On 30 May members present were inspired by Ruth Zanker of Communities at Work, who told us about the extensive range of education and care services this organisation provides in the ACT and Capital region. It was clear for her account that Ruth has a passion for helping the community to flourish.

 

Communities at Work’s mission is to “enrich the lives of people in our community in life changing ways.” To this end it provides services to children (Galilee School; early education and care centres; out of school hours care services; school holiday programs; and family day care and in-home care educators); people with a disability (day programs); seniors (social and recreational programs); and support for those in need (community transport; two community food pantries; “Best Dressed” store; crisis support; Reach Home Program; and community development programs). The food pantries serve 90-100 families a day, with eligibility for assistance being means-tested.

 

Communities at Work is a large organisation, with some 700 staff, 120 volunteers, and 100 educators (who are contractors). It is therefore run as a business. Ruth noted a saying in the organisation “surplus for purpose”: any profit that it makes is used to help fund its services.

 

Ruth acknowledged Member Liz who was involved in the start of Communities at Work in Tuggeranong (where Ruth is based).

 

Our next Club meeting will be held on Thursday, 6 June 2024, at the Commonwealth Club. We’ll hear from member Russell, who will speak on the lucky generation.

 

To see the program of future meetings, visit: Rotary activities Spreadsheet.

 

If you are not able to perform your allocated duty, please arrange a replacement and advise President Warrick. Please advise Stephen of any planned absences to avoid being rostered on while away.

 

Rotary International Peace Fellows will be visiting Canberra soon. On Sunday 16 June they will visit the Peace Bell. All members are welcome to come along to meet the Peace Fellows. Anyone interested should arrive at the Bell by1:30 pm.

 

Click here to register for the dinner, by 8 June.

 

Each year we invite schools with Peace Poles we have sponsored to provide folded cranes, which are joined by string and hung on the Peace Bell for Hiroshima Day or the United Nations International Day of Peace commemorations. These origami cranes are a symbol of peace.

 

During my visit to Darwin, I found folded cranes in an unexpected place – the Military Museum. The above installation is entitled “Love and Peace” and consists of coloured cranes which show a heart and a dove.

 

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Please send items for inclusion to sjmcmi llan1974@live.com by 10 am Monday.