As the 2024–25 Rotary year wraps up, the Southampton Rotary Club is proud to share a story of local generosity with global reach. Over the past year, this small but dedicated club has invested $101,509 in community and international projects — proving that when passionate people come together, even a small town can help change the world.
Of the total funds raised, around 63% supported local community causes, including the club’s first instalment of $10,000 toward the Saugeen Shores Aquatic and Wellness Centre and $5000 to Bernie’s Boat. An additional 21% was invested in youth-focused programs, such as scholarships, youth exchange, and leadership development — fostering the next generation of local leaders.
What many may not realize is Southampton Rotary’s significant commitment to international humanitarian efforts. This year, the club contributed over $16,000 to global initiatives, advancing Rotary’s vision of a world where health, education, and opportunity are within everyone’s reach.
These contributions included:
· ShelterBox ($3,000): Delivering emergency shelter and tools to families displaced by disasters.
· Rotary Hand Up Guatemala ($2,140): Supporting clean water, education, and economic opportunities for women and children.
· Operation Eyesight ($1,000): Funding life-changing vision care in underserved communities.
· AquaBox ($1,500 via Stratford Rotary): Providing access to safe drinking water in crisis zones.
· Rotary Collaborative Projects ($1,700): Supporting clean water efforts in Cameroon and rhino conservation in South Africa.
· Emergency Response in Ukraine ($500): Delivering critical surgical and medical aid to conflict-affected areas.
Additionally, the club contributed $6,500 to The Rotary Foundation Annual Fund and End Polio Now, fueling Rotary’s enduring mission to eradicate polio and support sustainable development projects worldwide.
“Whether it’s a family receiving emergency shelter, a child gaining access to clean water, or a community receiving polio vaccines, our club’s donations are making a tangible difference — both at home and abroad,” said Tony Sheard, Past International Service Chair.
Looking Ahead: Southampton Rotary continues to grow its legacy of service with the installation of its new board for the 2025–26 Rotary year, celebrated during a recent handover event graciously hosted at Chantry Breezes by Don and Jenny Amy.
Incoming board:
· Cathy Janveau — President
· Sylvia Sheard — President-Elect
· Tony Sheard — Past President
· Trish Saunders — Secretary
· Ken Harlock — Treasurer
· Rob Hughes — Community Service
· Susan Macdonald — International Service
· Mary Ellen Harrigan — Youth and Vocational Service
· Cathy McIntosh – Membership and Program
· Bob Speight — Club Service
“We may be a small club, but our reach is wide, and our hearts are big,” said Cathy Janveau, incoming President — and the club’s undisputed Popcorn Queen at Rotary’s fundraising events. “Just like popcorn, when things start popping at Rotary, there’s no stopping the fun — and the impact we can make!”
The Southampton Rotary Club thanks everyone who has supported our fundraising events throughout the year that enable the club to “Do-Goodery” in our Town and around the World.
Watch out for details our upcoming re-imagined Dinner Auction and Dance on September 27th, 2025.
About Southampton Rotary: Southampton Rotary has served this community for over 85 years. We are a group of friends, leaders, and problem-solvers who unite and take action to create lasting change in our community and around the world. We are people of action who have used our passion, energy, and skills to improve lives through service. From promoting literacy and peace to providing clean water, protecting the environment and improving health care, Rotary members are always working to better the world or as we like to say doing “DO-GOODERY!”
