Youth Service in Rotary

 Hi to all members and friends of Macquarie Park Rotary,

Over the past two weeks we have had two young people from Macquarie University as our guest speakers. Liam Darmody and Chris Riane both want to change the world and make it a better place. Both have ideas and a passion and drive to get others on board to share their vision. Liam wants to change the world from an international level with events such as “One Young World Summit”, while Chris is helping people to change themselves one by one with his “Hello Sunday Morning” program.

Utilising Facebook, people who want to give up drinking for three months make a public commitment to do so, and keep a blog on their progress. Many make it through the challenge, rediscover Sunday mornings and lead better lives as a result.

We need more people like Liam and Chris. Rotary has many great programs for young people to grow their leadership qualities. Our members have heard of these programs many times, but our friends of Rotary may not be aware of what our club is doing.

We are participating in two youth programs this year. RYPEN, the Rotary Youth Program for Enrichment is a program for students currently in year 9. Held over a weekend in 2011, it develops participants’ leadership, initiative and responsibility skills and is open to all students.

The Rotary Youth Leadership Awards (RYLA) is a week long “life changing” experience for 18-27 year olds. This program is designed for young leaders or those who aspire to leadership. It is ideal for leaders from Sporting Clubs, Scouts, Guides, Church Groups and Community Groups.

Our club is committed to sponsor a young person for each of these programs. If you know someone who will benefit from these worthwhile programs, let our club know as soon as possible. Our Youth Service Chairman is Greg Jenkins. Contact him through our club email: contact@macquarieparkrotary.org.au

This week’s meeting will be involved with Vocational Service, another avenue of Rotary Service. Deborah Chrystal from Epping Police station received a Pride of Workmanship award earlier this year. On Tuesday she will receive her award from our club.

See you all then,

Ross