The Elmbrook Rotary Club (ERC) welcomed two speakers with focus abroad to our June 24th breakfast meeting.
Jennifer Demar of the NGO Guatemala Service Project shared the challenges the Guatemalans have confronted. Recognized as the "Poorest Country in the Western Hemisphere," this developing country has daily challenges many Americans never contemplate. Examples are malnutrition, contaminated water, and lack of access to diapers and other hygiene resources.
The Guatemala Service Project is helping to address these needs with awareness, the collection of donations, and helping anyone who wants to get more involved, do so.
The second speaker was Rotarian Dick Debe, member of the Mukwonago Rotary Club and former District Governor of Rotary International District 6270. He shared how his club's involvement with Guatemala has led to even more involvement. The Mukwonago RotaryClub has sponsored projects and earned grants to deliver seeds and create farming programs. They've had chickens delivered to Guatemalan communities to create food, or revenue, or both. Rick has gotten the Elmbrook Rotary Club (ERC) involved in clean water initiatives, getting water purification tools to remote communities so they can drink water with confidence.
The ERC shares its focus among many local and several international organizations. ERC donates volunteer time, financial gifts, and insight to programs. The overarching intention is to be a catalyst for positive change.
ERC is always welcoming new members and meets weekly on Fridays at 7:00 a.m. at the Western Racquet Club in Elm Grove. Let a member know if you're curious about joining.
