Welcome

I want to begin by expressing my heartfelt thanks to each and every Rotarian in our Club for carrying out the critical tasks needed by our communities in these challenging times. Each of you is an extraordinary example of commitment, professionalism and teamwork.

The COVID-19 pandemic has dramatically altered many facets of Canadian life. The masks, the disrupted and re-arranged working environments, the ongoing collective need to monitor and safeguard against virus transmission, all testify to this. But there’s one very important thing that the virus hasn’t, and dare I say, can’t, touch: Rotarians’ willingness to pull together and do what is best and right to ensure the health of our communities.

We can all be proud of our ability to adapt and unite and continue to live our motto each day: Service Above Self. We have continued to deliver support to the most vulnerable in our communities, as well as address the many additional needs that have surfaced due to the pandemic.

Our members have stepped up in so many ways.

• COVID-19 Committee gave Face Shields and Hand Sanitizers to vulnerable organizations

• New Generations Committee supported the STEM program for girls

• International & Indigenous Service Committee Dinner Celebration dinners for Club members (Lunar New Year & St. Patrick’s Day), where members learn about the culture of the celebration and supported local restaurants

More proof of our adaptability is that we have all become more efficient and effective at using digital meeting platforms like Zoom. This technology has changed how we can connect with each other, giving us the opportunity to engage and participate in ways we never imagined.
 

Within our membership, we have also reached out and supported one another as we individually faced the financial and emotional challenges the pandemic has brought to our own families and enterprises. We have been there for one another.
 

It is heartening to see the COVID-19 case numbers fall and the vaccination rates rise. We are so close now to living in a post-pandemic Canada. And as always Rotarians will be there to help our communities recover, adapt and thrive.
 

I believe we will reach the pandemic’s far side, more resilient than ever. Our strength is in our unity, energy and ideas and in our desire to make the world a better place for all.
 

Like you, I am looking forward to the time when we can meet again in person, interact more freely with our loved ones, and connect with our friends, neighbours, and those we serve. I cannot wait to shake your hands and see your smiles again.
 

Sincerely,

Sharon Lee, MA, CFRE
President 2021 – 2022
Rotary Club of Etobicoke