From the President’s Desk- Madhuri Azam
My heartfelt gratitude to everyone who has supported me over the past six months as President of this special club. Rotary holds a unique place in my heart, as I grew up watching my father, a dedicated Rotarian, engage in various projects. His example led me to follow in his footsteps, and today, I’m proud that my son, Dhru Lodhia, has also stepped into a leadership role as the President of the Rotaract Club of Brisbane International, the youth wing of our club.
The months have flown by, but the work accomplished by our dynamic club has been nothing short of remarkable. It’s a great time to reflect on some of the key projects we’ve been working on, both recently and since the charter of the Rotary Club of Brisbane International (RCBI).
Since our club’s charter, 10,500 meal packs have been served to our friends on the streets of Woodridge, Brisbane City, and Logan. These include:
Monthly feeding of the homeless: Approximately 100 meals are prepared at a Rotarian’s home and served at Roma St Parklands.
136 brand new wheelchairs have been sent to Fiji in partnership with the Rotary Club of Suva.
A library and various school resources have been sent to Papua New Guinea.
Five brand new air-conditioning units were installed in a local Kingston Special Flexi School for disadvantaged children.
Installation of a dental chair and computer was assisted for a project in Nepal.
$50,000 raised to rebuild roofs on homes destroyed by a cyclone in Fiji.
This year, we’ve continued that legacy through:
Masquerade Gala Fundraiser: Our successful event was made possible thanks to our sponsors, attendees, and supporters.
Monthly Food Drives: Partnering with Mission Possible Volunteers and Merciful Servants, we’ve distributed care packs, blankets, and beanies to those in need. The Rotaract Club of Brisbane International has been an active part of every distribution.
Donation of Dialysis Machines: Four dialysis machines, complete with osmosis systems, are being donated to the Ba Dialysis Centre.
Christmas Food Hampers: We’ve distributed 80 hampers to families in need, bringing them some holiday joy.
Support for Ba Special School: School resources, including wheelchairs and walkers, are being sent to the Ba Special School.
As we continue our humanitarian work, I am grateful for the businesses and individuals who have supported us for the past eight years. Your contributions have been vital to the success of our projects and the lives we’ve touched.
The Rotary wheel keeps turning, and I look forward to your continued love and support in the months ahead. Wishing you all a Merry Christmas and a joyful, prosperous New Year.