Almost $5,000 Raised
Lower North Shore Rotaract raised $4,965 for their international project in Lao – the REMI Project, and there are several learnings for other Rotaract Club’s looking to do the same.
Lower North Shore (LNS) Rotaract is supporting the Renewable Energy and Materials Institute (REMI) in the Lao People’s Democratic Republic to conduct a pilot study of how sustainable technologies can support community development. Using a scientific approach, REMI is implementing the use of renewable energy technologies, developed at the Institute, in several rural villages and studying how these initiatives affect the local environment, economy and society.
LNS Rotaract, with the support of their sponsoring Rotary Club Lindfield, registered their project with Rotary Australia World Community Service, giving it credibility and tax-deductible donation status. The club was then able to confidently approach corporations, local businesses, Rotary Clubs and individuals for donations.
The REMI Project also won a Pink Umbrella Foundation grant, awarded to RAWCS Eastern Region Projects at their quarterly meeting, and have applied for a Rotary Foundation District Grant in D9685.
In February 2015 four members of LNS Rotaract travelled to Lao to finalise project details with REMI and visit the project area. Through RAWCS this volunteer trip was well organised and covered by Rotary travel insurance. Club members will return to Lao next year to manage and monitor the progress of the Project and there may be an opportunity for other interested Rotaractors or friends of Rotaract to come along and learn more.
Key Learnings
- Ask your Sponsor Rotary Club(s) to support your applications to access Rotary Club programs.
- Register your international project with RAWCS
- Seek donations from corporations and businesses
- Apply for community and Rotary grants
-Danielle Fogarty, Lower North Shore Rotaract Club Inc. Vice President 2015/16, Paul Harris Fellow, PDRR 2011/12, RYLA Facilitator 2010-2013
