Introduction to International Projects 2017-18

Here is a look at the plans for International and Foundation for this Rotary year and progress so far.

Goal One: Nepal project: We have been working with Faringdon Rotary in Oxfordshire and Kopundol Rotary in Kathmandu, Nepal. We are awaiting a proposal from Kopundol RC for the Saurpani Community School reconstruction project in Gorkka District, close to the epicentre of the 2015 Earthquake.  Faringdon Rotary has already sent £4,500 to Kopundol Rotary and we have sent £1000 (Total = £5,500).  The investment of these funds in Nepal is subject to the new KRC proposal and approval by the donating Rotary clubs.  
 
I will be visiting Nepal in October with 2 members of Faringdon Rotary Club.  The purpose of the visit it to review 4 projects – 3 of which are joint Faringdon/Kopoundol projects and the latter is to review the Saurpani Community school project.  There will be time for some cultural activities too.  I will report back on progress and opportunities on my return.
 
Goal Two: Ad hoc activities: To co-ordinate the club’s international and sustainability activities as they arise throughout the year.

Progress to date: Partners for Change - We donated £50 as a thank you for the talk last year.  This has, along with others, helped sponsor a mother called Kemero in Gende Tesfa.  The money will be used as a loan to help her start a small business selling fruit and veg in the market.  The club should get 2 updates a year about Kemero. 
 
Coffee visit – following the success of our Food and Travel quiz in June – where we raised half of the money for Fairtrade’s Women in Coffee project – we have visited a coffee factory – the owner is keen on sustainability issues and has visited many Fairtrade projects.  Check out the next newsletter for a full report!
 
Goal Three: Collaboration with other Rotary clubs: To collaborate with other Rotary clubs on international projects/activities. 

Progress to date: We will continue to: investigate Twinning; explore opportunities for greater involvement with the other Rotary clubs in Maidenhead; update the club on visits to Rotary clubs abroad; work with Faringdon and Kopundol Rotary clubs.
 
Goal Four: Foundation/Purple4Polio: To continue to raise awareness and consider ways to increase our contributions.

Progress to date: It is World Polio day on Tuesday, 24th October and we will be promoting this on our social media.
Polio is hitting the Hollywood big screen. The inspiring true love story of Robin and Diana Cavendish, a young couple who are busy falling in love and living the dream until Robin is diagnosed with polio at 28, is hitting the big screen as Breathe , which is on general release in the UK from 27 October.  I will arrange a cinema trip/fundraising opportunities if people are interested, once I return from Nepal.
 
Claire Booth, International and Foundation Chair 2017-18

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