ROTAMIRROR HOLIDAY ISSUE Rotamirror Holiday Issue | Page 20

CAPACITY BUILDING, COMMUNITY OUTREACH, ROTARY Implementing Impactful sustainable Rotaract Service Projects The concept of delivering let alone implementing sustainable Rotaract service projects has been elusive to many Rotaract clubs if not impossible. Clubs embark on Service projects for so many reasons with the aspect of sustainable often being ignored. Since Rotaract clubs are obligated to complete at least two service projects each year. Effort, preparation, and the collective engagement of the whole club is key to the success of a project. These two projects are usually, one that meets your local community’s needs and one that helps a global community. Rotaract service projects are a great way for Rotaract clubs to get involved in their own community, help the most deserving of help, connect with young adults globally, and attract new members in the long run. Rotaract clubs should try to make a lasting impact when choosing service activities/projects. They should also en devour to work in collaboration with community members and the recipients of service project. This is the foundation sustainability for any Rotaract service projects begins. It often helps to conduct a community assessment to determine how your club’s expertise and resources can best support/fit the local or global communities. A great way to start on an impactful sustainable Rotaract service project is by making use of the Community Assessment Tools. This helps your Rotaract club work with the community to select a service project that is successful, sustainable, and relevant. To target impactful service efforts, Rotary has identified six areas of focus where we can contribute to lasting change: 5. 1. Peace and conflict prevention/resolution. It’s also important to maintain the aspect of fun when embarking on implementing a sustainable Rotaract service project. You don’t want to bore your members to quits, now do you? 2. Disease prevention treatment. and 3. Water and sanitation. 4. Maternal and child health. ROTAMIRROR Holiday Issue 2018 20 Basic education and literacy. 6. Economic and community development. For Impactful Rotaract Service projects Rotaract clubs should at least; • • • Conduct a community assessment, otherwise called a feasibility study in project management. Aligning a project with Rotary’s areas of focus is key to the success of the project. Seek help from your sponsor Rotary club if need be. Don’t be afraid to ask for help with project design, planning, and implementation. Other sources of support and guidance are district leaders, like the district international service chair to mention but a few. ROTAMIRROR Holiday Issue 2018 21