MESSAGE FROM DG MARY KAY HASZ

Posted by DG Mary Kay Hasz (Highlands Ranch) marykaydg15-16@marykayhasz.com 
 
"Be a Gift to the World"
 
Each year the incoming Rotary International President introduces his or her theme for the year.  In 2015-2016 the theme is "Be a Gift to the World" - I believe President Ravindran chose a perfect theme, for as Rotarians with "Service Above Self" as our motto we all do strive to be a gift to others in our communities, our nation, and our world.
 
As our District's new club presidents take office July 1, and countless board members agree to guide their individual clubs, let us all be grateful for their leadership, willingness to give of their talents, time and treasure.
 
I, as many incoming Presidents, have set several goals for this Rotary year and I would like to highlight a few at this time.
  • Polio Eradication:  This past year our District Rotarians contributed over 100,000 dollars towards the effort to eliminate polio from the world.  Let us continue this battle through funding, advocacy and service efforts.  I encourage all District Rotarians to continue to fund this gift to the world.
  • Membership Retention and Growth:   While membership in North America is decreasing, our District is holding its own.  My goal is to encourage each and every club to engage their members--find the passion each individual possesses and help him or her achieve the wish to serve the community.  Nearly all of the new members I have met over the years have wanted to join Rotary to be able to "give back".  By guiding new members and helping them achieve this goal, we will improve retention and as a result increase membership numbers.
  • Public Relations: Rotary has a new brand and the goal is to use only one brand throughout the Rotary world so that there is no doubt   when the public sees that symbol that it represents Rotary.  Our District has a Public Relations Committee that is ready to guide our Clubs in the new brand use.  Feel free to contact the members of that committee.  My goal is to have a minimum of 60% of our District's Clubs incorporating the new brand in all of their publicity.
I look forward to meeting with the Rotarians in our outstanding Rotary District; to share in the accomplishments and plans for the future; and to encourage and support our membership.
 
In conclusion, thank you all for the opportunity and privilege of being your District Governor.
 
Mary Kay Hasz