Rotary District 5650 Rotarians—February is here, and Groundhog Day is tomorrow. If Punxsutawney Phil sees his shadow, we will have six more weeks of winter; if not, spring comes early. I am hoping for an early spring so we can get outside and continue our Rotary projects in our communities!
This leads me to reflect on the importance of connection. By participating in our community and embracing the idea of “Unite for Good,” we help bring people together and open the door to membership opportunities. A significant group seeking connection is the Baby Boom Generation—those born between 1946 and 1964, now aged 61 to 80. Many are entering retirement and searching for meaning and relationships, sometimes experiencing feelings of isolation or loneliness. Rotary can play a key role in addressing these needs. Studies show that individuals who find purpose and connection tend to enjoy longer, more fulfilling lives. The song “You’ve Got a Friend” by Carole King, famously covered by James Taylor in 1971, comes to mind as a reminder of friendship. Our regular Rotary meetings offer a space for belonging, friendship, and enduring purpose—locally and globally. So, whenever you notice someone who feels isolated or in search of meaning, consider sharing with them how Rotary can enrich their life through service and community.
I would like to extend my sincere appreciation to each Rotary Club in our District for your outstanding efforts throughout January to "Unite for Good" and serve both local communities and the global community. Thank you for your dedication and commitment.
Also, remember that February is Peacebuilding and Conflict Prevention Month on our Rotary calendar.
Promoting Peace
“Today, over 120 million people are displaced because of conflict, violence, persecution, and human rights violations. Half of them are children.
“Today, over 120 million people are displaced because of conflict, violence, persecution, and human rights violations. Half of them are children.
We refuse to accept conflict as a way of life. Rotary projects provide training that fosters understanding and provides communities with the skills to resolve conflicts..
Rotary Creates Environments of Peace
As a humanitarian organization, peace is a cornerstone of our mission. We believe when people work to create peace in their communities, that change can have a global effect.
By carrying out service projects and supporting peace fellowships and scholarships, our members take action to address the underlying causes of conflict, including poverty, discrimination, ethnic tension, lack of access to education, and unequal distribution of resources….
Rotary creates environments where peace can happen.”
Consider making your Rotary Club a Peacebuilder Club.
Please find the website to begin the process:
https://www.rotaryactiongroupforpeace.org/peacebuilder_clubs/
https://www.rotaryactiongroupforpeace.org/peacebuilder_clubs/
“Rotary Action Group for Peace’s Peacebuilder Clubs are part of a global fellowship of peacebuilders dedicated to advancing peace and understanding.
Through meaningful projects and initiatives, these clubs extend their reach beyond their local districts, collaborating with like-minded organizations and individuals worldwide. Committed to fostering peace, they organize conferences, events, and dialogues that unite communities and promote constructive engagement.
By becoming a Rotary Action Group for Peace Peacebuilder Club, your club joins a global movement, strengthening its ability to drive positive change while connecting with a vast network of peacebuilders. Clubs can also join an existing RAGFP Chapter or take the lead in forming a new one. Through these collective efforts, Peacebuilder Clubs actively address the root causes of conflict and contribute to building a more peaceful world—both locally and globally.”
Enjoy this month of February. Focus on a way to engage and make an impact on our communities and the world through Peacebuilding and Conflict Resolution.
Remember to invite a guest to your Rotary Club meeting. Grow your membership. One meeting could change their life and yours as well.
Focus on your Rotary Club experience for your members and guests.
Focus on your Rotary Club experience for your members and guests.
Take care of your family, friends, and community!
In Rotary,
Robert
Robert Rapp
District 5650 Governor 2025-26
Omaha Morning Rotary Club
rrapprotary@gmail.com
(308) 325-1704
.png)
