Saturday, December 10, 2011

Monthly update!

“Find a place that you can believe in what you do, and be a part of something bigger” Michelle Primus
            Michelle Primus, VP of Culture Development at Direct Supply, joined us on December 3rd to discuss the importance of the culture of an organization. She spoke about the importance of an organization not only having, but completely embodying a set of principles and values.
            Rotaract Milwaukee, like other clubs, has a clearly defined set of principles written in the 4-Way Test.
1.      Is it the TRUTH?
2.      Is it FAIR to all concerned?
3.      Will it build GOODWILL and BETTER FRIENDSHIPS?
4.      Will it be BENEFICIAL to all concerned?

This month, Rotaract Milwaukee thoroughly embodied the principles of the 4-Way Test, and allowed its members to truly become a part of something bigger.
We built GOODWILL through our service. Eight members volunteered at a Special Olympics Bowling event on December 6th. Volunteers helped participants enjoy their event by working with scoring and other various tasks. Through volunteering at this event, we also worked to build better FRIENDSHIPS, both with the participants and each other.
Our friendships continued to develop through our monthly social. We had a game night where we participated in FAIR and TRUTHFUL competition, while getting to know each other a little better.
This month we were graced with a number of speakers who enlightened us as to how we can become a part of something bigger. In addition to Michelle Primus, Mel Bromberg of Watershed International LLC, joined us to talk about water projects and various development issues around the world. These speakers were BENEFICIAL to all concerned, because they inspired us to continue to find ways to become a part of something bigger.
We had our committee night on November 29th to discuss professional development, volunteer events, international work, as well as membership. We worked to ensure that the values and principles of the 4-Way Test continued to be the foundation of all that we do.
The principles of the 4-Way Test help Rotaract Milwaukee remain an organization that its members can believe in. This month we became something bigger through our service, fellowship, and professional development.

Saturday, November 12, 2011

Updates!

            This past month has graced the Rotaract Club of Milwaukee with inspiring speakers and time to grow in fellowship as a club through social events and giving back to our community.
We were thrilled to host Beth Haskovec of the Silver City Main Street Program, and Cory Gassman of Cory the Bike Fixer bicycle shop. Beth Haskovec informed us on the work of the Silver City Main Street Program and her role in their mission. Silver City believes their work should be sustainable and that the ideas should come from people within the neighborhoods. The program works to build the neighborhood image by instilling a pride in the residents and improving aesthetic image. We were also pleased to host Cory Gassman, founder of Cory the Bike Fixer bicycle shop. Gassman gave an inspiring presentation about how the mix of hard work and passions can lead to success. Gassman spoke about the importance of trusting in your business and your passions. His shop grew exponentially due almost exclusively to customer referrals and their testimonies to the skill and hard work featured at the shop. Gassman spoke highly about the benefits of the customer experience and remaining true to your passions.
In addition to our inspiring speakers, Rotaract members worked on two service projects. We worked a Habitat for Humanity drywall project in October, and in November, the club participated in Make a Difference Day. For Make a Difference Day we helped seniors prepare for winter by cleaning up the yard and putting up storm windows.
Rotaract Milwaukee had a motivating month complete with enlightening speakers and heartwarming service projects.

Sunday, October 9, 2011

Updates!

            Our club has been pretty busy in the last month! We have had some wonderful speakers, a fundraising opportunity, as well as a new member induction! 

Brian Monroe and Alicia Nickols of Mequon-Thiensville Sunrise Rotary joined the group on September 20th to discuss the possibility of a partnership with their fundraiser, Rotary Says. Rotary Says is a hands on fundraiser modeled after the classic game show, Family Feud. Participants of all types, from 5th graders to bankers, will compete in individual tournaments answering questions in a fun fast paced environment. Rotaract Milwaukee is excited to take part as an opportunity to learn from Mequon-Thiensville Sunrise Rotary, as well as to become more acquainted with the community.

In addition to Brian Monroe and Alicia Nickols, we were proud to welcome 6270 District Governor Nancy Rhodes to our meeting on October 4th. Rhodes spoke to the group about the theme for the year; “Reach within to embrace humanity” and the goals that go hand in hand. She spoke on the importance of a strong family in order to build a strong community, continuity and the importance of telling our story better, and change as a future vision as goals for Rotarians.

In addition to our speakers, we worked a Wheel Chair Wash and Maintenance Training in September. Rotaract members helped to make sure the chairs were both clean and in good working condition. In addition to checking on the chairs, Rotaracters attended to the needs of the consumers while they were without their chairs.

Finally, we were both proud and excited to induct six new members into our club on October 4th! Rotaract Milwaukee is excited to work with the new members not only to see what talents and skills they can bring to the club and the community, but also to help cultivate their personal leadership and service abilities.

Overall, it has been a very exciting month for Rotaract Milwaukee with a comfortable balance of service, meetings, and fun!

Wednesday, October 5, 2011

What is Rotaract?

The Rotaract Club was founded in 1968 by a group of professionals with a passion for service. Today, it is an international program for adults ages 18-30 who yearn to make a difference in the world around them. Rotaract Clubs allow their members to grow both personally and professionally as they address community needs and encourage international understanding with fellowship and service. Rotaractors meet to discuss service opportunities and social activities, as well as to hear from a variety of guest speakers. In addition to specific Rotaract Club meetings, Rotaractors are able to take advantage of district conferences, projects, and seminars. 

The Rotaract Club of  Milwaukee began in the summer of 2008, and was chartered in the Fall of 2008, with the support of the Rotary Club of Milwaukee. Our club thrives on the culture and opportunities of Milwaukee, as a chance to grow as young professionals. We are a dynamic group of individuals dedicated to making a difference in both the local and international communities. 

Check out our website for more information about who we are, what we do, and how you can make a difference as part of the Rotaract-Milwaukee community!