San Luis Obispo Daybreak

   California, USA

Posted on Oct 15, 2017
Recently, our Rotary club conducted a spontaneous "raise your hand to give" fundraiser, inspired by the generous leadership of past president Behr Hoffman, to provide a Shelter Box for one of the many areas affected by recent hurricane, earthquake and fire disasters. 
 
In addition, the following message was sent recently by District Governor, John Weiss, to all Rotary club members in District 5240:
The number of natural disasters that Rotarians in North America are facing can feel overwhelming. Juggling our individual and collective responses at times may add a little stress as well. From my experience, giving even a small amount can be a healing process connecting us with those we care about, but don't yet know.
 
This email was prompted by a request from a classmate in Northern California. As we receive news reports, the reports are devastating. Most of us have connections to Northern California, I do.
 
Thank you for what you have done and what you will do to help. Here are ways you can respond through the community of Rotary. 
 
1. Wildfires in Northern California. District 5130 and the Lake Area Rotary Club have created a fund to collect money that Rotarians will use in the area for relief and recovery.  http://www.larca5130.org./
 
2. The Rotary District 5240 Charitable Foundation is partnering with the Rotary Club of University Heights (Houston). We're receiving donations that will be used in coordination with our partner to help with the relief and recovery efforts in Southeastern Texas. http://www.rotarydistrict5240.org/ So far our Charitable Foundation has received over $40,000 for the Houston Relief Fund!
 
3. The Rotary Foundation has opened a fund to collect donations for relief and recovery from Hurricanes Irma and Maria. Donations can be made: https://www.your-fundaccount.com/rotary/HowToContribute.asp.   ACCOUNT NUMBER 296
 
4. The Rotary Foundation has opened a fund to collect donations for relief and recover from the Mexico earthquakes. Donations can be made: https://www.your-fundaccount.com/rotary/HowToContribute.asp.   ACCOUNT NUMBER 613.
 
Please note that sending money to another country creates some complications for the donor and your benefits will be protected by giving to the Mexico earthquake relief and recovery effort through the Rotary Foundation.
 
Donations can also be made to Shelter Box www.shelterbox.org
 
A great district resource for relief fund information and non-profit law is our Charitable Foundation Chair Barry Vanderkelen. You can email him at vanderkelen@sbcglobal.net
 
Best Regards,
John Weiss
Rotary Club of Morro Bay
2017-2018 District Governor