UNews - Rotary International

U of L employee part of Rotary project to bring technology to schools in Dominica

trevor.kenney — Mon, 09 Dec 2019 22:36:39 +0000

In September, 2017, Hurricane Maria decimated the island country of Dominica, destroying its lush landscape and flattening every building in its path.

In November, Jake Cameron, systems support specialist with the U of L Library, spent two weeks helping with a Rotary International project to provide and set up information technologies in 23 primary schools in Dominica.

“We worked eight- to 12-hour days but they never felt that long,” says Cameron. “We all were happy to be making a difference in the lives of the teachers and children in these schools.”

The $1.5-million project was coordinated with the Ministry of Education and Human Resources in Dominica and provided more than 1,700 Chromebooks and other vital classroom infrastructure, including network switches and wireless access points, to the region.

The work is not complete and the IT for Dominica Foundation will continue to maintain and develop on the foundation built by Cameron and his colleagues. The IT for Dominica Foundation is a volunteer organization that partners with public entities in Canada and the Commonwealth of Dominica to provide contemporary education to students and teachers in Dominica.

“Seeing students smile when they were able to use the technology made this project so worthwhile,” Cameron said. “Being a part of bringing them from little to no classroom technology to being able to use these devices to further their education was an honour for me. We sometimes forget how lucky we are to jump on a computer or our phone and be connected.

“I am so grateful the ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ allowed me this opportunity. I have to thank Chris Nicol and Allan Gergel for their support.”

2013 Alumni Honour Society inductees

trevor.kenney — Thu, 16 May 2013 17:54:29 +0000

Introduced in celebration of the ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ's 35th anniversary in 2002, the Alumni Honour Society recognizes the achievement of successful alumni within the global community. The alumni inducted into this prestigious group have served as role models to our students and the broader ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ community through success in their vocation, outstanding community service or superior accomplishment in their avocation.

Sarah Amies (BASc '88)

A vigorous and compassionate human rights advocate, Sarah Amies has more than 20 years of experience in the not-for-profit and education sectors. Since becoming the program director of Lethbridge Family Services – Immigrant Services in 2001, Amies has had a positive impact on new immigrants in the Lethbridge community. Under her leadership, Lethbridge Family Services has grown in programming and services, and expanded its resources. She has worked closely with many volunteer boards, such as the Alberta Association of Immigrant Services Agencies, the Canadian Coalition of Municipalities Against Racism and Discrimination, Family Violence and Elder Abuse Awareness and Prevention Committee and Social Housing in Action. The YWCA recognized her in 2012.

Sylvia Campbell (BEd '79)

Through her many years as an educator and mentor, Sylvia Campbell has demonstrated a steadfast commitment to environmental issues and human rights. She has served on numerous committees and boards, including the Lethbridge branch of the Canadian Federation of ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ Women, the Southern Alberta Group for Environment and the Lethbridge Network for Peace. Campbell was a longtime member of the Raging Grannies, a group through which she worked to raise awareness of social justice issues related to peace, the environment, gender, human rights, world equality, Canadian unity and social programs. In 2003, she was recognized by the YWCA.

Frank Gnandt (BASc '74, BEd '79)

Frank Gnandt has been an exceptional educator in Lethbridge School District No. 51 for more than 30 years and has instilled a passion for the arts in many students. Gnandt, currently the choir director for Chinook High School in Lethbridge, is recognized by his peers as an accomplished adjudicator, instructor and conductor. His influence and passion for music have spread to students and audiences locally, provincially, nationally and abroad. Gnandt has been a guest conductor and performed at numerous prestigious venues, including Carnegie Hall and at the Vatican. Gnandt is a recipient of both the Governor General's Award for Community Service and the ATA Teacher of Excellence Award.

Michelle Hogue (MEd '04)

An assistant professor and co-ordinator of the First Nations Transition Program at the ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ of Lethbridge, Dr. Michelle Hogue has helped ensure the success of many students at university, particularly in science-related programs. Hogue's research blends required curricular and institutional demands with narrative and arts practices that, with holistic knowledge, have the potential to change science education for Aboriginal learners. In addition to her research, Hogue develops new and innovative teaching practices with high school students, educators and administrators on the Blackfoot (Kainai) Reserve in southern Alberta. Hogue has been the recipient of many awards and scholarships, including most recently the Canadian Education Association Pat Clifford Award.

Douglas McArthur (Certificate in Mgt '90)

Douglas McArthur is well known for his enthusiastic support of the ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ of Lethbridge and particularly the U of L Alumni Association (ULAA). An investment advisor by profession, McArthur served as ULAA president from 2003 to 2005. His leadership played a key role in advancing the ULAA, strengthening its affinity with alumni and establishing a foundation that the association has continued to build upon. McArthur remains an active member of the ULAA and is currently serving on the U of L Board of Governors. McArthur has invested in his community by volunteering his time with organizations such as Rotary, Crime Stoppers and the Lethbridge Symphony Association.

Diane Randell (BN '91)

Throughout her career, Diane Randell has worked diligently to make a difference in her community. Since beginning her career in nursing in the 1970s, Randell's care and compassion for others has expanded from individual patients to entire communities. Currently the manager of the community and social development group at the City of Lethbridge, Randell's work addresses large-scale issues such as social policy, homelessness, poverty and racism. Randell is a founding member of the Abreast of Bridge Dragon Boat Team, a founding board member and past Chair of the Lethbridge Dragon Boat Festival and a member of the U of L Senate. She has been recognized by Rotary International, the YWCA and is a recipient of the Queen's Jubilee Medal.

This story first appeared in the May 2013 edition of the Legend. For a look at the full issue in a flipbook format, follow this link.

Costa realizing academic, athletic dream

trevor.kenney — Thu, 15 Nov 2012 21:04:25 +0000

Sometimes all the recruiting efforts in the world pale in comparison to a word-of-mouth endorsement and a Google search.

Such was the case for Brazilian international student Guilherme Costa, who showed up on the ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ of Lethbridge doorstep this past January looking first for an opportunity to study kinesiology and physical education, and secondly to play soccer.

"A few years ago my brother did an international exchange through the Rotary International program and we hosted a girl from Edmonton at our house for five months," says Costa, a 24-year-old from Sao Paulo, Brazil.

"She introduced me to Canada, and I was amazed to learn about the people, the nature and everything that was here. I decided then to come to Canada; it was my dream."
He first landed in Vancouver, B.C. and spent eight months there before finding a university that suited his interests.

"I heard about the kinesiology program at the ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ of Lethbridge and about the chance to do research. Now that I've been here for almost a year, I just love it," says Costa. "I did an independent study when I earned my degree in Brazil and that's what I want to keep doing here, and I thought that Lethbridge would be the perfect spot."

International Brazilian student Gui Costa played a key role in the success of the Horns men's soccer team this past fall.

A third-year student in kinesiology, he comes from a family that values education and is extremely supportive of his goals. His father is an engineer, his mother a lawyer and his brother a doctor.

"My interest of study is in sport and rehabilitation," he says. "I want to work with metabolic disease in sports. We all know about the impact of physical activity in sport and metabolic disease, and I want to see how indoor sports like indoor soccer, volleyball and basketball have an impact on the body."

Coming from the world's seventh largest city in population, it is obviously a huge culture shift to arrive in a city of less than 100,000, but Costa seems at ease with the transition.

"It's a pretty calm city and I'm really enjoying that. Sao Paulo is so busy so we don't really have time for anything, and living here is pretty relaxing," he says. "I'm really looking forward to my parents coming here for Christmas. They're going to spend a month with me and we plan to travel all over Canada."

Costa grew up playing soccer and even looked at trying to play professionally in Brazil, but he prioritized education over sport, something that suits him well now as a Canada West student-athlete.

"It's been a little bit hard, because this was my first year and I've had to manage my soccer, my school and work, because I have to support myself here," he says of his job with Sodexo. He also plans to work on the Horns' game day staff team through the winter.

"I chose my classes well so that I could manage things and now that soccer season is over I plan to study and work more."

It was a banner year for the Horns men's team, which set a new team record for total points and equaled its best ever win total. That the team still fell one win shy of qualifying for the playoffs has Costa and his teammates eager for next season.

"I think we were all happy with what we did but at the same time we were frustrated because looking back, there were probably five games we should have won and didn't, and that was the difference at the end," says the first-year centre-midfielder. "So, we know we can do more next year and it makes us confident.

I think everyone wishes next season started tomorrow."

As with soccer and Costa's educational aspirations, this year is only a beginning.

"I want to finish my undergrad degree and then start a master's degree," he smiles. "I want to stay in Canada, that's my plan. Hopefully Canada will accept me."

In many ways, the country already has.

GET THE FACTS

· Horns men's soccer posted a 4-5-6 record on the year and finished three points behind the ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ of Saskatchewan for the final Canada West playoff spot

· Costa played last summer with the Lethbridge Football Club in the Alberta Major Soccer League

· Many of the Horns will play together throughout the indoor soccer season, an opportunity to further develop their skill set for next fall

· Costa says he has no issue with the snow and cold he encounters in Canada but he could do without Lethbridge's winds. "It shocks me a little," he says

This story first appeared in the November 2012 issue of the Legend. To view the full issue in a flipbook format, follow this link.

Jong appointed new Board Chair

trevor.kenney — Wed, 03 Oct 2012 23:24:49 +0000

Gordon E. Jong, CA, a Lethbridge-based chartered accountant with a long-standing relationship with the ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ of Lethbridge, has been appointed by the Lieutenant Governor of Alberta as the ninth Chair of the ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ of Lethbridge Board of Governors.

Jong, who earned Bachelor of Science (1980) and Bachelor of Management (1982) degrees from the ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ of Lethbridge, is a former member of the ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ of Lethbridge Board of Governors (2006 to 2012) and a 2004 U of L Alumni Honour Society Inductee.

Community work has been a staple for Jong. He has served as Chair of the Board of Governors at Lethbridge College, treasurer of the Southern Alberta Society for the Prevention of Child Abuse and Neglect; Lethbridge Jaycee's Club; president of the Rotary Club of Lethbridge; and treasurer of the Rotary International Peace Park Assembly.

Jong is also a successful Lethbridge businessman starting Jong & Company - a private company categorized under Chartered Accountants.

"The ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ of Lethbridge has always been a special place for me," says Jong. "I am very proud of the fact that the U of L has emerged as one of Canada's leading teaching and research universities. I am equally proud that while the U of L remains true to southern Alberta's needs through its teaching and research activities, that it has emerged as a destination university for students across the province, country and from around the world."

"I am looking forward to once again joining a very dedicated group of volunteers on the U of L Board of Governors."

U of L President Mike Mahon says Jong epitomizes the success and contribution that U of L graduates are making.

"Gord's success in business and his commitment to his community is emblematic of a U of L graduate. He is an example of the difference our graduates are making in their communities through the leadership positions they assume," says Mahon.

Jong assumes the role of Chair from Bob Turner, Q.C., who has served in the role for the past six years.

The Jong family boasts close linkages to the U of L. Jong is married to Elizabeth Martin Jong, who also holds a
U of L degree in Music (1981). The couple has two children, Terrah, who earned a Bachelor of Arts (2005), and Christopher.

Calderwood continues to travel, give back to society

trevor.kenney — Thu, 19 Apr 2012 21:35:46 +0000

In 1992, Denise Calderwood (MEd '93) was completing the final year of her master's degree in international education at the ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ of Lethbridge when, having made friends with a number of international students, she noticed that many of them were missing the traditions and familiarity of home.

It was a simple observation, but it led her to found a new annual tradition at the ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ – the International Dinner.

"For many international students, eating is a great way to be hospitable and to enjoy one another's company; the students were missing that. I thought if they were able to cook for us it would make them feel more at home, like the hosts instead of always the guests. The students were quite excited about that," explains Calderwood.

The inaugural dinner was held in Southminster United Church. Under the supervision of a cooking professor from Lethbridge College, Calderwood and the students prepared about 15 ethnic dishes for approximately 200 guests. The evening included a speaker and a live auction with various donations including ethnic artwork and musical performances. The proceeds from the evening went towards an international student scholarship.

Denise Calderwood was a key contributor to the creation of the ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ's annual International Dinner.

While the students no longer cook the dinner, Calderwood is thrilled that the evening remains an important tradition, providing an opportunity for the ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ community to learn about and celebrate its diversity.

"Through the years, the ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ has recognized the value of the international student community. I am very pleased with the development and growth of the International Centre for Students. We all gain from the international students who come to the ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ; we understand world issues differently when we have seen and discussed world views with people from other lands," says Calderwood, whose enthusiasm for learning about other cultures and peoples began when she was just a child.

"I grew up in Vancouver in a very multi-cultural community with kids from around the world frequently arriving as new immigrants to Canada. I was always interested in who they were, where they came from and their family traditions."

As a young adult, Calderwood earned a bachelor of education in special education from the ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ of British Columbia, but her childhood passion for international studies continued to burn bright. In October 1974, she set off on a Rotary International Graduate Fellowship to the American ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ of Beirut in Lebanon to pursue a master's in international education. Unfortunately, civil war broke out and the danger of remaining in Lebanon became too great. She was forced to abandon her studies and leave the country in June 1975. She returned to Canada to teach special education in Claresholm, Alta. She married in 1977 and kept busy with work and a growing family, but she never lost sight of her goal to complete her master's degree.

"In 1991, I applied to complete my master's at the ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ of Lethbridge in international education; however, my coursework from Lebanon did not transfer. The ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ graciously allowed me to create my program which included core courses, an internship in Malaysia, summer courses with the Summer Institute of Intercultural communication in Portland, Oregon and a thesis paper about the adjustments international students face when they go to school," explains Calderwood.

In 1993, Calderwood completed her master's and stayed on at the ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ, volunteering 3-4 hours each day as an international student liaison. Two years later she had literally volunteered her way into a job. During her two years as an employee at the ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ, Caldwell had the opportunity to travel to Fujian Province China, Hong Kong, Malaysia and Singapore to meet with alumni and to promote the ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ of Lethbridge.

"I was the international student liaison from 1995-1997. I enjoyed it very much, helping the students, going to conferences and seeing what the students' lives had become after they were back in their home countries," remembers Calderwood.

She continues to have a passion for cultures and people the world over. She has travelled for pleasure, volunteer work and further studies to 42 different countries and plans to volunteer at a small school in Angola in the near future.

As to why she continues to travel the world Calderwood simply says, "I love to do that, so I do."

GET THE FACTS

· From January to April 1992, Calderwood and her children lived in Kuala Lumpur where she interned as an academic advisor at the Canadian Education Centre, which was set up to attract international students to Canadian Universities

· She has been a part of the production and filming of seven documentary films

· Calderwood's extensive volunteer work includes time with the Mother Tongue Literacy program in Kenya and an orphanage in Mexico

· Calderwood never tires of learning and plans to begin an undergraduate degree in Canadian history

This story first appeared in the April 2012 issue of the Legend. To view the entire issue in a flipbook format, follow this link.

Rotaract event to support emerging education

trevor.kenney — Fri, 13 Jan 2012 20:53:07 +0000

Students desperate for a permanent place to receive an education in the new country of South Sudan will benefit from a popular ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ of Lethbridge student-organized fundraising event.

The U of L's Rotaract Club will host Guir Ku Baai – Building Peace through Education, its 7th Annual Dinner and Silent Auction on Saturday, Feb. 4 in the Grand Ballroom at the Lethbridge Lodge.

Proceeds from the event will help current U of L Management student Anthony Makwach build a school in his home community of Abouk (pronounced Ab-wark), South Sudan, in the world's newest nation.

Anthony Makwach is looking to give children in his homeland of South Sudan the same educational opportunities he enjoyed in his youth.

Makwach was born during a prolonged civil war between what are now the countries of Sudan and South Sudan, and was raised in nearby Kenya. He has returned numerous times to his home community of Abouk since hostilities diminished in 2005.

Makwach says his long-term dream is the construction of a school to assist the children of the community.

"I went back to the South Sudan this past summer to celebrate the country's independence, and to visit my family," says Makwach. "I was so inspired, but at the same time heartbroken to see how the kids are struggling for their education. They have no school and are taking classes under a tree. I built a small shelter with my own funds, and came back to Canada with the idea for a project – to build a building big enough for at least 600 elementary school children."

Makwach knows first-hand the value of an education and the freedom it provides.

"I had an opportunity and privilege to go to a high school in Kenya. I got my diploma, and now am attending the U of L, where I am training to become an accountant," he says.

The direct connection between Anthony, his family in Abouk, and the dedication of the community to build the school formed the basis for the Rotaract group's support for this project.

"It is Anthony's dream to see a school built in his community, and we are working to make his dream a reality," says Eva Gorny, Rotaract's vice-president, External Affairs. "The Rotaract event typically raises between $10,000 and $15,000. We are hopeful that most, if not all, of the needed funds will be raised at this event."

Makwach's family members in Abouk and area are builders, and the cost of construction materials will be offset by volunteer labour from the community.

South Sudan, as the world's newest country, is also the poorest, with the majority of its eight million citizens living on less than $1 (CDN) per day. Life expectancy and literacy rates are low, infant mortality rates are high, basic medical care is scarce, education is difficult to obtain and the economy is unstable.

The landlocked nation was officially recognized as an independent country in 2011. Several international aid and development organizations are active in the country, but there remains a significant need for specific projects – such as the Rotaract Abouk School Project – that can help communities develop on their own.

Tickets for the Rotaract Dinner and Silent Auction are priced at $65 each ($40 for students), or $450 for a table of eight.

Silent auction items, gifts-in-kind and monetary donations are also appreciated. Contact rotaract@uleth.ca to purchase tickets or for additional information.

GET THE FACTS

· A brief video presentation from Makwach can be seen at vimeo.com/33668154

· The U of L Rotaract Club is a not-for-profit service club that is part of Rotary International. Its mandate is to fundraise, provide volunteers and, most importantly, raise awareness for both local and international needs

· Over the past six years, the Rotaract Club has raised more than $100,000 for projects in such varied locations as Burkina-Faso, Iqaluit and Malawi

· For more information, contact Eva Gorny, vice-president External Affairs at 403-360-3843 or e-mail rotaract@uleth.ca

This story first appeared in the January edition of the Legend. For a look at the Legend in a flipbook format, follow this link.

Adventures in philanthropy

trevor.kenney — Wed, 07 Jul 2010 20:23:23 +0000

Actions speak louder than words – it's an old adage and the message is repeated in numerous phrases such as "practice what you preach" and "put your money where your mouth is." These sayings reflect the understanding that, at its very essence, philanthropy is personal and intimate, something that requires individual sacrifice.

Together, ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ of Lethbridge President Dr. Bill Cade and his wife, Elsa, are a living testament to this truth.

When they came to the ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ, Elsa expressed a desire to be part of the U of L team. Now, with 10 years of service coming to a close, it's undeniable: these philanthropists believe in their cause.

Elsa Cade with members of the U of L's Rotaract Club as they help raise money for the purchase of shelterboxes to send to Haiti.

As the presidential couple, Bill and Elsa have served as front-line fundraising ambassadors; encouraging community members, government officials, faculty, staff and even students to support the goals of the ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ. But what made their requests so powerful, and ultimately successful, was the example they set themselves.

"Bill and Elsa have been incredibly generous volunteers and donors at the ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ of Lethbridge and in their community," says Dan Laplante (BMgt '88), the president of CTE Ltd. and Chair of the U of L's Legacy of Leadership Campaign, which wrapped up in 2007. "Their support has been given quietly, but has not gone unnoticed by the many students, alumni, faculty, staff and community members who have seen the impact of this philanthropy. The Cades have inspired many to give back."

To date, the couple has contributed more than $100,000 personally and supported initiatives as diverse as student awards, athletics and the library. This past spring, the Cades donated their long-loved BMW to the Students' Union to be raffled off in support of student scholarships. Michael Nolan, as the car is affectionately named, illustrates the playful energy and enthusiasm characteristic of Bill and Elsa, who have always made students their priority.

Christine Michell is one such student who has benefited first-hand from the Cades' generosity. As a recipient of the Bill Cade and Elsa Salazar Cade Scholarship in Evolutionary Ecology, Michell was able to move her interest in animal ecology from the classroom to the field.

"I've spent three summers doing field work in animal ecology," explains Michell, who graduated in June with a combined degree in biology and education. "These were great experiences and they wouldn't have been possible without the scholarship I received."

In addition, as a fellow biologist, Michell is flattered to be funded specifically for her work in evolutionary ecology.

"It's an honour to be recognized for my work in an area that's obviously so important to Dr. Cade," says Michell, who jokingly hopes the president isn't too disappointed that she studies birds instead of insects.

Michell emphasizes that she admired Bill's dedication to students throughout her time at the U of L.

"He's been a visible presence on campus. As a biology student, I saw him in the department and at the seminar presentations for the students who work in his lab. He says hello in the halls and attends as many student events as he can," says Michell, who admits his approach isn't what she expected.

The Cades' philanthropy is driven by the spirit of generosity that Michell describes. The role of the presidential couple is a busy one, but Bill and Elsa have graciously volunteered countless hours to both the ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ and the broader community, going above and beyond the call of duty to help.

No matter what the project or initiative, whether raising funds for a new building or a new student program, the Cades don't just talk the talk, they walk the walk, creatively making their gifts and believing in the results of the support they provide.

• The endowment for the Bill Cade and Elsa Salazar Cade Scholarship in Evolutionary Ecology has reached close to $130,000, providing tangible opportunities for students like Christine Michell.

• Bill and Elsa have shown their Pronghorn Pride by sponsoring a male and a female athlete through the Adopt-a-Horn program each year. "The financial support Bill and Elsa have provided to athletics over the years is substantial," says Executive Director of Sport and Recreation Services Sandy Slavin. "But more importantly, they've helped foster a sense of pride in Pronghorn athletics. Their enthusiasm for giving back is contagious, and they have encouraged many others to get involved."

• In support of the recovery and disaster relief efforts underway in Haiti, Elsa encouraged the support of ShelterBox, a Rotary International campaign aimed at providing necessities in times of disaster. As a result of Elsa's efforts, 130 ShelterBoxes, each worth $1,000 US, were purchased and sent to Haiti.

• The Cades' BMW, Michael Nolan, made appearances on campus and brought in ticket sales from faculty, staff, students and community members. With matching money from the Government of Alberta's Access to the Future Fund and an additional contribution from the U of L Board of Governors, the campaign raised more than $30,000 toward a student scholarship in honour of Bill and Elsa. As for Michael Nolan, the car found a new home with student winner Joshua Og.

To view the entire issue of SAM in a flipbook format, follow this link.

Rotaract curling bonspiel on Saturday

trevor.kenney — Fri, 12 Mar 2010 17:08:40 +0000

As part of World Rotaract Week, the ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ of Lethbridge Rotaract Club will be holding its first curling bonspiel in support of the Lethbridge & Interfaith Food Banks as well as the ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ of Lethbridge Student Food Bank.

Rotaract invites the community to join them on Saturday, Mar. 13 at the Lethbridge Curling Club from 3 to 5 p.m. for a family-friendly afternoon of curling and fellowship.

"This isn't going to be a competitive event," says Rotaract vice-president administration, Samantha Gilbert. "It's just a chance for Rotaract, Rotary and community members to spend a fun afternoon together in support of local food banks."

Although this is Rotaract's first bonspiel this is not their first World Rotaract Week event. Every year Rotaract clubs from around the world commemorate the charter of the first Rotaract Club in North Carolina in 1968. Past World Rotaract Week projects have included hosting a pancake breakfast at the YWCA and picking up garbage around the U of L campus.

"We're excited to be supporting the local food banks this year, including the Student Food Bank at the U of L," says Gilbert. "Local Rotary clubs are also supporting them this month as part of Food Bank Month and we wanted to do our part."

Community members of all ages are encouraged to register their team of four by contacting rotaract@uleth.ca by Friday, Mar. 12 to register. Cost is $10/person to register, along with a non-perishable food item donation. Olympic theme costumes are encouraged, with prizes for the best costumes.

The U of L Rotaract Club is a not-for-profit service club that is part of the Rotary International.

With over 7,000 Rotaract clubs in 163 countries worldwide, the U of L Rotaract Club fundraises, volunteers and most importantly raises awareness for both local and international need.

For more information, contact Samantha Gilbert (403-715-4970).

Ripples in history - bringing hope through clean water

trevor.kenney — Tue, 11 Aug 2009 17:55:55 +0000

Kevin Rumsey (BSc '00) vividly remembers one of the first times he met with a group of elders and other survivors in an Afghan community ravaged by decades of war and extreme poverty. He was sitting on a dusty floor in a mud hut, sipping tea with the group and attempting to explain what he was there to do: provide clean water, sanitation facilities and hygiene solutions for their weary, war-torn town. It was the reaction of those in the gathering that stands out most in Rumsey's memory.

"It was an overwhelming wave of gratitude," Rumsey recalls. "The smiles and sheer joy on all of the people's faces, hands over their hearts, genuine handshakes and sincere thanks – what a privilege to do this kind of work and receive that sort of reaction for it. It was a humbling experience."

Kevin Rumsey (BSc '00) brings hope and tides of change to war-torn Afghanistan.

Rumsey, who recently concluded his service in Afghanistan, began his time there in November 2008 under the auspices of ACF (Action Against Hunger/Action Contre la Faim) International – a humanitarian organization founded in France in 1979. Active in more than 35 countries worldwide, ACF provides emergency aid and long-term solutions to populations suffering from malnutrition and food security, as well as lack of clean water, sanitation and access to public health. Rumsey first heard about ACF while working toward a master's degree in Peacebuilding at Royal Roads ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ, but had an inclination toward this line of work much earlier. When the opportunity to work for ACF arose, Rumsey essentially leapt at it.

"I would have gone anywhere. It just happened to be Afghanistan," he says. "ACF gave me the offer and 24 hours to accept or reject it. After a couple of hours of soul-searching, and discussions with family and friends, I accepted."

While in Afghanistan, Rumsey traversed the country, venturing into remote, desolate and often volatile areas to make strides in providing legions of people with some very basic, yet essential services. While the posting wasn't Rumsey's first experience with humanitarian efforts (he previously volunteered on water projects in both east India and Kenya with Rotary International, and worked in post-tsunami Indonesia as an environmental specialist with a private consultation company), it was the first time he had worked in the throws and fallout of a country at war. The dangers didn't deter him. In fact, the risks are part of what attracted him to the job.

"I was drawn to the humanity of instability for some reason," Rumsey says. "The impact for me was knowing that I was living in the moment and making a difference to people in need."

As the coordinator for water, sanitation and hygiene for ACF in Afghanistan, Rumsey was in charge of six projects that will ultimately impact the lives of approximately 170,000 Afghan people. Heading up a 40-member national staff, Rumsey also oversaw the development of funding proposals for new water projects and represented ACF at strategic coordination meetings with various governments and international organizations, including UNICEF.

Rumsey's objective may have been broad – to provide safe water, sanitation facilities and hygiene promotion to vulnerable people – but the tasks toward achieving it were specific and labour intensive. In Kabul, Rumsey and his team put in 100 hand-pump water wells, 300 pour-flush latrines and provided hygiene kits and education to 4,500 families. In Parwan province, the entourage headed up a pipeline project, rehabilitating a reservoir and installing a kiosk network to provide clean water to 7,000 families. In Samangan province, Rumsey laid the groundwork to combat cholera, an outbreak that affected 2,500 people last year.

It was exhaustive and dangerous work with the Taliban shoring up ranks and the risk of kidnapping very high. Suicide bombings were common, and men armed with AK-47s walked the streets as casually as businessmen carry briefcases in any Canadian city. Still, Rumsey felt lucky to be there.

"I met some beautiful people and made many friends," he says. "I admit I was nervous to go, but I felt prepared and excited too."

Rumsey left Afghanistan at the end of April with mixed emotions.

"I leave behind many friends and colleagues who have been very supportive. I leave behind my national staff who has worked so hard. I will miss them very much. I have been so fortunate to have had this experience."

While he acknowledges the challenges for Afghanistan are enormous, Rumsey remains hopeful for the country's future, believing wholeheartedly that a safe, sustainable water supply is the foundation for peace and development.

UNews - Rotary International

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