John Minhinick is preparing to officially take up the office of RIBI President on Sunday 1st July, the start of the Rotary year. For the next twelve months, he will be working with Rotary clubs in their communities, working with partner organisations and supporting national initiatives.
John, a member of the Rotary Club of Burntisland and Kinghorn for over 20 years, will lead the 54,000 Rotarians in these islands as well as represent RIBI on the global stage for a year.
“Rotary is a unique organisation, bursting with a diverse range of people with all sorts of skills. Thanks to this, clubs have an amazing ability to identify needs in their local communities and provide specific support. Whether fundraising, taking underprivileged youngsters on a great day out or helping people cut down their risk of having a stroke, Rotarians will do whatever they can to help. The sky really is the limit with Rotary.
“Our many members say they are part of Rotary because it gives them a chance to give something back. In local communities alone, each club raises tens of thousands of pounds for community projects and local charities, often more. Members also volunteer their time, supervising and organising community events, running projects to promote the achievements of young people, coordinating educational programmes and supporting local businesses.
“Being the RIBI President is more than a one year role. I was elected in 2010 and since then, I have been in training to ensure I can really give the best possible leadership, encouragement and guidance to Rotarians across the country. I have a great team who will be working with me throughout the coming months but I will still need the support of the public. I invite the public to get in touch with their local Rotary club and discover how it makes a real difference in their area and how they can be involved. I think they will be amazed.”
John will formally accept the RIBI Presidential chains from current RIBI President Ray Burman at special handover ceremony in Perth Concert Hall this weekend.
Clubs and districts across Great Britain and Ireland are also preparing for this weekend which marks the beginning of the new Rotary year. New presidents, district governors, secretaries and other officers will take up their roles and guide Rotary members through 2012/13 under the theme created by RI President Sakuji Tanaka, Peace Through Service.
Clubs and districts will be reaching out to their communities, offering help, supporting initiatives and inviting people to join this amazing organisation.
For more information about Rotary clubs and the work they do in your community, contacl your local club and discover how you can be involved.
