Chilliwack – Rotary International has bestowed a Citation with Platinum Distinction to the Rotary Club of Chilliwack for their efforts during the 2019-2020 Rotary year. This is the highest award given to individual clubs and reaffirms the club’s position as one of the leading clubs in the Rotary world.
In the 2019-2020 Rotary year, the club was led by:
Michael Berger President
Shelley MacDonell President Elect
Doug Wickers Past President
Julie Unger Secretary
Bob Ramsbottom Treasurer
Ross Hall Executive Secretary
Eight Directors joined them, each with specific responsibilities:
Karen Stanton Club Administration
Debora Soutar Club Service
Bob Gemmel Community Service
Peter Dombowsky Fundraising & Grants
Dr. Ralph Jones International Service
John Les Membership
Berris Karden Public Image
Janet Reeves Youth Service
The citation is for achieving goals that strengthens the club and the community. The goals included increasing participation in club projects and events by members and community members, developing sustainable service projects, giving to the Rotary Foundation, and building awareness of Rotary in the community.
2019-2020 President Michael Berger thanked the club and its members for their efforts. “Our club is known for the work that we do, and how we give back to our community, ” said Berger. “As People of Action, it’s encouraging to see how we live up to that slogan, especially with the COVID-19 pandemic impacting our efforts. We’ve been able to pivot on some of our projects, and help our community by taking a lead role with the Feed the Kids initiative and supporting those with technology needs through our Tech Drive.”
2019-2020 Rotary District Governor Brad Whittaker congratulated the board and the club members for their work throughout the year. “I want to thank you for achieving this honour as through the actions of your club over the past Rotary year, your members have improved the lives of people in your community and across the globe,” said Whittaker.
The Rotary Club of Chilliwack is also the recipient of the Order of Chilliwack. The Order of Chilliwack is Chilliwack’s highest honour, and is awarded to recognized citizens of Chilliwack who appropriately deserve by virtue of outstanding achievement or long-term contributions to the community. The Rotary Club of Chilliwack was awarded the second ever Order of Chilliwack and each year, the award is transferred to the incoming President.
