June 23, 2026
Our guest speaker, Sarah Macey, Community Access Coordinator with REACH Child and Youth Development Society, thanked the Rotary Club for its generous support and shared an overview of REACH’s work with children and youth with developmental disabilities. Since 1959, REACH has grown to serve approximately 1,400 children across Delta, Surrey, White Rock, and parts of Langley through assessments, therapy, counselling, supported childcare, family navigation, and equipment-lending programs.
Sarah highlighted the growing need for autism supports in South Surrey and for specialized equipment for children under three, before many government-funded programs begin. Mobility devices, therapy beds, adaptive toys, and other supports can help young children build independence, confidence, and essential skills during an important stage of development. She also noted that earlier access to the right equipment and services can make a meaningful difference for both children and their families, and encouraged Rotary members to consider helping REACH meet these important community needs.
Scholarship Committee Presentation
Glen Wilson, Chair of the Scholarship Committee, provided an overview of this year’s scholarship program. A record 45 applications were received from graduating students at local high schools, with the committee narrowing the field to eight finalists before selecting four recipients. Each recipient received a $3,000 scholarship, and four additional students received $1,000 educational awards. Selection was based on academic achievement, extracurricular involvement, financial need, volunteerism, and a demonstrated commitment to Rotary’s principle of Service Above Self.
Scholarship Recipients
Rebecca “Spark Plug” Gootgarts, a graduate of Elgin Park Secondary, thanked the club for its support and spoke about the importance of leadership, community service, and helping others. She will attend UBC to pursue a Bachelor of Commerce degree and plans to continue seeking volunteer and leadership opportunities.
Victor Zhang, a graduate of Grandview Heights Secondary School, was recognized for his academic achievement, leadership, entrepreneurship, and community service. He plans to study business and finance while continuing to develop initiatives that create opportunities and make a positive difference in the community.
Environment Action Committee
Peter Jones invited members to remain after the meeting for a discussion about the Environment Action Committee. The session was intended to generate ideas and identify possible environmental initiatives for the club to support.
Fundraising Update
Irene Dahl provided an update on fundraising efforts in support of Foundry. Due to recent changes in gaming regulations, the planned wine raffle has been temporarily suspended while alternative prize options are considered, and members are welcome to suggest ideas. Members were also encouraged to continue supporting the Kingha Coffee fundraiser, with proceeds from each sale benefiting Foundry. Terry introduced an additional initiative offering luggage tags by donation, with all proceeds also directed to Foundry.
President’s Appreciation Pins
President Kristina presented appreciation pins to recognize outstanding service to the club. Monique was honoured for her leadership of the Social Committee, her role as a founding member of the Giving Tree initiative, and her continued dedication to club members. Joan was recognized for the many hours she devoted to reviewing the club’s archives and uncovering valuable historical information for the club’s 70th anniversary celebration.
Announcements
Annual Membership Dues
Annual membership dues of $300 are payable by June 30 and may be sent by e-transfer to lindawrrclub@gmail.com. This is the club’s first dues increase in more than seven years and reflects higher meal, facility, Rotary International, insurance, and operating costs. Payments received after June 30 will be subject to an additional $25 fee. Members who do not plan to renew should advise Kristina and Fred before the end of June so the club’s membership list can be updated before Rotary International billing.
Rotary Hands Across the Border
The annual Rotary Hands Across the Border celebration will take place on Saturday, August 8, at Peace Arch Park and the Peace Arch Heritage Hall. The event will include the traditional ceremony beneath the Peace Arch, club awards, Rotary Foundation presentations, music, lunch, and refreshments. Registration is open to Rotarians, Rotaractors, Interactors, families, and friends, and the cost is $52 CAD. This year’s theme is “Unite for Good,” followed by “Create Lasting Impact” for the upcoming Rotary year.
https://rotarydistrict5050.org/events/rotary-hands-across-the-border-2026/
Torchlight Parade
The Rotary Club of White Rock will participate in the 75th Annual White Rock Sea Festival Torchlight Parade on Saturday, August 1, 2026. Miss Vicky will be in attendance, along with representatives from the Semiahmoo Rotary Club, Nature Celebrators, and the Pacific Northwest Passport Club. The parade travels along Marine Drive from near Oxford Street toward Semiahmoo Park.
Membership Badges
Members who require a badge with a pin rather than a magnet for medical reasons should contact Winston, Ethan, or Irene from the Membership Committee so a replacement can be ordered.
Bottle and Can Recycling
Thank you to everyone supporting the Club Account by recycling bottles and cans. Donations may be taken to any Return-It Centre or to the Semiahmoo Bottle Depot at 15515 24 Avenue. Enter Irene’s phone number, 604-316-2090, print and scan the label, or bring recyclables to a club meeting for collection.
Speaker Suggestions
Members are encouraged to suggest interesting future speakers. Please email ideas to Peter Jones at pjones2570@gmail.com or Adam Smith at asmith@ubmi.ca.
Miss Vicky 2026 PolioPlus Challenge
The Miss Vicky 2026 Challenge has now raised more than $258,000, unlocking the next $25,000 contribution and surpassing the original $200,000 goal. Thank you to everyone who has helped make this campaign an outstanding success.