DISTRICT GOVERNOR DOUG COOK'S VISIT

Doug Cook, District 7430 Governor for 2015-2016, visited Emmaus Rotary this past Thursday.  Doug's start in Rotary was back in 1990 as the founding president of the Kennebunk Rotary Club in Maine.  After Doug and his wife Mary moved to Collegeville, PA in 1999, he went on to be the president of that club.

Doug highlighted the theme of Rotary this year: "Be a Gift to the World."  He is recommending to club presidents that they focus on four things this year: membership, community service, the Foundation and having fun.  He is also encouraging clubs to focus service projects on alleviating hunger.  This ties right in to our community service efforts and some projects Emmaus has completed and continues to assist with: monthly food bank collection, Angel Network and Allentown Rescue Mission.

On the point of membership, Doug suggested that Rotarians should share their stories with potential members and wear their pin where ever they go.  The pin is a great way to spark conversation about Rotary with others and to share your own story about why Rotary is special to you.  This can be a very effective way to engage prospective members.

The Foundation is a big focus for the district.  Doug initiated a challenge for our district to raise $1 million for the Rotary Foundation Endowment.  This effort was dubbed "The Million Dollar Journey."  With the help of an anonymous donor who agreed to match gifts on a dollar-for-dollar basis up to $1 million, the MDJ has already raised $2.1 million.  The earnings on these funds will be available to our district for district matching grants every year in perpetuity.  Assuming a 4% return on assets, the MJD will provide over $80,000 to clubs for projects every year!  To those who have participated, THANK YOU!

When it comes to fun, our club doesn't seem to have trouble finding it.  However, it is always a good reminder to value the relationships that we build with fellow Rotarians while serving so many in need.  Another chance to expand your "fun zone" could be at the district conference at the Inn at Pocono Manor from April 8 - 10, 2016.  You can register by visiting www.whythecow.com.

Click Here to read Doug's full bio.