A Message from Arif
As we embark on a new Rotary year under the theme United for Good, I would like to share the priorities we as a club will focus on this year:
- Bring new members into the Rotary family. Today, the world needs Rotary more than ever, and we need to play a part in helping the Rotary family grow. We have our new IMPACT club, the first of its kind in the district, which now gives us a flexible approach to service that we can promote to our social networks.
- Make the Rotary experience rewarding and fulfilling. First, we should better educate ourselves on the unique platforms and opportunities Rotary provides members to fulfill their intrinsic desire to make this world a better place. Second, we need long-standing Rotarians to help new members get the most out of their Rotary experience and pave their way to become future leaders in Rotary and their community. Finally, we should ensure the communities we serve know about Rotary, not just for the sake of self-promotion, but to inspire them to become part of our organization in the future.
- Increase our impact. We should think about finding ways to leverage our amazing programs to further increase our impact. For example, can we build nutritional education into our Brightview lunch support? Can we help our international medical students to create an action plan to better use their skills in their communities when they return? Let us think and plan for impact whenever we undertake a project.
I want to sincerely thank Linda Pincock for her dedication and service to our club as the past president. She has left the club in an enviable position of being a club that is small, but has a mighty impact and which fulfils its status as the “best darned Rotary club in the whole wide world”. I look forward to working with all of you and hope that we have a year where we can do great things and promote the spirit and values of Rotary in the communities we serve.
Arif Alibhai
President 2025-2026
Next Meeting
Our next meeting is scheduled for Wednesday, August 6th. Members will review all of our local community projects, reflect on our priorities, and begin planning for future initiatives.
This important conversation will be facilitated by our Community Service Director, Rachel Poelzer, and is a great opportunity for all members to help shape where we focus our efforts next.
For those who cannot attend in person, the Zoom login for the meeting is Meeting ID 780 222 3440 Passcode Mayfield
Last Meeting Recap
At our last meeting, members came together to review our current international projects, reflect on global priorities, and explore ideas for future initiatives.
The discussion was led by our International Services Director, Zaheer Lakhani, and sparked thoughtful conversation about how we can continue making a meaningful impact beyond our borders.
Supporting the Food Bank at Heritage Festival
A big thank you to all the Rotarians volunteering this weekend at the Heritage Festival in support of the Edmonton Food Bank! Your time and energy help make a real difference.
📸 Volunteering?
Tag us on social media or send your photos to Victoria at 780 200 1609. We'd love to feature you!
🎉 Attending the festival?
Bring a non-perishable food item or make a monetary donation by finding one of the volunteers around the park.
And of course, enjoy the event! With so many delicious dishes to try and cultural performances to enjoy, it’s a perfect way to spend the long weekend.
Upcoming Events
Cinnamon Bun Fun Run
This is a family-friendly event, 1k, 5k or 10k run or walk. Suitable for all ages and abilities. You can register here.
Why Run?
Because every step brings us closer to a world without Polio. This fun run isn't just about cinnamon buns (although yum!) - it's also about making a difference. Proceeds help support Rotary's fight to end polio worldwide.
All participants will receive a freshly baked cinnamon bun from Freson Bros, and a custom "Cinnamon Bun Fun Run" medal.
Self-Care Corner
Feeling overwhelmed or overstimulated isn’t just something kids experience, adults with sensory sensitivities can struggle too, especially in busy or unpredictable environments.
That’s where a sensory self-soothing kit comes in. It’s a simple, personalized collection of items that can help you feel grounded, calm, and in control when things get too intense.
This article breaks down what a sensory self-soothing kit is, why it’s helpful, and how to build your own step-by-step. Whether you’re managing sensory overload, anxiety, or just want a helpful tool for tough moments, this guide could help you build a powerful tool.
