I am honored for the opportunity to serve as president of Rotary Club of Burke-Sunrise for the 2008-2009 Rotary year.  Each of us joins Rotary for various reasons. I was a charter member and have had the privilege to be among members with tremendous talents, skills and most importantly, the desire to serve and share in fellowship. For us, Rotary’s impact starts at home and reaches throughout the world.

        Rotary International President D. K. Lee has chosen the theme “Make Dreams Real.” According to Mr. Lee, food and water, health care and schooling, and the chance at a long and full life are the unrealized dreams of too many children.  Reducing the child mortality rate is a key goal of club and district projects.

     Burke Sunrise will exemplify “Service Above Self” in club projects this year that include packing meals for STOP HUNGER NOW, scholarships for S.T.R.I.V.E. (Students Taking a Renewed Interest in the Value of Education); sponsoring a Rotaract Club at Western Piedmont Community College; sponsoring WWII Veterans for the District 7670 Honor Air Flight, PolioPlus Campaign and continuing education for members from outstanding program speakers.

     We strive to be the “Friendliest Club in District 7670.”  Growing our membership to achieve a net increase on one member by March 30 is a goal for 2008-2009.  We began the year with 31 club members among 2,727 district members and 1,231,483 members worldwide.  In addition, we will focus on the following objectives this year: 

• Encourage professional diversity of membership
• Recognize members with a successful record of recruitment
• Provide orientation and mentoring for new members
• Encourage participation by all members in club activities and service
• Emphasize Family of Rotary in association and service
• Develop long-range plans and begin strategic planning process
• Educate members on opportunities of giving to The Rotary Foundation
• Encourage members’ participation in district training and conference.
• Enjoy fellowship and fun as we serve 

Eleanor Summers

President