Youth programs look different this year. Uncertainty, video calls instead of in person meetings, virtual fundraisers instead of large groups, and assumed less impact in our communities. Instead of worrying about what we can’t do this year, let’s focus on the opportunities that are still available to us. With October’s focus of Economic and Community Development and World Polio Day on the 24th there are plenty of opportunities for engagement with our Rotaract and Interact Clubs.
- You don’t have to think up a totally new idea. Have you partnered with a Rotaract or Interact club in the past on a project that helps your community grow? Take time to reflect on that project and see if there are new opportunities to continue that partnership.
- Maybe you’ve never worked with one of the Interact or Rotaract clubs in your area, or maybe there aren’t any. There’s never a bad time to connect with youth, and find young adults that are interested in making a difference in their communities. Clubs are formed when like-minded individuals start talking.
- Are you looking for ideas but aren’t sure where to start? Rotary.org has a section dedicated to providing examples of previous projects and shares ideas for opportunities that might fit well in your area.
- There are opportunities to host a virtual World Polio Day event – visit endpolio.org to get ideas, find information to share and show off the great work that is done by Rotarians at all ages. Promotion of the work that is done by Rotary, even if it’s not your direct club is still done by Rotary as a whole and we are all part of that larger family.
Even though the ‘norm’ is no longer normal, stay open to making adjustments, brainstorming new ideas and forming new collaborations.
Laura Lee
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