more than 500 miles northeast. The club also arranges lodging and meals for the patients around their surgeries during the two-week drives. The $80 cost per surgery is subsidized by businesses, club members, and Taiwan After COVID-19 struck, the Rotaract Club of Taipei saw an opportunity to use online analytics and video editing software to promote itself and help members connect amid severe curbs on social gatherings. “YouTube is a great tool to let more people know who we are around the world,” says club member Eric Lu. “We couldn’t host physical events, so we had a meeting to brainstorm about how to still make people know us,” he says. To spread the word, the group has recorded videos of guest speakers on topics including international relations and overseas work — major areas of interest for the club’s 17 members. Eleven of them filmed interviews about their experiences on the job and in Rotaract. Two potential members contacted the club after watching the videos. “The online marketing works,” Lu says.

Dear Rotarians, Thank you for helping Rotary take an important step toward becoming an organization that better embraces the needs and experiences of — and that better offers opportunity to — all of our members and participants. We were thrilled that so many of you — more than 31,000 members representing clubs all over the world — shared your thoughts and experiences by participating in the survey. Overwhelmingly, you told us that DEI is important to you and that you have a strong desire to make Rotary’s culture more diverse, equitable, and inclusive. We learned that: • Members are invested in making Rotary a more diverse, equitable, and inclusive organization in order to grow our membership and increase our impact. • Rotary’s current DEI policies and procedures vary by region, leading to inconsistent and inequitable experiences. • Members don’t have enough information or insight about our efforts to be more diverse, equitable, and inclusive. We discovered a lack of awareness about our DEI commitment statement, training courses, and webpage. • More than 25% of the survey respondents said they don’t know how to report discrimination or harassment at Rotary. • More than 30% of the survey respondents said they don’t believe that Rotary leaders are actively promoting DEI. • Members believe that leadership opportunities are limited for anyone who doesn’t fit the traditional profile of a Rotary leader. • The cost of joining Rotary remains an obstacle to retaining members, attracting new ones, and accurately representing our communities. • Younger members, particularly Rotaractors, said they don’t have a pathway to leadership and aren’t offered meaningful opportunities to get involved, showcase their ideas, or take part in making decisions because of their age or perceived lack of experience. What’s next? What we say and how we behave matter. While we know that free expression is important, we must take responsibility for how our words and actions may affect others. This is why the Board approved a new DEI Code of Conduct that outlines how Rotary members can contribute to creating and maintaining an environment that is collaborative, positive, and healthy for everyone. We have also introduced a process for members to address issues related to DEI. In cases where a discussion is not possible, or where the situation involves someone in a leadership role or from a different club, members can contact [email protected]. Rotary staff will review the information and follow up appropriately. Our efforts to improve diversity, equity, and inclusion are critical to the future of Rotary. Data from the private sector consistently demonstrates that companies that prioritize an open, welcoming environment for everyone are more highly regarded and more profitable. To grow Rotary and become a more dynamic organization, we must take DEI seriously. And thanks to you, we are doing that. Valarie Wafer Chair, DEI Task Force rotary.org/dei

Posted by: Dr Rami Sarkis PP RCBeirut Cedars (2017-2018) 2452 Medical and Wellness Group Chairman (22-25) On June 12th 2021 during the 2452 district conference held in Bahrain , PDG Mazen Al Umran officially declared the creation of the 2452 Medical and Wellness Group (“2452 MWG”) . This vocational Group will be a pillar of a humanitarian mission organized by health and wellness fellow Rotarians, from nine countries of the district with professional experience in the Medical and Medical related fields who share common Rotary values for supporting & promoting global health improvement through volunteering and networking. The goals of 2452 MWG are: Enhance Rotary’s impact and public image in district 2452. Unite likeminded Rotarians with a common vocational specialty and interest, from the District through Medical Scientific events and activities creating long lasting Networking fellowship and friendship. Provide support to district 2452 in planning and implementing large-scale Rotarian activities, bring technical and medical expertise, partners, funds, social events, scientific events and service projects. Give members and participants opportunities to engage in service activities outside of their own clubs, and countries in the district area. The 2452 Medical and Wellness Group is a proud chapter of H.E.W.R.A.G (Health Education and Wellness Rotary Action Group) https://hewrag.org/. The 2452 MWG is governed by a Board of Directors consisting of Directors from the nine countries of the District, the board respecting recognized Bylaws and Rules. Rami Sarkis – 2452 MWG Chairman (Lebanon) Lina Karaa (Jordan) Bharat Butaney (UAE ) David Kvirkveledze (Georgia ) George Papaleontiou (Cyprus ) Harb Al Omari (Bahrain) Suren Chirbakian (Armenia) Nadia Abdulhaq (Palestine) Membership in 2452 MWG is open to all members of Rotary Clubs (Rotarians), spouses of Rotarians, and members of Rotaract Clubs (Rotaractors) whose professions are in the Medical, Para Medical and Wellness (Medical related) fields in District 2452. Until today several virtual scientific lectures and meetings where held many and much more are yet to come, the most wanted and expected event is the First 2452 MWG Full Day conference which will be held on May 18th 2022, save the date and book your participation and seats.



D2452 CLUB NEWS Due to the critical situation Lebanon is going through, RC Tripoli-Maarad has distributed 100 Food boxes to the needy families in Tripoli. Thank you “Beirut Disaster Committee “ for funding the project. Rotary Club of Tripoli Cosmopolis celebrated the implementation of a project to provide the Fire Brigade of Tripoli with the necessary equipment: with 5 portable fire extinguishers, protective fire resistant gloves, and oxygen compressor, to combat various fire accidents, save lives and protect the environment, as part of sustainable development activities. The project was done in cooperation with the Polish Aid. Rotary Club of Amman CAPITAL continues it's club funded signature project of Free bi- weekly Dental Care in cooperation with volunteering PP Dr Samuel Kakish which was launched in 2015 where less fortunate patients are hosted and treated free twice a month on club campaign.

D2452 CLUB NEWS Within the framework of the joint cooperation between the Rotary Club of Manama, the Salmaniya Medical Complex and the Bahrain Society for the Care of Sickle Cell Patients, and within the permanent cooperation between the Society and the Ministry of Health to raise the quality of services provided to diabetic patients, the Rotary Club of Manama, in cooperation with the Sickle Society, presented the equipment of the Research Center in the presence of representatives of the Ministry of Health and the Center for Genetic Blood Diseases And training in the Center for Genetic Blood Diseases in its first and second stages. The National Initiative for Agricultural Development (NIAD) announced that it has received support from Rotary Club of Manama and Bahrain Duty Free for planting trees at Shaikh Salman highway on the eastern side of A’ali in the Southern Governorate. This is part of the national afforestation campaign “Forever Green” under the patronage of HRH Amira Sabeeka bint Ebrahim Al Khalifa.

D2452 CLUB NEWS THE RC of FAMAGUSTA CYPRUS “YOUR CAPABILITIES ARE NOT DEFINED BY YOUR GENDER” Under the initiative of the President of Rotary International Shekhar Mehta “Empowering Girls”, Rotary Club of Famagusta displayed a banner with the message “Your capabilities are not defined by your gender” at the football match between title contenders, Apollon - Limassol & Anorthosis - Famagusta, on Saturday 26th of February 2022. The match was televised and watched by over 100,000 football fans in Cyprus. The message that includes the Rotary Logo (seen better on TV) was given prominent exposure. Other TV programs and web newsletters have shown interest to promote the subject and our message. The Rotary Club of Salmaniya and the Manama Toastmasters Club have started the Youth Leadership Program on Sunday 13th February 2022. The event is an eight-week program designed for high school students to improve leadership and communication skills through practical experience. Six schools are involved in the program, with a total of 28 participants. The following schools are participating in the Youth Leadership Program: Naseem High School, Bahrain School, Sheikha Hussa Girls School, French School, Bayan Bahrain School. In observance with the month of February themed as Peacebuilding and Conflict Prevention month in the Rotary International calendar, the Rotary Club of Salmaniya along with Rotary Club of Adliya, Rotary Club of Seef Bahrain & Rotaract Club of Bahrain, organized a co- hosted virtual panel discussion on the topic of “Cultural Exchange” on Wednesday 16th of February. The invited guest panelist was: a member of the Shura Council H.E. Nancy Khedouri, UN Resident coordinator of the Kingdom of Bahrain Mr. Mohamed El Zarkani and Editor of AlBilad Newspaper Mr. Moanes Almardi; with the panel chair Dr. Dhafer Alumran. Many Rotary members from many clubs all over the world attended the session, making the total number of zoom participants 65 people.

D2452 CLUB NEWS Association of Rotary Clubs in Lebanon distributed 11 tons of infant formula to benefit the needy in different regions as well as the families of the military Friday 25 February 2022, the Association of Rotary Clubs in Lebanon presided by Mr. Joe Kanaan in collaboration with Rotary Club Beirut Cedars distributed 11 tons of infant formula, which it secured in cooperation with the Rotary clubs in Belgium and Italy. Needy families from different regions as well as the families of the military will benefit from it. The quantity in question included ten tons of baby milk shipped by sea from Belgium and was distributed in the presence of the Belgian Ambassador Hubert Cooreman. The shipment was secured with funding from the joint committee of the Rotary clubs in Belgium, Luxembourg and Lebanon headed by Sami Alouf, the Rotary Club of Brussels, and the joint committee of the clubs of France and Lebanon - Rotary District 1750, and the Rotary Club of London, while the CMA CGM Company donated the freight without any charges. The batch also included one ton of baby milk flown in from Italy and donated by the Rotary Foundation of Milan. The milk boxes were distributed to the twenty-eight Rotary clubs in Lebanon, which in turn delivered them to the beneficiary families. Part of the total amount was allocated to the Lebanese army and to two associations in Akkar and Donnye, which were previously identified by the donors. Thus, the total quantities of infant formula distributed by the Rotary Club of Beirut Cedars, the main Rotary club behind this initiative, rose to 24 tons in recent months. The milk was provided by donations from Rotary clubs in Lebanon and from different countries of the diaspora, such as Chile, Canada, Finland, Britain and France, in addition to Belgium and Italy, as well as contributions from friendly entities. Along the shipment was also received a donation of medical equipment and materials dedicated to the Rosary Hospital, from two Belgian hospitals: Fineghem, managed by Dr. Yves Fortem, and Sherik, managed by Dr. Nicolas Daoud, and the European-Lebanese Medical Association (SMEL). The Rotary Club Beirut Cedars’ president, Ronald Farra, who offered his warehouse and showroom for the storage and event that took place considered that \"these gifts represent the core of the Rotary values that form the guiding principles of the organization's culture, most notably \"service, diversity and integrity.\"

D2452 CLUB NEWS On February the 6th, the Rotary Club of Salmaniya in collaboration with Marafie Clinic arranged the Dermatology Health Program for a number of beneficiaries from the Bahrain Association of Parents & Friends of the Disabled, the first batch are 21 children with disabilities. This project falls under the Rotary Area of Focus of Disease Prevention and Treatment. Rotary Club of Bethlehem - Delivery of water cooler to SIRA School in Bethlehem and celebrating Christmas with their students and teachers. SIRA school aims to empower children with learning disabilities and dyslexia to actively take part in their society as independent individuals who enjoy their legal rights as stated in international laws This project on the 19th of February was conducted by RC Amman Jerash in cooperation with a local foundation; The Humanitarian Mercy Initiative. Food and basic necessities were distributed to targeted families accompanied by the lady members of the foundation. Rotary Clubs of Bahrain celebrated the 117th anniversary of Rotary International

D2452 CLUB NEWS





District 2452 ONLINE

District 2452 ONLINE

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2022 Rotary International Convention in Houston has been cleared for takeoff 4-8, June. We invite you and your organization to join nearly 30,000 global attendees to build awareness and generate leads at the live event in Houston. With a wide range of sponsorship possibilities, both onsite and virtual, our hope is that you join us next year to discover new and unique ways to engage the Rotary community. 2022 Rotary International Convention, 4-8 June Register now

We sincerely congratulate below mentioned clubs with their Charter Days. Go ahead, go stronger. Rotary Clubs of Amman West Beirut Cadmos Beirut Center Beirut Cedars Kyrenia Limassol Limassol Berengaria Cosmopolitan , Tbilisi Ambassador Yerevan International