On November 12, the Encinitas Coastal Rotary Club held its annual International Auction, turning a typical lunch meeting into a lively and significant fundraising event. Members donated unique items from their travels for the auction, such as an African wooden buffalo statue, a shaman's hat and necklace from India, and Chinese dragons. Many of these items are perennial favorites, returning each year to enhance the enjoyment.
This year, the auction garnered over $4,100, with the proceeds going to the board-designated funds for international projects. Rotary International thoroughly vets and approves all club-funded projects, ensuring they are accountable and impactful. Typically, a local Rotary Club in the project's region manages most funds, fostering local partnerships and effective resource utilization.
Turning Auction Proceeds into Global Action
Funds raised through the auction, along with other club contributions, have supported several meaningful international initiatives, including:
- Global Grant #3005 with the Retalhuleu Rotary Club (Guatemala): $10,000 funded in March 2024 for community development efforts.
- Student Aid Program (Guatemala): $6,000 in District Designated Funds were delivered for phase one, followed by $6,200 for phase two. An additional $6,400 is planned for 2024-25.
- Jarweng Educational Development (South Sudan*: $2,500 contributed to enhancing education and community resources.
- Wheels of Hope: $1,500 donated to provide mobility aids and wheelchairs, empowering individuals with disabilities- Ecuador Water Project: $2,992 committed to a clean water initiative.
- South Sudan Scholarships: Ongoing financial support for scholarships, offering life-changing opportunities to South Sudanese students.
Fellowship with Purpose
The International Auction exemplifies Rotary's spirit, blending camaraderie with a commitment to global service. Members’ enthusiasm for the event reflects their dedication to making a difference locally and worldwide.
If you want to learn more about Encinitas Coastal Rotary's International Committee Projects, we invite you to any lunch meeting. We meet every Tuesday at Cicciotti's in Cardiff, Ca. 12:15 pm. You can email us for more information at encintascoastalrotary@gmail.com or visit us at www.encinitascoastalrotary.org.