Revisiting Our Mission

November 7, 2008 

Today's Word :   Foundation - the basis on which something stands or is supported; funds given for the permanent support of an institution; an underlying natural or prepared base or support; a body or ground upon which something is built up

November is Rotary Foundation Month and it's a good time to revisit our local and worldwide mission.

In sum, the mission of the Foundation is to enable Rotarians to advance world understanding, goodwill and peace through the improvement of health, the support of education and the alleviation of poverty.

It's a great opportunity to consolidate resources and do more for communities than we could ever achieve alone. With your help (99.4 percent of our active members contribute) and members worldwide, we've been able to provide more than $420 million in grants for development and humanitarian aid in the developing world. We've provided vitamin A supplements during polio National Immunization Days, averting an estimated 1.5 million childhood deaths since 1998. Two billion children under age five have received the polio vaccine. Five million people who might otherwise be paralyzed are walking today.

If you wear the Rotary Pin, then Foundation giving is the right thing to do to spread good fortune to those who suffer.

I'm excited to report our grants committee will make several recommendations to the Board next week on how our local fund raising dollars will support programs to enable real change in our greater Killeen and Harker Heights area. As you know, our mission this year is to impact a few projects with greater funds.

Finally, let me remind you that next Tuesday is Veterans Day. Perhaps there is no other community than ours that holds this day in such special recognition.

This morning, look around the room. There are those amongst us who have worn the uniform. There are those amongst us who've had a family member or friend pay the ultimate sacrifice. There are parents here whose children are serving today. There are many we should remember. There are many to thank.

For our departed veterans, the days of danger are over. For those who serve today, we offer our prayers and recognize their Service Above Self.

The nation which forgets its defenders will be itself forgotten. - Calvin Coolidge

Yours in Service,

Steve