Family makes history by leading Boksburg Lake Rotary

This is after Derek Fox was inducted as the Rotary Club president, Claire Fox (his wife) as president of the Rotary Anns Club and Nicola Fox (their daughter) as president of the Rotaract Club.

“This is the first time in the 37-year history of the Boksburg Lake club that a whole family has taken all the chairs, and it may be the first time in the district, too,” says Derek.

Regarding his goals and aspirations for the year, he says there are a number of projects that will receive attention throughout the year.

“This includes, for example, supporting Dr Agnes Kenyares, an ophthalmologist at the OR Tambo Hospital, through fundraising,” he explains.

“Boksburg Lake has, in the past, been able to donate a phacoemulsification cataract surgery machine, which allows Dr Agnes to perform life-changing eye operations.

“Our continued support ensures she has an adequate supply of lenses and up-to-date instruments. “We will also continue to support the Lona Kruger Foundation, which is a group of committed people who endeavour to ensure that our less fortunate children in Boksburg receive at least one meal a day.

“We will also commit to throwing our weight behind Vita Nova, a home for the physically disabled, Cosmos Old Age Home (when it comes to donating wheelchairs) and the Guide Dogs Association (when funds allow).”

He adds that another project that will receive renewed support is the Ramaphosa School.

“The unfortunate situation that led to Ramaphosa School losing its licence has left 900 children without a place to be educated,” he explains.

“A very strong willed staff have so far managed to keep a skeleton staff educating these young people.

“At the opening of the school, Boksburg Lake funded the installation of toilets and continued to assist them through Rotarian Martin Stokes, who serves on the board.”

Derek is adamant that Rotary has a role to play when it comes to developing the economy.

“Serving on the board of the Greater Boksburg Chamber of Commerce and Industry allows me to assist with growing the local economy, which fulfils Rotary’s focus area of a sustainable economy,” he says.

With the support of the club, Derek aims to undertake a survey of those who rely on donations at traffic lights, to gain an understanding of what has led to them to land in such a dire situation.

“If we can assist, we will, but, moreover, they may have skills that can be used to train others,” he says.

“This then could lead to a training and skills transfer programmes.

“By growing and supporting our local economy, we can assist with poverty alleviation and work creation, rather than job creation. After all, we need to get the economy working again.”

Regarding Bokburg Lake, he says that while cleaning the lake won’t provide clean drinking water, it will assist with problems being created downstream: “Eliminating the toxic soup is a priority; clearing this up will not only provide a better environment in the CBD, but will contribute to the City Improvement District.”

Derek says that, as a club, they will continue to support Rotary International’s fight to eradicate polio.

“So far, 34 000 Rotarians worldwide have fought tirelessly to eradicate polio from the globe, and have proved to be very successful; the fight, however, needs to continue,” he explains

“Above all the goals, aspirations and dreams, my biggest challenge and greatest wish is to spread the word of Rotary and to interest more people into experiencing this wonderful organisation.

“So many people, on their own time, do so much, but, if they are together with Rotary, they will discover that their efforts can be multiplied.

“Therefore, to all those interested in making a difference, come and experience the wonderful camaraderie, fun and networking while doing good in your community.

“Rotary is in almost every city and town in South Africa, so join us for some fellowship and make Rotary your place of choice to give.”