Credits: This video was produced by Pine Lake Preparatory Interact Club President and Kam's daughter Smera Chandan

Good Morning. It’s Friday, July 1st, 2022. Today is a special day as we celebrate the start of New Rotary Year. Happy New Rotary Year to you!

Every July we celebrate the accomplishments of our member clubs over the past year and pass the gavel to new leadership. Over 2300 volunteers in 60+ Rotary and Rotaract Clubs across 14 counties in the west-central region of North Carolina in District 7680 are making a difference in our community with many service projects, fundraisers and special events. Over the past year, I’ve enjoyed connecting with my fellow Rotary members, by visiting clubs and attending events in our District. It’s been a heart warming experience building relationships and learning about our clubs.

Our annual theme is Imagine Rotary. Rotary International President Jennifer Jones imagines Rotary fulfilling big dreams. She is asking Rotary members to dream big and take action: “We all have dreams, but acting on them is a choice. Imagine a world that deserves our best, where we get up each day knowing that we can make a difference.” This year offers a unique opportunity to really nurture our members and our clubs: Connect with each other; involve family and build community relationships at home and around the world. 

During our shared journey over the next year, the District Leadership Team is committed to serve you. We are here to support you and help you reach your goals. 

We can only make a difference if our members are engaged in the work of Rotary. This Rotary year, I encourage Rotary members to:

  • Be intentional in trying new ideas to grow more and do more 
  • Focus on consistent and moderate growth in membership
  • Engage your club members, give them responsibility and create a positive experience
  • As we build a stronger future for our organization, it’s good that we are reaching out to new people and introducing them to Rotary. It’s important that our clubs reflect the communities we serve. More diverse voices in our clubs and in our leadership will help Rotary stay in touch with a changing world.
  • Grow clubs’ international service by twinning, service projects and global grants
  • Improve understanding of and passion for The Rotary Foundation 
  • Identify, involve and engage service minded young people in club and district activities
  • Promote positive public image and share your Rotary stories
  • Partner with organizations, corporations and other Rotary clubs to do good and make an impact in your local and global community

I am so honored and grateful to serve as your District Governor and look forward to imagining the possibilities, acting to serve and together we make an impact in your club and community. 

Thank you.

Kamlesh (Kam) Chandan
Proud member of Rotary Club of Lake Norman-Huntersville
District Governor 2022-23 D7680 – The Birthplace of Rotaract