The nature of many of the projects makes fund raising the only
practical solution. e.g. Water
Aid is an old favourite. Polio Plus is
close to the heart of members and has been supported well. The Sight
Savers tin has passed down the table many hundreds of times.
There have been many collections of items for developing countries and
some will be remembered. Dozens of sewing machines took some storing. Shoe Boxes have recently been popular. Book collecting
required some difficult decisions. Tools for Self
Reliance provided some humorous suggestions. Aqua Boxes have
involved all the members. Shelter
Boxes are always considered. The boxes were placed in store and could be
immediately supplied during the Tsunami and
the less publicised major earthquake in the Himalayas the following winter.
Probably the most personal service was provided to a young Ethiopian,
Ayelew Kassie from 1970-1981. It started by paying for his education at General
Wingate School in Addis Ababa. In 1974
he was brought to England to enable him to become a doctor and return to
support his people. For 7 years he was adopted by the members of the club who
not only found the finance to put him through A’levels and Medical school but
took him into their homes for extended visits during the holidays.
Further international understanding has been encouraged by our support
for Group
Study Exchange, Youth
Activities and Ambassadorial
Scholars. Rotarians and their wives have opened their homes on many
occasions to give visitors a personal English experience. Such activities are
not easily forgotten and leave a lasting impression that we hope leads to an
understanding between nations.