The Rotary Club of North Reading’s new Club President Mike Walbourne was installed into office this month along with over three dozen of his counterparts from across the Rotary district. Hosted at the Danversport Yacht Club, the kick-off celebration of the 2017-18 Rotary year had a Patriots theme. District Governor David Gardner commented, “We wanted our club level leaders to make sure they felt supported all around and understand that we’re all in this together, like a team. We encouraged all Rotarians to focus on a project they are passionate about, do that project well, and know that humanity will be better for it.” The celebration was attended by over 325 people, all there to recognize their local-level leaders, district advisors, and volunteers. Gardner also recognized the role that friends and family play in supporting Rotary volunteers. “Our support teams are our families and friends, no doubt. Many of them help out at Rotary projects and are equally generous with their time and resources. We couldn’t do what we do without them.”
This year’s Rotary theme is Rotary: Making a Difference. Rotary International President Ian H.S. Riseley selected the theme and explained, “Whether we’re building a new playground or a new school, improving medical care or sanitation, training conflict mediators or midwives, we know that the work we do will change people’s lives — in ways large and small — for the better.”
Walbourne commented, “This year our club is really focused on serving locally. We already have projects lined up with the Interfaith Food Pantry and Youth Services. I’m looking forward to leading our group of volunteers and helping out where we can.” Walbourne was accompanied to the event by his wife Lauren and fellow North Reading Rotarians Eric Evans, Janice Wood, Michael Scannell and Peter Majane.
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The new leadership team began on July 1, 2017 and serve until June 30, 2018. For more information on how to join the Rotary Club of North Reading, please contact rotary7930membership@yahoo.com.
