By Alex Ritchie and Taylor Huie, executive co-directors of the Ascension Rotaract MDIO, and Ally Fisher, chair of the RotarActs of Kindness campaign

As life-long members of the Rotary family, our passion for Rotary and Rotaract stems from the deep friendships we have formed and the meaningful service we have taken part in. These last few years have been a whirlwind, from first meeting at the 2018 Rotary International Convention in Hamburg to launching a new Rotaract Multidistrict Information Organization (regional groups of Rotary districts that form for the purpose of disseminating information and facilitating communication among Rotaract clubs in the participating districts). Through this, our friendship with each other and the connections we have made with others have truly been life-changing.

We’re excited about an upcoming event that will give attendees a chance to collaborate, share ideas, and celebrate our Rotary relationships. The third of Rotary International President Holger Knaack’s three presidential conferences will take place virtually on 14-16 May 2021. The theme “Collaboration Through Relationship Building” honors Rotary founder Paul Harris’ emphasis on true relationship building and empowering the unique assets that each individual contributes to the magic of Rotary.

“The theme honors Rotary founder Paul Harris’ emphasis on true relationship building and empowering the unique assets that each individual contributes to the magic of Rotary.”

Hosted by Ascension Rotaract Network MDIO, in partnership with the annual Rotary Zone 33 Leadership Seminar, each general and breakout session will be co-led by a Rotaractor and Rotarian to emphasize our members are serving as equal partners.

This virtual event will feature deep-dive problem solving with Collaborative Project Challenge Breakouts. These sessions will offer an opportunity for attendees to work together in developing sustainable solutions to complex problems in a way that is inclusive, innovative, and encompasses the lessons learned throughout the conference. With Rotaract’s elevation to partners of Rotary and increased access to the Rotary Foundation, we are especially excited about the RotarActs of Kindness virtual fundraiser benefiting the Rotary Foundation Disaster Response Fund. With this FUNdraiser, attendees can choose from Yoga, Cooking, Mixology, or a TedX-style event. 

The Presidential Conference Series USA is open to all Rotarians, Rotaractors, and friends from around the world. Space is limited, so we encourage you to register before the deadline of 1 May 2021. We look forward to seeing you!