June 15, 2026
Leslie and Michael Bonshor spoke about the strong connection between economic opportunity, community wellness, and improved health outcomes in First Nations communities. Leslie has led major reconciliation and Indigenous health initiatives, while Michael has worked for more than 25 years in Indigenous business and economic development. James warmly introduced the couple and shared how their friendship began through community soccer and continued through family activities and Leslie’s monthly “W5” gatherings.
Leslie described how their work in the Kwantlen community grew from a small health initiative into a successful primary-care model addressing trauma, addiction, racism, and unequal access to care. Michael explained how economic partnerships, including a long-term commercial development with Mercedes-Benz, have created sustainable community revenue. Together, they showed that strong wellness supports, cultural pride, and economic opportunity are essential to helping First Nations communities thrive.
Announcements
Annual Membership Dues
Annual membership dues of $300 are payable to the Club Account by June 30. Members may send payment by e-transfer to lindawrrclub@gmail.com.
This is the first dues increase in more than seven years, from $275 to $300, reflecting higher meal, Fieldhouse rental, insurance, and operating costs. The Semiahmoo and South Surrey Rotary Clubs have also introduced similar increases. Most of the dues are forwarded to Rotary International for member services and insurance coverage, while approximately $90 per member remains with our club for operating expenses.
Payments received after June 30 will be subject to an additional $25 late fee. Members who do not plan to renew should notify Fred, our Club Secretary, before the end of June so their names can be removed before Rotary International invoices the club.
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 ceremony will begin beneath the Peace Arch, followed by club awards and presentations recognizing donations from clubs and individuals to The Rotary Foundation.
The event will include music, fellowship, a lunch buffet, and sweet treats. Registration is open to Rotarians, Rotaractors, Interactors, friends, and family members. The cost is $52 per person. This year’s theme is “Unite for Good,” while the upcoming Rotary year will focus on “Create Lasting Impact.”
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 Rotary Club.
The parade will travel along Marine Drive, beginning near Oxford Street and proceeding toward Semiahmoo Park. Members are encouraged to participate and help create a strong and visible Rotary presence.
Membership Badges
Members who require a pin-backed membership badge instead of a magnetic badge for medical reasons should contact Winston, Ethan, or Irene from the Membership Committee. They will arrange for a replacement badge to be ordered.
Bottle and Can Recycling
Thank you to everyone supporting the Club Account through the ongoing bottle and can recycling program. Eligible containers may be taken to the Semiahmoo Bottle Depot at 15515 24 Avenue.
Enter Irene’s telephone number, 604-316-2090, at the depot to print an account label and scan it before returning the containers. Bottles and cans may also be brought to a Rotary meeting, where another member can take them to the depot.
Speaker Suggestions
Members are encouraged to continue suggesting interesting and informative speakers for future club meetings. Recommendations may be emailed to Adam at asmith@ubmi.ca or Peter at pjones2570@gmail.com.
Fundraising Information
Sources Foundry Campaign
Irene provided an update on the club’s commitment to raise $50,000 over two years in support of Sources Foundry South Surrey–White Rock. The ongoing wine raffle remains an important part of the campaign, and members are encouraged to continue promoting ticket sales throughout their personal and community networks.
A new fundraising initiative has also been launched in partnership with Kingha Coffee. Members and community supporters may purchase whole-bean or ground coffee in medium or dark roast for $24 per bag, with $9 from every sale going directly to Sources Foundry. Orders may be placed through the club website or purchased at Rotary meetings, with payment made by e-transfer to the charity account.
Kingsley explained that Kingha Coffee is grown on the Kingha coffee estate in Uganda and then exported to South Surrey, where it is locally roasted. The initiative allows supporters to enjoy quality coffee while contributing to health and wellness services for local youth. Irene expressed the hope that the campaign will expand to other Rotary clubs and the wider community, increasing both awareness and financial support for Foundry.
Miss Vicky PolioPlus Challenge
The Miss Vicky 2026 Challenge for PolioPlus has now raised more than $242,000, officially surpassing its $200,000 goal with 12 days still remaining in the campaign. This outstanding achievement reflects the generosity of supporters and Rotary’s continuing commitment to the worldwide eradication of polio.