I have been hearing a number of views from fellow Rotarians on what they think is going to happen to the Rotary Foundation activities during the Regionalisation Pilot project. Some correct; some based on rumours. So I felt it was important to briefly set out the facts

Article by PDG Peter Garnett, Regional Rotary Foundation Coordinator

The two most important facts are:

1. A key objective of the Regionalisation Pilot Project is to ensure the Rotary Foundation (TRF) continues to be our charity of choice.
2. During the Regionalisation Pilot Project, there will be NO changes in relation to The Rotary Foundation policies and processes. The Rotary Foundation and its support structures will continue to operate under the current arrangements.

This means:

• There will be no changes to how Clubs and members interact and give to the Rotary Foundation Annual, PolioPlus, Endowment and Disaster Relief Funds.
• Districts will continue to have available District designated Funds which can be used to support Global and District Grants.
• There will be no changes to how Districts currently organise District Grants – how they are approved and disbursed – other than any changes the districts themselves may decide to make.
• Global Grants will operate under the current TRF guidelines and continue to be endorsed by the District Governor and the District Rotary Foundation Chair.
• Districts will continue to have access to Disaster Relief Grants.
• Districts will continue to appoint members to the District Rotary Foundation Committee.

The Zone 8 Regional Rotary Foundation Leadership team – Regional Rotary Foundation Coordinator, Endowment/Major Gifts Advisor and End Polio Now Coordinator – has been working with the Regionalisation Steering Group and will work with the Regional Council to ensure there is a close and appropriate cooperation and coordination relationship which is focused on the continued success of Rotary Foundation activities in our region.

It is anticipated the Regional Council Portfolio Lead – Major Fundraising and Grants will work with the Regional Rotary Foundation Leadership team to explore new opportunities, which may be created through the Regionalisation Pilot Project, to increase The Rotary Foundation’s reach and impact.