Foundation Funding:  Paul drew the ticket, which belonged to Henri, but Henri did not draw the joker.

 

 

Guest Speaker:  Past President and Past District Governor Ron introduced guest speaker, Past President and Past Assistant Governor Brandy Van Gelder to talk about the Global Grant to Nepal.

Brandy Van Gelder: Brandy said she was passionate about the projects in Nepal, and the now-completed Global Grant. It was the first time in her 18 years as a Rotarian that this club had done a Global Grant. She asked Rotarians to think about their Rotary moment, and what Rotary events changed them.  On her first trip to Nepal in 2015, the earthquake happened, and fortunately she and Kelly survived and were not injured.  Back at their own hotel, they met Rotarians from Nepal and other countries and they quickly reached out to their home clubs and districts to request aid.

 

The first Global Grant application was rejected by RI, but more funds were raised for a District Grant and in 2019 they delivered water filters to four schools.  Also, they gave library equipment, desks, furniture, back packs, and sporting equipment that got children back into school.  Brandy gave thanks to all who donated to this cause. The goat farming initiative provided sustainable income for families.

 

The Global Grant was eventually processed.  Including what this club donated, along with other clubs in the district, the total amount finally was $ 45,500 US.  The purpose was to address humanitarian and community needs and to produce sustainable and measurable outcomes, with a focus on water, sanitation and hygiene.  Among other things, the Global Grant allowed for improved water supply and improved washrooms at two schools.

 

The project has now been completed and Brandy gave praise to the Rotarian on the ground in Nepal.  New hope has been provided to the children in these schools. 

 

Questions:

Tony asked Brandy if she plans to return to Nepal?  Brandy said yes, as soon as she can. She encouraged this club to continue with projects in Nepal.

Rob asked if we could continue with more schools there and do another Global Grant? Brandy replied yes, and that the Nepal club is well practiced in preparing grant applications. However, Global Grants have limitations on what they will support. 

 

President Mary thanked Brandy for all her work and in Dave Van Gelder’s absence, presented Brandy with Dave’s PHF +2 pin.

 

President Mary also noted that from now on, we will be having a greeter at each meeting.   Will to set up a roster.  Members are asked to provide a replacement if they cannot attend on the day they are scheduled. 

 

Rob: $ 2.00 happy that he is going to Florida for a week to stay with Bill Sibeon and $ 3.00 to thank Brandy for taking the bingo envelope to Parry Sound every week. 

 

Mary was happy to learn that Cogeco Your TV interviewed our outgoing exchange student,Keara Peace-Hall and this will be shown on YourTV Muskoka Youtube page.

 

Mary was happy to see Brandy and noted that we have missed her a lot.