Julia Hayman is proud to be the current president of this club of 25 members who have been making a tremendous difference in their community for the past 9 years.
One of their long-time projects is the Annual Day of Giving. Rotaractors together with other volunteers assist community members based on need and the requests they receive. Even the pandemic couldn’t stop them in 2020. They did yard work, gardened, raked leaves, painted and completed other outdoor tasks, all in compliance with public health regulations and observing social distancing. Requests for assistance were done by phone or online to make it accessible and safe!
In addition to supporting individuals, volunteers also worked with community organizations such as “Seasons Centre for Grieving Children”. The team weeded the gardens, cleaned up the property and did other small jobs.
At a time when it is so important that we be there for each other, once again Barrie Rotaract stepped up. They initiated the Instagram contest Rotar”ACT”s of Kindness! This contest on social media promoted kindness across the community and participants had a chance to win gift cards from local businesses. Within two short weeks participants made a difference and the “love” was felt.
Rotaract Barrie also volunteers at Camphill Gardens, a not-for-profit organization that provides support services to adults and seniors with intellectual disability. Again, they honed their gardening and landscape maintenance skills and also participated in garlic braiding.
The club is very fast to respond to community needs and as the cold weather approached partnered with local businesses to collect and distribute gently used winter clothing.
Barrie Rotaract has not let Covid -19 interfere and their creativity is seen in their virtual fundraising initiatives. The 3rd Annual Paint Night was held live on Zoom! A painting package including 1 wine glass to paint, 1 wooden sign to paint, Stencil for the wooden sign, Paint, Paintbrushes, 1 bottle of VinBon wine, and Guac and Chips (Plant Based) were available for pick up and participants enjoyed a paint class. All proceeds went to SOPUDEP orphanage in Haiti, an organization that provides accessible education, provides programs of economic empowerment and supports the rights of children and women.
The club has also sponsored Virtual Trivia nights for community organizations and the Car Rally/Amazing Race – a tour around the city to showcase the amazing work and projects of the local Rotaract and Rotary Clubs.
There is no question that Covid -19 has had an impact on the Barrie Rotaract Club, but is has not stopped their energy and commitment. They continue to meet virtually and host regular socials to ensure that members stay connected and engaged. One popular social event is their series of mixology and cooking classes hosted by members.
To learn more about these great projects and fun fundraisers, check out the club’s Facebook page or contact President Julia. Thank you, Rotaract Club of Barrie, for your commitment to making the community a better place.