February 2025

Happy February, Friends,

We welcome this all-too-brief month for all the good it brings. So many things to celebrate – Black History month, Valentine’s Day, President’s Day, and of course, the first signs of Spring. For Rotarians, it is also the month we recognize the importance of Peacebuilding and Conflict Resolution. One way in which we participate is through our strategic partnership with the Institute for Economics and Peace where Rotary trains members and peace fellows on the eight Pillars of Positive Peace. Another way that we can participate is through the nomination of individuals into our Peace Fellow program. Each year, Rotary awards up to 130 fully funded fellowships for peacebuilders from diverse backgrounds to study at one of our peace centers located at leading universities around the world. Last year, District 7680 was able to nominate three individuals for the Peace Fellow Program and all three were selected to become Fellows! Rotary has over 1,800 Peace Fellows now who go on to serve around the world, working in countless ways to build the foundation positive peace can bring to our communities and our lives. Please see the segment under District News for information on how you can nominate a deserving candidate!

The disaster which befell Western North Carolina is still with us and now is the time our assistance and support is most needed. Access to food is still a huge issue for certain areas. We recently applied for another grant from Zone to support Bounty and Soul in Black Mountain and we’ve had several different areas volunteer for active participation at their facility. The Salisbury Club even has their Interact Club registered for a day. We have also applied for a Zone grant to serve at a food bank in Boone called the Hunger and Health Coalition. We have been in conversations with the Boone Sunrise Club and District 7670 is excited about the potential partnership. We will of course, keep everyone apprised about the grant requests and the opportunities to serve.

And while on the same topic, we recently approved a $20,000 grant for our very own Rotary Club of Ashe County for provision to the Ashe County Recovery and Restoration non-profit which provides assistance through their Long-Term Recovery Group for individuals to repair homes. Hurricane Helene destroyed 151 homes in their area with 307 sustaining major damage. An additional 700 homes sustained minor damage. These funds will be used to help survivors recover some aspects of their homesteads.

Finally, please see the flyer inside for our upcoming District Conference. It will be held within our District this year with an emphasis on affordability and proximity. We want to have as many people as possible at the Statesville Civic Center and we’re trying to make this accessible to more Rotarians. If you’ve never been to a District Conference, we urge you to consider attending this one. 

Stay safe my friends and I wish each of you an abundance of Peace in this month.

DG Kevin

Thank You for your Service: PDG Bobby Smith

Bobby G. Smith served as Governor of District 7680 from 2001 to 2002. He was a member of the Shelby Rotary Club and devoted his life to his family, his church and Rotary.

As his obituary stated, “Bobby’s life was marked by a deep commitment to Rotary International, where he proudly served the Shelby Rotary Club for over 58 years. His devotion to the Rotary motto of “Service Above Self” was evident in his perfect attendance, as well as his leadership roles, including Club President and District Governor. Bobby’s contributions to the organization were recognized with the prestigious Paul Harris Fellow and Rotary Foundation Benefactor honors, which reflected his selfless service and dedication to making a difference.”

Bobby passed away on 1/26/25, surrounded by family. His wife of 69 years, Joyce, predeceased him in 2023. I was honored to see him last on 8/23/24 during my club visit to Shelby with his dear friend and fellow PDG, Allen Langley.

Wallace “Wally” Olson – “The Wizard of DACdb Oz”

Most Rotarians have heard of our District Executive Secretary, Wally Olson, but do you really know Wally? He is a very interesting man with a track record of doing a LOT of important work behind the scenes.

Wally has been a Rotarian since 1992. His first club, the Rotary Club of Kearsarge was in Erie, PA. He and his wife, Marilyn, moved in 2002 to the Frederick area where he transferred his membership to the Rotary Club of Carroll Creek. Wally served as Club President in 2008-2009. As President, he earned Best Cooperative Project Award for the renovation of the Baker Bandshell, the Membership Development and Extension Award for sponsoring the Southern Frederick County Rotary Club, the Presidential Citation from Rotary International and the Governor’s Gold Level Citation from the District. During his term, the 150-person club donated over $60,000 to the Rotary Foundation.

Wally accepted the District Secretary role in 2016 under Governor Tom Smith and has been doing this job ever since.  He is now working with his ninth Governor, Kevin Kendrick. 

Wally was a former member of the National Guard and graduate of the Bryant & Stratton Business College in Buffalo, NY. He has over 35 years of experience in sales, self-development, team building, and sales/business consulting. With his award-winning management, leadership and sales experience with IKON Office Solutions, a Fortune 500 company, he was certainly well equipped to start his own consulting company Growth Point Consulting. 

In addition, Wally is a certified teacher in the Enneagram (pronounced any-a-gram) Personality System. He teaches executive teams how to communicate and work with each other effectively by showing them how their personalities impact themselves and each other. 

Wally is known and respected for his direct approach, and his ability to partake in spirited and authentic conversations. He is passionate about serving his community through Rotary and as aforementioned, does so many things in support of the District.

• First and foremost, Wally is our “go-to” person when there are questions about DACdb. He has spent numerous hours walking Rotarians around the District through issues and is passionate about the utility the new application called Ignite can bring our clubs and members.
• He represents the logistics behind every District gathering we have. Whether it’s a Foundation Celebration, a District Conference or a Mid-Year Assembly, Wally is the organizer. He maintains the registrations on DACdb, adjusting numbers and titles and credit card transactions; he prints associated nametags, he does the check-ins, he sets up the inflatables if necessary, and he helps to set up and prepare for events as necessary.
• He has organized some of our District Social events such as the recent basketball game with the Charlotte Hornets. Wally took on this role entirely on his own, handling the negotiations with the Hornets sales team and handling the financial aspects. The event was fully sold out by the way and enjoyed by all who attended.
• In our recent collection effort for Hurricane Helene, Wally and Treasurer Phil Volponi have handled the many mailings of checks to our PO Box and subsequent transmission to Zone coffers.

Wally is truly a person who gets things done and he does so without fanfare. We are so extremely fortunate to have someone with his devotion to Rotary as our District Executive Secretary. Please tell him “thanks” when you next have an opportunity!

Club Visioning helps good clubs Grow and Thrive. We do this by guiding club members through a process that will bring the Rotary Action Plan to life where all the action is – in the CLUBS.

What sets “growing clubs” apart?

• Intentional Member Engagement
• Dynamic Meaningful Service
• Effective Governance
• Strong Public Image
• Diversity

The research tells us that it works! We also have lots of success stories. Check out the Visioning Website for a more detailed view. www.rivisionfacilitation.org

The Visioning Facilitation Team will begin sessions with District Leadership on February 25 followed by opportunities for all clubs in District 7680. For more information contact Marcia Scheideman ([email protected]). Give your club the chance to become a growing club.

Four Rotary Clubs Collaborate on “A Gift of Life” Fundraiser!

AG David Keith

Gift of Life International enables life-saving vascular heart surgeries for pediatric patients in Jamaica and the Dominican Republic. In addition to attending the event, there are sponsorship opportunities.  You can:

• Sponsor a child for $2500.00
• Sponsor one year of needed medications for $1000.00, or
• Sponsor one year of nutritional needs for $500.00. 

We also need silent auction items as well. We have Rotary members already donating nice bottles of Bourbon, Scotch, Wine, and related items for the committee to put together themed gift baskets for the event.  Of particular need are getaway weekends/weeks at the beach, mountains, or anywhere!!! Or, if anyone has tickets to a basketball, soccer, or football game those make great Silent Auction items too!!  

Please see attached donation letter as well as attached flyer with QR Codes for online donations and for ticket purchases.  All donations are welcome!

Our Volunteers Continue to Support Western NC

On January 16^th, a half-dozen members of the Rotary Club of North Mecklenburg County, volunteered at Bounty and Soul in Black Mountain, NC in support of relief efforts post-Hurricane Helene. Members helped to pack 545 boxes of healthy food, to be provided to families in need. Volunteer activities will continue there by District 7680 areas.

Why You Should Attend the Rotary Leadership Institute! 

Are you ready to take your leadership skills to the next level? The Rotary Leadership Institute (RLI) is an incredible opportunity to learn and connect with Rotarians, and make a greater impact in your club and community.

Why Attend?
✅ Expand Your Leadership Skills – Learn strategies to inspire, motivate, and lead with confidence.
✅ Deepen Your Rotary Knowledge – Understand how Rotary works beyond your club and discover new ways to serve.
✅ Network with Fellow Rotarians – Build lasting friendships and collaborate with leaders from different clubs.
✅ Create Real Change – Gain insights on service projects, membership growth, and how to maximize your impact.

Whether you’re new to Rotary or a seasoned member, RLI is for YOU! Don’t miss this chance to learn, grow, and lead.

Click here to view RLI flyer

Mental Health Corner

Romy Cawood, PhD

Dr. Romy Cawood is a top rated psychologist and executive coach based in Charlotte, NC.  Dr. Cawood is transforming the way leaders and individuals navigate life’s toughest challenges. With a laser focus on communication, stress mastery, and navigating change, she empowers executives to thrive under pressure. In personal consultation she specializes in improving relationships, whether resolving conflict, enhancing communication, or making pivotal decisions. Dr. Cawood doesn’t just offer guidance—she delivers game-changing insights that unlock potential and drive success.

Therapy Part 2:   Choosing a Provider

In my first column on therapy I defined the different modalities:  individual, group, couples, and family therapy.   But it can be confusing to understand the difference between different types of psychological professionals.  Let’s get a better sense of who does what. 

Psychologist or Psychiatrist?  These two types of professionals are often confused but are quite different.  Psychiatrists have completed medical school, and therefore are designated as MD.  They are physicians with a specialization in psychiatry, and may have subspecialties, such as forensics, pediatrics, or neurology.  They assess psychological conditions that could have a physical and/or mental cause, and determine if pharmacological treatment is in order, and they may provide psychotherapy also. 

Psychologists have completed a doctorate in psychology and are designated Ph.D or Psy.D.  The focus of psychology training is assessment and treatment of mental disorders, with training in psychobiology as well.  Psychologists can have many varied subspecialties are trained to do research, clinical treatment, or both.  While most psychologists do not prescribe medicine, in some states they do.

Licensed Professional Counselors (LPC), provide direct mental health and/or substance abuse treatment to individuals, groups and/or families.  They may have many and varied subspecialties and make up a significant proportion of psychological professionals providing direct treatment. 

Marriage and Family Therapists, are typically designated LMFT, Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, though some professionals have another degree with marriage and family therapy as a specialty.  Marriage and Family Therapists focus on treating couples and/or families, and are trained to work with their unique dynamics.

Social workers are often designated as LCSW, Licensed Clinical Social Worker.  Social workers are trained to address the needs of people on an individual, family, group and broader community level.  Social workers may work to promote social justice on the community level, or they may work in a private psychology practice where they provide treatment.  Connecting people with community resources is a hallmark of social work.

How to decide which type of provider to consult?  If you are seeking pharmacological treatment, you should seek out the help of a psychiatrist, who will evaluate and prescribe accordingly, and can refer you for psychotherapy if desired.  If your primary goal is to work with a psychological professional through psychotherapy, then I recommend you begin with one of the other types of providers, who in turn, can refer you to a psychiatrist for pharmacological treatment of desired.

Look out for more from me on understanding the world of therapy and how to use it!

For more Resources:

How to Choose the Right Therapist:  How to Successfully Navigate the Mental Health System.

https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/collaborative-care-and-psychiatry/202109/how-choose-the-right-therapist

Harvard Health Blog

Choosing the Right Mental Health Provider

https://www.health.harvard.edu/blog/choosing-right-mental-health-provider-2018032313423

How to Choose a Psychologist:  When you need help from a trained, licensed professional to work through feelings or problems that seem beyond your control, these tips can help you choose a psychotherapist and address the financial questions related to therapy.

https://www.apa.org/topics/psychotherapy/choose-therapist

CART Fundraiser

Please help the Charlotte Rotary Club support the CART Fund! See below for details!!

District 7680 – Youth Activities

Our District is fortunate to have a very vibrant Youth Activities Program which includes Interact Clubs, Seminar for Tomorrow’s Leaders (SFTL) and Rotary Youth Exchange (RYE). These programs are incredibly valuable in helping to provide leadership experience and life skills which will serve our youth extremely well as they enter adulthood. In addition, they become incredible Rotarians if they choose to do so, having a deeper understanding of the impact of Rotary in preparing for the future.

I recently became aware of a specific instance of the impact of these programs when one of our alumni contacted us about our Peace Fellow Program. I’m sharing this story with her permission:

“My name is Rylie LaRue and I am from Sparta, North Carolina in Alleghany County. I have had a long history with Rotary club throughout my high school and university experience ranging from participating and later on mentoring at the Seminar for Tomorrow’s Leaders summer camp to helping initiate the start of an Interact club at my high school. Throughout this experience, I have also learned about the Rotary Peace Fellowship from some great mentors such as Debb Corbett and Julie Nee. They encouraged me to apply once I was eligible and this email is to make you aware of this.

I am currently a Peace Corps volunteer in Albania working as an English teacher in a local high school. I actually gave a presentation about my experience so far back in October 2024 at the Mecklenburg County South Rotary Club meeting. Prior to Peace Corps, I volunteered in the summer of 2023 for SFTL as a mentor. It was an amazing experience and truly prepared me to work with high schoolers. I have also worked for the Western Youth Network as an afterschool programmer at Sparta Elementary School and at the Alleghany News as an executive assistant. I graduated from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill with a degree in Political Science and Peace, War, and Defense with a minor in Environmental Science.

I am passionate about peace work and studies especially on an international field and I feel that this graduate program is the perfect fit for me and my future. I look forward to hearing from you and discussing this opportunity. Thank you for being a great leader and being a part of a wonderful organization such as Rotary.”

Rotary Youth Exchange Gather in Hickory

District 7680 participated in the Ohio-Erie Multi-District Youth Exchange Program, held January 17-20 in Hickory. It represented the first time for this event to be held in January, and we were represented by Rotarians Karen Steffens who serves as Chair of the O-E Multi-District Team and Scott Reynolds, Acting Chair of the RYE for District 7680. We had one outbound who participated in the event who later learned that she would be headed to Slovakia!

The students helped to assemble a number of water filters used by an organization called Wine to Water in Boone. The students enjoyed their time working collectively to assemble these much-needed devices.

SFTL Student Registration is up and running in DACdb’s RYLA module! And now it is up to you, the Rotarian, to make the difference. You are the one Students need to make this happen.

Attached is the SFTL Brochure designed for Students, Parents/Guardians, Interact Leaders, Guidance Counselors or others. I have also included a CCL Brochure to provide some idea of how significant the program opportunity is for Students.

Please ask your Student and their Parents or Guardians to complete the SFTL Student Application found at https://www.IsMyRotaryClub.org/App/?ID=147, which will then register in DACdb’s RYLA module as Applicant Entered.

ACTION REQUIRED: Don’t wait, recruit now. The deadline is April 11, 2025.

New Interact Club Established

Last week, a new Interact Club was established and inducted in Salisbury, NC at the Salisbury High School. A dozen students took the oath to uphold Rotary principles and to work collectively for the betterment of the community. Rotarians from the Salisbury Club were there to support them as were family members and friends.

This is the future.

Save the Date: District Grants Training

Saturday, March 22, 9 – 11AM (via Zoom)

Will your club apply for a District Grant for 2025-26?

Register for D7680 District Grants Training. Registration is available on DACDB Calendar under District Events. At least one member of your club (ideally 2+, preferably club leaders and those directly involved in the project) needs to attend grants training each year.

This year, we have more funding, due to increased giving by district members to The Rotary Foundation Annual (SHARE) Fund 3 years ago. Now is the time for clubs to start assessing needs, collaborating with partners, and planning project(s). Grant applications are due by June 15, 2025.  Applications will open in DACDB after district grant training. 

Did your club receive a District Grant in 2024-25?

Final reports are due by June 15, 2025, or within 2 months after a project is complete. Access your club’s grant application in DACDB to enter your Final Report under the Final Report tab. Update your funding, and expenses under the Budget tab. Upload project documents and photos under Documentation tab. Share your project with our District Grants Chair (Sharon Heinrich) and District PI/PR Chair (Mark Daniels). We want to help you tell your story and celebrate how your club is sharing the “Magic of Rotary”. 

If your club will not complete its project by June 15 as planned, notify the District Grants Chair by March 1 to discuss your situation. Grant funds that will not be spent by June 15 (without an approved alternate plan) need to be returned to the district by March 31.

For information about D7680’s District Grants, go to the “District Grants” module in DACDB (start at “Grants Overview”). You’ll find instructions on how to submit your grant application and final report, training slides and videos, links to Rotary International “Terms & Conditions”, MOU, Youth Protection requirements, Scholarship Best Practices, and helpful resources.

For questions, email [email protected] or contact the D7680 District Grants Subcommittee Chair (Sharon Heinrich).

TRF Takeaways – Year End Fundraising

Foundation Matters – Monthly Bite-sized Webinar

Third Thursday each month at 6 pm – 6:45 pm Eastern Time. Join virtually at https://us02web.zoom.us/j/85767045645?pwd=Gc3KmgTKdV63aIarbDYnuEBZY8vizZ.1

Polio Update

The year 2024 was very challenging for the fight to eradicate polio from the world. Cases increased from twelve in 2023 to ninety-eight in 2024. Afghanistan increased from six to twenty-five and Pakistan from six to seventy-three.

The Technical Advisory Group of the WHO met on January 26 in Islamabad Pakistan to review the current situation. They recommended targeting the Southern Pakhtunkhwa, Central Pakistan, and urban centers for children missed in insecure, underserved high risk areas and mobile populations by mid-2025.The goal is to interrupt polio transmission in the Northern Corridor(Peshawar Block), in the Central Pakistan Zone ( Northern Sindh, Southern Punjab, Eastern Baluchistan)and across Lahore, Rawalpindi and Islamabad.

The WHO met in Switzerland on February 7, 2025, on the significant increase in polio cases and reviewed the findings of the TAG. They recommended the need for new operational approaches, identifying the reasons why children are not being reached, area by area, increase the administration of Inactivated Polio vaccine in conjunction with the oral vaccine and improving access to sanitation infrastructure.
This is a response to the unique environmental, geopolitical, programmatic, and security challenges affecting both countries, which together essentially create an epidemiological “Perfect Storm” for Polio transmission.

Surveillance will be strengthened in all areas to protect Polio-free areas in border regions and to protect highly mobile populations in the three identified transmission corridors.

The international response has been significant to this challenge as the KS Relief (King Salman Humanitarian Aid and Relief Center) made possible the installation of thirteen generators in hospitals in Pakistan to provide reliable power for the safe storage of vaccines and for 2.8 million doses of Polio vaccine. The Gates Foundation donated $25 million for the outbreak response.

This is a critical juncture in the fight to eliminate Polio; your support is needed now more than ever. If every Rotarian makes a donation, it will go a long way in this battle. I will attach the Polio Plus Society form for those who wish to support the program with $100 or more annually and the Paws for Polio Kennel Klub for those who wish to sponsor a pet for $100 to Polio Plus.
Your support is greatly appreciated.

The highest gross giving clubs are as follows:
Charlotte                                         $15,500
Meck South                                     $7,450
Gastonia East                                 $4,844
Waxhaw-Weddington                  $3,880
North Mecklenburg                      $3,170
District Total                                  $64,490
District Goal                                   $110,000

I will note there are 19 clubs with no giving recorded and I am ASKING all to  give some amount this year.
I want to thank all the members and clubs who have supported Polio Plus this year and let’s make sure we surpass our goal. With your support, we can.

I am available to make club presentations and feel free to reach out to me at [email protected] to schedule.

Yours in Rotary Service
PDG Tom Smith
Polio Plus Chair 2024-2025

Help us End Polio Now by participating in:

The District 7680 PolioPlus Society

Although the PolioPlus Society was rolled out on September 1^st of 2020, many Rotarians are still asking…”PolioPlus Society?  What’s that?” 

The PolioPlus Society is a group of individuals who are passionate about Rotary’s #1 Priority…the elimination of the poliovirus from the face of the earth. 

The PolioPlus Society, or PPS, operates much like the Paul Harris Society, whereby a Rotarian or friend makes a commitment to donate $1,000 per year or more to The Rotary Foundation.  Except the PolioPlus Society requires you to donate only a minimum of $100, and to continue to do so annually until the World Health Organization declares the world free of the poliovirus.

PolioPlus Society members will receive a special pin depicting a child receiving the two precious drops, an “End Polio Now” wristband to wear until polio is eliminated from the planet (Both depicted here) and a PolioPlus Certificate proclaiming your membership in this unique Society.  Plus the knowledge that you are doing good in the world and are in this fight to the end.  Joining the District 7680 Polio Plus Society is a two-step process:

Step #1 – Please fill out the below “commitment statement” and email to Polio Chair PDG Tom Smith at [email protected] or mail to 1840 Tanglebriar CT Matthews NC 28104

I hereby commit to making an annual donation to the PolioPlus Fund of The Rotary Foundation as follows (select one):

•        $100 USD per year (minimum amount to become a society member)

•        A contribution of $_______ per year to PolioPlus (more than $100)

I pledge to help Rotary make history by continuing to contribute the above amount each year until the World Health Organization certifies that polio has been fully eradicated because …Until the world is polio-free, every child is at risk.

Step #2 – To make your tax-deductible donation go to myrotary.org/donate , sign in and click on “Polio Fund”.  You can choose a one-time donation of $100 or more, or a recurring donation in the amount and frequency of your choice (We suggest $10/month as the “easy way” to become a PolioPlus Society member.)  Of course, you can also write a check payable to “The Rotary Foundation”, with PolioPlus in the memo section, and give to your club’s Foundation Chair.

Name__________________________________________Date_______

Email_________________________________

Club name_____________________________

Mike’s Membership Minute

Tell me more about a Discover Rotary event. We want to jump start our growth.

More and more clubs are having Discover Rotary events, but there are lots of questions about them. Today, we’ll discuss the easiest way to have a successful event – having it as a regular meeting, and asking members to invite a guest. 

First, understand it’s the one Rotary event where the guest is the center of attention – both sharing with them and learning about them. So make it feel special for them.

There isn’t too much planning (so it’s easy to have more than one a year):

• Plan it a month or more in advance, and ask members more than once to bring a guest. Plan on a crowded room. You want at least 4 or 5 guests, more for larger clubs. Club size isn’t an issue – we’ve had 10-member clubs conduct a successful DIscover Rotary event.

• What should you share? It’s simple. Share what you’re proud of, for at most 15 minutes, and make it conversational!   Share your club, its projects and history, Rotary itself, The Rotary Foundation, polio eradication effort, and whatever you want. Get help from long-time members who know your club’s rich history. PowerPoint is optional, but our Zone website has some good ones. Ask me if you’re interested. 

How to present it 

• Present what you’re proud of for at most 15 minutes. ADDED BONUS – some existing members will learn something, maybe a lot, THEY didn’t know.

• Allow time for guests to share something about themselves and to ask questions. Some of this could be at each table with a guest. Maybe ask a few questions to help the process. Make it possible for guests to form new relationships today!

How to follow up – doing it well is the key, and shows caring.

• A follow up talk has to come from two people – the designated person in the club, probably the Membership Chair, AND the person who invited them. 

• Invite them back to more than one regular meeting or other club event.

• Make sure your Membership Chair has their contact info, and gets them in their follow up system.

• Encourage the guest to join, and once they do, stick with them – shepherd them through onboarding and becoming a Rotarian.

Remember, inviting guests is easy if you remember What’s In It For Them:

• Relationships – having fun and doing good with great, high quality people.

• Service – meaningfully serving others locally and beyond.

• Growth – both personal and professional growth opportunities

• Learning – we take for granted how much we know about our community and beyond. 

Reach out to me if you’d like to brainstorm a Discover Rotary event

Mike Walker

District Membership Chair

704-589-2754, [email protected]

Communicating with your Club Members

Understanding communication styles is critical in our club environments and ensuring that our members are getting what they need in a manner in which it will be consumed.

Members of the Queen City Impact Club participate in a lot of different service activities in conjunction with the Charlotte Dilworth Club. Some of the Gen-Z members of the Club expressed an interest in having their service opportunities listed in one place in order to avoid having to look through email or texts. Leadership of the club created a spreadsheet with all upcoming service projects, socials, district events, and key dates and pinned at the top of their WhatsApp for easy access, making things easier for those who don’t check newsletters or emails. Another member, a Gen-Z, said he would keep it updated.

This is a great example of listening to what your members want and taking steps to meet them in a space that’s beneficial for all!

Members from several clubs participated in the Diaper Bank of NC’s MLK Day of Service. This report came from the Diaper Bank and mentions Rotary District 7680!

Here are the numbers from across the state yesterday: 

• Volunteers = 463
• Total Product wrapped = 130,200
• To cover = 2,609 individuals!
• A special thank you to: NCCU, AKA Sorority Alpha Zeta Omega Chapter, Duke OBGYN, Rotary District 7680, Wilmington Chapter of Jack and Jill of America, Student U Durham, Girl Scout Troop 1045, BCBSNC (Healthy Blue), Duke Dermatology.

This information was shared with us by District 7680 Peace Committee member, Assaad Mounzer.

“Bart Cleary, the president of the USA-France intercountry committee, sent me this flyer. (see attached)

They are trying to recruit Rotaractors, and grad students to go to the peace seminar in Orleans in October 2025.

Please share the flyer with anyone who might be interested.”

Rotary USA-France Intercountry Committee

Positive Peace Seminar

October 14-17, 2025

Orléans, France

The Rotary USA-France Intercountry Committee is accepting applications for the 5^th  biennial tuition-free peace seminar.  20 French and 10 American Fourth Year Undergraduates, Graduate Students, Young Professionals, and Rotaract Members will be accepted.  As our District 7680 is a member District of the USA-France Intercountry Committee, please invite potential candidates to apply.  Travel for American applicants will be provided by the USA-France ICC and they will be hosted by Rotarians from the Rotary Clubs of Orléans.

Positive Peace has been explained as “not just the absence of violence, but the social, economic, and political foundations necessary for the maintenance and development of a peaceful society.”

Those who have attended one of the previous four seminars in Paris, France; New Orleans, Louisiana; Rennes, France and Chapel Hill, North Carolina have come away changed in how they view themselves, others, and peace itself as they learn “positive peace” skills they can apply in their personal and professional lives.  This experience continues as the participants communicate with others in the months and years following.

Löic Bosland, 2021 seminar participant summed it up this way: “Making peace between wars has been the way humanity has proceeded for centuries. Making peace sustainable is now possible thanks to the positive peace concept.”

For more information, the application and to view the Concept Note,

Click here: https://ricomiteinterpaysfranceusa.com/2024/12/13/orleans-2025/

Peace Fellows – We need your help!

Did you know that informally, Peace is the oldest of our areas of focus? We can say that because we know that in the summer of 1914, during the Rotary International Convention in Houston, a resolution proposed by the Rotary Club of Hamilton, Ontario, which stated that the International Association of Rotary Clubs should “lend its influence to the maintenance of peace among the nations of the world,” was adopted, marking our early commitment to promoting global peace. Since that time, Rotary has been associated with peace efforts around the world, including during the recovery of the world in the aftermath of World War II.

Peace is hard work. We’ve seen how fragile it can be in even the most advanced countries and the presence of conflict in so many places around the world, means that we have much work to do. Rotary’s Peace Centers have produced 1,800 Peace Fellows since the inception of the program and these scholars are making a huge difference. They work in a variety of roles after completing the process, all of which are helping us to build a foundation for peace across our globe.

So what can YOU do to help us further develop our network of Peace Fellows?

You can help promote peace in the world by encouraging peace and development leaders in your community to apply for the Rotary Peace Fellowship.

Each year, Rotary awards up to 130 fully funded fellowships for peacebuilders from diverse backgrounds to study at one of our peace centers located at leading universities around the world. This year, we’ll select 50 peace fellows to study in our master’s degree programs at six partner universities in Asia, Australia, Europe, and the United States and 80 fellows to participate in our professional development certificate programs at Makerere University in Uganda and Bahçeşehir University in Türkiye.

Rotary Peace Fellows use their training to amplify their work at the local, regional, or global level. Together, we can advance peace by encouraging our local peacebuilders to learn about Rotary and apply for this unique fellowship.

Rotary and Rotaract members can help find candidates within their networks and community organizations. It’s easy to use our referral form so potential candidates can receive more information about applying.

More ways to promote the fellowship

Forward the fellowship application announcement to your contacts and include it in club and district communications.

Use our postcards for the master’s degree and professional development certificate programs to help promote the fellowships.

The Hospital Bienfaisance in Pignon, Haiti, is proud to announce the opening of the new Pediatric Hospital Wing!  Beginning in 1981 with the vision of Dr. Guy Theodore (past Rotary Governor), the hospital in Pignon has served hundreds of thousands of patients in the central plateau of Haiti, frequently with the support of Rotary.

While the country of Haiti is in turmoil, the Hospital in Pignon has not only been able to keep its doors open to those in need but has continued to progress by building and opening the pediatric wing, which is sorely needed.  Annually, the hospital treats thousands of children and infants, and the space is a welcome addition, providing a clean and safe place for kids to receive the best care in Haiti.

Last Spring, through the help of Rotary District 7680 and Promise for Haiti, a Gala event was held at the Belmont Stowe Botanical Gardens, raising over $100,000.  Additionally, the clubs of Gastonia and Pignon, were awarded a Rotary Foundation Global grant over $100,000 to purchase the medical equipment needed to outfit the Pediatric wing.  Additionally, the grant will fund installation of solar energy output to drive the hospital’s energy needs.

We are grateful for the support of Dr. Theodore, past district governor Debra Corbett, George Solomon, and Whitney Norton, who were instrumental in driving support for this worthwhile project!  Be on the lookout for an in-depth update when the grant project has been completed, and we thank everyone for your continued support and prayers.

Dr. Guy Theodore and Dr. Eric Touissant at the ribbon cutting ceremony.

Inside the hospital

The Pediatric Staff including Dr. Eric Toussaint, Dr. Berlinda Asse, and Dr. Belenda Louis along with nursing staff at the outdoor entrance to the Wing.

Members of the Charlotte Dilworth – Queen City Impact Club and the Gastonia Club, participated in the District Social involving the Charlotte Hornets  – L.A. Clippers basketball game on 1/31/25! Unfortunately, the Hornets lost but I don’t think that diminished the fun had by all in this sold-out event! Thanks again to Wally Olson for organizing this!

Pee Dee Area News – February 2025

The Wadesboro Rotary Club will install a Peace Pole in front of the Anson County Courthouse in a celebration at noon on Thursday, February 27th as part of Rotary’s Peacebuilding and Conflict Resolution Month.  District Governor Kevin Kendrick will participate in the unveiling ceremony.

The Wadesboro Rotary Club has their largest fundraiser coming up on Saturday, March 29th.  Their 14th annual Sporting Clays Competition will be held at Buchanan Shoals Hunting Club in Morven, NC.  This is a beautiful setting for the competition which will include approximately 12 different stations.  The tournament funds scholarships, community projects and the Wadesboro Rotary Youth Shooting Team.  Last year’s tournament included over 30 teams and over 50 sponsors and supporters.  There is still time to offer sponsorships or enter a team for this year’s tournament.  Contact President Ashley Scarborough if you want more information at [email protected]

The Albemarle Rotary Club just completed the Harlem Wizards vs. Stanly Dragons basketball game.  Over 800 people attended the game held at Pfeiffer University’s Merner Gymnasium.  Rotarian and School Superintendent, Dr. Jarrod Dennis coached the Stanly Dragons which was made up of teachers and staff from many of the Stanly County Schools.  Funds raised will be used for grants to all eleven Stanly County Elementary Schools, community projects and scholarships. The Albemarle Rotary Club is hosting its second annual Red Dress Gala on February 15th.  This formal event with food, music, dancing and silent auction will see ladies in their red formal dresses while the men will don their best suit or tux.  Funds raised will support Gift of Life International and other Albemarle Rotary projects.

The West Stanly Rotary Club recently had a presentation from Stanly County EMT, Dustin Britt on Hands Only CPR.  Members learned how to save a life by simply using compressions until emergency help can arrive.  Members are getting ready to receive scholarship applications.

Rockingham Rotary recently heard about Helping Hands Backpack Pals, a program they support that provides weekend food for students who are identified as needing more nutrition in all Richmond County Schools.

Several members of the Charlotte Dilworth Queen City Impact Club, recently had opportunity to meet the head of an organization new to Charlotte that’s doing an awesome job taking on a weighty responsibility. HopeKids works with children experiencing life-threatening diseases, typically after these children have had a “Make-a-Wish” dream fulfilled. They work not only with the children, but with their families, to provide hope, dignity and some degree of normalcy in their lives. As they say in their mission statement, they “surround these remarkable children and their families with the message that hope is a powerful medicine.”

The Queen City Impact Club is taking this on as an opportunity for their members to get involved in a long-term relationship with this organization.  If you are interested in serving, here is what you need to know:

Joining the HopeKids volunteer program is easy and rewarding. Simply follow these steps:

Sign Up: Ready to make a difference? Click “signup for this organization” to create your volunteer profile. Tell us about yourself, your availability, and why you’re passionate about joining our mission.

Background Check: Once you have created your volunteer profile, you will be contacted by HopeKids to complete a background check.

Abuse Awareness Training: Once you have created your volunteer profile, you will be contacted by HopeKids to complete an online abuse awareness course.

Volunteer Orientation: Read our Volunteer Agreement and learn about our vision, mission, and guiding principles.

Ways to Serve

• Greeting & checking in families at events
• Handing out tickets
• Serving refreshments and food at events
• Hosting virtual events
• Fundraising and planning committees

The Rotary Club of Charlotte recently honored PDG and long-time Rotarian, Mark Markanda for his attainment in the Arch Klumph Society Foundation Circle. Mark has been a consistent supporter of the Foundation through the years and has helped many District Governors reach their fundraising goals.

In addition, Mark is our District Historian and at Mid-Year Assembly, asked all clubs to forward their club history to him as soon as possible. Congratulations, Mark!

The RI president-elect speaks about the power of Rotary’s members

Rotary International President-elect Mário César Martins de Camargo asked members to Unite for Good by embracing growth, service, and connection as he outlined a plan to expand “the best-qualified team of volunteers on the planet.”

“Rotary’s greatest asset is not our history, our projects, or even our unmatched global reach. It is our members,” de Camargo said at the organization’s International Assembly in Orlando, Florida, USA, on 10 February. He noted praise from one of Rotary’s partners about “the extraordinary dedication” of Rotary members. “That recognition from an outsider deepened my understanding: Rotary’s greatest gift to the world is its people.”

De Camargo, a member of the Rotary Club of Santo André, São Paulo, Brazil, emphasized the importance of seeking out new perspectives and strengthening Rotary’s service to communities around the globe. He outlined three “essential pillars” for growth: innovation, continuity, and partnership.