August 12, 2019 Bulletin

Chair: Alana Hirtle welcomed everyone to the meeting; Matt Hunter led the group in singing O Canada.

Guests: Hattie Dyck and Elizabeth Fry Society employees, Emma, Brandy, Kristen and Kay

Alana introduced Elizabeth Fry Society’s Executive Director for mainland NS, Emma Halpern. This branch is one of 26 across the country that serves women at risk or women who are transitioning from jail back to the community. Emma, a lawyer by training, volunteered with the organization before becoming ED a couple of years ago. They have 2 offices, one in Halifax and one in Truro (at 25 Revere Street). In Halifax, the Society operates “Holly House” a transitional house which is run on restorative practices, helping women live in their communities in healthy and productive ways.

In addition to providing support to women and their families, Elizabeth Fry Society also plays an advocacy role for inmates. The organization will cover court cases that Legal Aid does not cover such as institutional charges and other Habeas Corpus orders.

Brandy is the Abundance Coordinator at the Truro office. She talked about her own personal experience as a client of the Society and how she was supported through her journey with the justice system. The Abundance program is an 8-12 week series of courses on employability, self-esteem, career aspirations, resume writing, healthy relationships and horticulture activities. They operate a garden just off Marshland Drive.

Rotarian Ken MacLean thanked our speakers.

Committee Reports:

• Matt Redmond reported that the Yearbook is in its final stretch with 163 confirmed – that’s down significantly from previous years; please follow up with your lists to encourage as many businesses as possible to sign up.

• Mark Mason asked for 3-4 volunteers to assist on the day of the Christmas Index swim at Victoria Park Pool on Sept 1st from 11 am – 1 pm. He also mentioned that the Index sponsored 52 kids for summer camps – kids that have never attended summer camps in the past. There will be an activity for older kids in October – likely bowling.

• Jim Gould noted that he still has a few tickets left for Bollywood Night on Sept 28th. Our current District Governor and Chair of the Leadership Team, Louisa Horne, will not be visiting every club as was the practice in previous years. A 34 minute video was developed and Jim will schedule a time in the fall to air the video. Louisa and her leadership team are prepared to visit clubs as needed to help ‘move the needle’ on a variety of club goals.

• Ryan announced that he has 7 volunteers for the Rotary House Golf Challenge in September AND he has almost enough Rotarians for 2 teams. Anyone else interested in volunteering or playing, please contact Ryan.

• Laurie provided an update on the Swim for Polio and Club social at the home of Richard and Maralyn Bowness – Sunday, Aug 25th. She will send a separate e-mail to all members making note of the details.

50/50 Draw: Richard had the right number but found the wrong card – the pot builds.