Ted Morrison: “It’s All About Water”
Rotary started water projects in 1947. According the WHO, 703 million people have no access to clean water and 2.2 billion people have no access to safely managed water. The earth is 70% water. 97% of that is salt water in the oceans. 2% is ice (at the poles and glaciers). That leave only 1 % available to drink. UNESCO says that half the countries of the world have a water problem. There is a scarcity of water in 60 countries affecting between 2 and 7 billion people. That is why Rotary, led by people like Ron Denham (Toronto Eglinton), the chair emeritus of WASHRAG (Water Sanitation & Hygiene Rotary Action Group) continue their efforts to get clean water to those who have not. Ron has said that the Rotary projects must be simplified solutions like irrigation, wells, dams, water filters. Women still spend 250 million hours carrying clean water back to their villages. They are at risk when they do this. It is projects like Rotary District 7070’s Steve Rutlege’s Adopt a Village Laos, and Richard Mewhinney’s water projects in Uganda that help. We donate to both, every year. UN Goa - every child to have clean water by 2030. This wont happen. That is why Rotary has to play a key role in trying to get there.
Our Speaker: Randy Gill – President and Founder of Their Opportunity
Emmy Iheme, Chair of the Board of Directors of Their Opportunity introduced Randy Gill. Randy Gill is a visionary leader and passionate advocate for empowering underserved youth through sport and community engagement. As the President and Founder of Their Opportunity, Randy's journey of leadership began in 2007 when a professional development conference (Day of Hope – chaired by Dan Carter) challenged him to do "more."
After deep reflection and consultation with key mentors, Randy identified his purpose: to leverage the power of sport to break down barriers and build stronger, more connected communities .A former Pro and Junior hockey player, referee, and coach, Randy’s love for sport has always been central to his life.
Recognizing the significant barriers many children face in accessing recreational opportunities, he knew that simply providing access was not enough. He wanted to create a movement—one that would not only give children the resources they need but also instill a sense of volunteerism, community service, and active participation.
This vision led to the creation of Their Opportunity, a charity that has since transformed the lives of 100,000’s children and their families across Canada.
Randy is widely recognized as a dynamic community leader, known for his infectious energy, deep commitment to social equity, and ability to inspire others to take action. As a sought-after speaker, Randy shares his powerful message of pursuing one's passions, embracing generosity, and empowering communities to work together for common good.
His talks focus on leveling the playing field, uplifting others, and unlocking the limitless potential within each of us.
Randy’s commitment to service extends far beyond his role at Their Opportunity. He is actively involved in his community as a coach, consultant, and volunteer leader.
Whether chairing the Durham College Program Advisory Committee, advancing access to affordable recreation through the Advancing Access to Affordable Recreation in Durham (AAARD) initiative, or supporting organizations like the Parasport Games Committee and Adaptive Sport Collective, Randy leads with purpose and heart.
Their Opportunity has the vision to educate, uplift & support children to overcome barriers through the strength of sport & generosity. Since its inception, Their Opportunity has provided hundred's of thousands of sporting opportunities through our Subsidy, Sport for Development & Giveback Programs in over 70 communities across Canada. To date 87,000 kids have been in the program and over 1.4 million community hours have been realized in the give back program. THEIR OPPORTUNITY FOCUSES ON THREE MAIN PILLARS INCLUSION & DIVERSITY | HEALTH & WELLNESS | SOCIAL RECREATION & DEVELOPMENT.
Their Opportunity hosts a unique Giveback Program where children who receives subsidies or is a participates in one of our core programs are asked to “pay it forward” within their community through volunteerism. We believe in creating a cycle of generosity as we continue to build healthier communities through active youth.
MISSIONSTATEMENT: We are a national children's charity that delivers & subsidizes local sport for development & community engagement programming. Our programs & services help eliminate barriers of access & promote a lifestyle of giving back, empowering youth to reach their full potential.
Randy related a story. A young man was caught stealing. Randy was notified by the Durham Regional Police. The young man went back to the store and gave all items back. Randy got him enrolled in hockey that changed his life forever. The young man decided to give back by removing graffiti at locations in Oshawa and soon his fellow students saw him doing this and agreed to help.
Randy noted that our Rotary club donation last year helped pay for a summer basketball program in south Oshawa. They even have a newcomers program in hockey.
November leads up to Giving Tuesday. Miles Goacher will double any donation made between now and Dec 1.
Emmy remembers helping with the Cops & Kids program which involved a dragon boat team of kids in foster care, when he was still working.
For more info or if you wish to donate, please see their website: https://www.theiropportunity.com/
Larry Hurren thanked Randy for his presentation to our club.
Meeting adjourned by President Dave M. at 8:02 pm
Late News Item: Randy Nickerson asked me if our members could help. His son Brandon, lost his house to a fire in Bowmanville and a Go Fund Me has been created. Here is the link: https://gofund.me/0ca273954
“We are organizing this fundraiser to support our dear friend, valued colleague, and devoted father — Brandon Nickerson.
On October 24th, Brandon and his children experienced a devastating house fire in Bowmanville, resulting in a total loss of their home and belongings. We are deeply grateful that no one was injured; however, the family lost virtually all of their personal possessions.
Anyone who knows Brandon knows how selfless and humble he is — which is why this initiative may make him a bit uncomfortable. But during times like these, it’s important that we come together to show him how much he is loved and supported by his friends, colleagues, and community.
This fundraiser is intended to help Brandon and his kids replace essential items and begin rebuilding their lives. As many of us know, insurance rarely covers everything and often takes time to come through — so every contribution will make a meaningful difference.
Thank you, sincerely, for your generosity and compassion in supporting this wonderful family during such a difficult time.
Randy
IF YOU CAN’T MAKE IT, YOU CAN MAKE UP: Go online at www.rotary.org go to the club locator and find a club or clubs near your destination. Or you can add the free App Rotary Club Locator to your phone for instant look up of any club in the world. Please mail or fax your make-ups to Executive Secretary Dave Andrews or give your make-up card to the attendance/registration officer at the next club meeting.
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