District Conference

This year's District Conference was a one day event packed with speakers covering a wide range of topics. As a newbie to these Rotary events I was impressed and moved by what I heard.

Full details of the conference are here ( Click here ). Here is a summary of my own highlights and making no mention of the amount of cakes I ate during the coffee breaks....Yum!

Topics included

The Coxless Crew - Two of the six women that rowed across the Pacific share their experiences on this 9 month endurance challenge.

Fesitval Spirit - We heard about the opportunities being created for disabled individuals to experience music and other festivals, the effort involved and the rewards.

Helen & Douglas House - A parent gave a moving account of just how important the respite care can be to parents and families.

Brittany Arthur - gave an energetic and no-nonsense pep talk to us about what really works to get more people involved in Rotary. Pick up the phone, say we're doing something fun and invite them to come take part. Don't think the answer is Facebook! And don't say we're "looking for members"... as Brittany explained, that sounds rather like "I'm looking for a wife, will you marry me?"

Thames Valley Police Chief Constable  - shared some interesting perspectives but reminded me that there are many "communities" that we could be engaging with. Community spirited organisations like Neighborhood Watch and many others share our values and could be connected with and collaborations formed.

Heathrow collection for Children in Need - another great Rotary initiative that aims to increase it's contribution again this year. I for one will make the time to help out.

Rotakids, Interact and Rotaract - we heard about some active young Rotarians, with great ideas and energy. We also saw that we need to make the path to becoming a full Rotary member somewhat easier for those that are already involved in the Rotary family.

There was more besides! Having been somewhat wary of my first conference I must say  that I'm converted. When is the next one?