Shoki Wafula did not know what to expect when he was forced to leave his birth country of Uganda for South Africa. What he found was a Rotary community that welcomed him with warmth and friendship. That experience inspired him to help create a Rotaract e-club where young leaders from around the world could connect, develop their skills, and serve together. Today, that community includes members across multiple continents who collaborate on leadership development, peacebuilding, and service initiatives. For Wafula, the experience reinforced the lesson that meaningful service begins with people who feel connected, valued, and empowered to lead.
His story reminds us why Youth Service Month is so important. Through Rotaract and programs like Rotary Youth Exchange, young people build leadership skills, develop global understanding, and discover the impact they can make through service. Rotary’s Action Plan calls on us to enhance participant engagement. At its heart, that goal asks a simple question: How can we ensure that participation in Rotary is meaningful and fulfilling for everyone? Youth programs and Rotaract provide a powerful answer.
When clubs mentor Rotaractors, host exchange students, or support youth leadership initiatives, they create opportunities for members to share their experience in ways that feel personal and rewarding. These connections deepen members’ sense of purpose and strengthen the bonds within our Rotary family. They also create lasting pathways into Rotary. Thousands of young people complete Rotary programs each year, and they carry those experiences with them throughout their lives. Many remain eager to stay connected.
Organizations such as Rotex International, an association of former Youth Exchange students, help Rotary program alumni continue serving as mentors, leaders, and advocates for our youth programs. As Rotex co-founder Hans Lee wrote in a recent reflection on Youth Exchange alumni, “exchange doesn’t end when you return home.” When we welcome these young leaders into our clubs and activities, we strengthen the continuity of Rotary across generations.
During Youth Service Month, I hope every Rotary club reflects on how youth programs can enhance engagement for new and longtime members. Collaborate on service projects and invite youth voices into your planning and decision making. Rotary’s message to the world is that we can Unite for Good. Youth programs show us how that happens in practice — when generations come together, share ideas, and work side by side in service.
When we invest in young people, we are not only shaping future leaders. We are building a stronger, more connected Rotary today.
May is Youth Services Month
May and June are active months in New Generations as the school year finishes and planning for the fall
begins. A few highlights....
395 Air Cadets Squadron – Lorne and Doug will attend the Annual Ceremonial Review Parade on May 30, 2026
Centennial Interact – Lorne will attend one of their final meetings for the year and present them with a collection of youth novels related to the theme of Peace. Selection and purchase of the books facilitated by Ingrid through the District Peace Committee. The high school students are also trying to re-establish an International project previously coordinated through partnership with Rotary in Belize and will also consider planning a fund raiser.
Grant McEwan Rotaract – Annie has received the names of the in-coming board executives elected for the fall.
Literacy – John and Penny will visit an elementary school to share a book from the “Peace” books donated to the school library by our club.
Nutrition – Donation of $2000 made from our club to support daily “top up” nutrition program for elementary students
RYLE – our club is sponsoring two high school students to attend the District program. Thank you to Al and his daughter, Natalie, for coordinating the applications.
Thank you to our club for generous support of funds and volunteer time this year!
Looking for committee members to help with New Generations for the up-coming Rotary year. Annie is coordinating a committee sign-up process at our upcoming club Change Over Meeting to be held in July.
Please consider helping with New Generations for the upcoming Rotary year!
Community Service
Edmonton's Food Bank
Our Members spent time volunteering at the local food bank, giving back to our community in a hands-on way. We sorted donations, which is our favourite thing to do. It reminds us how important it is to support those facing food insecurity.
We’re proud to be part of a community that comes together to make a difference. Small acts of service can have a big impact—and we’re always grateful for the opportunity to help.
Boyle Street Community Services
National Volunteer Week was celebrated in May. Like many organizations, Boyle Street Community Services relies on volunteers to help support its important work in the community. This year’s theme, Ignite Volunteerism, is a reminder of the powerful impact people can have when they show up for their communities across Canada. Volunteers bring care, compassion, and a willingness to be part of something larger than themselves. Their time, energy, and dedication help strengthen communities and create meaningful connections for those who need support the most.
One of our club’s most meaningful traditions is volunteering at Thanksgiving with Boyle Street Community Services. For more than 10 years, we have proudly supported this incredible organization, which provides assistance to individuals experiencing poverty, homelessness, and social isolation.
Each Thanksgiving, our members help serve a delicious holiday meal prepared by NAIT, and of course, we never forget to bring our pumpkin pies. It is always a heartwarming opportunity to give back, connect with the community, and celebrate the true spirit of service.
This year, we were especially honoured to be recognized by Boyle Street Community Services for over a decade of volunteer support. We are grateful for the opportunity to continue partnering with such an important organization and look forward to many more years of service together.
Chrysalis
Members of the Rotary Club of Edmonton West spent a Saturday volunteering at Chrysalis, helping brighten up the hallway with a fresh coat of paint. It was wonderful to see our volunteers come together to give the space a clean, welcoming update for the people Chrysalis supports every day.
Chrysalis is a non-profit organization that supports individuals with disabilities by providing employment, community connection, and life skills opportunities. We are proud to support the important work they do in our community.
A big thank you to everyone who gave their time, energy, and painting skills to make a difference!
Grandview
Al and Jorge Becker, a Rotarian from Glenora Club, recently spent two full days strengthening the supports and replacing tiles in the Rotary Friendship Room. While they did not replace the wall tiles—as doing so would have required extensive drywall repair and replacement—the room has already been greatly improved and looks much better. The final step, grouting, was completed last Friday.
Sinkunia
There was also some heavy lifting happening out at Sinkunia! Large old cottonwood trees had been cut into massive slabs to create rustic benches for the site. Al spent a few hours putting both his truck and his skills to work, helping drag the enormous slabs into position. Thanks to his willingness to pitch in, the project moved along much more smoothly. We’re beginning to think Al and his truck should be available for hire — haha!
Whitehorse Conference Inspires Action and Connection
By John Donner
Members of RCEW returned energized after attending the Rotary District 5370 Conference in Whitehorse, held May 15–17. The conference brought together Rotarians from across the district for several days of learning, inspiration, fellowship, and yes — a lot of fun.
Our club was well represented by Bruce and Kate Hobin, Duart Berg, Fred Kraft, Ingrid Neitsch, Jackie and Wayne Hobal, John Donner and Penny Stinson, Lorne Proctor, and Vic Rudkowski. Several members also contributed directly to the conference program, with Ingrid leading peace discussions, Jackie participating in Polio Plus conversations, and Myrna helping develop an accessibility checklist initiative.
District Governor Ramesh Ferris assembled an impressive lineup of speakers and presentations focused on Rotary’s ability to create meaningful change. One of the recurring themes throughout the conference was the idea that Rotary can accomplish extraordinary things when members unite around a shared purpose. Polio eradication was highlighted repeatedly as proof of what persistent collaboration can achieve.
Attendees heard from Rick Hansen, who spoke about tackling ambitious goals one step at a time. His message connected strongly with Rotary’s work in peacebuilding, accessibility, and global health initiatives. The conference also featured Indigenous opening ceremonies and cultural performances, discussions on positive peace, and presentations on visioning and long-term planning for clubs and districts.
A proud moment for our club came when Ingrid Neitsch received a Certificate of Merit in recognition of her contributions to Rotary peace initiatives. Ingrid also helped unveil a Peace Pole for the Rotary Peace Park in Whitehorse alongside international peacebuilders and Rotary leaders.
Beyond the keynote speakers and workshops, the conference reminded attendees that Rotary is also about relationships, laughter, and shared experiences. From Yukon hospitality and great food to snowshoe dancing and late-night fellowship under the midnight sun, Whitehorse delivered a memorable experience for everyone who attended.
The conference theme may have been about creating lasting impact, but it also reinforced something equally important: Rotary works best when people come together with purpose, optimism, and a willingness to act.
City Hall Peace Ceremony
We are excited to share some wonderful news! In collaboration with the District Peace Committee, The Rotary Club of Edmonton West has successfully applied for Edmonton to be designated as an International City of Peace. This achievement is part of our 70th Anniversary Legacy project, and we are proud to announce that Edmonton is now the 474th International City of Peace, joining fellow Canadian cities such as Vancouver, Montreal, Toronto, and Calgary.
Our application highlighted various aspects, including a description of our vibrant city, the impactful projects initiated by our Rotary Club, and a vision for Edmonton’s future. The District Peace Committee has identified several priorities, and we encourage interested members to join subcommittees for active service in this important initiative.
To celebrate our 70th Anniversary, our Club sponsored a Peace Pole display in the main lobby of City Hall, which was met with enthusiasm. Many visitors took photos and engaged in discussions about the meaning and purpose of the Peace Pole.
We are also thrilled to invite you to a special celebration on Canada Day, July 1, where we will hold a Peace ceremony to officially proclaim Edmonton as an International City of Peace. This event is open to all members, families, and the general public, and we hope to see you there!
The "Impact of Peace" ceremony brings a profound, community-focused layer to Edmonton's Canada Day celebrations. Gathering in the light-filled City Room beneath the iconic glass pyramid, Edmontonians will mark a dual milestone for the community: officially celebrating Edmonton's designation as an International City of Peace and witnessing the official unveiling of the city's new Peace Pole.
This monumental event is a featured stop on Rotary Director Marty Helman's Impact Tour — a journey highlighting grassroots humanitarian work and positive peace initiatives.
Experience the true heart of the Rotary movement in the historic setting of Fort Edmonton Park. This isn't just an event; it’s an invitation to see the work we do in our own backyards through a fresh lens.
We are honored to welcome Marty Helman, Rotary Director 2026/28, who joins us to share the fabulous story of how Rotary empowers each of us to help our communities prosper. Whether you are a seasoned or a brand-new Rotarian, Marty is eager to meet you and discuss how we can work together to support our neighbors during these critical, troubled times.
Come for the history, stay for the stories, and leave with a renewed perspective on what we can achieve together. Secure your spot today!
Where:
Fort Edmonton Park
7000 143 Street Northwest
Edmonton, AB
Canada
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Annual Golf Fundraiser
Over the past years we have successfully hosted this event, drawing strong community participation and raising significant funds. These funds directly enable us to continue the work we do in our community and beyond.
The success of our golf tournament is driven by the dedication and active involvement of every member. Their positive attitude and team spirit make it a truly exceptional day—one that golfers thoroughly enjoy. Many return year after year because of the great experience we create together.
This years fundraiser is shaping up to be another fantastic event! We are officially full for golfers and sponsors — thank you to everyone who helped make this possible. The enthusiasm and support from our members and community partners continues to make this fundraiser a success year after year.
Auction items are continuing to come in, but we are still looking for additional donations for both the silent and live auctions. If you have connections with local businesses, restaurants, service providers, or retailers, please take a few moments to ask for a contribution. Every item helps us raise more funds to support the important work we do throughout the year.
A reminder to members who have not yet donated their two bottles of wine for the wine raffle: please contact Lorne to make arrangements as soon as possible.
As always, this event takes a team effort, and we will need all hands on deck on tournament day. Please sign up for volunteer shifts through Clubrunner so we can ensure everything runs smoothly.
Thank you again to everyone contributing their time, energy, and support to help make this our best golf tournament yet!
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