FALL PROGRAMS: OUR CITY, OUR CLUB, OUR CHILDREN

Late October and November programs to-date have included an update in issues facing the City of Orinda by our own Janet Keeter, City Manager; an enthusiastic pep talk about membership and what it means to be a Rotarian by former District Governor, Laura Day; and an inspiring story of helping children and families in crisis by Sister Ann Weltz  of the Bay Area Crisis Nursery.

Janet Keeter gave an interesting and informative update on the City of Orinda at our October 29  meeting. From roads and storm drains, public safety to public works, communication and crime, housing and development – it was a comprehensive overview on all the current issues. To see her presentation, click here.

Thanks, Janet, for all the good work you do on behalf of our home town!

Former District Governor, Laura Day, joined us November 5 to talk about Rotary Membership.  It was a great reminder of why we joined Rotary in the first place, as well as a call to action to recruit new members and retain those who have served for many years.  She stressed the importance of keeping it interesting, finding new ways to do old things, being flexible and being creative.  And, she emphasized that we are not alone in our commitment to Rotary –  a great thing to do is attend other club meetings and the District conferences to see the full scope of the good works in which Rotarians are engaged.

Sister Ann Weltz  joined us at La Piazza where we enjoyed a delicious lunch thanks to our host, Charles Mounzer, and where we learned about the great work done by the Bay Area Crisis Nursery (BACN) in serving families who need short-term assistance with caring for children when parents are unable to do so. For over 30 years, BACN has provided residential care for infants, toddlers, and children up to age 12 free of charge to parents in need.  They receive about 1,000 admissions annually. Children typically spend an average of 10 days at the nursery, but stays can range anywhere from 24 hours to 30 days. They are open 24 hours per day, 365 days a year and services are available to any parent or legal guardian who comes to the nursery during a time of stress or crisis. BACN has two housing facilities-- a total of 4,700 square feet: the Nursery for infants and toddlers and the Dahlstrom House for older children. Both are in Concord. Facilities are manned by paid and volunteer staff (over 100+ volunteers) and funds to run the programs come from voluntary sources.  They receive no government funding.  BACN offers a much-needed, caring environment for children and offers support for parents who care, but temporarily cannot cope -- a commendable and inspiring undertaking.