This month, Rotary International spotlights our goal of improving maternal and child health. In many parts of the world, mothers and children face survival challenges that most of us cannot comprehend. The risk of dying during pregnancy, childbirth or from related causes is about 120 times higher for a woman in a low-income country than that of a woman living in a high-income country. While it is encouraging that infant mortality rates are declining globally, the grim fact is that 4 million babies die within their first year of life every year.  An estimated 5.9 million children under the age of five die each year due to malnutrition, inadequate health care, and poor sanitation — all of which can be prevented. Rotary International works to expand access to quality care which gives mothers and children everywhere the same opportunities for a healthy future.

 

We continue to witness the devastating impact of conflict and war on mothers, children and families.  Millions of people have been ripped away from their homes and separated from loved ones.  The recent developments in Ukraine once again bring this fact to light in a sobering way.  I urge you to look for ways to support those who have been displaced during the recent Ukraine disaster. When we remember our greatest strength — how Rotary Serves to Change Lives — we can begin to find solutions. Through our creativity, our resources, our dedication, and our networks, Rotary can and will open relief channels for those who face these challenges.

 

With conflict, war, hunger and poverty afflicting much of the world, our District 6380 focus on peace is timely and important.  We invite our Rotary family and friends to attend our upcoming District Supported Environmental workdays in both the US and Canada as well the multi-District Peace Conference in September.  

 

Let's be grateful for what we still have in our country and remember how we as Rotarians have contributed to easing the pathway for the less fortunate .  Our annual District Conference will highlight what we've achieved and celebrate our successes.  This year my focus has been to Engage, Excite and Have Fun.  Our District Conference will reflect that focus!   You as Rotarians have worked hard to be innovative, resourceful and productive during this prolonged pandemic while  never forgetting the Rotary focus of "Serving to Change Lives."

 

I am proud of our Rotary family and honored to lead District 6380 as  your current Governor or as I like to say, your “CEEO Chief Encouragement and Excitement Officer” for 2021-2022.  Thank you for giving me the opportunity!