Unmask The New Rotary Era
Edmonton welcomes the 5370 District Conference. Set in the spectacular River Cree Resort and Casino, this conference will uplift and energize you as we "Unmask The New Rotary Era". Go to EdmontonDistrictConference2011.com for information.
The conference content has been developed by an active Committee of fired-up members of the Rotary Club of Edmonton. There is something in the Agenda for every Rotarian attending the District Conference, but of equal or greater value is the sharing. You'll be with your peers; you'll have the opportunity to trade experiences and learn "best practices". Russ Mann, Rotarian says: "During my time in Rotary I have probably attended 10 or 12 District Conferences. They are very exciting because we get to see and hear about Rotary in action outside the bounds of our own clubs. Idea sharing with others, fellowship with Rotarians, and getting to know Rotarians from our own club better and in a different way are key benefits of attending a District Conference."
The District Fall Training (PETS) and District Assembly will take place on Thursday, October 27th at the River Cree Resort. The District Conference starts Friday morning and concludes on Saturday night.
On Friday afternoon, John Chega will be speaking. John has spent most of his life homeless and living on the streets. Hearing John's story will help you better understand the challenges and obstacles facing the homeless person and will increase your knowledge of the homeless lifestyle. Anyone interested in the homeless epidemic that plagues our Canadian cities would be well advised to take time to listen. His story touches on every aspect of the homeless problem including addictions, mental health issues and the extreme possibility that you too, could become homeless.
On Saturday afternoon, Michel Chikwanine will be speaking. A former child soldier, Michel has already endured and overcome unimaginable pain and struggles. His passion and belief in the possibility for change makes him a truly remarkable individual and humanitarian. Born in the Democratic Republic of Congo, Michel grew up amid the terror of the Great War of Africa. He witnessed the torture of his father, who was singled out for his political beliefs, the rape of his mother and endured torture of his own. Much of Michel's childhood was ravaged by the death and decay of a war that claimed the lives of 5.8 million people, his father included. Forced to leave his home as a refugee at the age of 11, Michel has since travelled to many African countries, witnessing first-hand the problems facing the developing world, but also the beauty of the communities and the people who live there.
So, think about attending this conference to hear the likes of John Chega, Michel Chikwanine, Danny Hooper, and the representative of the Rotary International President. Be entertained by the Shumka Dancers and the Jacklyn Sparrow Band. See three grade eight students present their winning Rotary 4 Way Test essays. Join the 4th Birthday Celebration events for the River Cree Resort and Casino which will be ongoing for the weekend.
Full registration for a Rotarian, including all meals & events is $399.00. A Rotarian's partner can attend all meals and events for $225.00. If you wish to attend the Saturday night Governor's "Masquerade" Ball only, a ticket is $75.00.