Fellowship is an important component of Rotary. Each month we gather for a late afternoon of fellowship.
Yesterday we enjoyed fellowship at Belleville Wine Bar. And we were joined by a visiting Rotarian, Melissa Nobles from the Rotary Club of Cross Timbers, Flower Mount TX. Melissa presented us with her club banner and Ed presented her with a Reno Sunrise club lapel pin. Both Melissa and Ed are their clubs' Sergeant-at-Arms.
Today's program was presented by PDG Renee Brouse. Renee is the Rotary Relations Manager for ShelterBox USA.
In 2025 ShelterBox responded to 18 countries and helped an estimated 3 million people. And in 4 countries (Jordan, Jamacia, Philippines, and Burkina Faso) Rotary and ShelterBox partnered to provide relief.
In the United States ShelterBox USA and Rotary provided services to families displaced by numerous environmental disasters, including the Los Angeles wildfires.
Currently ShelterBox USA and Rotary International are exploring how the two organizations can improve their partnership. They are looking at how ShelterBox USA can bring additional sustainability into their relief programs. And they are exploring they can increase preparedness.
Jim Van Winkle recounted how he and Ellie were personally escorted past the lines at the Louvre Museum in Paris at no cost. Once inside, they were then taken behind the ropes to examine the Mona Lisa up close and personal, followed by a staff member capturing the event with a photograph. Can you say LUCKY!!!
