Newsletter for the Rotary Club of Greater Geraldton - Issue No.: 782 Issue Date: 29 Apr, 2024

PP Raj Mavath reflected on his 41 years in Rotary when he spoke to members and invited guests at the 30 Year anniversay Dinner on Saturday night.

In his quiet way Raj delivered a powerful speech, reminding us of the importance of volunteering and how we make a difference to so many.  Our volunteerism helps young people get a good start to their carreers, it helps the disavantaged, the aged and those who live in poverty.  Raj made it clear that "It is our club's responsibility to act as neighbours and assist the most vulnerable in the community."

Raj complimented us on getting new members but asked us to do more to make them welcome and keep them in Rotary.  We need to understand "the real obstacles to Rotary membership and about what we can do to make being a Rotarian a viable choice for people of all ages", said Raj

Raj made the point that many young people join Rotary but then leave when they start to have families and build their careers.

Families should not be an obstacle to Rotary service if we find ways to welcome families. Raj oulined the benefits, "The family of Rotary is real. The children in those families will grow up seeing their parents involved in community service, they will grow up involved in service themselves and I think it is win-win situation. ."

For example, said Raj, "It is great to see that Dan has brought his 2 daughters here tonight. It will give them an idea of what Rotary stands for."

Raj finished his speech by noting that "At every step of our lives and our careers, Rotary has a way to let us do more, be more and give more – a way for us to make our lives mean more. That is what Rotary does to us."

Raj and Geoff, our other foundation member, were congratulated for their commitment and service to rotary and invited to cut the cake.

[Raj's full speech is available on our website in the Members Folders]