Earlier this year, District 7930 advanced the idea of creating a Club designed to attract veterans and active or retired military looking to serve in their local communities. There are already a number of great groups that are serving the needs of these individuals, but we thought with Rotary's vast network and commitment to service that there could be a way to be a resource.
The 1st goal was to identify any current members who are veterans to give us feedback and to learn what clubs are already doing to support their local veterans. We received responses from about 20 clubs that have 80+ veterans serving in Rotary in our district. Service projects range from Flag of Heroes celebrations to food service to homeless Veterans.
If your club did not get a chance to reply to the survey please take a few minutes to complete via this link https://forms.gle/1AnUjnZ7QuGCF4jv6
The 2nd objective will be Advocacy - In our initial discussions we have found a number of local groups already doing great work in this community to address areas of need like mental health, homelessness and hunger and building social connections. Through our club systems we can help to raise awareness of their work and clubs may find projects that motivate their current members.
The 3rd objective will be engagement - With Rotary's extensive network we may be a resource to Veterans looking to explore new career paths, or a social outlet in their community to engage with likeminded individuals.
We are still formulating the plan for a collaborative effort across the district that can leverage the power of Rotary to engage veterans and Create Hope in the World.
If you are interested in being part of the organizing committee or being kept informed of any changes or updates, please email Matt Schroeder at matthew.schroeder48@gmail.com to be added to the distribution list.