Dave Gallagher, a member of the Rotary Club of Reno and past District Governor of 5220 serving in 2004-2005.  His main area of interest is Rotary International Service.  He has traveled to almost 100 grant and other Rotary projects around the world.

 

He spoke to us about international service, specifically a global grant in partnership with many clubs throughout our district to provide mobile emergency medical units in Ukraine.  Ukraine was in need for mobile rather than fixed emergency medical sites.

 

The involved clubs were able to pool resources using donated funds, district grants and Rotary International grants, to purchase 3 fully equipped, well-insulated, blast-tolerant mobile vans with generators and wheelchair accessible ramps that could be hidden near the battlefield where they have been needed most.  Each mobile emergency unit cost $42,500.  The mobile units were all built in Ukraine which further helped to support the economy.  The medical equipment was obtained in partnership with other non-governmental organizations and Rotary friends.

 

The doctors and nurses who staff the units are all donating their time.  Many are from hospitals in Ukraine which were damaged.

 

The impact of this collaboration has been incredible and demonstrates the power of pooling resources and expertise.

The Board announced that it is looking for projects that can support the members interests in charitable activities.  Rotary members may be involved in community charitable activities that Reno Sunrise Rotary could partner with.  Funding from the Reno Sunrise Rotary Foundation may be available, also.  Please contact John Albrecht, johnnypalbrecht51@gmail.com, if you have ideas or questions.