President Russ opened the meeting, and Paul TC recited the 4-Way Test in an interesting order, and potential member Peter read an Invocation, followed by a toast to Rotarians around the world.
S@A Jimmy J told us we had 19 members in the room, Randy on ZOOM, and our guests being two potential members, Peter and Greg, Arlete's husband Michael, and our guest speakers Sarah and Sally from SASC.
Since we had our big winner last week, George S, Johny Smooth was FINALLY playing with a full deck - you don't see that every day, and we may never see it again…
Lina V and Paul TC were both losers, although, they weren't BIG losers, just small losers, as the pot has been reset!
Pres Russ started us off announcing Erica T turns 39 next Tuesday!
Milja G - reminded us all of the Club Picnic coming up on Thursday, August 20; please RSVP to Pres Russ
Todd L - reported he met with the City yesterday and they were VERY pleased with the duck race, and hope that we'll run it again in 2027!
Past Pres Paul McM - is happy to report that Suzanne is speaking him to again! In fact, he is even allowed out of the basement
George S - passed around a brochure on fishing trips to the Queen Charlotte Islands, just south of Alaska - he's been every year for 32 years, and will be continuing for a few more; it is the fishing mecca of the world!
Lina V - is back from Mexico, a trip with her two daughters, her TWIN grandchildren AND her TRIPLET grandchildren!!!
Todd L - is happy to be picking up his youngest in Halifax next week and bringing her home, as she transfers to Laurier!!!
PP Paul McM intro'd our guest speaker today, Sarah, Executive Director of the Sexual Assault Support Centre (SASC) of Waterloo Region.
Sarah delivered a compelling presentation on human trafficking and the organization's work supporting survivors. Sarah explained that SASC provides free, confidential services for survivors of sexual violence, sexual exploitation and human trafficking, including crisis support, counselling, advocacy, emergency housing and public education.
She emphasized that human trafficking is a significant issue in Waterloo Region, with victims often recruited through manipulation and coercion rather than abduction. Young people, particularly those facing homelessness, abuse or other vulnerabilities, are at greatest risk. Last year SASC supported 177 survivors or individuals at high risk of trafficking and delivered 47 educational workshops throughout the region.
Sarah shared the inspiring story of a young survivor who, through SASC's wraparound support, secured safe housing and rebuilt her life. She also outlined ways Rotary members can help, including raising awareness, inviting SASC educators to community groups, supporting their anti-human trafficking initiatives and partnering to expand emergency housing and outreach services. While the topic was sobering, Sarah closed on a hopeful note, highlighting the many survivors who have gone on to lead safe, successful and fulfilling lives thanks to community support.
