Rotary celebrates 50 years of community contribution

The Rotary Club of Amanzimtoti celebrates its 50th anniversary this Rotary year and welcomed Judge Chris Nicholson as its guest of honour at a function at Amanzimtoti Country Club on Wednesday, 2 July.

Reviewing the achievements of the club, president Chris Skinner said the club had a proud legacy and over the years has contributed much to the wellbeing of the local community in a variety of ways.

Individual Rotarians have:

* Helped to fight TB and HIV/Aids at a local, regional and national level over many years;

* Helped in the distribution of blankets, food and toys to the needy in our area with the help of East Coast Radio;

* Helped numerous local charities such as Child Welfare and Mother of Peace and worked closely with the Salvation Army in caring for the aged.

At school level the club has:

* Helped form local Early Act and Interact clubs whose focus like Rotary is ‘service above self’;

* Organised the Educational Resource Centre at Umbogavango Nature Reserve; and

* Supported adult literacy classes to make a difference in people’s lives.

On an international level it has also provided:

* Opportunities for Youth Exchange Students from local schools to spend a year away hosted by other international Rotary Clubs;

* Funds for a computer laboratory at Adams College and mechanical and electrical equipment for a workshop at Esizabeni Comprehensive High School;

* Technical training for teachers.

“Our own members have also made substantial donations to Rotary funds to assist in humanitarian causes,” said Chris.

“We particularly remember past president, Arthur Reece, who made a donation of over R500,000 to the Rotary Foundation and past president, Chris White for his donation of R50,000 for local projects.

During this year we would like to recognise and welcome as many individuals as possible who share our beliefs and principles of ‘service above self’. We intend to inscribe their names on a roll of honour to mark this anniversary.”