On 24 June, outgoing President Geoff Mailing handed over leadership to new President Helen Karashian. This marked the transition from a successful year that focused on council meetings, diverse guest speakers, youth development, and substantial fundraising efforts.

 

The club introduced Council meetings to discuss important matters in advance and changed the format of second monthly meetings to feature visiting speakers and outside visits. These gatherings, held at local venues like the Kings Arms and Three Ways Hotel in Mickleton, proved successful and we thank them for their ongoing support.

Members enjoyed diverse experiences, including a visit to a local ceramicist, Amanda Coldridge, in August and job talks that were both interesting and humorous. Guest speakers covered topics ranging from David's School in Kenya to solar and nuclear power, and life as a Wimbledon tennis umpire. Young Musician, Young Photographer, and Youth Speaks programs continued to thrive, reflecting the Club's commitment to local young people.

 

Fundraising activities—including the Big Breakfast, Christmas market stall, Tree of Light campaign, and Marie Curie collection—raised considerable sums for local charities and schools. These funds enabled grants for young people pursuing overseas volunteering or musical education, support for local schools and food banks, and donations to national organisations like Medical Detection Dogs, Shelterbox, and Air Ambulance.

The club supported Myton Hospice and Big Space cancer centre, continuing its international partnership with Precious Sisters in Kenya, and we supported our member Steve Webb who raised over £1,000 during the 10K two castles run.

 

The club maintained 15 members while adding one corporate member. Two long-service certificates were awarded: Mike Jelley, a founder member of 30 years, and Les Southam for his years as Treasurer. The club introduced certificates recognising external organisations that sponsored events or provided support.

Socially, members competed in skittles matches against other Rotary clubs, though "not very successfully” it was still great fun. If you are interested in finding out more about Rotary and getting involved please email chippingcampdenrotaryclub@gmail.com.

 

The evening concluded with member Steve Marshall's job talk which included his worldwide business adventures and many career changes, from emptying bins at 18, to working in a care home in Germany – whilst not speaking German! Finally Steve worked in an international business consultancy role advising multinational corporations. Steve now runs the well known local charity, Campden Home Nursing, providing valuable services across the local area.

 

Geoff thanked members for their support and welcomed Helen's leadership as the new club President. Helen, who has been President at other clubs, brings extensive experience and has planned numerous events and speakers for the coming year At the 9th July business meeting—Helen's first as President—the club discussed a grant to Polio Plus, with the Bill Gates Foundation set to match donations we make through the Rotary Foundation. The upcoming talk from Aquabox in July, a charity focused on water distribution in areas of need, promises continued engagement with global causes.