RFE Philippines Enjoys the Magic of La Cosse

Posted by Stefanie Kline on Nov 05, 2024
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Rotary After Hours members got to experience the Magic of Rotary through the Rotary Friendship Exchange (RFE) in La Crosse from the Philippines. Joe Hammes, Jenny Arihood-Hanabarger and Stefanie Kline all were hosts for the Filipinos for 5 days and we got to experience the magic of the La Crosse area through their eyes. Other local Rotarians that helped host were Mark and Sharon Jolivette, Nancy Schmidt, Kathi Millard and Bud Hammes. All local Rotarians had a busy week with the RFE guests and also enjoyed getting to know each other.
 
RFE Philippines Enjoys the Magic of La Cosse Stefanie Kline 2024-11-05 06:00:00Z 0 Events,Friendship Exchange,International Service,Magic of Rotary,News,PeopleOfAction,Promoting Peace,Rotary,RotaryResponds

And The Winner Is #Rotary6250
 

Posted by Michelle Skemp
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And The Winner Is #Rotary6250
By: Michelle Skemp
District Public Image Chair, Rotary Club of La Crosse
 
In the October Public Image article, “Navigating Your Club’s Social Media,” I highlighted the significance of utilizing #hashtags. Since then, our District Public Image committee has chosen #Rotary6250 as the official district hashtag. Moving forward, please incorporate #Rotary6250 into your social media captions to bolster a stronger Rotary presence for both your club and our district’s public image.
And The Winner Is #Rotary6250  Michelle Skemp 2024-11-05 06:00:00Z 0 How To,Magic of Rotary,News,PeopleOfAction,Public Image,Rotary,RotaryResponds
Don’t Relax Your Cyber Security in Your Retirement Joseph Ruskey 2024-11-05 06:00:00Z 0 How To,Magic of Rotary,Making A Difference,News,PeopleOfAction,Promoting Peace,Rotary,RotaryResponds

Stoughton Rotary Club Packs Meals to Help Alleviate International Hunger
 

Posted by Bob Dent on Nov 05, 2024
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On Saturday, October 10, Food-4-Kidz returned to Stoughton for the eleventh time to assemble and distribute these meals to places in the world in need of food. Fundraising,  preparation, and volunteer recruitment began several months before to prepare for the big day. On Friday and Saturday morning, the fire station was emptied and by 6:30 on Saturday morning, the crew was there setting up forty tables to create an assembly line. 
 
Stoughton Rotary Club Packs Meals to Help Alleviate International Hunger  Bob Dent 2024-11-05 06:00:00Z 0 Community Service,Events,How To,International Service,Magic of Rotary,Making A Difference,News,PeopleOfAction,Public Image,Rotary,RotaryResponds

Al’s Musky Challenge Reels in $211,000 to Help Kids!
 

Posted by Michelle Skemp
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In the world of fishing, where patience meets passion, the musky is known as the "fish of 10,000 casts." Yet, Al Louis, a dedicated Rotarian from the Rotary Club of La Crosse, has defied the odds by not only catching these elusive fish but also creating waves of change through his innovative fundraising efforts.
 
Al’s Musky Challenge Reels in $211,000 to Help Kids!  Michelle Skemp 2024-11-05 06:00:00Z 0 Community Service,Events,Impact Story,Magic of Rotary,Making A Difference,News,PeopleOfAction,Public Image,Rotary,RotaryResponds
Making Changes with the Changemakers  Sharon Bradish 2024-11-05 06:00:00Z 0 MagicOfRotary,PeopleOfAction,Rotary,RotaryResponds

The Rotary Foundation: Making a Difference and Transforming Lives

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District 6250 has played a vital role in assisting Rotary clubs and districts around the world to bring positive change. One notable example is the Global Grant WALK VAN for D3850 in the Philippines, showcased in the photos here, which has consistently served many Filipinos in need. 

The Rotary Foundation: Making a Difference and Transforming Lives Megs Lunn 2024-11-05 06:00:00Z 0 Community Service,District Grants,Foundation,Impact Story,International Service,Magic of Rotary,Making A Difference,News,PeopleOfAction,Promoting Peace,Public Image,Rotary,RotaryResponds

Celebrating the Impact and Legacy of the Rotary Foundation Month 2024
 

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As November 1, 2024, dawns, the global community of Rotarians anticipates the arrival of a special month-long celebration - the Rotary Foundation Month. This annual celebration hails the commendable efforts of the Rotary Foundation in promoting peace, fighting disease, and bolstering many other diverse causes worldwide. Themed around testament, transformation, and togetherness, Rotary Foundation Month 2024 seeks to highlight the organization’s successes while anticipating the challenges and opportunities the future holds.
 
Celebrating the Impact and Legacy of the Rotary Foundation Month 2024  2024-11-05 06:00:00Z 0 Sanitation & Hygiene,Clean Water,Clean Water,Community Service,District Grants,Fighting Disease,Foundation,Global Grants,Growing Local Economies,How To,International Service,Magic of Rotary,Making A Difference,News,PeopleOfAction,Promoting Peace,Rotary,Saving Mothers & Children,Supporting Education,Supporting the Environment,Youth Programs
Marc’s November Membership Broadcast  Marc Augsburger 2024-11-05 06:00:00Z 0 How To,MagicOfRotary,Making A Difference,News,PeopleOfAction,Rotary,RotaryResponds

Commemorating World Toilet Day: A Call to Global Sanitation Action
 

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On the 19th of November 2024, the international community comes together in the pursuit of a critical yet often overlooked agenda: sanitation. The United Nation's Annual World Toilet Day seeks to ignite discourse and incite positive change around the global sanitation crisis, and this year is no exception. 
Commemorating World Toilet Day: A Call to Global Sanitation Action  2024-11-05 06:00:00Z 0 Sanitation & Hygiene,Clean Water,Clean Water,Community Service,End Polio Now,Fighting Disease,How To,Magic of Rotary,Making A Difference,News,PeopleOfAction,Rotary,RotaryResponds,Sanitation & Hygiene
DID YOU KNOW? - The Rotary Foundation Todd Restel 2024-11-05 06:00:00Z 0 Foundation,How To,Magic of Rotary,News,PeopleOfAction,Rotary,RotaryResponds

November 2024 Governor's Message

Posted by Todd Restel on Nov 01, 2024
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With November being Rotary Foundation Month, I am excited to announce that our District is kicking off a Million Dollar Journey to raise funds for The Rotary Foundation (“TRF”). The timing of our Journey coincides perfectly with TRF’s goal to build its Endowment Fund to $2.025 billion dollars by 2025.  This monetary goal is part of the TRF’s larger mission to help Rotary members advance world understanding, goodwill, and peace by improving health, providing quality education, improving the environment, and alleviating poverty. 
 
November 2024 Governor's Message Todd Restel 2024-11-01 05:00:00Z 0 District Grants,Foundation,Global Grants,International Service,Magic of Rotary,News,PeopleOfAction,Promoting Peace,Rotary,RotaryResponds
The 2024 Vibrant Club Workshop is November 9th! Scott Ryan 2024-10-05 05:00:00Z 0 Events,Magic of Rotary,News,Rotary,RotaryResponds

RFE with Turkey

Posted by David Clemens
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Rotary Friendship Exchange is exactly that – an exchange with another district in order to create new friendships and foster international understanding and good will. Participants are ambassadors for their own club and their country. Friendship Exchange is an intense social and cultural experience.
 
RFE with Turkey David Clemens 2024-10-05 05:00:00Z 0 Friendship Exchange,How To,International Service,Magic of Rotary,Making A Difference,News,PeopleOfAction,Promoting Peace,Rotary,RotaryResponds
Leading the Rotary Friendship Exchange Edwin Bos 2024-10-05 05:00:00Z 0 Friendship Exchange,How To,International Service,Making A Difference,News,PeopleOfAction,Promoting Peace,Rotary,RotaryResponds

San Antonio’s Zone25b29 Institute and Conference – A Huge Success!
 

Posted by Michelle Skemp on Oct 05, 2024
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(A Compilation of Words from Zone Institute Attendees)
 
Rotarians from District 6250 attended the Zone25b29 Institute held in San Antonio, TX during the first week of September. These members were: DGE Michael Kloss, DGN Scott Ryan, Erin Luken (Foundation Chair), Marc Augsburger (Membership Chair), Michelle Skemp (Public Image Chair), Ben Bauer (a Zone presenter and Regional Public Image Coordinator) and Joe Ruskey (Zone Institute Executive Committee Chair). 
 
San Antonio’s Zone25b29 Institute and Conference – A Huge Success!  Michelle Skemp 2024-10-05 05:00:00Z 0 Events,Foundation,International Service,Magic of Rotary,Membership,PeopleOfAction,Public Image,Rotary,RotaryResponds

Celebrate World Polio Day!
 

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In 1985 Rotarians made a promise to the children of the world. We promised them that we would eradicate polio from the face of the earth.  On the day that we made that promise there were 125 countries on 5 continents that were polio endemic and during the year of 1985 more than 350,000 children—nearly 1,000 children every single day—were paralyzed or died as a result of the polio virus. 
 
Celebrate World Polio Day!  2024-10-05 05:00:00Z 0 #EndPolio,End Polio Now,Events,Fighting Disease,International Service,Magic of Rotary,Making A Difference,News,PeopleOfAction,Rotary,RotaryResponds

Commemorating Economic and Community Development Month: October 2024

Posted on Oct 05, 2024
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October is recognized as Economic and Community Development Month, a time to celebrate and highlight the efforts to foster economic growth and community wellbeing. For Rotarians, this month is a reminder of the pivotal role they play in driving sustainable development and creating resilient communities.
 
 
Commemorating Economic and Community Development Month: October 2024 2024-10-05 05:00:00Z 0 Community Service,District Grants,Growing Local Economies,Impact Story,International Service,Magic of Rotary,Making A Difference,News,PeopleOfAction,Public Image,RotaryResponds
Your Digital Life Needs a Digital Defense  Joe Ruskey and Lyn Hewitt-Perez 2024-10-05 05:00:00Z 0 How To,Magic of Rotary,News,Rotary,RotaryResponds

Membership Report -October 2024
 

Posted by Marc Augsburger on Oct 05, 2024
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We have some great news for membership again this month! Our District membership remains strong at 2.267 members, remaining +1 members since the start of this Rotary year on July 1, 2024. Current new member leaders are Madison South with 6, followed by Janesville Morning and La Crescent with +4. Keep up the great work everyone.
Membership Report -October 2024  Marc Augsburger 2024-10-05 05:00:00Z 0 Magic of Rotary,Rotary
DID YOU KNOW? – Rotary Awards  Todd Restel 2024-10-05 05:00:00Z 0 Events,Magic of Rotary,Making A Difference,News,Rotary,RotaryResponds

Milestone in cervical cancer prevention in Ghana


 

Posted by Carrie Ronnander on Oct 05, 2024
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Milestone in cervical cancer prevention in Ghana: each of the 16 Regions now has at least one institution where women can have treatment of cervical precancer with ablation.
 
Above: Group photo of recent graduates from the last training program. The box in the center is one of the thermal ablators purchased with our global grant funds.
Milestone in cervical cancer prevention in Ghana  Carrie Ronnander 2024-10-05 05:00:00Z 0 Foundation,Impact Story,International Service,Making A Difference,News,PeopleOfAction,Promoting Peace,Rotary

ARE YOU THINKING ABOUT CALGARY?
 

Posted by Mark Jolivette on Oct 05, 2024
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Having had the joy of attending the last two, in Melbourne and in Singapore, I suggest that you consider traveling up to Calgary this June for no other reason than to get a much larger sense of what Rotary means to people around the world. Plus, until we go to Minneapolis-St. Paul, MN in 2029, this is the shortest distance you would have to travel to a convention.  
 
ARE YOU THINKING ABOUT CALGARY?  Mark Jolivette 2024-10-05 05:00:00Z 0 Events,International Service,Magic of Rotary,News,Rotary

Navigating Your Club’s Social Media
 

Posted by Michelle Skemp on Oct 05, 2024
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If you are working with your club’s public image, congratulations, you have chosen a very important role! #PublicImageIsEverything because it weaves together membership, service projects and helps tell your club’s story to the broader community. It’s important for engaging current members, and attracting new! So…You’ve agreed to help, but what do you do now? Read on for some helpful tips!
 
Navigating Your Club’s Social Media  Michelle Skemp 2024-10-05 05:00:00Z 0 International Service,Magic of Rotary,News,PeopleOfAction,Public Image,Rotary,RotaryResponds

Tis' the Season...to Identify Potential Outbound Rotary Youth Exchange Students!

Posted by Bill Pritchard on Oct 05, 2024
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On Saturday, October 26, the Rotary Youth Exchange Committee will be interviewing potential American Outbound Exchange Student Ambassadors. Do you know any potential Student Ambassadors who are good students (top half of class) and be between 16 and 18 1/2 years at approximately this time next year? If so, spread the word! This could be the start to a life-changing experience for them!
 
Tis' the Season...to Identify Potential Outbound Rotary Youth Exchange Students! Bill Pritchard 2024-10-05 05:00:00Z 0 How To,International Service,Magic of Rotary,Making A Difference,News,Promoting Peace,Rotary,Rotary Youth Exchange,RotaryResponds,Youth Programs

October 2024 Governor's Message

Posted by Todd Restel
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Rotary International recently released some figures that back up the claim that Rotarians are “People of Action.”  With more than 1.2 million members, Rotarians transformed communities on a worldwide basis by volunteering approximately 47 million hours last year.  In addition to our time and talents, The Rotary Foundation was able to award $291 million for sustainable global service initiatives during the 2023-24 year.  As a CPA, I believe that these impressive figures back up the claims that Rotarians work hard to make the world a better place.  Beyond the quantitative numbers, I see evidence of our value and good deeds in every community that hosts a Rotary club.
 
 
October 2024 Governor's Message Todd Restel 2024-10-01 05:00:00Z 0 #EndPolio,Events,International Service,Magic of Rotary,Making A Difference,News,Promoting Peace,Rotary,RotaryResponds
Admin Megs's Journey with ROTARY - IEP 2024-09-05 05:00:00Z 0 Community Service,Magic of Rotary,Making A Difference,News,PeopleOfAction,Promoting Peace,Rotary

Elevator's Speech

Posted by Michelle Skemp
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As a dedicated Rotarian, you enjoy the positive impact your club makes on your local community. You also value how you, a Midwesterner, can help change lives of people you will never meet half way across the planet. 
 
That is the power of Rotary. That is the power of your club!
Elevator's Speech Michelle Skemp 2024-09-05 05:00:00Z 0 Magic of Rotary,Public Image,Rotary

September 2024 Governor's Message

Posted by Todd Restel
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When I send out Rotary-related emails, my signature block includes the following sentence which I believe captures the essence of who we are as Rotarians:
 
“Rotary is a global network of more than 1.2 million neighbors, friends, leaders, and problem-solvers who see a world where people unite and take action to create lasting change – across the globe, in our communities, and in ourselves.”
September 2024 Governor's Message Todd Restel 2024-09-05 05:00:00Z 0 Events,International Service,Magic of Rotary,News,Promoting Peace,Rotary

Stay Cyber Space

Posted by Joe Ruskey
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Be Smarter Than Your Smart Home
 
Our digital age goes beyond our cellphones, laptops, and televisions. Now even our homes can be smart. Smart refrigerators make your grocery list, and then order the items. Thermostats learn our likes, dislikes, schedules. These devices can and do revolutionize our lives. However, smart homeowners wonder if they should be concerned about the security and privacy implications of the revolution.
Stay Cyber Space Joe Ruskey 2024-09-05 05:00:00Z 0 Magic of Rotary,News,Promoting Peace,Rotary
Reflecting on RYLA  Ben Bauer 2024-09-05 05:00:00Z 0 Events,Interact,Magic of Rotary,News,RYLA,Rotaract,Rotary,RotaryResponds,Youth Programs

To my Rotary sponsors in District 6250

Posted by Isha Paudel
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To my District 6250 Rotary sponsors,

It's that time again when I get to catch you up on what's been happening in my world. I hope this letter finds you well. 
 
Isha with her Rotary host family in Beloit  From left to right Alice, Kris and Nick Dimassis.  Nick is a member of the Beloit Rotary Club and the Director of the Beloit Public Library
To my Rotary sponsors in District 6250 Isha Paudel 2024-09-05 05:00:00Z 0 International Service,Magic of Rotary,Rotary
Nominate Your Next District Governor  Ben Bauer 2024-09-05 05:00:00Z 0 Magic of Rotary,News,Rotary

Celebrating 114 Years: Rotary's First Convention and Its Lasting Legacy

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On August 15, 1910, Rotary held its first convention in Chicago, setting the stage for a global movement of service. From 17 clubs and 1,000 members then, to over 46,000 clubs and 1.4 million members across 200 countries today, Rotary's growth has been nothing short of remarkable.
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
The convention of the Rotary Clubs of America was held in Rotary’s birthplace, Chicago, in 1910.
Celebrating 114 Years: Rotary's First Convention and Its Lasting Legacy 2024-08-15 05:00:00Z 0 Community Service,Events,Impact Story,International Service,Magic of Rotary,Making A Difference,Membership,News,Rotary

International Youth Day 2024: Celebrating Global Change-Makers and Rotary's Youth Impact

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On August 12, 2024, we celebrate International Youth Day, an occasion that has been recognizing young people's contributions to society since 2000. This year's event takes on special significance as we continue to navigate the post-pandemic world, with organizations like Rotary International playing a crucial role in empowering youth.

International Youth Day 2024: Celebrating Global Change-Makers and Rotary's Youth Impact 2024-08-12 05:00:00Z 0 Community Service,Interact,International Service,Magic of Rotary,Making A Difference,News,Promoting Peace,RYLA,Rotaract,Rotary,Rotary Youth Exchange,RotaryResponds,Youth Programs
Become a Paul Harris Society Member Edwin Bos 2024-08-05 05:00:00Z 0 Foundation,Magic of Rotary,Rotary

MUSKIES ON BOARD  FOR CHILDREN

Posted by Mark Jolivette on Aug 05, 2024
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Let me tell you a fishy story that started with diapers.
 
Question:  What do disposable diapers and the Wisconsin state fish have in common?
 
Answer: Two crazy Rotarians by the names of Al Louis and David Amborn. One is passionate about musky fishing; the other was passionate about meeting the needs of young children, especially newborns and infants. Both were members of the Rotary Club of La Crosse. Unfortunately, David died suddenly before he could see all the good that their crazy dream has produced. Al is still an active member.
MUSKIES ON BOARD FOR CHILDREN Mark Jolivette 2024-08-05 05:00:00Z 0 Community Service,Impact Story,Magic of Rotary,Making A Difference,News,Rotary,RotaryResponds,Sanitation & Hygiene,Saving Mothers & Children

Stay Cyber Safe
 

Posted on Aug 05, 2024
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In today’s technological world, we all face significant Cybersecurity risks in both our personal and business worlds. With this in mind, District Governor Todd Restel reached out to Joe Ruskey to submit a monthly article with helpful security tips.
 
Joe is the owner of Dependable Solutions, Inc., an MSP firm specializing in providing Secure Technology Solutions to organizations throughout the Midwest. He and his Dependable Family are passionate about finding the tools needed for today’s ever-changing technology arena. They are dedicated to maximizing an organization’s value of technology while mitigating their risk with the ever-increasing cyber-attacks plaguing us all today.
 
Many of you may be familiar with Joe, as he had the privilege to serve as our District Governor in 2017-18. He lives in La Crosse with his wife, Tina, where he is a member of the Rotary Club of La Crosse and serves as the club’s Rotary Foundation Committee Chair.  Joe also serves at the Zone level as the Chair for the 2024 Institute in San Antonio.
 
Read on for the first submission of Stay Cyber Safe:
Stay Cyber Safe  2024-08-05 05:00:00Z 0 Magic of Rotary,News,Promoting Peace,Rotary,RotaryResponds

Hosting via the Open World Program
 

Posted by Edwin Bos on Aug 05, 2024
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Are you and your club looking to spice up your Rotary year?  Read on!  The Open World Program is sponsored by the Congressional Office on International Leadership (COIL) and is available only to Rotary clubs in the United States.  It provides an opportunity to build fellowship and friendship and to strengthen international understanding by hosting emerging Eurasian leaders from a long list of countries. 
Hosting via the Open World Program  Edwin Bos 2024-08-05 05:00:00Z 0 International Service,Magic of Rotary,Making A Difference,News,Promoting Peace,Rotary

Is Your Rotary Club a Best-Kept Secret?
 

Posted by Michelle Skemp on Aug 05, 2024
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If you are reading this article, chances are you have found yourself tasked with enhancing your club's public image. You may find yourself wanting to share the story of your club and showcase your service activities, but you aren’t sure by where to begin or which avenue to pursue. That's where we can help.
 
Is Your Rotary Club a Best-Kept Secret?  Michelle Skemp 2024-08-05 05:00:00Z 0 Magic of Rotary,News,Public Image,Rotary
Putting the Fun Back in Fundraising Patricia Boge 2024-08-05 05:00:00Z 0 Events,Magic of Rotary,News,Rotary

DID YOU KNOW???

Posted by Todd Restel on Aug 05, 2024
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Rotary Fellowships
 
Editor’s Note: This “DID YOU KNOW?” article is designed to help you discover and learn about the rich Rotary International life that happens outside of our individual clubs’ walls. This month’s article is on Rotary International’s Fellowships. Personally, I am a lifetime member of the Scouting, Whisk(e)y, and Wine Fellowships.
 
DID YOU KNOW??? Todd Restel 2024-08-05 05:00:00Z 0 International Service,Magic of Rotary,Promoting Peace,Rotary,Rotary Fellowships

Batter Up in the Miracle League

Posted by Ed Fink on Aug 05, 2024
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The Rotary Club of Madison West Middleton had a fun night-out at a Miracle League of Dane County triple-header weeks ago. Twenty three club members and friends attended. This is a program that affords children and young adults an opportunity to play a modified version of baseball.  Players are young people, 4-19 years of age, with some disability, who are aided by "buddies. " The buddies are community volunteers who assist the players bat, run/wheel the bases and play the field.
Batter Up in the Miracle League Ed Fink 2024-08-05 05:00:00Z 0 Community Service,Impact Story,Magic of Rotary,Making A Difference,Rotary,RotaryResponds,Saving Mothers & Children
Nominate Your Next District Governor  Ben Bauer 2024-08-05 05:00:00Z 0 Magic of Rotary,News,Rotary
August 2024: Membership and New Club Development Month - Time to Level Up! 2024-08-02 05:00:00Z 0 How To,Magic of Rotary,Membership,News,Rotary
August 2024 Governor's Message Todd Restel 2024-08-01 05:00:00Z 0 Magic of Rotary,Making A Difference,News,Promoting Peace,Rotary

Rotary Fellowship and a District Fund Raiser

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We have a great opportunity for both Rotary Fellowship and a District Fund Raiser on Tuesday, August 6th at The Duck Pond at Warner Park! This is the home field for the Madison Night Mares and the Madison Mallards. The night's game will feature the Madison Night Mares, a NEW semi-pro girls fast pitch softball team. The Night Mares have waived the regular cost for us to host a fund raiser with them (saves us $600!) whereby for each $16 ticket sold to the game through the attachment, our District will receive $8 back. In addition, we have the opportunity to raise even more by selling 50/50 raffle tickets during the game. The stadium will provide us with the tickets to sell as well as vest to identify us as 50/50 ticket sellers. District 6250 will reap the benefit of 50% of those ticket sales as well.
Rotary Fellowship and a District Fund Raiser 2024-07-18 05:00:00Z 0 MagicOfRotary,Membership,News,Rotary,RotaryResponds

Rotary's First Project: A Century-Old Legacy of Community Service

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July holds several important celebrations in the Rotary Calendar. These include the Rotary New Year, Rotary Leadership, Maternal and Child Health awareness, and marking 117 years since Rotary's inaugural community service project - establishing a public restroom in Chicago. This humble beginning set the stage for a global movement of service and impact.

Rotary's First Project: A Century-Old Legacy of Community Service 2024-07-16 05:00:00Z 0 #EndPolio,Community Service,Fighting Disease,Impact Story,Magic of Rotary,Making A Difference,News,PeopleOfAction,Public Image,Rotary,RotaryResponds,Sanitation & Hygiene
Rotary International Launches 2024-2025: Unveiling "The Magic of Rotary" 2024-07-16 05:00:00Z 0 #MagicOfRotary,Public Image,Rotary,RotaryResponds

Sharing Hope in the World
 

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Attending the Singapore Rotary International Convention
May 25-28, 2024
by: Stefanie Kline, President, Rotary After Hours
 
How many Rotarians have been to a Rotary International Convention? Have you traveled the world to hear motivating speakers on topics of sanitation, polio, and making a difference in the world? Have you ever heard the International President speak about their goals and vison for the Rotary Year? Have you had the chance to sit with 13,000 of your Rotary friends from all over the world to experience the magic of Rotary?
 
Here is my story from this year’s Rotary International Convention in Singapore. I attended the convention as a first-time attendee. I traveled 20+ hours to reach Singapore, a city that is safe, clean, innovative, technologically savvy and beautiful, but so hot and humid!  Attending a convention at the Marina Bay Sands hotel and convention center was like a scene out of a move!
 
For the purpose of this article, I wanted to share with my fellow D6250 friends the truly uplifting, enlightening and magical journey experienced in Singapore. Not only did I attend the convention, I made so many connections from around the world and friends for life, but also memories and an experience that was impactful for my growth as an upcoming President Elect of the Rotary Club of La Crosse After Hours. If you have not been to an RI Convention, please consider going. You won’t regret it!
 
 
 
Sharing Hope in the World  Stefanie Kline 2024-07-05 05:00:00Z 0 Events,Friendship Exchange,International Service,News,Promoting Peace,Rotary

Madison South Celebrates its 51st Brat Stand Season
 

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It’s one remarkable run. For five decades, Madison South Rotary has operated an all-volunteer brat stand across the street from Camp Randall (near the railroad tracks on Regent Street) during home UW football games. In doing so, it has raised well over $1 million dollars for dozens of non-profit groups in south Madison, as well as college scholarships. In addition, a tip jar added in more recent years has pumped thousands more dollars to Polio Plus vaccines.
Madison South Celebrates its 51st Brat Stand Season  Steve Busalacchi 2024-07-05 05:00:00Z 0 Community Service,Events,Impact Story,Making A Difference,PeopleOfAction,Rotary,RotaryResponds,Supporting Education

New Media Kits Initiative Provide Social Content at Your Fingertips
 

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If your club has ever struggled to keep your website and social media platforms updated with fresh content, worry no more! Thanks to the innovative efforts of our District Governor Todd Restel, along with his fellow WI 6270 District Governor, Peter Bosch, and other newly appointed district governors from zones 25 and 29, the Media Kits Initiative has been launched to provide clubs with user-friendly materials conveniently packed in a zip drive.
 
 
New Media Kits Initiative Provide Social Content at Your Fingertips  Michelle Skemp 2024-07-05 05:00:00Z 0 Public Image,Rotary,RotaryResponds
OPEN WORLD PROGRAM 2025  Edwin Bos 2024-07-05 05:00:00Z 0 Events,International Service,Making A Difference,News,Promoting Peace,Rotary

DID YOU KNOW???
 

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Editor’s Note: This “DID YOU KNOW???” article is designed to help you discover and learn about the rich Rotary International life that happens outside of our individual clubs’ walls.  
 
As a final note, I (Todd Restel – District Governor 2024-25) do plan to talk specifically on two of Rotary’s areas of focus: 1- Water, Sanitation and Hygiene and 2 – Peace & Conflict Prevention/Resolution during my club visits.  If I don’t have a visit scheduled with your club, please reach out to me.
 
DID YOU KNOW???  Todd Restel 2024-07-05 05:00:00Z 0 Sanitation & Hygiene,Clean Water,Community Service,International Service,Making A Difference,News,PeopleOfAction,Promoting Peace,Rotary,Rotary Fellowships,RotaryResponds
District to Serve Clubs Through Club Visioning  Dean Ryerson 2024-07-05 05:00:00Z 0 How To,Rotary
The District Governor Journey  Lyn Perez-Hewitt 2024-07-05 05:00:00Z 0 Sanitation & Hygiene,News,Promoting Peace

Past President working with new members to increase engagement
 

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The Holmen Area Rotary Club, Past President, Kathy Reinolt, facilitated a new member project that resulted in "Teacher of the Month" award and recognition. The new member group came up with the idea, developed criteria, nomination forms (both print and online versions), and created special tote bags, mugs, tumblers to give to the winning teacher. They worked with the school district administrator, Kris Mueller, also a member of the Club, to meet with the principals of each of the four elementary schools in Holmen to promote the project. 
 
Past President working with new members to increase engagement  2024-07-05 05:00:00Z 0 Awards & Recognition,Events,Making A Difference,Membership,News,PeopleOfAction,Public Image,Rotary,RotaryResponds,Supporting Education
District Governor Bio - Scott Ryan Benjamin Bauer 2024-07-03 05:00:00Z 0 News

July 2024 Governor's Message

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One of my favorite habits is sitting down to read the Rotary Magazine delivered to my home each month by the USPS (to be read as “Yes, I actually still enjoy the tactile feeling of the Rotary Magazine instead of the electronic version.”)  However, just so you don’t think that I am too old school, I also love reading the electronic version our District 6250’s monthly Dispatch as well as my own Rotary Club of La Crosse’s weekly Coulee Report.  I never get tired of reading, seeing and hearing stories about “People of Action” and “Service Above Self.”  In my mind, I am able to connect these stories to the many fellow Rotarians that I have come to know as I enter my sixteenth year of being a Rotarian and to those Rotarians to whom I might not personally know but still inspire me.
July 2024 Governor's Message Todd Restel 2024-07-01 05:00:00Z 0 Clean Water,News,Promoting Peace,Rotary
Past President working with new members to increase engagement  Kathy Reinolt 2024-06-05 05:00:00Z 0 Awards & Recognition,Community Service,PeopleOfAction,Rotary,RotaryResponds,Supporting Education

D6250 RFE Embraced by Philippines Hospitality

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The Rotary Friendship Exchange (RFE) from District 6250 traveled to the Philippines from May 16th to the 24th. Ten travelers, including eight members from various Rotary clubs in Wisconsin, participated in this life changing experience.

Members include Assistant Governor and RFE Team Leader Aaron Frank of Rotary Club of Madison South and spouse Rotarian Dawn Frank of Rotary Club of Madison-After Hours, incoming president of Rotary Club of La Crosse-After Hours Stefanie Kline, incoming president Mark Jolivette of Rotary Club of La Crosse-Downtown with spouse Sharon Jolivette, Elizabeth Naughton of Rotary Club of Lake Mills, Brent Van Gysel of Rotary Club of Columbus-Fall River with brother-in-law Craig Kolasinski, Jim Van de Bogard of Rotary Club of Beloit, and Cathy Statz of Rotary Club of Changemakers.

(The photo captures the entire RFE Team Philippines enjoying breakfast on the stunning island of Boracay in Malay, Aklan, Philippines.)

D6250 RFE Embraced by Philippines Hospitality Stephanie Kline 2024-06-05 05:00:00Z 0 CreatesHope,Friendship Exchange,Global Grants,International Service,News,PeopleOfAction,Promoting Peace,Rotary,RotaryCreatesHope

Rotary Friendship Exchange with Het Hoogeland Rotary Club

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Fifteen Rotary-connected Wisconsinites from District 6250 had a great experience recently, doing 3-day Rotary Friendship Exchange with the Het Hoogeland Rotary Club in the northern part of the Netherlands.  Edwin Bos was our intrepid leader, as his parents and grandparents were all from that area, and he still has cousins there. Actually, most of the people looked like Edwin’s cousins—they are a long legged group, those Netherlanders! 
 
Rotary Friendship Exchange with Het Hoogeland Rotary Club Jill Kessenich 2024-06-05 05:00:00Z 0 Friendship Exchange,International Service,Promoting Peace,Rotary,RotaryCreatesHope
SPOTLIGHT: Mrs. Jessica Hansen  Jill Kessenich 2024-06-05 05:00:00Z 0 Awards & Recognition,Community Service,CreatesHope,Impact Story,News,Rotary,Supporting Education

Goodbye and Hello
 

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Goodbye and Hello,
 
Please accept my sincere thanks to you all for giving me your ears and eyes for the past three years as I have shared advice, insights and alerts about public image. I hope you enjoyed reading the messages as much as I enjoyed writing and sharing them.
 
On July 1st I take on a new role as President of the Fitchburg Verona Horizons Rotary Club and you all will be very well served by our new District Public Image Chair, Michelle Skemp of the Rotary Club of La Crosse.
 
Lynn Perez-Hewitt
 
 
 
Goodbye and Hello  Lynn Perez-Hewitt 2024-06-05 05:00:00Z 0 Public Image,Rotary,RotaryResponds
Politics and Rotary  2024-06-05 05:00:00Z 0 News,Promoting Peace,Rotary

Hosting an inbound student in the 2025-26 year
 

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Hello Rotary Club Presidents and Rotary Youth Exchange Officers!
 
It is time to get your club’s commitment sent in for hosting an inbound student in the 2025-26 year.  We are hoping that each club who has hosted a student this year will agree to do so again in 2025-26.  We hope that additional clubs will agree to host due to more high schools being willing to accept high school exchange students. As a special incentive, funds may be available to help these “new” clubs experience the joy of hosting an exchange student. 
 
Hosting an inbound student in the 2025-26 year  Bill Pritchard 2024-06-05 05:00:00Z 0 CreatesHope,Rotary,Rotary Youth Exchange,Supporting Education,Youth Programs
June 2024 Governor's Message Michelle McGrath 2024-06-02 05:00:00Z 0 Community Service,CreatesHope,Events,Interact,Making A Difference,Rotaract,Rotary

Exchange between 6250 and New Zealand District 9920
 

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Rotary Friendship Exchange for November 2024! New Zealand!
 
Contact Mark Etrheim at mark@mchlax.com with any questions and if you would like to go...
 
OPEN FOR PARTICIPANTS!
 
Exchange between 6250 and New Zealand District 9920
 
If you have not been on an RFE, you have not truly experienced real travel. You will make new friends and see more than any tourist ever will.  Priority given to first time RFE participants, this trip is sure to be full so get your name in and an application asap. Our Rotary District 6250 Friendship Exchange Committee has arranged an exchange with Rotary District 9920 New Zealand. This district is on the North Island starting in Auckland, and traveling to 5 Rotary clubs. We will send a group of Rotarians and guests to their district from November 6 to 22, 2024. We will host an inbound group from their district from June 29- July 5, 2025. It is expected you will host them when they visit as well as plan their trip and help driving.
 
Exchange between 6250 and New Zealand District 9920  Mark Etrheim 2024-05-06 05:00:00Z 0 CreatesHope,Friendship Exchange,International Service,Promoting Peace,Rotary,RotaryCreatesHope
Marshfield Rotary New Member Grant  2024-05-06 05:00:00Z 0 Community Service,CreatesHope,District Grants,Fighting Disease,Making A Difference,News,PeopleOfAction,Rotary,RotaryCreatesHope,RotaryResponds

The RCC Livelihood and Training Center holds its inauguration event
 

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Last Apr. 26th, the Rotary Club of Waunakee and the Rotary Club Jefferson of District 6250 joined forces with the Rotary Club of Metro Kalibo (D3850) and Albasan Elementary School in the Philippines to inaugurate and hand over the RCC Livelihood and Training Center in the Philippines. District 6250 Administrator Megs Lunn and Rtn. Janette Jordee from Waunakee were present for the momentous occasion.

The RCC Livelihood and Training Center holds its inauguration event  2024-05-06 05:00:00Z 0 CreatesHope,District Grants,Events,Growing Local Economies,International Service,Making A Difference,News,PeopleOfAction,Public Image,Rotary,RotaryCreatesHope,RotaryResponds
Membership Report  Marc Augsburger 2024-05-06 05:00:00Z 0 Membership,News,Rotary,RotaryCreatesHope
McKinney-Marshall Scholarship Winner Announcement  Bill Pritchard 2024-05-06 05:00:00Z 0 CreatesHope,International Service,News,PeopleOfAction,Promoting Peace,Rotary,Rotary Youth Exchange,RotaryCreatesHope,RotaryResponds,Supporting Education,Youth Programs

POSITIVE PUBLIC IMAGE DEPENDS ON EVERYONE

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Rotarians from three districts recently gathered in Green Bay, WI for TriCon 2024, each arriving with their own intentions and unique purpose. Some attendees were eager to explore new service initiatives, others aimed to enhance their comprehension of Rotary’s impact, and many looked forward to rekindling old friendships and forging new connections. The event served as a platform for members to engage in meaningful discussions, exchange ideas, and collectively work towards “creating hope in the world,” championed by a message from Rotary International’s current president.
 
POSITIVE PUBLIC IMAGE DEPENDS ON EVERYONE 2024-05-06 05:00:00Z 0 CreatesHope,Events,News,Rotary,RotaryCreatesHope
Public Image Webinar Series!!  Ben Bauer 2024-05-06 05:00:00Z 0 CreatesHope,Events,News,Public Image,RotaryCreatesHope

The Shark Tank project 
 

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The Rotary Club of La Crosse After-Hours has been completing their Shark Tank project from the past Rotary year. Many members, along with parents and teachers of Northside Elementary School and members of Trinity Lutheran Church have come together to construct a large 'living classroom' that will assist in growing plants as students learn about botany and help families gain access to fresh and nutrient dense food. 
 
The Shark Tank project   Rev Phillip Waselik 2024-05-06 05:00:00Z 0 Community Service,Impact Story,Making A Difference,PeopleOfAction,RotaryCreatesHope,RotaryResponds
May 2024 Governor's Message 2024-05-01 05:00:00Z 0 CreatesHope,Making A Difference,MentalHealthMatters,Rotary,RotaryCreatesHope
LATEST NEWS FROM AROUND THE DISTRICT (Issue 7) Megs Lunn 2024-04-12 05:00:00Z 0 CreatesHope,Making A Difference,News,Promoting Peace,Rotary,RotaryCreatesHope,RotaryResponds
LATEST NEWS FROM AROUND THE DISTRICT (Issue 6) Megs Lunn 2024-04-08 05:00:00Z 0 CreatesHope,Making A Difference,News,Promoting Peace,Rotary,RotaryCreatesHope,RotaryResponds
LATEST NEWS FROM AROUND THE DISTRICT (Issue 5) Megs Lunn 2024-04-06 05:00:00Z 0 CreatesHope,Making A Difference,News,Promoting Peace,Rotary,RotaryCreatesHope,RotaryResponds

What was Midwest PETS 2024?
 

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The Rotary Midwest President-Elect Training Seminar (PETS) is one of the largest multi-district PETS in the United States.  It was formed in 2012 with a view to becoming a premier training event with the atmosphere of a mini-Rotary International Convention by leveraging the expertise and buying power of six Rotary Districts from Illinois, Michigan and Wisconsin, Districts 6220, 6250, 6270, 6420, 6440 and 6450.
 
What was Midwest PETS 2024?  Todd Restel 2024-04-05 05:00:00Z 0 Events,News,Rotary
How String Bracelets Change Children’s Lives  Patricia Boge 2024-04-05 05:00:00Z 0 Awards & Recognition,CreatesHope,Impact Story,Making A Difference,News,PeopleOfAction,Rotary,RotaryCreatesHope

The Rotary Mobile Clinic, A Beacon of Hope 
 

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Thank you, Rotarians, – this happened because of you. The Rotary Mobile Clinic continues to be a beacon of hope for our patients and a source of inspiration for our volunteers, partners, and communities.  We received the Wisconsin Hospital Association’s prestigious Global Vision Award - an award is given out to two organizations each year with the hopes that others will create similar programming throughout the state.
 
The Rotary Mobile Clinic, A Beacon of Hope   Jason Larsen 2024-03-05 06:00:00Z 0 Community Service,CreatesHope,Fighting Disease,Global Grants,Impact Story,Making A Difference,News,PeopleOfAction,Public Image,RotaryCreatesHope,RotaryResponds
Finding Harmony Between Rotary and Life Megs Lunn 2024-03-05 06:00:00Z 0 CreatesHope,Friendship Exchange,International Service,Promoting Peace,Rotary,RotaryCreatesHope

The Magic of Rotary for RY 2024-2025

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On Feb. 17, D6250 Governor-Elect (DGE) Todd Restel led the District Team Training Seminar (DTTS) at her company’s First Supply function room in Madison. Governor Michelle McGrath set the tone by handing out playing cards, signaling the start of the fun. Admin Megs, who was visiting, met everyone for the first time. The breakout session was productive, with valuable insights shared. PDG Dean Ryerson also discussed the importance of facilitator training for clubs in need of support, focusing on sustaining both the district and clubs in the upcoming years.

The Magic of Rotary for RY 2024-2025 2024-03-05 06:00:00Z 0 #EndPolio,Events,News,Rotary,Rotary Fellowships

It's Time to Plan Your Club's District Grant!

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Springtime in Wisconsin means that our Presidents-Elect have just returned from PETS, full of inspiration and ready to collaborate with their club members on what their club's vision and plans will be for the new Rotary year. As the District Rotary Foundation Chair, I hope that your club will consider planning and implementing a district grant. We were able to fund fifteen district grants this year, with our District Designated Funds (DDF) lasting until December 2023 as the committee approved grant applications on a monthly basis.
 

(In photo: Diane Whitmore picks produce during a volunteer event at River Run Farm for Harvest Against Hunger, a program of Rotary District 5030 (Washington, USA) that makes fresh, local produce that might otherwise go to waste available to people who face food insecurity by connecting farmers, truckers, volunteers, and food banks to bring resources into hunger-relief efforts across Washington state. Sequim, Washington, USA. 8 November 2023. Find the story in "Rotary" magazine, March 2024.)

It's Time to Plan Your Club's District Grant! Erin Luken 2024-03-05 06:00:00Z 0 CreatesHope,District Grants,Global Grants,International Service,PeopleOfAction,RotaryCreatesHope,RotaryResponds
Beds for Kids in Need Adam J. Fleis 2024-03-05 06:00:00Z 0 Community Service,District Grants,Impact Story,Making A Difference,PeopleOfAction,Public Image,RotaryResponds
Rotars of the Month Megs Lunn 2024-03-02 06:00:00Z 0 Impact Story,Making A Difference,News,RotaryCreatesHope,Supporting Education,Youth Programs
March 2024 Governor's Message Michelle McGrath 2024-03-02 06:00:00Z 0 Clean Water,Clean Water, Sanitation & Hygiene,CreatesHope,Events,PeopleOfAction,Rotary,RotaryCreatesHope
LATEST NEWS FROM AROUND THE DISTRICT (Issue 3) Megs Lunn 2024-02-23 06:00:00Z 0 CreatesHope,Making A Difference,News,Promoting Peace,RotaryCreatesHope,RotaryResponds
Tierney Ray Hall, District 6250’s Global Scholar Reports from Oxford, U.K. Tierney Ray 2024-02-05 06:00:00Z 0 CreatesHope,Foundation,Global Grants,Impact Story,Rotary,RotaryCreatesHope,RotaryResponds,Supporting Education,Youth Programs
February 2024 Governor's Message Michelle McGrath 2024-01-31 06:00:00Z 0 CreatesHope,Events,Promoting Peace,RYLA,Rotaract,Rotary,RotaryCreatesHope

Registration Open for RYLA 2024!

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We’re once again inviting clubs to sponsor students to attend our District 6250 Rotary Youth Leadership Awards (RYLA) Camp.  We are very excited about this year's program and the opportunity to mentor young professionals in our community.

The dates for this year's camp are May 17-19 at the Upham Woods Outdoor Learning Center in Wisconsin Dells. Plans are coming together for another transformational and fun weekend!

New this year - Applications from clubs and Registrations from students/parents will be completely electronic. No more paper forms (woohoo)!

For RYLA leadership to get everything we need, you’ll simply have to complete these 3 steps:

  1. Identify how many, and which students you’ll be sponsoring to send to RYLA (typically done with your local schools).
  2. Complete the Club Application. You’ll use this form to tell us how many students your club is sponsoring and provide their names.
  3. Ensure that students along with their parents/guardians complete the Student Registration form. Each student coming to RYLA will need to complete this form.
Keep reading for more helpful info!
Registration Open for RYLA 2024! Benjamin Bauer 2024-01-31 06:00:00Z 0 RYLA,Youth Programs
WATCH: D6250 Mental Health Series Webinar 2024-01-17 06:00:00Z 0 CreatesHope,Events,MentalHealthMatters,Rotary,RotaryCreatesHope
Register SOON for Tricon 2024 Jason Beren 2024-01-06 06:00:00Z 0 CreatesHope,News,Rotary,RotaryCreatesHope

The Matagalpa Rain Harvesting Project: Bringing Hope to Nicaraguan Communities

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The Coulee Region Rotary Clubs are working together to provide 100 rain harvesting and filtration systems to communities in Nicaragua. In this region, 65% of women spend over 10 hours per week collecting water for their families. By ensuring access to clean water and sanitation, the spread of waterborne diseases is curbed, children maintain better health and attend school regularly, while mothers can spend more time helping their families. Join us in this collaborative effort to make a difference.

The Matagalpa Rain Harvesting Project: Bringing Hope to Nicaraguan Communities Sierra Lyon 2024-01-05 06:00:00Z 0 Sanitation & Hygiene,Clean Water,CreatesHope,Fighting Disease,Global Grants,Making A Difference,Rotary,RotaryCreatesHope,RotaryResponds
Your 2026-2027 District Governor – Scott Ryan Benjamin Bauer 2024-01-03 06:00:00Z 0 News

Get Ready for RYLA 2024!

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The countdown is on for our next Rotary Youth Leadership Awards (RYLA) camp at Camp Upham Woods in Wisconsin Dells!

What you need to know and can do right now:

  • Save the Date: May 17-19, 2024
  • Start to make connections with your local high schools to nominate sophomores
  • Line up volunteers to drive students to/from RYLA
  • Check to see if you have extra budget to send an extra student (or 2-3) this year :)
  • Keep an eye on the RYLA page for registration to open with more information (email Ben Bauer if you'd like to be added to the RYLA contact list)
Get Ready for RYLA 2024! Benjamin Bauer 2024-01-03 06:00:00Z 0 RYLA,Youth Programs

January 2024 Governor's Message

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"Our deepest fear is not that we are inadequate. Our deepest fear is that we are powerful beyond measure. We are all meant to shine. And as we let our own light shine, we give other people permission to do the same."  - Marianne Williamson
 
Happy New Year Rotarians!  It's time to SHOW UP AND SHINE!  As we stand at the starting line of a new year, let the timeless wisdom of Marianne Williamson guide us.  Soak in these words of wisdom in print or watch them play out in one of my favorite clips from Coach Carter.  Click HERE to watch.
 
January 2024 Governor's Message Michelle McGrath 2024-01-01 06:00:00Z 0 Rotary,RotaryCreatesHope

Rotary Friendship Exchange D6250 and D3850

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Rotary Friendship Exchange – District 6250 (Wisconsin) and District 3850 (Western Visayas, Philippines) – Open to All District 6250 Rotarians.
 
For those interested; this Friendship Exchange will tie into the Rotary International Convention in Singapore which you can attend independently.  Alternatively, independent additional time at the famous Boracay resort island can be added to the end of the trip.
 
Please read fully … contact Edwin Bos at edwin@bosdesignbuilders.com if interested.  If you don’t receive a confirmation your interest HAS NOT been noted.  Please resend.
 
Rotary Friendship Exchange D6250 and D3850 Edwin Bos 2023-12-13 06:00:00Z 0 CreatesHope,Friendship Exchange,International Service,Promoting Peace,RotaryCreatesHope

TULIP LOVERS!!!  Mini-Rotary Friendship Exchange 

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TULIP LOVERS!!!  Mini-Rotary Friendship Exchange – District 6250 (Wisconsin) and the Rotary Club Uithuizen - het Hoogeland (the Netherlands) – Open to All District 6250 Rotarians.
 
Please read fully … contact Edwin Bos at edwin@bosdesignbuilders.com if interested.  If you don’t receive a confirmation your interest has not been noted.  Please resend.
 
TULIP LOVERS!!! Mini-Rotary Friendship Exchange Edwin Bos 2023-12-12 06:00:00Z 0 Friendship Exchange,International Service,News,Promoting Peace,RotaryCreatesHope

December 2023 Governor's Message

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So much hope, peace and joy sent your way as we enter this holiday season.  As we close out the calendar year, I want to extend a big THANK YOU for all you are doing to create impact, extend our reach, engage members, and adapt in the process - from the Club Level to District Leadership. It has been such a treat to visit your clubs these past several months and take in all of the JOY our members are spreading. 6250 Rotarians are creating so much HOPE and our world is a better place because of our members. 
 
December 2023 Governor's Message Michelle McGrath 2023-12-01 06:00:00Z 0 CreatesHope,Rotary,RotaryCreatesHope

Highlighting the 2023 Vibrant Club Workshop

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On Saturday, November 4th, district 6250 hosted the 2023 Vibrant Club Workshop (VCW) at the Cranberry Country Lodge in Tomah. The event was a success, with 42 Rotarians coming together for a day of camaraderie, training, and celebration. We focused on the Rotary Action Plan and its four key priorities, utilizing Public Image, The Rotary Foundations, and Membership to drive everything collaboratively.
 
 
 
Highlighting the 2023 Vibrant Club Workshop Michael Kloss 2023-11-18 06:00:00Z 0 Events,Foundation,Membership,News,PeopleOfAction,Public Image,Rotary,RotaryCreatesHope

Attention D6250 Rotarians: An Opportunity to Join in the Rotary Friendship Exchange program.

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Rotary Friendship Exchange – District 6250 (Wisconsin) and District 4640 (Brazil State of Parana) – Open to All District 6250 Rotarians.
Please read fully … contact Mark Etrheim at mark@mchlax.com if interested.  If you don’t receive confirmation and an application to fill out and  return within 2 days send it again.  
Attention D6250 Rotarians: An Opportunity to Join in the Rotary Friendship Exchange program. Mark Etrheim 2023-11-15 06:00:00Z 0 Friendship Exchange,International Service,News,Promoting Peace,Rotary

The Fight To End Polio IS Won With Small Steps

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How a small Rotary Club had an impact on the fight against this enduring disease.
  • The Idea: Hold a World’s Greatest Meal at the weekly meeting of the Fitchburg Verona Horizons Rotary Club. (https://wgmeal.org/) Because everybody eats and Rotarians gather around food.
  • The Invitation: Ask the Co-chair of the District’s Fight to End Polio Committee, Randy Sproule, to be the program for October.
  • The Offer: When Randy learned that he was part of our World’s Greatest Meal, he surprised us with an offer to match our pledges dollar-for-dollar up to $2000.
  • The Response: Randy’s powerful and personal presentation resulted in $755 from fewer than 10 of 23 members present. Following the meeting the club President sent an email with the offer to all members and more pledges poured in. The total reached $2450.
  • The Result: A small club of 23 members created a donation of more than $13,000 to help end polio.
To learn more about Worlds Greatest Meal find them on Facebook or visit their website here.
 
Lynn Perez-Hewitt
President-Elect
Fitchburg Verona Horizon Rotary Club
The Fight To End Polio IS Won With Small Steps Lyn Perez-Hewitt 2023-11-07 06:00:00Z 0 CreatesHope,End Polio Now,Fighting Disease,PeopleOfAction,RotaryCreatesHope,Saving Mothers & Children

Join the Vibrant Club Workshop in Tomah, Wisconsin.

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Join your fellow District 6250 Rotarians to *Learn-Share-Love* in beautiful Tomah, Wisconsin! All Rotarians that are looking for inspiration, whether to grow membership or to engage their communities, are encouraged to take part.
 
The Vibrant Club Workshop is all about how Membership, Public Image, and Humanitarian Service through The Rotary Foundation are connected and work together in Rotary.  This year’s Vibrant Club Workshop will incorporate RI President Gordon McInally’s theme, Create Hope in the World and the action priorities of Rotary’s Strategic Plan.
 
Those attending a Vibrant Club Workshop will jointly discover and develop creative ways to achieve and sustain membership growth and retention, to increase Rotary Foundation giving and project engagement, and to gain enhanced public image in their communities. 
 
***Please note that registration for the cranberry bog tour and museum tour are separate items. Go here to register for the cranberry bog tour and here for the museum tour.***
Join the Vibrant Club Workshop in Tomah, Wisconsin. Michale Kloss 2023-09-29 05:00:00Z 0

D6250 Upcoming Mental Health and Wellness Programs 

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We are thrilled to announce that Governor Michelle McGrath, along with our district, supports mental health and wellness and a priority for both Rotary International and our district.

Join our District 6250 Hope Squad for the annual NAMI (National Association for Mental Illness) Walk, taking place on Saturday, October 7, 2023 in Madison, WI. Our goal is to raise $6250 and have 100 Rotarians participate in support of mental health for all. Click on this link below to join our team, and please share this information with your Rotary Club members. This event is sure to be amazing, with plenty of fellowship and fun for everyone who attends.

REGISTER HERE

Let us gather around with the District 6250 Hope Squad. There is also the same walk (on September 28th) in the Eau Claire area. Please share Walk Day photos by using the hashtags #Together4MH and #WhyIWalk

D6250 Upcoming Mental Health and Wellness Programs 2023-09-24 05:00:00Z 0 CreatesHope,Making A Difference,MentalHealthMatters,News,RotaryCreatesHope,RotaryResponds

Rotary D6250 Mental Wellness Series 

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Our latest partner, NAMI Wisconsin, will provide a brief overview of mental illness and mental health, discuss stigma and discrimination in the workplace, and provide suggestions on how to integrate mental wellness practices into your work culture.  They will also share resources available in your area to promote work life balance, internal best practices, and additional speakers/materials available to meet the needs of your organization, club, or workplace.  Please share the below link with your club members and JOIN US for this important webinar.  If you are unable to attend that day, no worries – the webinar will be recorded and available to view on our website.  
 
Rotary D6250 Mental Wellness Series Michelle McGrath 2023-09-22 05:00:00Z 0 Events,Making A Difference,MentalHealthMatters,News,RotaryCreatesHope,RotaryResponds

Maximizing Rotary's Brand Image

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Rotary's brand represents more than just a logo – it embodies our organization's essence and what we stand for. To promote Rotary effectively and increase awareness, it's essential to use our brand consistently across all club communications.

As a unique organization, we need to ensure our messaging reflects our distinct character. To help you achieve this, we offer many resources that can be used to showcase Rotary in your community and demonstrate that we're people of action. If you're new to the Brand Center, take a look at our introductory materials to get started.

If you're a first-time user, start here for a seamless introduction to the Brand Center https://brandcenter.rotary.org/en-us/templates

or check this video https://youtu.be/eFjtTRT4V5I

Cover Photo: Rtn. Vera Allotey of the Rotary Club of Accra Dansoman (Ghana); Photo above: Service project that sent 16,000 meals to Ukraine by PDG Ben Bauer

Maximizing Rotary's Brand Image 2023-09-16 05:00:00Z 0
2022-2023 District 6250 Year In Review Benjamin Bauer 2023-08-03 05:00:00Z 0 Awards & Recognition,Membership,News,Public Image,The Rotary Foundation
Community Service Video Challenge Winners! Andy Bakkum 2023-08-03 05:00:00Z 0 Community Service

August 2023 Governor's Message

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“The people who are crazy enough to think they can change the world, are the ones who do”. Steve Jobs
 
Welcome to August – a month dedicated to building the TEAM – your club, our district, and beyond. Surrounding yourself with the right people is always key – as Steve Jobs shares in his famous quote and commercial – the crazy ones, the people who see things differently are often the ones that change the world.  I’m incredibly grateful to have those “people” Steve references, on our District 6250 Team.   It brings me such JOY to plan, create, inspire and of course, enjoy fellowship with 6250 Rotarians. You are creating HOPE in all that you do. THANK YOU!
August 2023 Governor's Message michelle McGrath 2023-08-01 05:00:00Z 0 CreatesHope,PeopleOfAction,RotaryCreatesHope,RotaryResponds

2022-2023 Rotary Citation Recipients

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The Rotary Citation awards recognize the hard work clubs do throughout the year. Working to achieve the citation goals helps clubs engage their members, stay relevant in their communities, and run more efficiently. A welcoming and engaging club not only fosters a positive experience for its members, but also reflects the values of Rotary. When clubs achieve citation goals, they contribute to the overall health and culture of Rotary for generations to come.

8 clubs earned the recognition of the 2022-2023 Rotary Citation! Congratulations to:

  • Baraboo
  • Chippewa Valley After Hours
  • Eau Claire
  • La Crosse After Hours
  • Lake Mills
  • Madison Breakfast
  • Marshfield
  • Menomonie Sunrise

Several other clubs achieved double digit goals and were oh so close to getting the required 13. Please encourage your club leadership to engage with the citation again this year and use it as a tool to focus your club around some key measurements of club health and success. Citation goals can be found in Rotary Club Central. To achieve the Rotary Citation, review all the available goals, select at least half of them, achieve those goals, and report your achievement in Rotary Club Central. All achievements need to be reported in Rotary Club Central by 30 June.

2022-2023 Rotary Citation Recipients Benjamin Bauer 2023-07-28 05:00:00Z 0 Awards & Recognition
Why stories move us, change us, and stay with us.  Lynn Perez-Hewitt 2023-07-13 05:00:00Z 0 Impact Story,Public Image,Rotary,RotaryCreatesHope,StoryTelling

Youth Exchange Inbound Program

 
District 6250 welcomes 17 new students to Wisconsin in August for the 2024-2025 academic year! 
 
Exchange Students: You will find a series of useful policy and form links on this page. Connect with us on the WhatsApp group with any questions (access is restricted to the inbound students).
 
General Inbound Information
 
Policies
 
Google Forms
Youth Exchange Inbound Program Janine O'Rourke 2023-07-10 05:00:00Z 0 Rotary Youth Exchange,Youth Programs
Bartels Beach Park in Memory of Dean Sanders Andy Bakkum 2023-06-21 05:00:00Z 0 Community Service
La Crosse After Hours - Sleep in Heavenly Peace Andy Bakkum 2023-06-21 05:00:00Z 0 Community Service
Madison Breakfast Rotary Reading Project Andy Bakkum 2023-06-21 05:00:00Z 0 Community Service
June 2023 Governor's Message Benjamin Bauer 2023-06-15 05:00:00Z 0 Foundation,Membership,News

What does P.E.S.O have to do with Public Image?

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Public Image PESO
 
What does P.E.S.O have to do with Public Image?
P.E.S.O is an acronym for four avenues for your club’s messages and stories.
P is for PAID. Paying to place your message is advertising, and advertising isn’t free.
E is for EARNED. When you earn placement of your message or story you have gained the attention of a media outlet, through a press release, an email, a call. You earned it.
S is for SHARED. We share our messages and stories through social media. Whether it’s Twitter, Instagram, Snap Chat, Facebook, Pinterest, or any of the latest and greatest technologies springing up.
O is for OWNED. The most common owned channel is your website. Some clubs also produce a bulletin or send a formatted email. Owning also implies it is an internal distribution channel.
P. E. and S. are all external platforms to share messages and stories. O is the only internal channel. And yes, you may forward a bulletin, email or link which means this avenue offers another means to reach an external group.
Why is this useful? When you are aware of these four avenues you and your club can be more strategic and more effective building and maintaining your public image.
What does P.E.S.O have to do with Public Image? Lynn Perez-Hewitt 2023-06-13 05:00:00Z 0 Public Image

2022-2023 District 6250 New Member Project Grant Recipients!

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Congratulations to the recipients of the 2022-2023 District 6250 New Member Project Grant! Some surplus in our membership development budget has created a great opportunity to support more clubs! In addition to the 5, $1,000 grants, we're awarding 4 additional $500 grants.
  • Lake Mills Rotary ($1,000)
  • La Crosse ($1,000)
  • Mayville ($1,000)
  • La Crosse Valley View ($1,000)
  • DeForest ($1,000)
  • Waunakee ($500)
  • La Crosse After Hours ($500)
  • Marshfield ($500)
  • Chippewa Falls ($500)
Clubs must have obtained four new members who have maintained their membership in the club for at least four months during the 2022-2023 Rotary year. Priority of the awards went to the clubs that have the highest percentage of net positive member growth for the Rotary Year as of May 31st. These new club members will use these funds to support a service project of their choice, helping them jumpstart their involvement with their clubs. Engaging new members early helps improve member satisfaction and retention. Congratulations again to all of our membership grant recipients this year.
2022-2023 District 6250 New Member Project Grant Recipients! Benjamin Bauer 2023-06-13 05:00:00Z 0 Awards & Recognition,Membership

Trolls in Mount Horeb are fun. Copyright Trolls are not.

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What do Copyright trolls and Risk Management have to do with Public Image?
 
More than we would like.
 
Risk Management at RI recently let us know that Clubs continue to post images and other media (cartoons, songs, etc.) online in disregard of copyright laws. This disregard has a direct and costly result for all of us.  Over 40% of the open claims against our Rotary Club & District liability Insurance pertain to copyright infringement.
 
Software applications that “troll” the internet looking for violations. When a violation is discovered, owners are contacted, and they make a demand to settle the violation. Failure to respond makes the situation worse.
It is your club’s responsibility to comply with copyright laws.
 
Take these steps to avoid receiving a notice of copyright infringement:
  • Review your club’s social media accounts and websites and delete any content using images or other media where you do not have the copyright owner’s permission. This means everything-newsletters, bulletins, documents, forms, even if they are more than 10 years old.
  • Contact Risk Management immediately if your club receives a notice of copyright infringement.
Then from Now On:
  • Instead of “lifting” images or other media of the internet, use images or media created by members of your club (WITH THEIR PERMISSION) or use the Rotary Brand Center.
  • Never, NEVER, use images or other media without permission.
  • Purchase images or other media online.
  • Consult the U.S. Copyright Office’s website. https://copyright.gov/
Lynn Perez-Hewitt
District 6250 Public Image Chair 2020-2024
perezhewitt@hceonline.com
 
Trolls in Mount Horeb are fun. Copyright Trolls are not. Lynn Perez-Hewitt 2023-05-15 05:00:00Z 0
May 2023 Governor's Message Benjamin Bauer 2023-05-15 05:00:00Z 0 Interact,News,RYLA,Rotary Youth Exchange

Be a Host in 2024-2025

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Start watching your inboxes for Inbound Commitment letters for the 2024-2025 Rotary Year. We had 16 clubs commit to hosting a foreign exchange student for the 2023-2024 year. Let's help District Governor Elect Michelle McGrath by raising that number by one or two. Support is available to new clubs that are interested or clubs who wish to re-engage with Rotary Youth Exchange. Reach out to RYE Chair BIll Pritchard at prosapiaeo@gmail.com for more details. Youth Exchange promotes Peace through Understanding...doesn't that feel like an important thing in our world today?
 
Be a Host in 2024-2025 William Pritchard 2023-05-15 05:00:00Z 0 Rotary Youth Exchange,Youth Programs
Transforming the Public Image of Rotary in La Crosse Lynn Perez-Hewitt 2023-04-14 05:00:00Z 0 Foundation,Global Grants,Public Image
April 2023 Governor's Message Benjamin Bauer 2023-04-12 05:00:00Z 0 Foundation,News,Supporting the Environment
District Membership Grant Creates Engagement and Supports Education Benjamin Bauer 2023-04-04 05:00:00Z 0 International Service,Membership,Supporting Education

ShelterBox Responds Around the World

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ShelterBox currently has response projects ongoing in 11 countries. Rotary support from District 6250 is vitally important to enable this work and replenish our warehouses with the core aid items so we remain prepared for a rapid response to the next disaster. Please read check out this summary from Bill Tobin, Rotary Relations Manager at ShelterBox USA. Clubs interested in giving to this important work can use the mail in donation form.
ShelterBox Responds Around the World Benjamin Bauer 2023-03-31 05:00:00Z 0 International Service

TriCon 2023 - Register Today

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There's still time to register for TriCon and be a part of a great event with amazing speakers, inspirational and informative workshops, and load of Rotary Fun! Join us for some fun and help us raise some dollars for Polio Plus! Get more info on the Polio Plus FUNdraisers (Pints for Polio Pub Crawl and an awesome Silent Auction).
TriCon 2023 - Register Today Benjamin Bauer 2023-03-16 05:00:00Z 0 Events

Midwest PETS 2023

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The 2023 Midwest President Elect Training Seminar (PETS) was vibrant, engaging, and the first step towards a successful journey ahead.  Over 400 Rotarians from 6 Rotary Districts in the Midwest gathered in Itasca, IL, on March 3-5th for a weekend of learning, inspiration, and fun.  District 6250 had 72 participants representing Club and District Leadership.  Club President Elects and Nominees spent their time learning from Rotary International experts, as well as, our very own District leaders - the Assistant Governors, Committee Chairs, and the DG team.  
 
The weekend was kicked off with a special visit from the Rotary International President Elect, Gordon McInally.  Gordon had a chance to speak individually to each district, as well as share his inspiring message from the main stage.  He shared his vision of hope and peace for the upcoming Rotary year.  Other speakers included, Greg Podd, Rotary Foundation Trustee, and PRIVP, Valarie Wafer.  Our plenary sessions were filled with inspiring messages from leaders across the country sharing stories about the importance of diversity, equity, and inclusion, leadership, and mental health.  Tom Farley and John Williams closed out PETS with an uplifting message about the importance of connecting with others and creating an ensemble for success.
Midwest PETS 2023 Michelle McGrath 2023-03-16 05:00:00Z 0 News
President Jennifer Jones invites you to the2023 Rotary International Convention! Michelle McGrath 2023-03-16 05:00:00Z 0 Events

Global Grant Recipient Karissa Bjonstad

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Please meet Karissa Bjornstad, who will be presenting on a Global Scholar’s Panel at TriCon!
 
Karissa is District 6250’s Global Scholar for the 2022-2023 year.  She is studying at the London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, completing a Master’s Degree there.  The Holmen Rotary Club is her sponsor club here in the US.  She is sharing her latest information here.
 
Global Grant Recipient Karissa Bjonstad Lois Smith 2023-03-16 05:00:00Z 0 Foundation,Global Grants

End Polio Now

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Be a part of the final push to eradicate Polio. For polio eradication efforts, 2022 brought good news. Fewer genetic strains of the virus are circulating than ever before. Afghanistan and Pakistan are the only two countries where polio remains endemic. And support from political, medical, and community leaders in those areas has strengthened vaccination efforts during the past year. Global support for polio eradication also reached new heights, as was proven at the World Health Summit in October, when Rotary and international partners and donors pledged a combined US$2.6 billion to eradicate the disease. Here's a few ways you can get involved:
  1. Join the District 6250 Polio Plus Society
  2. Learn about how efforts in 2022 paid off in a big way
  3. Make your donation online at www.rotary.org/donate and select the Polio Fund
Keep reading for more info and ways you can help.
End Polio Now Benjamin Bauer 2023-03-15 05:00:00Z 0 Fighting Disease,Foundation
March 2023 Governor's Message Benjamin Bauer 2023-03-10 06:00:00Z 0 News
February 2023 Governor's Message Benjamin Bauer 2023-02-21 06:00:00Z 0 News

Volunteering with Youth 2023 Update

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As Rotarians, we have a responsibility to ensure that when we interact with youth through our programs and activities, we are following Rotary's general guidelines. Some of you may be quite familiar with these, but as a reminder, please review the following information and reach out with any questions. We appreciate every Rotarian in our district and your commitment to ensuring that we are in compliance with any Rotary International policy that helps protect our Youth.

Volunteering with Youth 2023 Update Laura Lee 2023-02-20 06:00:00Z 0 Youth Programs

Public Image Thrives on Awareness

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Everyday is an opportunity to share Rotary. By showing up in our communities to serve and volunteer each of us is sharing what Rotary means to us, what Rotary means in our communities.

Sharing and showing up can be as simple as wearing your pin even on days when you don’t have a meeting. Add the Rotary logo or your club’s logo to the signature block of your personal email. If you use social media, post a mention of a speaker you heard at a meeting, link to an article in the Rotary magazine, put a Rotary decal on your car, in the window at your office.  These are just a few suggestions that cost you little and will spread awareness that Rotary is here in our communities.

When people see us, see Rotarians in action, the opportunity opens to extend an invitation to a meeting, to be a volunteer, and just maybe to become one of us.

Public Image Thrives on Awareness Lynn Perez-Hewitt 2023-02-17 06:00:00Z 0 Public Image

The Power of Ethics + The Power of Youth = Transformation

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Hosted by District Ethics Initiative Chair Bob Shumaker and event co-chair Mike Gotzler 180 students from 20 schools braved the arctic cold Friday morning, February 5th. Madison Rotary Club volunteers were as excited as the students to share and explore the R-O-T-A-R-Y framework for ethical decision-making.

The young leaders came from small schools, large schools, public schools, private schools, schools who have participated in the past and schools for which this was a new experience. The excitement, and not a small amount of anxiety filled the welcome sessions. High energy keynote group, the First Wave Touring Ensemble, vividly demonstrated realistic challenges and complexities facing all of our youngsters. The tone of the morning was set, the framework for decision-making explained. Participants streamed from the ballroom to their assigned breakout rooms. Students were deliberately scattered so they could meet and think with peers they didn’t know. Keep reading to hear how these leaders stretched their minds.

The Power of Ethics + The Power of Youth = Transformation Lynn Perez-Hewitt 2023-02-17 06:00:00Z 0 Youth Programs

You're Invited - Rotary Orientation

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Once you’ve chosen a travel destination, what do you do next? Learn a bit of the language? Get a list of area highlights? Check out a map? Anticipate a warm welcome?

Our Rotary District will be hosting new member orientation throughout 2023. On every fifth Wednesday (March 29, May 31, August 30, November 29) at 7 a.m. or 7 p.m., new Rotarians – and Rotarians who feel new – can join others for an easy-going hour designed to give everyone a great start to a great Rotary experience. We will offer a warm Rotary welcome, Rotary language acquisition, Rotary highlights, and a Rotary map.  This is not a series, it is a single opportunity, offered four days a year, at 7 a.m. and 7 p.m. each of the four days.

You're Invited - Rotary Orientation Karen Hebert 2023-02-17 06:00:00Z 0 Membership

Isha Paudel Update

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Isha Paudel (the Girl from Nepal) was a Rotary Youth exchange student in our District during the 2019-20 school year.  She was “discovered” as a 14 year old by a group of 6250 Rotarians who visited Nepal as part of a Rotary Friendship Exchange in 2016.  She currently attends UW-Platteville and this is her most recent update to the District 6250 Rotarians who help sponsor her education. Keep reading for a letter from Isha.
Isha Paudel Update Edwin Bos 2023-02-15 06:00:00Z 0 Friendship Exchange,News

Thank You from Rotary District 2331 & Szczecin Rotary (Poland)

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Hello fellow Rotarians from District 6250!
 
On the 21st of December our Club had its Christmas celebration.  On this special occasion we wanted to honor fellow Rotarians who supported our Club`s help to refugees from the Ukraine and directly to the Ukrainian nation in their homeland. Therefore, we created a special statue "Dove of Peace" which is the representation of the Rotary motto "Service Above Self" and our motto for last year - "Service for Peace".
 
We think of your District as our true friend in the help that we offer to Ukrainians.  We wanted to honor your District.  In attachment I am sending you a photo of the statue and diploma. We plan to bring the statue with us on return Rotary Friendship Exchange to your District in June.
 
Wishing you all the best for the Upcoming 2023
Anna Łakomiak-Melka
Thank You from Rotary District 2331 & Szczecin Rotary (Poland) Edwin Bos 2023-02-15 06:00:00Z 0 Friendship Exchange,News

Vibrant Club 2023 Handouts

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Hello Rotarian!

Thank you for registering for Vibrant Club Workshop on January 21, 2023! We are so excited for a fun event!
 
Vibrant Club Workshop – January 21, 2023
Online – 9:00 am to 11:30 am
In-Person – 1:00 pm to 3:30 pm
Handouts & Survey:
 
Linked below please find handouts and the survey for this event.  In Person event survey’s will be collected onsite.  Virtual event survey’s should be emailed to DGN Todd Restel trestel@1supply.com.
 
 
Zoom Connection information for the morning event:
 
Join Zoom Meeting
 
Meeting ID: 870 7958 0993
Passcode: 924123
Dial by your location
        +1 305 224 1968 US
        +1 309 205 3325 US
        +1 312 626 6799 US (Chicago)
 
 
Instruction for the afternoon in person event:
 
Cappella Performing Arts Center
721 King Street
La Crosse, WI 54601
 
There is a small parking lot on 8th Street and have access to the large parking lot next door on 8th Street as well. The 8th Street entrance is handicap accessible with an elevator lift inside.
 
 
We look forward to a great event!
 
Thank you,
 
Todd Restel | CFO
District Governor Nominee
Cell: 608-790-5134
 
Heather L. Dyer, CAE
Rotary District 6250 Administration
TriCon Conference Chair
Cell: 608-516-8505
Phone: 608-204-9835
Vibrant Club 2023 Handouts Heather Dyer 2023-01-18 06:00:00Z 0
TriCon Registration Open Ben Bauer 2023-01-13 06:00:00Z 0 Events

Friendship Exchange - Budapest 2023

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Rotary Friendship Exchange to Budapest Hungary April 9 to 19, 2023.
 
Initial Details:
  • We're probably staying in a central Hotel in Budapest, some homestays possible.
  • 9 Rotary clubs in Budapest will be taking turns showing us the city and important historical Stories and locations. 10 maximum team members.
  • The cost will be Airfare, probably hotel, meals, and incidentals. We would coordinate the flights with the team members if possible, so if you are a bit nervous don’t be, the team will take care of you!
If you have not been on one of these they are an amazing experience of seeing the sights, experiencing local culture and making real Rotarian friends
Group Leader will be Mark Etrheim, mark@mchlax.com, 608-769-7200.  Any questions, please contact me directly.
Friendship Exchange - Budapest 2023 Mark Etrheim 2023-01-13 06:00:00Z 0 Friendship Exchange
Report on May-Oct 2022 Help for Ukraine 2023-01-13 06:00:00Z 0 Foundation,International Service

2022-2023 District 6250 Membership Growth Grant Recipients!

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Congratulations to the recipients of the 2022-2023 District 6250 Membership Growth Grants.
  • Lake Mills Rotary
  • Madison Breakfast Rotary
Two $1,000 grants have been provided to these clubs to help with membership retention, recruitment, starting a new club, promotion, etc. To qualify, clubs must have a Membership Chair. Priority of the awards went to clubs whose efforts demonstrate innovative and impactful ideas for growing a club’s membership. Learn more about this grant program or our other membership grant program, the New Member Project Grant here. Applications for the New Member Project Grant are due May 31st, 2023 – don’t wait!
 
2022-2023 District 6250 Membership Growth Grant Recipients! Benjamin Bauer 2023-01-13 06:00:00Z 0 Awards & Recognition,Membership

Friendship Exchange - Croatia 2023

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Your very own Rotary District 6250 is known for having the most robust Rotary Friendship Exchange Program in North American … take advantage of these once in a lifetime opportunities!
 
Background: Currently, the Rotary Club of Beloit is the primary international sponsor on a large Rotary “Digital Literacy” Global Grant that is benefitting schools in various parts of Croatia.  The relationships Beloit has established over the past 3 years has led to this Rotary Friendship Exchange opportunity.  Members of the Rotary Club of Beloit were given first “dibs” on this exchange, however, there are several spots remaining.
 
What: Rotary Friendship Exchange with Rotary Clubs and Rotarians in Croatia.  Stay with local Rotarians, city and business tours, local food and drink, Rotary meetings and plenty of time for fellowship and discussion.  Prepare to be surprised by the activities and tours organized for you.  Return leg will bring Croatian Rotarians to Wisconsin in 2024.  See also:  Rotary International Website RFE Information and District 6250 Friendship Exchange Page
 
When: District 6250 travel to District 1913 in Croatia will be from September 7-18, 2023.  District 1913 travel to 6250 is TBD in 2024.  No visa requirements in either direction, just a passport. Keep reading for a more detailed itinerary and to learn how to sign up!
 
Friendship Exchange - Croatia 2023 Edwin Bos 2023-01-13 06:00:00Z 0 Friendship Exchange

Mayville Park Square Band Stand

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The Mayville Rotary Club exemplifies how a spark of an idea can take hold and bring community together. And it all started with a new member grant. From Mike Schuett:

The summer of 2022 had over 15 events in The Square many due to the new stage and equipment. Pictured is Ukekrazy performing at the Kids Rock Day Afternoon in July 2022. Keep reading to learn more.
Mayville Park Square Band Stand Liz Evans 2023-01-13 06:00:00Z 0 District Grants,Foundation

Your 2025-2026 District Governor – Michael Kloss

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Get to know your District Governor Nominee Designate, Michael Kloss of the Rotary Club of Eau Claire Morning. Michael is currently an Assistant Governor, representing our Group 1 clubs (Eau Clair, Chippewa Falls, Menomonie) and is an active community member in Rotary and other organizations. He’s clearly got a passion for service and will be an excellent leader of our District in the coming years. Learn more about Michael here.
Your 2025-2026 District Governor – Michael Kloss 2023-01-13 06:00:00Z 0 News

Make Public Image a Priority

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When your club makes public image a priority, be prepared to see engagement rise. Showcasing how your projects make an impact in the community and touch people's lives gives the public an understanding of what Rotary does.  Having a Public Image Chair is a great way to prioritize your club’s image. They can coordinate club messages and provide a consistent Rotary voice in communications. And the Brand Center is where they can find tools such as templates, images, and videos to create compelling ads, flyers, social media posts, and press releases. Keep reading to learn more about making public image a priority.
Make Public Image a Priority Benjamin Bauer 2023-01-13 06:00:00Z 0 Public Image

New Year Resolutions, New Youth Program Opportunities!

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Happy New Year to all Rotarians in District 6250. It's that time of year where we make resolutions...reflect on what we did last year that we might want to change, do more of or stop doing completely. Most of the time these resolutions are self-
reflective, but I would propose a challenge to each of you to look outward with your resolutions when it comes to Rotary. The District has an upcoming Vibrant Club Workshop on January 21st that would be a great way to get some ideas to bring back to your club.
New Year Resolutions, New Youth Program Opportunities! Laura Lee 2023-01-13 06:00:00Z 0 Youth Programs

Grow Rotary Through Service – Webinar Series
 

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District 6220 (Northeastern Wisconsin) and District 6250 have collaborated to present an exclusive webinar series, this month, focused on how we might "Grow Rotary Through Service."
 
Please join nationally known Rotary Innovative Club Advocate and speaker, Alex Johnson, from the Rotary Club of Plano West in Texas, for a fun-filled and information-packed series of webinars taking place every Thursday this month at 7:00 pm (Central Time). These webinars will give you and your club the tools needed to involve non-Rotarians in your service projects, provide "comfort and care" to current and new volunteers so they remain or become Rotarians, and promote the great work your Club is doing in the community to convince even more to join in and help! Keep reading or  Register Now! 
 
Grow Rotary Through Service – Webinar Series  Ben Bauer 2023-01-11 06:00:00Z 0 How To,Membership
January 2023 Governor's Message Benjamin Bauer 2023-01-11 06:00:00Z 0 News

December is the time to share food, family, friends, and Rotary

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And we share greetings.  Annual letters, cards, e-cards, phone calls… Consider adding a mention of Rotary when you send your greetings this year.
 
Maybe your friends, co-workers and family members have heard you talk about Rotary, but maybe they haven’t. Experience shows us that sharing Rotary will build goodwill and better friendships, and as an added bonus will increase awareness of the organization we care so much about.
 
Thank you all, and please have a safe, happy, healthy season.
 
Lynn Perez-Hewitt
Public Image Chair, District 6250
perezhewitt@hceonline.com
December is the time to share food, family, friends, and Rotary Lynn Perez-Hewitt 2022-12-15 06:00:00Z 0 Public Image
Make Your Year End Contributions Soon! Ben Bauer 2022-12-10 06:00:00Z 0 Foundation,News

Free Ukrainian/Polish Children's Book Downloads

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The tales of ‘Ola, Boris and their New Friends’ and ‘Ola and Boris Go to School’ arose out of a heartfelt urge to show solidarity with the Ukrainian people who had to abandon their country because of war. The message these books convey is universal and would be an excellent read for any child you know.

Digital copies of both books are available FREE here:
https://rotary6250.org/page/ola-boris-book-downloads/

Free Ukrainian/Polish Children's Book Downloads Edwin Bos 2022-12-10 06:00:00Z 0 Foundation,Promoting Peace,Supporting Education
December 2022 Governor's Message Benjamin Bauer 2022-12-09 06:00:00Z 0 News

Community Service Video Challenge

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Share a service project and win some cash for your club!

Submit your video today! District Community Service Chair, Andy Bakkum, shares an exciting new opportunity to share your Community Service projects, tell some stories and be recognized for a job well done! Click on the image above to learn about District 6250 Community Service Video Challenge!

Community Service Video Challenge Andy Bakkum 2022-11-15 06:00:00Z 0 Community Service

Polish Children’s Books Support Ukrainian Refugees

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In September 20,000 copies of “Ola y Boris Go to School” were printed in Poland using Ukrainian Refugee Relief funds raised by the District 6250 Foundation, Inc. and several District 6250 Rotary Clubs.  The book was published pro-bono by the Heweliusza Institute and written pro-bono by the academic staff at two universities in Wroclaw, Poland. It is the second book in a series. 
 
As a token of their appreciation, Rotary Poland and Anna Jasinowska-Czarny, Project Manager for the Heweliusza Institute, have made English language versions of the books available to all our District 6250 Clubs. Hard copies have been delivered or mailed to all Club Presidents. Digital copies of both books are available for FREE download at the link and/or QR below. The message these books convey is universal. They would be an excellent read for any child you know.
Polish Children’s Books Support Ukrainian Refugees Edwin Bos 2022-11-15 06:00:00Z 0 Friendship Exchange,Supporting Education
Rotary On The Air Podcast - Larry & Karen Hands Lynn Perez-Hewitt 2022-11-15 06:00:00Z 0 Foundation,Supporting the Environment

Resources for International Service

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International service projects improve life for the people served and create the humanitarian culture that we experience as Rotarians. This is true at every level of Rotary including your club and our District 6250.
 
District 6250 has many resources available to help your club achieve the international goals you have chosen. Those resources include mentoring, networking, and funding. Keep reading for a brief overview for reference while planning your next international service project.
 
Resources for International Service Dwight Heaney 2022-11-15 06:00:00Z 0 Foundation,Global Grants,International Service

Friendship Exchange – India 2023

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Key Details:
  • District 6250 travel to 3170 … February 4 to 14, 2023.  District 3170 to 6250 … June 10-20, 2023.  There are visa requirements in both directions, but it can be done simply on line. 
  • Travel to Mumbai(Bombay), then inland to their district. We will move in their district to visit parts of Maharashtra, Goa and Karnataka.
  • Maximum of 12 interested Rotarians, spouses and/or family members. Express your interest early!
  • Trip Leader 6250:  Rotarian David Clemens, who was an exchange student to Goa in 1971, and has traveled to this area five times. Please contact Dave Clemens, if interested, at dclemens541@gmail.com, or text to 608-408-8941.
More info available here at our Friendship Exchange Page!
Friendship Exchange – India 2023 David Clemens 2022-11-15 06:00:00Z 0 Friendship Exchange

November is Foundation Month!
 

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Rotarians around the world are celebrating the impact of The Rotary Foundation in November. We celebrate by remembering the impact our support is having to eradicate polio, fund humanitarian community projects sponsored by clubs, and the ways in which our work helps create peace by alleviating need where it exists.
 
Rotarians also celebrate by renewing their commitment to support The Rotary Foundation. Rotarians are encouraged to Support the Annual Fund/SHARE program that generates funds for use as matching grants by our District and the Foundation’s Global Fund.
 
In District 6250, your support means that we are supporting 15 active global grants and 12 active district grants. Because of you, we still have $125,000 to match Global Grant projects and $60,000 to match District Grant projects this year.
 
This is Our Rotary Foundation because Rotarians contribute the funds and Rotarians determine how the funds are used. Make your commitment today and work with your club to identify projects that can put these funds to use. And don’t forget, Rotary Direct makes it easy to give without reminders.  
 
Thank you for supporting Our Rotary Foundation so generously!
November is Foundation Month!  Dwight Heaney 2022-11-15 06:00:00Z 0 Foundation

Polio Plus Update

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The case of Polio that arose in New York is a reminder that our Rotary promise to children of the world to eradicate this devastating disease has not yet been fulfilled. While the New York case was brought from another country, it highlights the possibility that letting our guard down against this disease could have devastating consequences for countries that are currently polio free.
 
Your support for Polio Plus is a critical strategy to fulfill this promise. With the match from The Gates Foundation, your dollar is worth $3 for polio eradication.

Keep reading for more helpful info to help you achieve your Polio Giving Goals
 
Polio Plus Update Dwight Heaney 2022-11-15 06:00:00Z 0 Fighting Disease,Foundation

Change Up Your Club’s Public Image efforts with AUDIO

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By now you have probably heard the word “podcast”. Maybe you even listen to one or more. 
 
If you don’t feel ready to produce a regular podcast, you can relax. Few of us have the skills, yet. But…we can all start asking questions of our club members and recording what they say. A simple question like: How did you come to be a Rotarian? Or something with a bit more depth: What keeps you in Rotary?
 
Do you need a tape recorder? If you have one, feel free to use it. Or…use that smartphone in your hand, in your pocket, on your desk, next to your cup of coffee. The recordings can be emailed to whoever will keep track of them until the club decides how to use them and share them.
 
Many clubs have returned to in-person meetings. Adding regular brief recording sessions may add a fresh motivation for showing up in person. Try “The question of the week” Or create something all your own, then share your idea with your AG.
 
And remember to have fun. Making recordings may create lots of laughter, may stir memories for sharing, could even prompt brainstorming for something new.
 
Until next month, thank you for all you do.
 
Lynn Perez-Hewitt
District 6250 Public Image Chair
perezhewitt@hceonline.com
Change Up Your Club’s Public Image efforts with AUDIO Lynn Perez-Hewitt 2022-11-15 06:00:00Z 0 Public Image
November 2022 Governor's Message Benjamin Bauer 2022-11-11 06:00:00Z 0 News

Reports from 2022 Rotary Wisconsin Project Partners

Reports from Rotary Wisconsin Project Partners in the Ukraine, Poland and the Netherlands.  How Funds Have Been Used to Assist With the Ukrainian Refugee Crisis.  Updated October 2022.

Note:  This list does not include two $25,000 Rotary International Foundation Grants that Wisconsin Rotary has secured.  The first, in support of Ukraine Medical Supplies and the second, in support of Kiev International Rotary's Refugee Housing Initiatives.

 

Reports from 2022 Rotary Wisconsin Project Partners Edwin Bos 2022-10-14 05:00:00Z 0 Foundation,International Service

District Polio Plus Challenge!
 

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World Polio Day is October 24th. Some clubs have a tradition to raise funds for Polio Plus in October. District Governor Ben Bauer is also issuing a challenge to our District to raise $130,000 for Polio Plus by March 30, 2023. That is an increase of $11,000 over last year's success. Better yet, when we reach the goal, DG Ben will dye his hair purple in honor of our contributions! Keep reading to for more info and some tools to help us get there!
District Polio Plus Challenge!  2022-10-14 05:00:00Z 0 Fighting Disease,Foundation

Welcome Beloit College Rotaract!
 

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We’re excited to share the news of the rebirth of the Beloit College Rotaract Club! The club signed up 36 students at the Student Involvement Fair that happened at the beginning of the school year. At the Fair, Club President, Edgar Caracoza and Assistant Governor, Bill Beckly answered questions and represented the club. Congratulations!
 
 
Welcome Beloit College Rotaract!  2022-10-14 05:00:00Z 0 Rotaract

Kick-start Your Club’s Social Media
 

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Social media makes expanding your club’s reach easier than ever, but how? There are tips, tricks, and tools for creating content for social platforms, and the goal is simple: connection. A well-built social media presence will help you create connections in your community and beyond, from showcasing your club’s success to building awareness of its presence. To help boost your social media savvy, we’ve put together the following eight tips and tools (keep reading):
Kick-start Your Club’s Social Media  2022-10-14 05:00:00Z 0 Public Image

District 6250 Rotary Direct Leads Zone 29
 

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District 6250 Rotarians who participate in giving through Rotary Direct were honored at the recent Zone Institute at Mall of America. 11.5% of our membership use this convenient tool to make contributions to The Rotary Foundation.
 
Rotary Direct allows Rotarians to set a schedule for their contributions. Gifts can be made weekly, monthly , quarterly or in any interval you prefer. You can also designate your gift to any of The Rotary Foundation’s funds that you enjoy supporting. And you can change your giving schedule anytime you want.
 
A good way to use this tool is to start with your Annual Fund/SHARE contributions. The you can add contributions for Polio Plus, Endowment or Areas of Focus.
 
November is Rotary Foundation Month. Consider trying this tool as a way to manage your giving and eliminating the need to send a check. You can find more information at My Rotary/Donate.
 
And don’t forget, you can set a up a contribution to Polio Plus to qualify for the new Polio Plus Society. DG Ben Bauer has issued a challenge to reach $130,000 in contributions to Polio Plus this year. Let’s do this!     
  
District 6250 Rotary Direct Leads Zone 29  Dwight Heaney 2022-10-14 05:00:00Z 0 Awards & Recognition,Foundation

Public Image is an opportunity for all of us
 

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We use our five senses to perceive the world around us, including the Rotary World. What does this fact have to do with Rotary Public Image?
 
Everything.
 
Particularly seeing and hearing. The public part of Public Image is typically us giving out information about Rotary and our clubs that people can only see and hear.  With communication options narrowed to just two of our five senses we must focus on how we reach people through audio, video, and print.
 
Most clubs have limited access to T.V., a little more to radio, and hit and miss on print newspapers. That leaves us with social media. Public Image is about Perception. So if the public can’t see or hear anything about Rotary they can’t perceive Rotary. Keep reading to learn about some key opportunities that clubs have to improve their perception...
Public Image is an opportunity for all of us  Lynn Perez-Hewitt 2022-10-14 05:00:00Z 0 Public Image
October 2022 Governor's Message Benjamin Bauer 2022-10-07 05:00:00Z 0 News

2022 Member Survey Results

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Thank you to all the members who took our District 6250 Member survey. Your input is incredibly valuable and there's no doubt that it will help guide the ways your District continues to support Rotarians and their Clubs. Keep reading to dig into the results!
2022 Member Survey Results Benjamin Bauer 2022-10-05 05:00:00Z 0 News

World Polio Day

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As World Polio Day approaches, we’re getting ready to amplify our message about eradicating polio to protect the world’s children from this devastating disease.

We’ve made tremendous progress so far, and now’s the time to intensify our fight to make polio the second human disease ever to be eradicated. In 2020, the World Health Organization’s African region was certified free of wild poliovirus, showing that eradication is possible even in very difficult circumstances.

The wild poliovirus remains endemic in just two countries — Afghanistan and Pakistan— but as long as polio exists anywhere, it remains a threat everywhere. So let’s use World Polio Day to advocate for the support we need to end polio in countries where children are still as risk.

Get involved
Take action this World Polio Day by hosting virtual and community events, creating fundraisers, and sharing posts about the importance of polio eradication on social media.

Use the World Polio Day Toolkit to find resources and tips for planning activities and promoting a polio-free world. Download the World Polio Day Toolkit
 
Register your club’s participation in World Polio Day to show how your club is taking action to eradicate polio. If you register your events, fundraisers, and promotions by 13 October, you’ll get early access to Rotary’s World Polio Day Global Update, one week before the program airs on 24 October on Rotary’s Facebook page and endpolio.org. Register your club's participation
 
Use Raise for Rotary to start a World Polio Day online fundraiser. All contributions will go to the PolioPlus Fund. The top Raise for Rotary World Polio Day 2022 fundraisers will be featured on My Rotary. Start a fundraiser
World Polio Day 2022-09-15 05:00:00Z 0 Foundation

Announcing the District 6250 Polio Plus Society

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Please consider joining the District 6250 Polio Plus Society! This is a new program to recognize your gifts and pledges to support Polio Plus at a minimum of $100 per year. If you can’t give that amount, your contribution is still important to eradicate polio around the world. For the rest of this year and all of next year your contribution will be matched twice by the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation.
Announcing the District 6250 Polio Plus Society Dwight Heaney 2022-09-15 05:00:00Z 0 Foundation
The Gift of Reading 2022-09-15 05:00:00Z 0 The Rotarian Magazine

Youth Programs Keep Rotarians Young

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Fall means that Youth Exchange is back, and youth programs keep Rotarians young!
 
As I’ve scrolled through my social media over the last few weeks, I get a feeling or a sense of normalcy that occurs each fall. Back to school shopping, fantasy football leagues forming, people counting down to pumpkin spice being on menus again and most importantly for Rotary, Youth programs gearing up in full force. Interact Clubs reconnecting after summer break and exchange students being so warmly welcomed into District 6250. Keep reading to learn about all of the great Youth Program activity that’s happened recently!
Youth Programs Keep Rotarians Young Laura Lee 2022-09-15 05:00:00Z 0 Interact,RYLA,Rotary Youth Exchange,Short Term Youth Exchange,Youth Programs

Open World Program

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The Open World Program is available only to Rotary clubs in the United States and provides an opportunity to build fellowship and friendship to strengthen international understanding by hosting emerging Eurasian leaders from Armenia, Azerbaijan, Estonia, Georgia, Hungary, Kazakhstan, Kosovo, Kyrgyzstan, Moldova, Mongolia, North Macedonia, Poland, Romania, Serbia, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan, Ukraine, and Uzbekistan in your community. Rotary clubs are needed to host six-participant delegations for eight days and nights and prepare a professional program related to business, community, and civic life in the United States. You can view our 2023 hosting themes here.
 
Open World Program Ben Bauer 2022-09-15 05:00:00Z 0 Promoting Peace
September 2022 Governor's Message Benjamin Bauer 2022-09-08 05:00:00Z 0 News

The Mouse that Roared

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You may think you know the story of the 1987 change that allowed women into Rotary. With our first female Rotary International President, there’s no better time to hear the rest of the story. Rotarian Lyn Kenney (formerly of the Rotary Club of Madison South) is a historian with the Rotary Global History Fellowship. Read more to see more info about that Fellowship, or click here to watch a presentation about the many pioneering women who helped make this significant change happen.
The Mouse that Roared Lyn Kenney 2022-08-15 05:00:00Z 0 Rotary Fellowships

2022-2023 Membership Grants Now Open

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2022-2023 District Membership Grants Now Open!

You’re invited to take the next step toward your club membership goals with the support of a District Membership Grant! District 6250 has allocated $10,000 in New Member Project and Membership Growth Grants for the 2022-2023 Rotary year. This support comes through two grant types. One that is for new Rotary club members to use towards a service project of their choice, helping them jumpstart their involvement with their clubs. The other is all about Membership Growth to help with membership retention, recruitment, starting a new club, promotion, etc. Get started today!
 
For more details on qualification and the application process, visit https://rotary6250.org/page/member-grant-program
 
Ben Bauer
District Governor
2022-2023 Membership Grants Now Open Ben Bauer 2022-08-15 05:00:00Z 0 Membership

Public Image - Everything, Everywhere, All At Once

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Yes, this is the title of a new movie AND it’s the way we can feel at the beginning of the new Rotary year. Great new theme, new leadership, high expectations and higher energy.  And overwhelm. Where to begin? How to start?
 
If public image for your club is up to you, and even if it’s not, here are a few suggestions:
  • List the events that you know will happen in the upcoming Rotary year. It helps to see how events flow through the year. Then they won’t surprise you.
  • For each event list your tasks, timeline, and who can help you
  • How will the event be publicized? Plan social media posts with details and images by date, channel, and time
  • Lastly - ASK FOR HELP, email your District 6250 PI Chair. perezhewitt@hceonline.com
It doesn’t need to tax your Imagination for Public Image to be managed and successful.
 
Thank you for all you do,
 
Lynn Perez-Hewitt
District 6250 Public Image Chair 2021-2022
(520) 400-4966
Public Image - Everything, Everywhere, All At Once Lynn Perez-Hewitt 2022-08-15 05:00:00Z 0 Public Image

Club Recognition for 2021-22 Giving

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Rotary’s club banner program recognizes excellence in achievements made across a Rotary year. In November, six clubs form District 6250 will be recognized for excellence in giving to The Rotary Foundation. 
 
TRF Giving Banner – Awarded to clubs that achieve $100 per capita giving with 100% of members giving at least $25 to any of the following: Annual Fund, Polio Plus, approved global grants or the Endowment Fund.
  • Black River Falls
  • DeForest Area
  • Edgerton
  • Madison East – Monona
  • Onalaska-Hilltopper
  • Waunakee
Every Rotarian Every Year Banner – Awarded to clubs that achieve  a minimum Annual Fund contribution of $100 per capita during the Rotary year, and every dues-paying member must personally contribute at least $25 to the Annual Fund during the year.
  • Black River Falls
  • Edgerton
  • Madison East – Monona
  • Onalaska-Hilltopper
  • Waunakee
We also had 11 clubs exceed $200 per capita giving to The Rotary Foundation’s Annual Fund. While this is not a formal recognition category, it is a remarkable testimony to the generosity of District 6250 Rotarians.
 
Rotarian support for The Rotary Foundation is the fuel that drives Rotary’s success to create lasting change that improves the lives of our neighbors around the world and in our communities. Thank you to everyone who gives to OUR Rotary Foundation!      
 
Dwight Heaney
Foundation Chair
Club Recognition for 2021-22 Giving Dwight Heaney 2022-08-15 05:00:00Z 0 Foundation

Seeking Rotary Club(s) to Host 2023 Inbound Youth Exchange Winter Weekend

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We are welcoming 17 students to Wisconsin next month. The La Crosse Clubs are hosting these students the weekend of Dec 3 – Thank you La Crosse!!! We are hoping to add an additional winter weekend gathering in the January – February timeframe. Would your community be willing to host – perhaps 2 or 3 clubs joining together? The IB team of Janine O’Rourke, Rebecca Oettinger and Bob Dent would assist with planning. These students are looking for an opportunity to connect with each other and learn or see something new.  An example weekend would involve:
  • Community center or host families to accommodate the students for the Friday and Saturday night
  • 2-3 meals provided by the club or host families
  • 1 Saturday activity (sporting event, museum visit, etc)
  • Student departure following Sunday breakfast
Please contact Janine O’Rourke (608-577-6395, janinemoroukre@gmail.com) to discuss ideas or learn more.
Seeking Rotary Club(s) to Host 2023 Inbound Youth Exchange Winter Weekend Laura Lee 2022-08-15 05:00:00Z 0 Rotary Youth Exchange,Short Term Youth Exchange,Youth Programs

Raise for Rotary

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Have you ever seen one of those Facebook fundraisers that people do for their birthday or to simply raise funds for something they care about? It’s a great idea and can bring in some serious money – AND – there’s a better way! Raise for Rotary gives members a safe, secure way to do a personal fundraiser, maximize the dollars donated, and get Foundation recognition credit for the donations made by their nonmember friends. Keep reading to learn more and how to start your Raise for Rotary fundraiser!
Raise for Rotary Ben Bauer 2022-08-15 05:00:00Z 0 Foundation

Rotary Magazine Highlight August 2022

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It Starts with an Invitation
 
We’ve all taken our own path to become a member of Rotary. Some of you joined because your father was a Rotarian. Some of us signed up because an employer tapped us on the shoulder and asked us to attend a meeting. Others became members only after a U.S. Supreme Court ruling made it possible. Yet each of us entered through one mechanism — an invitation.
Rotary Magazine Highlight August 2022 2022-08-15 05:00:00Z 0 News,The Rotarian Magazine
August 2022 Governor's Message Benjamin Bauer 2022-08-08 05:00:00Z 0 News

2021-2022 Foundation Highlights

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Rotarian Generosity…
 
THANK YOU, District 6250 Rotarians! During the 2021-22 Rotary Year, your contributions to the Rotary Foundation totaled $673,115. The total includes $412,156 for the Annual Fund/SHARE program, $116,578 for Polio Plus, and the balance going to Areas of Focus, Global Grants, and Endowment as designated by the contributing Rotarian.
 
There are many reasons to celebrate this result. Your generosity increased contributions to the Annual Fund/Share by $52,912 and $7,317 to eradicate Polio compared to last year’s totals. Keep reading for more results and results and information on matching grants and grant applications.
 
2021-2022 Foundation Highlights Dwight Heaney 2022-07-15 05:00:00Z 0 Foundation

Karen’s Governor Year Reflections

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Thank You to Karen Hebert for your service as our District Governor in 2021-2022. There’s no doubt that your service has changed lives and you’ll continue to do so for years to come! Keep reading for some beautiful reflections from Karen’s year.
Karen’s Governor Year Reflections Karen Hebert 2022-07-15 05:00:00Z 0 Foundation

Friendship Exchange – Poland 2022

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Key Details:
District 6250 will travel to Poland approximately September 22nd to October 3rd, 2022.
District 2231 (Poland) will travel to 6250 in 2023 (most likely).
No visa requirements in either direction, just a passport. 
 
Deadline to express interest: July 31, 2022
Contact Edwin Bos at edwin@bosdesignbuilders.com if interested. If you don’t receive a message confirming receipt, your interest has not been noted.
 
The Rotary Friendship Exchange program gives Rotarians (including spouse, significant other or one family member) the opportunity to host and visit Rotarians around the world. In addition to experiencing other cultures and making lasting friendships, an exchange provides a strong foundation for carrying out other international activities and service projects. Click "read more" to learn more about the upcoming Friendship Exchange to Poland!
Friendship Exchange – Poland 2022 Edwin Bos 2022-07-15 05:00:00Z 0 Friendship Exchange

Traveling Philanthropists - Rob and Mary Gooze

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Visiting another country and meeting its people may offer visitors the greatest educational epiphany imaginable. It might also be the key to unlocking our spirit of generosity.  Such has been the case for Rob and Mary Gooze, itinerant travelers who are longtime donors to the Rotary Foundation.
Traveling Philanthropists - Rob and Mary Gooze Steve Busalacchi 2022-07-11 05:00:00Z 0 Foundation
July 2022 Governor's Message Benjamin Bauer 2022-07-06 05:00:00Z 0 News
District Governor Bio - Karen Hebert 2022-07-01 05:00:00Z 0 News
District Governor Bio - Michael Kloss 2022-07-01 05:00:00Z 0 News
District Governor Bio - Todd Restel 2022-07-01 05:00:00Z 0 News
District Governor Bio - Michelle McGrath 2022-07-01 05:00:00Z 0 News
District Governor Bio - Ben Bauer 2022-07-01 05:00:00Z 0 News

June 2022 Governors Message

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Rotarians who were able to attend our District Annual Meeting at TriCon were invited to take a tree home. These little friends were representatives of District 6250 – our biodiversity and dependence on Rotary Life that motivates our fellowship and service. We take action to create lasting change – but we don’t control anything. We are stewards. When it works, we stand back amazed and grateful. When it doesn’t, we stand back amazed (or is that just me?) and adjust. Rotary Life grows us individually and together, and produces service, integrity, and peace.
 
The trees also served as a nod to this year’s launch of The Rotary Foundation’s seventh area of focus, “Supporting the Environment”. This year we took all kinds of action along this line: We TriCon districts joined together for Rotary Days of Environmental Service in early October, you responded with interesting projects, our District committed to protecting pollinators and joined Operation Pollination, a 6250 Club was awarded the first Global Grant focused on the environment, and awareness of environmental issues and motivation for meaningful action grew.
 
I was able to take home a little spruce. When Hubby and I packaged the trees, the spruce, with their well-developed roots, seemed unstoppably hardy. I planted mine in the sunlight afforded by last fall’s removal of an 80-year oak. Not only is it a great spot for the little guy, but its proximity to the memory of that mighty oak offered an excellent picture of Rotary Life. About two weeks after planting, I went to check on it and photograph it for an inspiring Facebook post I’d already written in my head.
 
The little guy was dying.
 
Not what I had planned.
 
I adjusted. Knowing that dying branches and brown needles don’t come back, I pruned. I hoped. I watered a little more carefully. I added a little red flag near the tree so I wouldn’t overlook it. I worried that others’ trees weren’t fairing well. I sent up a prayer and considered sending out tips. I nixed the Facebook post. It occurred to me that for twenty years of life together, that glorious oak hadn’t asked anything of me.
 
We never know what’s next. However, we can be certain that in Rotary, whatever is next is worthy of our generous attention and gifts. Beginnings are investments, maturity is productive, endings are bittersweet. Every 6250 Rotarian has experience with each phase. Beginnings and endings ask the most of us. 
 
Thank you for planting yourself in Rotary. Thank you for opening yourself to Rotary Life. Thank you for stewarding Rotary Life in fellowship and service. Thank you for a great year Serving to Change Lives. I am proud and grateful to have served as your District Governor. Cheers to a healthy and productive new Rotary year as we Imagine Rotary under the leadership of DG Ben, your club Presidents, and all Rotarians living authentically in favor of service above self.
Long Live Rotary and Rotary ideals.
 
 District Governor Karen
 
 
 
June 2022 Governors Message Karen Hebert 2022-06-15 05:00:00Z 0 Foundation

June 2022 $30K in 30 days

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When Miles Don’t Matter

 
She’s like you in so many ways. As a Rotary Club President, she motivates, plans, leads, and finds a way to balance her busy non-Rotary life. 
 
And then there’s the unusual, unexpected, and uninvited way she isn’t like you at all. President Nila is a refugee. Nila left behind soldiers and neighbors in Zaporizhzhia and attends Rotary Club meetings in her temporary home of Olstyn, Poland. There she met Irma, a fellow Rotarian and friend of 6250. Irma’s club and 6250 Rotarians successfully wrote a global grant to establish a culinary training center in Olstyn a few years ago. Plans for a Friendship Exchange have begun.
 
Together, Nila and Irma are leading efforts to do the most good in the best way for the people and soldiers in Zaporizhzhia. Devastated by battles, without access to medical care, in desperate need of intensive humanitarian aid, Rotary Club of Olstyn Varnia, plans to send first aid kits in two sizes. The small kit will be designed to strap to a belt and the large kit will fill a backpack. The kits are intended for use not only by medics, but also by other people in the conflict area who are able to provide emergency first aid, saving health and life. The kits have been conceived and designed in consultation with military and medical leaders serving on the front line.
 
Few opportunities to serve are so immediately necessary. Few opportunities will connect you so intimately lives saved and tended. Thanks to Rotary networks, miles do not matter. Will you help?
 
We hope to raise $30,000 in 30 days – half of the project’s total cost. Gifts can be sent to our 6250 Foundation via the link below or by scanning the graphic. Whether or not you have given to help Ukraine, we hope it will be your pleasure to help again. No gift is too small.
 
Karen Hebert
District Governor
June 2022 $30K in 30 days Karen Hebert 2022-06-15 05:00:00Z 0

June 2022 Hybrid Task Force

District 6250 Hybrid Meeting Task Force

Our task force began its work in November of 2020 and is disbanding at the end of this month. During our existence we have been able to help clubs with technology recommendations, the purchase of equipment and provide best practices on running effective meetings.
 
If you, or your club are looking for information on these topics or anything else related to hybrid meetings be sure to keep an eye out for a special edition of this District Dispatch which will solely focus on the information developed by this task force for the benefit of all clubs in District 6250.
   
As we wrap things up I would like to acknowledge, and thank the contributions from the following who joined me on this task force: Melissa Carlson from Verona-Fitchburg-Horizons, Sue Sippel from Wisconsin Rapids Noon Rotary, Bob Spencer from the Rotary Club of LaCrescent, Brandon Harris and Marissa Dickinson from the Rotary Club of La Crosse-After Hours.
 
As always, should you have any questions about any aspect of hybrid meeting technology or best practices drop me a note at mdag6250@gmail.com.  
 
Mike Dillis
District 6250 Hybrid Meeting Task Force Chair
 
June 2022 Hybrid Task Force Mike Dillis 2022-06-15 05:00:00Z 0

June 2022 Leadership

 
In a recent survey, Rotary International learned that engaging members and delivering value was a challenge that 42% of respondents said was the toughest. Engaged Rotarians have found something that is valuable and that is why they stay members and invite others to join. Understanding (and being at peace with) where you are as a club is a first step. A quick second step is to plan how you’d like to move forward. Hear are some great resources to help you do all of that.

Three things you can do next to help your club thrive: 
  1. With your club leadership team take the Club Health Check. This interactive guide asks you to review elements of your club like the club experience, service and socials, members, public image, and business and operations. Then decide which areas need attention. 
  2. Learn from clubs in our region that are changing the experience they offer by engaging their members, conducting meaningful projects, and trying new ideas.
  3. Share what you’ve learned about the health of your club and ask members for their ideas. Lasting change happens when everyone works toward the same goals. When you’ve developed a plan, you can customize this slide presentation to explain it during a club meeting. 
If you haven’t yet explored the Club Planning Assistant, it’s available anytime, and you can visit it as often as you like. Your District Leadership team is here, please remember that your Assistant Governor or any of us are available and happy to help.
 
Ben Bauer
6250 District Governor Elect
 
June 2022 Leadership Ben Bauer 2022-06-15 05:00:00Z 0 Awards & Recognition,Events,News

June 2022 Public Image Update

 
Rotary loves slogans and themes
 
Each month has a theme. June is Rotary Fellowships.
 
Each RI President has a theme and image.
 
The words and image are unique and personal to them and their year. The incoming RI President (RIPE) introduces their theme to the District Governors-Elect at the International Assembly each January. RIPE Jennifer Jones addressed the 529 DGEs almost six months ago and unveiled her stunning theme for 2022-2023: Imagine Rotary.
 
As Hamlet said, “If it be now, 'tis not to come; if it be not to come, it will be now; if it be not now, yet it will come: the readiness is all.
 
The 2022-23 theme is yet to come… July 1. It is not now. Now we are still “Serving to Change Lives”.
 
And yes, the readiness is all. Please be ready to use, share, and be energized by Imagine Rotary…July 1, 2022.
 
Lynn Perez-Hewitt
District 6250 Public Image Chair 2021-2022
(520) 400-4966
 
June 2022 Public Image Update Lynn Perez-Hewitt 2022-06-15 05:00:00Z 0 Public Image

June 2022 Membership Update

Posted on Jun 15, 2022

June Membership Update

At the close of another Rotary year, our membership has changed. We are slightly fewer in numbers, have slightly more women, are somewhat more diverse, have very good retention in the long term, and are normal in comparison to the other districts in our zone - about 35 districts running north-south through the center of the United States and part of Ontario. Worldwide, Rotary has grown by a net 11,000 members – the first year of net growth for quite some time. South Korea, much of Africa, and India have lead the addition of new members and new clubs.
 
Here are some 6250 highlights!
 
 
Congratulations to the clubs who won membership grants this year. The district made grants to support membership recruitment events mid-year, and are happy to announce the grant awards supporting new member service here at the end of this year. Congratulations to the Rotary Clubs of Black River Falls, Janesville Noon, Lake Mills, Mayville, and Prairie du Chien! We look forward to what your cadre of new members plan and execute in Rotary service!
 
This year I also have the pleasure of awarding a special $500 Governor’s Grant for the new members of Rotary Club of Holmen Area (HARC). HARC inducted four members in the meeting immediately following the grant application deadline. While HARC applied for the grant and barely missed qualifying, the induction of four more new members puts them near the top of all awardees. I’m sure you’ll join me in celebrating their success! HARC also formally organized an annual new member service project under the leadership of their Past President -  whether or not they win a district grant. Well done, HARC! We are proud of you.
 
Thank you to all of our clubs for inviting your community members to join you in Rotary fellowship and service. Mark your calendars now for next year’s membership grant opportunities: Membership Growth in December and New Member Projects in May.
 
Karen Hebert
District Governor
June 2022 Membership Update Karen Hebert 2022-06-15 05:00:00Z 0 Membership

June 2022 Service Update

 

Youth Message

Our Incredible Year

District 6250 is a regional juggernaut in the area of Youth Exchange.  We are amongst the largest programs in the Midwest, currently the largest of the 19 districts that make up the Central States Rotary Youth Exchange organization that stretches from North Dakota to Pennsylvania and includes parts of Canada.  On average year, we welcome approximately 20-25 inbound students from around the world for a year-long exchange, an additional 14 students that do a yo-yo short term exchange (7 Americans go out and 7 foreign students return with them), and an additional 20 young Americans venture abroad from our cities and towns to points all over the world.  All told, that means that over 50 students are touched by the Youth Exchange Program in District 6250 each and every year.
 
It goes without saying that to lead a program that is so comprehensive takes extraordinary individuals.  Our district has been so ably served by our remarkable Youth Exchange chairs – from Harry Van Camp (now a member of Madison Breakfast), to Judy Levine (2008 – 2014), to now Jan Bonsett-Veal (2014 – current).  Each of these leaders held numerous positions within Youth Exchange before ascending to the chair position.  It may be safe to say that no one position within Rotary demonstrates such loyalty and dedication to purpose as does the Youth Exchange Program.
 
Jan Bonsett-Veal is about to embark on a new role as the Vice Chair of the Central States Rotary Youth Exchange organization.  She takes over on July 1st, and will be the first woman ever to hold this position.  In one year, on July 1, 2023, she will take over as the first woman president of the Central States Rotary Youth Exchange Organization.  How fitting that this will occur the same year as Jennifer Jones becomes our first woman president of Rotary International.
 
I have the incredibly enormous challenge of filling these incredibly capable shoes.  This year I will be co-chairing with Jan – but in truth just trying to keep up with the incredible flow of communications and work flow.  Jan is quick to say that if it wasn’t for the dedicated volunteers who give incredible effort to the Youth Exchange program – from the Youth Exchange Officers, Counselors and Youth Protection Officers in our clubs… to the remarkable Outbound Exchange team (led by John Holevoet and Ann Oberle), Inbound Exchange team (led by Janine O’Rourke and Tammi Richmond), and Short-Term Exchange Team (led by Carl Kinsley)… to the remarkable Judy Steinhauer and Sharon Richmond – who keep on top of the incredible flow of background checks, applications, foreign visas…( I could go on and on).  If it wasn’t for this dedicated team, I don’t know how it would get done.  But it does… in large part to the incredible work over these past 8 years by Jan.  Congratulations Jan!!  On behalf of all who have had the honor of working with you, I think past chair Judy Levine said it best when she shared with me by email:
 
“She will be a great leader of Central States – just as she has been as our district chair.”
 
I could not agree more. 😊
 
Bill Pritchard
Edinburgh, Scotland
June 1, 2022
June 2022 Service Update Bill Pritchard 2022-06-15 05:00:00Z 0 Interact,RYLA,Rotary Youth Exchange,Short Term Youth Exchange,Youth Programs

June 2022 Foundation Highlights

 

Thames District Conference Global Scholars

 
Katrina Kalcic, the 2021-2022 Global Scholar sponsored by District 6250 and the Janesville Morning Rotary Club, attended the Thames (UK) District Conference this spring.  Katrina is pictured here kneeling in the front row, far right.  She is in her final term of her Master’s Degree at Oxford University in the Blavatnik School of Government.  The Windsor & Eton Club is her host in the UK.
 
Reflecting on her time at Oxford, Katrina said that collaboration with international professionals and students who are using diverse strategies to achieve positive social change has been a highlight of her work at the University.  Learning the limitations of traditional economic theories in uncertain times has been an important part of her academic training.  In her Principles of International Law class, she deepened her understanding of war crimes, genocide, and dispute resolution. 
 
Katrina Kalcic grew up in Kenosha and attended the University of Wisconsin – Madison for her undergraduate degree in Political Science and Journalism.  Before becoming a Global Scholar, she worked for two years in Uganda and was involved with the United Nations Spotlight Initiative working to reduce violence against women and girls in more than 25 countries.
 
District 6250 is pleased to fund a Global Scholar annually. Rotarian contributions to the Annual Fund/SHARE program make this scholarship using District Designated Funds. Thank you for supporting the Global Scholars we sponsor.   
 
Lois Smith
Global Scholar Chair 
June 2022 Foundation Highlights Lois Smith 2022-06-15 05:00:00Z 0 Foundation

June 2002 Empowering Girls

Change HerStory
How do you tell the story of a menstrual hygiene project in Ghana?


When the International Projects Committee of the Rotary Club of Madison chose its international project in 2018, we knew we had to create messaging that would reduce “discomfort” about the project. After all, who wants to talk about menstrual hygiene at lunch...or maybe at all.


The committee was thrilled to be partnering with the University of Wisconsin-Madison’s new 4W (Women and Wellbeing in Wisconsin and the World) initiative. The goal was to provide a junior high school curriculum to teach adolescent girls and boys about reproduction & menstruation, dispel myths and provide menstrual hygiene “kits” to female students that they could use when they got their period. Over three years, we would work with seven US Rotary clubs, 3 Ghanaian Rotary Clubs, 8 districts and 188 schools and an in-country partner, Days for Girls (an international NGO that advances menstrual equity, health, dignity and opportunity for all) to reach more than 25,000 girls, boys and their families and distribute more than 17,500 kits.


Back to the “discomfort”. Even in our club of smart professionals in Madison, WI, when we started to tell the story, folks would cringe a little and be visibly uncomfortable. So, what do we do? Who do we find to tell the story and what story do we tell?


The answer to who would tell the story? Gray-haired guys, of course. When we proposed this strategy to our committee members, the guys got it. And we were on our way. The first time Committee co-chair, Mike Casey, stood at the podium to introduce the project and ask for contributions, he joked, “You are probably wondering why I’m here talking about menstruation.”


There was a noticeable gasp from the group, a pause and then a room filled with laughter. We had broken the ice and were on our way. Our guys led the way in providing information and asking for donations. Mike Casey recalls, “It was certainly different asking for donations on a project that was not building a bridge or drilling a well. But we were proud to be stepping out in a new direction.”

The committee, after examining the benefits of the proposal, began the lengthy and somewhat circuitous process of applying for a Global Grant. With the help of former DG and Club President, Rob Stroud, we waded through the district process and the application from RI Foundation. We found a changing set of rules and leaders created one “oops” after another.

We searched for a Ghanaian Rotary Club partner. I remember our first video meeting with the club in Tema-Meridian. We were pleased to see women in leadership roles in the club eager to help.

But communication and cooperation with our first club was not so successful. The Club did identify a school district to work in and connected us with the Ghana Education Services Girl Child Coordinator who was essential in getting into the schools. We worked with the Days for Girls manager and plowed forward.

In the meantime, we encountered delays and questions from both the District and the Foundation. In our enthusiasm, we had not followed the normal path. In retrospect, we also realized that the rules were changing during the process. Nonetheless, we moved on, making changes as needed. I remember a drive to Evanston to talk with our project manager at the Foundation. We worked on what would be an acceptable relationship with the University. Not partners, not consultants...contractors. OK.

Meanwhile, committee members created marketing materials for our fundraising visits to other clubs. How can we frame this project in a way that has meaning for everyone? When girls stay in school, their contribution to the economy in their community and country increases substantially. Girls graduating from school result in higher incomes for them and for their country. There are fewer teen pregnancies, early marriages and rapes/incest. And educated girls became women of influence in their communities, making life better for themselves and their children.

One wonderful side light was the involvement of the Interact Clubs at two Madison high schools. Mary Crave returned from Ghana with a box of colorful Ghanaian beads. The students pounced on the project and made bracelets from the beads and sold them to raise $1500+. Their involvement was a wonderful contribution to our efforts and built enthusiasm for the project. Students helping students was a winning plan.

Club members traveled to Ghana on three occasions to help and to observe. Our interactions with the local leaders, Rotarians and Days for Girls, gave us an appreciation for the difficulty of the project work being done and the environment in which they were working. I remember vividly the horrible conditions in the “bathrooms” in the schools. And the lack of clean water everywhere.

And it was amazing to observe the determination of these young people to succeed in school despite the conditions and limitations, particularly for young women. In our visit to a school where the children of our local guide “Papa” attended, I toured the homes of two young women who showed me around. Poverty has an ugly face. At the end of our tour, I gave each girl $20. Grateful, they would use that money to pay their high school expenses. Without it, they would not be able to get further education. One girl told me she wanted to be a doctor and the other a teacher. I hope they achieve their dreams. It’s an uphill battle. That visit and exchange put the whole project in perspective for me.
 
With expert guidance from our 4W Project Manager, Mary Crave, we tweaked the project plan in year two, including involving more schools in lower-income communities and better management of the in-school learning. We worked with Koforidua-New Juaben Rotary Club and 4-H Ghana. They helped identify the schools most in need and still accessible by car. This helped us implement the project more efficiently.

Days for Girls leadership revised the materials for the in-school education and ramped up production of the backpacks filled with menstrual hygiene supplies. They were thrilled to purchase a fast surger to more quickly sew up the kits made from Ghanaian fabric. The number of students we reached was way over the goal and there were more schools than we could accommodate who wanted the training and kits for their students.
 
We also sought a partnership with the Rotary Club of Winneba that resulted in amazing work in our 3rd year. Some members in the Rotary Club of Winneba had relationships with leaders in the Ghana Education Service and opened doors for us, much like 4-H Ghana did in Year 2. Together, we organized training sessions for 90 local School Health Education (SHEP) coordinators as well as community health nurses and Ghana Education Services reps in 4 districts. Days for Girls and Mary Crave developed additional training materials including board games and colorful training visuals and participatory lesson plans for teachers to use throughout the year. Rather than Days for Girls presenting a 2-hour lesson, giving out the kits, and leaving, the SHEP coordinators had the tools and knowledge to train students over the entire school year to reinforce learning and provide on-going support to the students.
 
With our support, Days for Girls delivered washstands and hand-washing supplies to 90 schools to support both this project and COVID-19 recommendations. And kits were distributed in the schools together with training for 8,000 young women and their male counterparts in grades 7-9.

In all, we taught more than 25,000 girls and their male classmates in health, menstrual hygiene, myths and beliefs and we distributed more than 17,500 menstrual hygiene kits in 3 regions of Ghana in the three years of the project. This would not have been possible with the cooperation of our 4W partners at UW- Madison and the expertise of Mary Crave, our project manager. The involvement of non-Rotary experts was a controversial decision from the perspective of the RI Foundation. We do not believe that this project could have been successful without her expertise.

In review, we regret not involving several more Ghanaian Rotary Clubs with resources and their commitment from the very start. Evaluations of the project indicate that the young people appreciated the backpacks and education. Rural young women were more likely to use the reusable pads in the kits than those in the city where disposable pads are available. COVID-19 disrupted our 3rd year efforts, so some of the schedules were condensed and it was impossible to measure if the materials and kits influenced school attendance.

Evaluation in years 1 and 2 indicate that girls did feel more at ease going to school while menstruating. Girls appreciated the kit and many used it. Although they didn’t like washing the pads after use.
 
Menstrual hygiene kits are not a panacea for girls’ school attendance and girls still struggle with the other barriers such as demands at home, menstrual cramps, stigma, lack of safe and clean places to change their pads at school.
 
In the long run, thousands of young people received body literacy training, myths were dispelled, more young women will continue their education and be able to make a living for their families.

We learned from year to year and were able to make changes in years 2 and 3 that created better and more sustained education in the schools. This was an advantage of applying for 3 1-year grants rather than 1 3-year grant.

So what about those grey-haired Rotarians? Well, we all got a few more grey hairs while doing this project and particularly in finalizing the project report with the clubs in Ghana and with RI. I hope that new RI guidelines and procedures will allow more US clubs to get engaged with Rotary clubs and projects in other parts of the world where the need is great.

All of us received an amazing education in working on this project in Ghana. Those of us lucky to travel there to participate and engage with these young people will never forget our experiences.

Our hope is that someday some of these empowered young women will be great leaders in their communities and their country. They will remember Rotary, the gray-haired Rotarians they met and those backpacks.
 
Linda Baldwin O’Hern 
Rotary Club of Madison
June 2002 Empowering Girls Linda Baldwin O'Hern 2022-06-15 05:00:00Z 0

June 2022 International Service

International Service Committee

 
Our Rotary District (western Wisconsin) has raised and donated nearly $60,000 to Ukrainian relief efforts in various counties.  In early June the District’s International Service Committee (ISC) met via Zoom with Ms. Irma Kaminska of Olsztyn, Poland.  Irma is responsible for supporting the 80+ Polish Rotary clubs in their refugee response. She is primarily tasked with identifying good projects that need additional funding.  Irma is also a friend of our District having worked with the Rotary Clubs of Columbus, Mayville, Beaver Dam and Waupun on a Global Grant for a training kitchen in her community,now up and running.  She also attended our District Gathering in Hamburg in 2019 and presented at our Virtual District Conference in 2020.
 
Irma explained that projects in better known cities like Warsaw and Cracow are being funded quicker than projects in lesser-known Polish cities.  For this reason, the ISC recommended, and the District’s Foundation Committee approved, a $25,000 donation to the Rotary Club of Szczecin, Poland and a $14,000 donation to the Rotary Club of Bydgoszcz Stare Miasto.  The Szczecin funding will go out as a challenge grant funding the operation of 3 refugee centers in that community.  The Bydgoszcz funding will be used to support a Rotary Food Pantry “Rotary Shelf” for the next 6 months.
 
The following powerful videos was produced by the Szczecin Rotary Club and brings home the impact of this war on the 2-3 million Ukrainians currently living as refugees in Poland: 
 
 
Rotary Club of Szczecin “Appeal for Help to Rotarians”:  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ej5gBwegTm0
 
 
 
 
Rotary Club of Szczecin “Far From Home – One Family’s Story”  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2S2DlWeQfwI
 
 
Stay tuned for news on future fundraising efforts related to the Ukraine.  To donate and for further details on how your funding is being used:  
 
June 2022 International Service Edwin Bos 2022-06-15 05:00:00Z 0

Karen Kendrick-Hands and Larry Hands receive Arch Klumph Society Recognition

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Karen Kendrick-Hands and Larry Hands – Arch C. Klumph Society
Karen Kendrick-Hands and Larry Hands are members of the Arch Klumph Society, The Rotary Foundation’s highest recognition. Their story is about Rotarians with a passion for children and their future that lad them to concerns about our environment. Their journey to establish Rotary International’s seventh focus area, a Rotary Action Group, and back that passion with significant gift to The Rotary Foundation. 
Karen Kendrick-Hands and Larry Hands receive Arch Klumph Society Recognition Lynn Perez-Hewitt 2022-05-24 05:00:00Z 0 Foundation

May 2022 Membership Special

Choosing New Rotarians

There are many processes followed by Rotary Clubs that are so engrained that one thinks that they are not optional and do not vary among clubs. One of these processes is how community members move from potential, to prospective, to new Rotarians. Two of our District 6250 clubs have recently taken a fresh and critical look at their clubs’ paths to membership and arrived at different designs while maintaining the same attitudes of respect, care, and clarity.
 
In one case, a prospective Rotarian is presented by a Rotarian to the club’s board. If the board decides to extend an invitation to membership, the decision is announced to the club. Any club member can oppose the membership without stating the reason. This club trusts the members to use good judgment and apply strong ethics.
 
In the other case, a prospective Rotarian is presented by a Rotarian to the club’s membership committee. If the membership committee decides that the membership should be extended to the prospect, the committee recommends that action to the board. The board’s decision is final. There is no opportunity for the rest of the club to comment or stop the invitation to membership.
 
During a recent club board meeting visit I asked a third club about their process. This club has a new member application that is completed by the prospect (not a Rotarian) and the board votes on the new member. The prospect must join attend the club for a couple of club meetings, socials, or service projects before submitting their application.
 
If you have questions about your process, ask yourselves if it is working well for all. If it is not, think about what might be changed to improve the process. At that point, do not hesitate to engage other clubs’ leaders and our District Membership Chair, John Locke for ideas.
 
District Governor Karen
May 2022 Membership Special Karen Hebert 2022-05-16 05:00:00Z 0

May 2022 Governors Message

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Good Day, Rotarians!
 
Today is our daughter’s birthday which grounds me in the fact that it’s early May. Other grounding realities are the pride evoked in memories from TriCon2022, the awareness that fewer than two months remain in this Rotary year, and that Rotary Youth Exchange is back. May is Youth Services month.
 
TriCon2022
 
District Governors are officers of Rotary International. One of RI’s charges to the governors is to hold a district conference. Over the years and across districts, conferences take many shapes and forms. A few years ago, District 6250 voted to participate in TriCons every year. Next year the three Wisconsin (plus our slice of Minnesota, plus 6220’s Michigan’s UP) Districts will gather in La Crosse in late April for Governor Ben’s conference. Save the date.
 
We three District Governors were enormously proud and humbly grateful for the hours and hours of generous, big-hearted service that produced TriCon2022. Rotarians enjoyed intelligent and engaging keynotes (including the brilliant Rick Kyte – Rotary Club of La Crosse and Karen Kenrick-Hands – Rotary Club of Madison), wide-ranging and smart breakout sessions, and enthusiastic fellowship. It was good to be together live at The Osthoff.
 
On the Thursday evening preceding TriCon’s Friday kick-off, we celebrated 6250’s newest Arch Klumph Society members, Karen Kendrick-Hands and Larry Hands. Larry reflected on the compelling nature of Rotary giving and investment. While Rotary has an endowed fund, Karen and Larry opted to put their generous gift to work immediately, knowing projects done to Sustain the Environment will themselves be an endowment - to life itself.
 
During our District Annual Meeting, I thanked the following Rotarians for their District service. Please accept my thanks to all of you reading – district leaders rise out of club leadership and cannot serve well without your fellowship support and your service sacrifices.
 
In alphabetical order: Bob Allen – Assistant Governor, Edwin Bos – PDG and Vice Governor, Mike Dillis – Hybrid Meeting Task Force Chair, Sherry Hillesheim – Assistant Governor, John Locke – District Membership Chair, Marth Klatt – District Trainer, Mike Kloss – Assistant Governor (Mike will be serving an extra year), Dick Spencer – District Treasurer, Marie Whisenant – At Large Director.
 
The Rotary Year
 
Is there something left undone, unexpressed, unplanned? Give yourself a big lift, right-size a plan for action, and act. Don’t waste another minute inside wishful thinking or discouragement. Act and be energized. Let’s finish happy and strong.
 
Our Future International Leaders
 
During the Fall, 2019 Rotary Summits held around the district, participants were encouraged to tell stories of meaningful Rotary service. Over and over the stories revolved around Rotary Youth Exchange. Hundreds of service fires were stoked remembering moments of international understanding, goodwill, and peace (mostly peace!) grown in youth exchange. It was a pleasure seeing a few gaggles of outbound students in their navy blazers at TriCon2022. There is so much hope in youth and youth exchange!
 
And there is hope in youth leadership too. Later this month at the Rotary Youth Leadership Academy (RYLA), students sponsored by our clubs will gather to learn about leadership embraced and stimulated by Rotary culture. May our RYLA leaders and participants be encouraged, wise, and have a ton of fun. We are building our future.
 
Long Live Rotary and Rotary ideals.
 
 District Governor Karen
 
 
 
May 2022 Governors Message Karen Hebert 2022-05-16 05:00:00Z 0 Foundation
May 2022 Helping Hands Dwight Heaney 2022-05-16 05:00:00Z 0

May 2022 International Service

International Service Committee

This month here are some examples of how the District International Service Committee is assisting clubs like yours.  For some interesting international Shark Tank projects read on!  Also, details on how, on your behalf, we approach overseas Rotary Clubs to identify solid Global Grant projects that have strong host support.  Contact any of us if we can be of Service to your club!  International Service Committee EM Addresses
 
District 6250 Foundation Inc. - Ukrainian Relief - $60,000 raised to date.
Assisting in leveraging existing relationships with specific Rotary Clubs in the Ukraine, Poland (pictured below) and the Netherlands who are heavily involved the Ukraine refugee situation.  Funds have been sent and detailed Project Report information can be found here:  District 6250 Ukrainian Relief Reports
Sun Prairie Rotary Club – PE John Holevoet.
Introduction to a Global Grant involving the Rotary Club of Poznan, Poland and the Zlotowianka Foundation.  Subject to Sun Prairie Board Approval.
 
La Crescent Rotary Club – PE John Farnen MD
Laying contacts with Rotary in Nepal with a view toward the possibility of a Global Grant (if not with La Crescent then another 6250 club). Also, possible interest in specific Ukrainian relief efforts.  Subject to La Crescent Board Approval. 
 
La Crosse After Hours Club – Rotarian Sierra Lyon
Assistance in researching and establishing connections for a possible Global Grant in either Suriname or Columbia.  The two countries were identified by the club as of highest interest together with specific focus areas.  Subject to LCAH Board Approval.
 
All District 6250 Clubs - Opportunities in the Mediterranean. 
Via Zoom, five small projects (under $8,000 each) presented at the Mediterranean Rotaract “Shark Tank” finale.  These are possible District Grant projects open to all District 6250 clubs.  Three projects are in Lebanon, one in Tunisia, one in Morocco.  Link to the video recording of “Shark Tank” can be found here (warning, includes heavy District 6250 “shark” involvement :)  Recording
 
Team One – “Ally for Change” presented Aqua Agri Act (Lebanon).  Involves water filtration, a park, and irrigation.
 
Team Two – Dreamers presented Foodies (Tunisia and Egypt).  Pilot program to divert restaurant preparation food waste from landfill to feeding hungry.
 
Team Three- BeyCycle (Lebanon).  Three phase approach (plan, design, implement) to improving bicycle safety and encourage more bicycle usage.
 
Team Four – Cleaning Valley of Wad Martil (Morocco).  A one-time event to clean up a garbage strewn area.
 
Team Five – Les Rebelles (Lebanon).  Pilot program to divert waste from rug making to make purses.
 
Finally, this correspondence was recently sent to an overseas Rotarian already known to our District.  It illustrates how the ISC attempts to help District 6250 clubs identify solid projects and partners by leveraging existing Rotary relationships.
 
Thanks very much for your response.  We’re very much looking for Global Grant projects that lead to long-term relationships between Rotarians in District 6250 and Rotarians in your country, district, and clubs. 
 
Of course, the larger the project the more challenging it is to realize.  Therefore, we prefer smaller Global Grants as our clubs can more easily assist with these. 
 
Here are some guidelines that we use to determine whether to support a Global Grant.  We often find that following these guidelines leads to stronger Global Grant applications.
 
  • We look for Global Grants that have Host partner support at both the Club and District level.
  • We look for projects where the International Global Grant club partner still needs to be identified and where one of our clubs could become that partner.
  • We look for strong Host Club financial contributions and grant writing abilities.
  • We look for projects which will receive strong support from your District in terms of a DDF (District Designated Funds) contribution.
  • We look to establish relationships that extend beyond the Global Grant … maybe Friendship Exchange, Youth Exchange, future projects etc..
 
In return we have clubs who are interested in participating as the International Partner on a Global Grant.  They could offer:
 
  • International Partner Club financial contributions.
  • 1:1 District 6250 DDF match of the Club’s contribution.
  • Support in writing the grant (as possible) and in servcing as a liaison with the Rotary Foundation / Rotary Foundation Staff (if needed).
 
Please let us know if what we’ve outlined above is of any interest. 
 
May 2022 International Service Edwin Bos 2022-05-16 05:00:00Z 0

May 2022 Foundation Highlights

 
Global Grants – Solar Power for Dependable Water
Congratulations to the Lake Mills Club for approval of a $96,650 Global Grant to provide solar power equipment to provide energy for a dependable water source in the village of Goregaon, India. A $20,000 donation from the Lake Mills Club was matched by a District Grant funded by Rotarian contributions to the Annual Fund. We look forward to sharing the results of this project with you upon completion.
 
District Grant Applications Due May 25
Over $90,000 is available to match club funds through our District Grant program in 2022-2023. District Grant applications are due on May 25. Local and international projects are welcome. Matching funds can be requested up to $5,000 for a one-club project, $10,000 for a two-club project, and $14,500 for a three-club project. The application form and supporting materials are available on the District 6250 website under the Foundation/Grants menu or use this link:     https://www.rotary6250.org/page/grants-information.
 
Polio Plus – Children are Counting on Rotarians to Finish the Job
During the past month, we have learned about two new cases of wild polio in Pakistan. Both cases come from the same area of the country. The good news is that we know about it, treatment can be provided, and the urgency for vaccinations is reinforced with local and national leaders. We also continue to encounter vaccine derived polio in Africa.
 
While this news is disappointing, it also reminds Rotarians that we cannot let our guard down. If  Rotary were to stop vaccinations today, it is estimated that at least 200,000 children across the globe would be paralyzed by polio within 10 years. That would mean that polio could make its way back to our own communities.
 
Children are counting Rotarians to see this through.  If you haven’t given to Polio Plus this year, now would be a good time to do so. To learn more and/or donate, visit https://www.rotary.org/en/our-causes/ending-polio. And don’t forget, every dollar you give is matched 2:1 by the Gates Foundation. That’s high impact giving!
 
     
Dwight Heaney
Rotary Club of Fort Atkinson
District 6250 Foundation Committee Chair

 

May 2022 Foundation Highlights Dwight Heaney 2022-05-16 05:00:00Z 0 Foundation

May 2022 RI Convention


 
If you’re still on the fence about going to the Rotary International Convention, maybe learning about some of the specific content you can take in is what will nudge you into joining me in Houston!?!
You can learn from experts outside Rotary, as well as from members who are leading high-impact projects, by attending breakout sessions at the Rotary International Convention in Houston, Texas - June 4th-8th. A few sessions to consider include:
  • Designing Results-Oriented Service Projects
  • Scaling Impact: Lessons from Programs of Scale
  • Measuring for Success
  • Tap into the Network to Increase Project Impact
  • Enhance Your Club’s Impact and Reach Through Rotary Community Corps
With more than 70 breakout sessions this year, you are sure to find inspiration!
)
Ben Bauer
District Governor Elect (2022-2023)
May 2022 RI Convention Ben Bauer 2022-05-16 05:00:00Z 0 Awards & Recognition,Events,News

May 2022 Hybrid Task Force

District 6250 Hybrid Meeting Task Force

You may recall from past articles that our task force identified three goals it wanted to accomplish. We have previously reported on the first two goals. Our final goal is  “Facilitate the creation of virtual tactics for use in growing club memberships.”
 
As a condition of receiving funding from the District, each club was required to submit a final report. One of the questions they were asked to address was if the hybrid meeting format had contributed to membership growth. Several clubs reported adding to their membership count since early 2021 due to the use of hybrid meetings.
 
If your club has experienced a positive membership growth and is planning to continue providing hybrid meetings we strongly encourage you to “tell your story.. If you need help developing that story we encourage you to reach out to the District 6250 Public Image Committee. One of their focus areas is to support clubs’ individual public image efforts, through education and resource-sharing. They can be found at https://www.rotary6250.org/page/public-image
 
Should you have questions about any aspect of hybrid meeting technology or best practices, drop me a note at mdag6250@gmail.com.  
Mike Dillis
District 6250 Hybrid Meeting Task Force Chair
May 2022 Hybrid Task Force Mike Dillis 2022-05-16 05:00:00Z 0
May 2022 Leadership Ben Bauer 2022-05-16 05:00:00Z 0 Awards & Recognition,Events,News

May 2022 Membership Update

Posted on May 16, 2022

May Membership Update

Hello Rotarians,
 
Please step forward if you are interested in being apart of t