.jpg)
Being part of a global network of individuals, Rotary ensures that our impact on the world is greater by working together. For over 110 years we have focused on helping to create a better world by working to: eradicate polio, promote literacy, advocate for peace, and provide clean water.
March is Water, Sanitation and Hygiene month in the Rotary world. Our club should be proud of the work that our Global Grants Team has done, and continues to do, to make clean water a realty for so many. Because of their work, hundreds of people have access to clean water. This helps to decrease waterborne diseases, keeps children healthier and attending school, and allows mothers to spend more time helping their families instead of walking miles to get water.
Obtaining clean water in Ames isn’t something we need to think about on a daily basis. We trust that the water department is testing and monitoring our water throughout the day, every day. We simple need to turn on the faucet and water is there. During the winter months we also rely on clean water to keep ourselves healthy. You hear health care workers remind us daily during the flu season to wash your hands! With the threat of the Coronavirus to the US, water continues to be an important resource for all us to remain healthy and stop the spread of the disease.
According to Rotary International it only takes $24 to provide one person with safe water. Did you know that 2030 is the year Rotary hopes to finish providing everyone with safe water, sanitation, and hygiene? Just like the eradication of Polio, Rotary has taken on the challenge of clean water for all. When I think of Rotary, I am reminded of Margaret Mead’s statement, “Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed citizens can change the world; indeed, it’s the only thing that ever has”. Rotary may have begun as that small group, but look at us now. Together we are changing the world.
Jean Kresse
Club President 2019 - 2020
