New Rotary E-Club in Centre Wellington Redefines Volunteerism

A new Rotary club in Centre Wellington is redefining the concept of volunteer organizations. Established just over a year ago, the Rotary District 7080 E-club seeks to expand the traditional service group model by focusing on community engagement rather than fundraising.

Co-created by Centre Wellington Councillor Barb Lustgarten-Evoy, the E-club distinguishes itself by promoting two key initiatives: raising awareness about human trafficking and providing a platform for local youth and diversity. Lustgarten-Evoy, a long-time member of the Rotary Club, expressed her vision for a club that offers varied opportunities for service. “The way I see it, the more service clubs, regardless of their name, the more people living in service and having different opportunities,” she stated.

The club has been actively involved in notable events, including the annual Canada Day celebration and the Fergus Scottish Festival. Recently, it participated in hosting an All Clubs Day that brought together nearly all service clubs in the Centre Wellington area. Looking ahead, the club aims to enhance its community presence through projects such as the installation of a UN Peace Pole at Wellington Place, an international symbol of peace, which is expected to be completed by the end of this month.

Meeting monthly, the E-club initially started as an online group to increase accessibility. However, in response to members’ preferences, it transitioned to a hybrid model that allows for both virtual and in-person gatherings. Lustgarten-Evoy remarked, “We’re pushing the envelope of what a club looks like. The next generation wants to break the mould, and we’re trying to accommodate that and evolve with the need.”

The E-club is composed mainly of young families, with approximately 25 members, a significant achievement considering that only two have prior experience in service clubs. “Seventy-five percent of our members are probably under 50, and I would say that’s a really big deal,” Lustgarten-Evoy noted. She emphasized the importance of instilling the values of service and volunteerism in the next generation while respecting the wisdom of older members.

Co-president Lori Ferber shared her motivation for joining the club, indicating that the traditional monetary contributions often required by service organizations had initially deterred her. “People can’t always afford to donate or give money, but we can give our time where we can,” she explained. Ferber underscored that time investment is equally valuable.

Looking ahead, Ferber expressed a desire for the group to expand its reach within the community. “That’s what we’re here for. Not just teaching and guiding the next generation, but helping them truly embrace the value of living in service,” she stated.

Residents interested in becoming involved with the Rotary District 7080 E-club can reach out to Lori Ferber at [email protected]. For more information about the club’s initiatives, additional details are available on their website.