August 11, 2026
The club welcomed members of the White Rock Youth Ambassador Program, who shared their experiences and personal growth through the 18-month mentorship program focused on public speaking, confidence, networking and community involvement. Harleen, Miss White Rock 2026, spoke about joining after moving from Ottawa as a way to connect with her new community. Alan encouraged adults to be patient with young people as they gain life experience, while Eva identified youth employment and the feeling of being “too small to help” as key challenges. Matthew described how the program helped him overcome a speech impediment and become more confident speaking publicly.
Corbin, Eva and Suzanne also shared the dramatic experience of evacuating Peachland at 11:00 p.m. because of wildfires, making the five-hour drive home and arriving at 2:30 a.m. shortly before Highways 97 and 5A were closed. The presentation highlighted the confidence and community spirit being developed through the program. Nine ambassadors are confirmed to attend the November 7 Rotary Foundation Dinner, and the Interact Club at Earl Marriott Secondary was also highlighted as another important opportunity for young people to become involved in service and Rotary.
Announcements
- Hands Across the Border: More than 100 Rotarians from District 5050 gathered on the Canadian side. White Rock Rotary received five district awards, including Membership Net Growth, Percentage Growth and Club Excellence. Kim Bailey-Cook was recognized for preparing the award nominations.
- RibFest: Takes place Friday through Sunday at McLeod Park in Langley. Last year’s event attracted more than 40,000 people.
- Beach Cleanup: The White Rock Beach Cleanup originally scheduled for August 16 has been moved to Sunday, September 13. Volunteers should reconfirm their availability with Ashton Kerr.
- New Members Event: Scheduled for September 18 at Uta’s condo amenity building. More details will follow.
- SOURCES AGM: Scheduled for September 22 at Hazelmere.
- Community Services: The next Community Services meeting will be held next Tuesday.
- Board Meeting: There is no board meeting this month. The next meeting is September 16.
- Kitchen Update: Next Tuesday will be Joanne’s last Tuesday with the kitchen staff. Winston has arranged food from Red Rose Restaurant.
- Kingha Coffee Fundraiser: Approximately 40 bags have been sold, with $9 from each bag going to SOURCES Foundry. The Foundry fundraising total is now approximately $23,000 toward the $25,000 goal.
- Wine Raffle: The raffle will restart in September with a revised prize of a $300 BC Liquor Store gift certificate. Ten tickets remain.
- Membership: Club membership currently stands at 79, with strong attendance continuing through the summer.
- Book Sale: Members are encouraged to pick up and distribute the 150 lawn signs, sign up for flyer distribution routes and volunteer shifts, and contact Keith if they can provide hand trucks for setup. Lawn signs may be placed on city property beginning two weeks before the sale, but not on school property.
- Miss Vicky 2027 Challenge for PolioPlus: Lee, Winston and Miss Vicky are preparing for an endurance ride in support of Rotary’s campaign to end polio.