 The 11th Annual Open Arms Gala, held on May 25th, at Ristorante Papagallo was a roaring success! The Open Arms Gala Committee and Rotaract Blue Cayman Islands extend our warm thanks to all who supported and attended this one-of-a-kind evening celebrating our Special Needs Community in the Cayman Islands. Stay tuned for a full recap of the event! |
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 Time flies when you’re having fun! On May 15th Rotaract Blue met for a regular bi-weekly meeting. Professional Development Director Brian arranged for Public Relations Chair Alanna to present on Resume-building skills and other useful career tips. It was an insightful presentation and she will be holding the same presentation at a later date at an Interact meeting! It was also a fitting meeting to announce that Rotaract Blue has nominated Director Alanna for 2018-2019 Rotaractor of the Year, an award to be announced at the District Conference in the Bahamas in June. Best of Luck to Alanna!  After the show it’s the after-party! After the regularly scheduled meeting members and visitors of Rotaract Blue conducted a book-stamping party to restock the Rotaract Blue Little Free Library. The Little Free Library is an island-wide initiative by our sponsor club Rotary Central Cayman Islands to support literacy in the Cayman Islands. The Rotaract Blue Little Free Library is located at Hurley’s Marketplace. All are encouraged to take a book, leave a book and get reading! |
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 On May 11th, Rotaract Blue Cayman Islands and the Rotaract Club of Grand Cayman met at Treasurer Paul of Rotary Central’s home for the annual President Elect Training Session also known as PETS! Led by Rotary Central Cayman Islands and supported by the Rotary Club of Grand Cayman Sunrise, this interactive and informative training session was well attended and served as a great way for the incoming boards to get to know each other! After the session there was a fellowship and then the after-fellowship at KARoo. We can’t wait to do it again real soon! |
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On May 7th, Public Relations Chair Alanna was presented with a Zone 34 Public Image Citation at the Rotary Central Cayman Islands Meeting by President William. Rotaract Blue were honoured at the recent District 7020 conference in Jamaica for this award. Rotaract Blue also were awarded a Certificate of Participation for our participation in the 2018-2019 Rotaract Outstanding Project awards. |
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 Did you know that one blood donation can save up to three lives? On May 7th members and honorary members of Rotaract Blue met at the Cayman Islands Blood Bank for a lunchtime donation! It’s a quick and easy process and you get juice afterwards for your donation. It’s a great way to serve from within and we recommend all become blood donors if you are able! |
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 It’s the most wonderful time of the year! Rotaract Blue met for Sunday Brunch on April 28th at Mizu Asian Bistro + Bar. We always try to take the time for a retreat in April. Fellowship is a pillar of our club and spending time together over dumplings and bottomless prosecco is our favourite way to fellowship!  After Brunch, it was time for an afternoon movie! In the spirit of living our best life we splurged on a VIP Showing of Avengers: Endgame.No spoilers, but bring tissues. |
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 The Blue Crew were out in force on April 27th supporting our Sponsor Club Rotary Central Cayman Islands at the annual Dr. Bill Hrudey Science Fair.
The science fair is an annual event designed to foster an interest in science, scientific method of problem solving and the sense of accomplishment and discovery that comes with preparing a science project, for students in Grand Cayman. Some of our favourite projects were: a live chicken hatching and a homemade door alarm! |
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HAPPY EARTH DAY! 🌎  The Blue Crew showed our mother some love last Saturday during the Island wide Cayman Islands Chamber of Commerce cleanup!
Look at our snazzy new shirts 👕 ✨ Please remember to make conscious choices in your every day purchases - there is no Planet B! |
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Rotaract Blue presents the 11th Open Arms Gala: The Great Gatsby! The Open Arms Program promotes non-discrimination for disabled persons and serves to enhance society’s understanding of the needs of disabled persons. It also aims to help to integrate those living with disabilities into the community and providing much needed support to those who care for them. ****************************** Date: Saturday, 25 May 2019 What's included? Attire: Gatsby Chic Tickets available online: https://eventpro.ky/buytickets/rotaract-blue-open-arms-gala/ Email president.rotaractblue@gmail.com for additional information, tickets and sponsorship opportunities. - Learn more about the Open Arms Program on our platforms page: https://rotaractblue.org/page/our-platforms |
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We were so honored to have been visited by our friends at Cayman AIDS Foundation (‘CAF’) ! ❤️ A longstanding Rotaract Blue platform, the meeting gave new members further insight into the valuable work CAF provide to our community. 💪🏽 |
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Rotaract Blue’s annual Fred Speirs 5K Walk/Run at SafeHaven last month raised $1,800 for a vocational grant. Around 50 participants, most sporting the event’s signature navy T-shirts, took part in the March 24 run/walk. The runners, walkers, and volunteers were supporting efforts of Rotaract Blue to assist young Caymanians, between the ages of 16-30, who are enrolled or accepted into a local or overseas vocational/technical skills course to excel in a non-traditional career path. Thank you to everyone who made the 2019 Fred Speirs 5K Walk/Run a success.
We are so thankful for the opportunity to host this event in honor of Rotarian and Educator Fred Speirs🙏🏽 and help impact a young persons life through education 📚 Read the full press releases on this event here: Cayman Compass: https://www.caymancompass.com/2019/03/31/rotaract-5k-raises-funds-for-vocational-grant/ About the Fred Speirs Vocational Grant The grant has been a significant part of Rotaract Blue’s professional development initiatives since 2008 to benefit eligible Caymanian students between 16 and 30 years of age, who are enrolled or accepted into a local or overseas vocational/technical skills course. In 2010, the grant was renamed to the “Fred Speirs Vocational Grant” in honour of the late Mr. Frederick Speirs who was instrumental in the development of the vocational grant. He epitomised the Rotary motto, ‘Service Above Self’ and was a devout Rotarian, loving father and husband, a committed educator, and a mentor. |
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 It's the most wonderful time of the year… Rotaractors around the world spent the week of 11 – 17 March 2019 celebrating the success and importance of Rotaract in our communities. This year marks 51 years of Rotaract! Here’s to many more years of making a positive difference. Rotaract Blue celebrated with a number of events, with a highlight being our Mass induction of seven new members, read on for more! |
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 On 5 March 2019, also known as Carnival Tuesday in some circles, the Blue Crew gathered at Secretary Lou-Anne’s house for a Culture Night in celebration of Trinidad & Tobago. Did you know that Rotaract Blue has a twin club? The Rotaract Club of Arima (District 7030) is our twin club from across the Caribbean sea, and kindly assisted us with the collation of information on the great nation of Trinidad & Tobago! We love spending time with our Fam-a-lay (lay, lay, lay, lay, lay, lay, lay, lay) and learning about other cultures. |
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 Rotaract Blue and Big RCGC joined forces to create the Rotary Olympics! The event would not have been possible without the sponsors, our volunteers, the teams and of course, supporters. We thank you all greatly and hope to see you next year! |
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 The Blue Crew were out in force today supporting Jasmine for Flag Day! 🦋 Jasmine, formerly Cayman Hospice Care, provides FREE palliative care to residents of the Cayman Islands. We were so proud to be apart of this great fundraiser for such a worthy cause. |
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 We were joined by Young Caymanian Leadership Award (YCLA) Recipient Staci Scott who spoke to us about her journey from a little girl on the small(er) island of Cayman Brac, to working at KPMG here in Grand Cayman - and of course receiving the YCLA in 2018. Staci is a committed mentor, volunteering her time among many platforms, and a proud sister with Big Brothers Big Sisters Cayman Islands. Staci affirmed that she would not have had the confidence to pursue impossible dreams without the guiding hand of mentors in her life. This inspires her to give back daily.  Thank you for speaking to us Staci. You embody the 2018-2019 Presidential theme, #BeTheInspiration! |
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Rotaract Blue grew a little bit bigger with the induction of our newest member Jessica Moore!  Jessica has been an active prospective member with key involvement in projects such as the Christmas lunch at Maple House. Jessica spoke to a room of members, prospectives, Rota-family and guests about the reason she joined Rotaract which is to be a part of something greater than herself. We are so happy to have you, officially, join our family Jessica! |
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 In honor of Vocational Services Month, the Blue Crew were joined by Mr. Wayne Jackson - Director, School of Hospitality Studies at the University College of the Cayman Islands (UCCI). He discussed Vocational Services in the Cayman Islands and the efforts made by UCCI to provide the Cayman Islands with quality Vocational Education to support these vital industries.  We were honored to present Mr. Jackson with a cheque for CI$2,000 to sponsor two local students in their pursuit of Vocational Studies at UCCI. These funds were raised via Rotaract Blue's Fred Speir's Vocational Grant. This is our annual initiative in honor of the late Rotarian Fred Speirs. SAVE THE DATE! The Annual Fred Speirs Walk/Run will take place on 24 March 2019. This event is the main source of fundraising for our Fred Speirs Vocational Grant. If you are interested in helping with this event, please contact Professional Development Director Brian at rbprofessionaldevelopment@ |
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 Rotaract Blue teamed up with the Interact Club of Grand Cayman this past Saturday to raise funds for their upcoming membership drive. How do you raise money on a sunny Saturday in the Caribbean? A car wash of course!  Members and Prospectives helped Interact members wash 23 cars that day! We may have gotten a little soaked but we can't wait to do it all over again soon. |
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 Special Olympic Cayman Islands athletes and directors accept donation from Rotaract Blue. Rotaract Blue Cayman Islands, recently donated just under US $30,000 to five Special Needs Organisations in the Cayman Islands. These funds were raised via the Open Arms Gala, an event held annually in May. The Gala celebrates and honors members of the Cayman Islands Special Needs Community and their family members, persons normally not recognized for their efforts and contributions. The donations were distributed between: Special Needs Foundation Cayman, The Lighthouse School, Sunrise Adult Training Centre, Maple House and Special Olympics Cayman Islands.
The funds will be used for the various organisations dedicated efforts such as: rebuilding playground equipment at the Lighthouse school, moving residents into the new Maple House and assisting with various costs for the Special Olympics World Games. Special Needs is a pillar platform of Rotaract Blue, and we are proud to continue to support this community in whatever way we can. The 2019 Open Arms Gala will take place on Saturday, May 25th at Ristorante Pappagallo. |
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Stamp, stamp! Thank you for coming out to our book stamping party and to our guest for dropping off more books. The books will be used to stock our Free Little Library located in the exit foyer at Hurley’s Marketplace. Have you seen it? The initiative in collaboration with Rotary Central Cayman Islands is to continue to promote literacy in our community. So if you stop by our library, take a book or leave a book! 📚 |
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.jpg) The Blue Crew are back for the second half of the Rota-Year and we are ready! Members, Prospectives, Rota-fam and Guests had a fun-filled meeting. The icebreaker was lead by PR Chair Alanna who lead a game of 20 Questions...but not really? (If you know you know!) We were taught S.M.A.R.T Goals by Professional Development Director Brian, and we set our goals for: Work, Personal and Rotaract. It was the best way to start the coming year! What are your goals for 2019? |
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Here is our Rota-half year in review! It has been a blast and we are proud of all that we’ve accomplished. From beach cleanups, park restorations and of course all being able to give back to the Special Needs community in the Cayman Islands through our Open Arms Program. We can’t wait to see what a bluetastic year 2019 will be! 💙 Click read more to see the full infogram of our accomplishments. |
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DRR Leah Lowe came to town! The Blue Crew had a jam packed week of joint events with our sister club, the Rotaract Club of Grand Cayman (Lil RCGC).  Before kicking off our schedule of events, we joined the Rotary Club of Grand Cayman for their lunchtime meeting. DRR Leah received a Rotaract royalty welcome. First things first... |
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 District Rotaract Representative* (DRR) Leah Lowe will be visiting us this week from 13-16 December to meet the Cayman Rotaractors and get to know more about what we're doing in our community. We have an exciting week of activities involving both Blue and the Rotaract Club of Grand Cayman. Please join us at any or all of the following events to show her a CaymanKind welcome! =]
You can download the full schedule of DRR Leah's visit here. *For those of you wondering what a DRR is or does? A DRR is an ambassador for the Rotaract program, a conduit of information between fellow members and Rotarians, and a leader and resource for club officers in our district. |
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Christmas at Sunrise💛🎄🎅🏼 Thank you so much for having us and being so welcoming. We love celebrating with you all every year! It was so much fun and a jolly good time - even a visit from old Saint Nick. A huge thank you to A. L. Thompson's for donating this beautiful tree and Ogier for their sponsorship in making this annual gathering a success. Also thank you to our sister club Rotaract Club of Grand Cayman (RCGC) for joining us!
Visit our Facebook page for more pictures: https://www.facebook.com/Rotaractblue/ |
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KNOW YOUR STATUS❗️ HIV continues to be a major global public health issue, having claimed more than 35 million lives so far. There were approximately 36.9 million people living with HIV at the end of 2017. HIV infection is often diagnosed through rapid diagnostic tests (RDTs), which detect the presence or absence of HIV antibodies. There is no cure for HIV infection. However, effective antiretroviral (ARV) drugs can control the virus and help prevent transmission so that people with HIV, and those at substantial risk, can enjoy healthy, long and productive lives. Know your risks - get tested. Rotaract Blue seeks to actively raise awareness about and assist the Cayman AIDS Foundation in its efforts to control and prevent the spread of HIV/AIDS in the Cayman Islands and help those living with HIV/AIDS. |
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 In September 2018, Rotaract Blue met at Barkers National Park to help keep our beaches clean. In an effort to ensure Community Service was available to all - we extended our cleanup efforts from West to East! It was a great morning hosted by Prospective Courtney. Thank you Blue Crew for doing your part to help keep our beaches clean! |
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 The Cayman Rotaractors joined the Rota-fam in full ascot funky style (with fascinating fascinators - of course), for the Rotary Club of Grand Cayman's 3rd annual Turtle Race Fundraiser at the Kimpton Seafire Resort. All of our jockeys were astonishing and Director Brian got both of the Rotaract turtles 'Charlotte the Rocket' and 'Blu' by John Doak, a win to secure a spot in the final race! We placed 4th overall but next year we shall return for the crown. Disclaimer: No actual turtles were harmed in the raising of these funds. |
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 We are so proud to share that we have made a US $500 contribution to the Rotary International End Polio Fund. This Donation will become US $1500 through the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation who generously donate $2 for every $1 donated towards the eradication of Polio. The Blue Crew were joined by Members, Prospectives and other Rota-Fam to celebrate Rotary Strides in eradication for World Polio Day. |
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 Rotaractors from Blue and Rotaract Club of Grand Cayman (Lil' RCGC) joined forces in the Amazing Haunted Race! A two-hour scavenger hunt around Camana Bay, hosted by Professional Development Director Brian, the ‘race’ encouraged teamwork and collaboration between the two clubs. There were many spooky challenges, trick or treat bags and plenty of fake blood! From our clubs to yours, we are wishing you a spooky, teamwork filled Halloween and Holiday season. Read on for more pictures! |
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 In recognition of #WorldMentalHeathDay, we were visited by the Alex Panton Foundation to speak to us regarding mental health. Created in memory of the late Alex Panton, the foundation strives to be a resource for children and young adults in the local and greater community, who may be suffering from Mental Health Disorders or need extra support through difficult situations. Read on for the full recap. |
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 Members of the blue crew spent their Saturday Morning at The Pines Retirement Home. Games were played and feelings were hurt in rounds of dominoes. Hint: it was the feelings of young adults. Yes, we were given multiple 6 loves because they are clearly masters. We will not talk about Rummy as it appears we are no good at that either. We also sang worship songs - so uplifting. Thank you for having us and we can’t wait to return! Read on for more pictures of us getting owned in the games. |
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Blue celebrated International Coastal Cleanup Day (a little late, blame Hurricane Season!) with a Beach Cleanup at Barkers National Park in West Bay.  (L:R - Secretary Lou-Anne, IPP Francesca, Treasurer Brandon, VP Dona. Not Pictured: Professional Development Director Brian - he's the photographer) |
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.jpg) This meeting we switched to business gears and held our quarterly Club Assembly which was lead by Club Service Director Ally but of course, not without some fun first. Would we be Blue if we didn't? Pun intended. |
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 We are so excited to share our #LittleFreeLibrary with you all! 📚 This library is in partnership with our sponsor club Rotary Central Cayman Islands and is the newest addition to their Little Free Library initiative! A very special thank you to Hurley's Marketplace for allowing us to place the library at their location. These Cayman style cottages are housed with FREE books all around the island! Take a book, leave a book - we want to get you reading. We are loving Basic Education & Literacy Month - how about you? Read on for more pictures of the launch. |
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 Rotaract Blue and Rotaract Club of Grand Cayman (affectionately known as Lil' RCGC) had an epic takeover meeting of the Rotary Club of Grand Cayman's (Big RCGC... with just as much affection) lunchtime meeting. |
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 A mid-week meditation during our meeting guided by Carrie Brown of Body Works Cayman was a well needed break. A chance to stop, relax, forget the stress of the world and just breathe. What better backdrop than a sunset on the 7 Mile Beach? But let’s rewind and take it from the top... |
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 Blue hosted its third 'The Under 30 Club' Networking Mixer at KARoo, Camana Bay in celebration of Membership Month. With a beautiful view of the water (we love views at Blue), clear skies and a light breeze, we began the happiest of hours on a Friday at 5pm. Our Blue members, uniformed in cobalt polos were well prepared as people began to trickle in. We were joined not only by Blue prospectives but many other guests including our Rota-fam as both Rotarians and Rotaractors from other clubs came out to support what was indeed a successful event. |
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 🎉The Under 30 Club is back! Join us for happy hour! Appetizers on us 😉 💙Mix, mingle and find it more about what’s new, what’s blue and how to get involved! |
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Midweek, mid-month and we're right back at it!  President Rene and Community Service Director Andrene presenting guest speakers Teresa Echenique and Cassondra with a certificate of appreciation for speaking to us about Maple House. |
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To celebrate Jamaican Independence Day, we teamed up with our sponsor club, Rotary Central for Culture Night held at their regular meeting location, the George Town Yacht Club (GTYC).  After a brief introduction, Blue members started the segment with fun facts about Jamaica followed by the history and significance of the county’s flag and design. |
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Pinch, punch, it's the first of the month!  Rotaractors from Blue and Lil' RCGC socializing before the meeting began. Today we held our first meeting of the month and what a constructive one it was as we had the pleasure of having Sondra Lovett, Life Coach of Achievement Coaching speak with us once again - she's a friend of Blue!  Our guest speaker Sondra Lovett along with Rotarian David (Rotary Central) and guests Ally and Latoya pre-meeting. The evening began with our usual protocol followed with an ice breaker by Club Service Director Ally who had us make a circle within a circle. Paired with another person, Director Ally lead the questions and had partners answer each other. A quick way to get to know more about the person standing in front of you. |
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What a Rota-filled week!  This past week, the Cayman Islands Rotary and Rotaract clubs had the pleasure of hosting the 2018-19 Rotary District Governor (DG) Dr. Patrick Adizua along with his lovely wife, Dr. Lesline. |
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 #SaturdayServiceProject We had the best time this morning doing a park restoration for Success Circle Park. We even had a kitty join us! |
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First meeting down - many more to go!  We kicked off our year in true Blue style this evening. If you couldn't make it, you surely missed an exciting one.  President Rene started the meeting with a DING and we were off! |
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 It’s the beginning of a new Rotaract year and we are very excited for another year of service and fellowship! Get ready for a fun-filled schedule of giving back, professional development, fellowship events and even more as we join forces with the Rota-fam throughout the year. Join us for our first meeting on Wednesday, 18 July 2018 | 6PM at Royal Palms. Thank you for your continued loyalty and support of Blue. See you soon! |
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We would like to thank everyone who attended and supported our annual Changeover event for the installation of the 2018-19 Directors and Officers. Thank you to Cracked Conch Macabuca for hosting us and for their delicious food! A special thank you to our MC of the night, Past President of Blue and PDRR Marzeta Bodden for doing such a fantastic job of keeping us engaged and entertained. Also, thank you to all who graciously donated prizes including Tatiana’s Heaven on Earth Salon, The Book Nook, Renaissance Salon and Spa, the staff at CINICO and all others. Your generosity is mostly appreciated. We are looking forward to a new bluetastic year.💙  Meet the new Blue Board of Directors (L-R): Professional Development Director Brian Ogilvie, Community Service Director Andrene Powell, Club Service Director Ally McRae, President Rene Dixon, Vice President Dona-Lee Darlington, Immediate Past President Francesca Hamann, Treasurer Brandon McLean. (Not pictured: International Service Director Kimberly Bennett, Secretary Lou-Anne McMillan) |
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 It's Changeover season and we are gearing up to hand over the reigns! On behalf of incoming President Rene Dixon and her Board of Directors, we invite you to join us for Rotaract Blue's Annual Changeover on Wednesday, 27 June 2018 | 6:30PM at the Cracked Conch restaurant. We welcome you to cocktail hour with a glass of bubbles followed by dinner as we celebrate outgoing President Francesca and her board, as well as the beginning of a new year. Cost: $60 | Dress code: Smart Casual For tickets: president.rotaractblue@gmail.com |
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#TeamCayman had a great time at the 2018 Rotaract District 7020 Conference (also known as the Werl Boss Conference) this past week in Miami, Florida. Members of both Blue and Rotaract Club of Grand Cayman were in attendance. We even had a surprise visit from a Blue prospective and had the opportunity to hear our Blue Past President and Past District Rotaract Representative (PDRR) Marzeta Bodden speak on Entrepreneurship during a session! How wonderful is that?! From in-depth training sessions on leadership, personal branding, budgeting and more to fellowships and fetes - it was not only a fun experience but also an educational one. Did I say it was a lot of fun? We are already looking forward to Bahamas in 2019! Special thank you to the Rotaractors of the British Virgin Islands for doing what some may have called the impossible and hosting a successful conference in another country after being devastated by hurricanes last year. That alone shows the resilience and dedication of Rotaractors. NEXT SLIDE PLEASE! Attending a Rotaract District 7020 Conference is a great opportunity to network with other Rotaractors and Rotarians from our district and in some cases, from around the world. You will be able to see the amazing work that other clubs in our district are doing and how we really do make an impact in our countries and throughout the world. Not only can you also gain friends and possible mentors but you will attend sessions that contribute to your personal and professional development. This experience is not only beneficial throughout your Rotaract journey but also throughout your life. Stay tuned for more details on the 2019 Rotaract District 7020 Conference. |
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 Our guest speaker, life coach Sondra Lovett (who is already a friend of Blue) came to speak at our meeting to give us advice on ‘Managing Stress in the Workplace’. |
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 We are gearing up for our journey to Emerald City on May 26th as we are hosting the 10th Open Arms Gala at Ristorante Pappagallo where we will be honoring some amazing individuals! So we are calling upon you to nominate the amazing parents, caregivers, teachers, coaches, students and organizations/employers who play an important role in the lives of those with special needs in our community. Please share and help get your nominee recognized -- thank you! |
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The CI Chamber of Commerce held it's annual Earth Day Clean Up and the Blue Crew assembled to do our part (along with many other volunteers island-wide) in keeping our country and environment clean for everyone to enjoy. “The Environment is where we all meet.” - Lady Bird Johnson |
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 World Water Day, on 22 March every year, is about focusing attention on the importance of water. This year’s theme, ‘Nature for Water’, explores nature-based solutions (NBS) to the water challenges we face in the 21st century. ‘The answer is in nature’ and raises awareness of NBS. The central message that NBS, such as planting trees to replenish forests, reconnecting rivers to floodplains, and restoring wetlands, is a sustainable and cost-effective way to help rebalance the water cycle, mitigate the effects of climate change and improve human health and livelihoods. By using NBS to help meet the water needs of a growing population, we will contribute to the creation of a circular economy, at the same time as helping to protect the natural environment and reduce pollution. (Source: http://worldwaterday.org) |
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Today we rocked our socks for World Down Syndrome Day! 💙💛 Did you know 3/21 was selected to signify the uniqueness of the triplication (trisomy) of the 21st chromosome which leads to Down Syndrome? Now you do. Together we can help advocate for the rights, inclusion and well being of people with Down Syndrome in our schools & communities around the world. Learn more about World Down Syndrome Day here: worlddownsyndromeday.org/ |
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This past week we teamed up with Rotaract Club of Grand Cayman to celebrate 50 years of Rotaract with a week of service and fellowship events. Read on for a full recap and photos.  The Rota-family at the CI Humane Society for a morning of dog walking. |
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 International Service does not necessarily have to be international! There's a lot of culture to be learned right here in our own backyard as we experienced on our outing to the Cayman Islands National Museum to be educated on the history and development of our beautiful country. Thank you to our International Service Director Nyron for organizing a fun and educational Saturday afternoon followed by fellowship. |
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 It was an awesome Saturday assisting Rotary Central Cayman Islands with the Annual Island-Wide Health Screening event! Members of the Blue crew volunteered at multiple screening locations to lend Central a few extra hands. Clipboards in hand, volunteers helped recruited passersby to register to have their health screened completely free of charge. We were also in charge of taking height, weight and measurements. It felt incredible to be a part of encouraging our community to be proactive about their health and possibly saving lives! 
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 Today we celebrate 113 years of Rotary! Rotary is where neighbors, friends and problem-solvers share ideas, join leaders, and take action to create lasting change. Here is to many more years of making a difference! #PeopleofAction #HappyBirthdayRotary #MakingADifference #Rotafam #Rotary |
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  Welcome the newest members of Blue! Congratulations Ally & Andrene! |
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  A huge thank you to Kristina Maxwell of Align for visiting Blue to give us an informative presentation on Health & Wellness and how we can stay fit without a gym. We definitely had a blast doing the 10 minute HITT circuit! #WhoNeedsAGym |
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Happy New Year!I hope you all had a well rested holiday season and made a ton of awesome memories. It's a new year and with it will bring some new changes for Blue. Our meetings are changing as we will be moving to the bi-weekly structure; meaning we will host meetings twice a month as opposed to the regular four that we were used to. It's our hope that we will see a growth in participation and attendance. We aren't Blue without you so I hope in 2018 we see everyone out! YIR Francesca Hamann President 2017-2018 | Rotaract Blue Cayman Islands |
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Recap of our bingo night on Saturday with our sponsor club Rotary Central Cayman Islands.
Our Polio End Games offered us a night filled with laughter, awesome prizes & most importantly getting a little closer to ending Polio. A huge thank you to everyone who came out as well as our amazing sponsors! Also to our International Service Director Nyron Jones for organizing!
HELP US MAKE HISTORY AND END POLIO.
Join us for happy hour! Enjoy our "End Polio Games".
Come out to play bingo & enter in our raffle for your chance to win prizes throughout the night. Every donation can triple our impact through the partnership with the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation. Learn more at endpolionow.org
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2016-2017 Blue Review from Rotaract Blue on Vimeo.
Rotaract Blue is now accepting applications for The Fred Speirs Vocational Grant. If you or someone you know between the age of 16-30 is pursuing a vocational or technical skills course locally or overseas we'd like to help fund your passion!
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Rotaract Blue is proud to award local student, Bianca Stephanie Christian, the 2014-15 Fred Speirs Vocational Grant to attend the University College of the Cayman Islands (UCCI) to pursue an Associate of Science Degree in Engineering Technology.
Another brave Rotaract Blue member will shave her head in aid of the St. Baldricks Foundation!
To help Francesca Hamann raise funds and find out why she steps up to the plate go to: https://www.stbaldricks.org/participants/mypage/801270/2015
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Helping to spread awareness through presence at two local stores (Fosters Food Fair Supermarket and Kirks Home Centre) for the National Council of Voluntary Organizations’ (NCVO) annual telethon fundraiser which is non-profit charitable organization dedicated to the care, education and well-being of children and families in need of support in the Cayman Islands. Members Spent several hours collecting funds in donation cans.
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We were happy to lend a hand to the Special Olympics Committe as they aimed to promote the Specail Olympics Cayman Islands primary goal of a holistic approach to a healthy activies for their athletes. The event provided free screening to athletes in Fun Fitness (physiotherapy), Fit Feet, Healthy Hearing, Health Promotion, Opening Eyes, Special Simes and MedFest. Members chaperoned some members of the Special Olympics team at the Lighthouse School auditorium through different stations and stayed with them for the afternoon ensuring they completed all of the various screenings.
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Vice President Alice visited the students at ICCI and provided a presentation on what, who and how to join Rotaract and how it can enhance one’s career to over 60 students
The presentation started off with an ice breaker (Rota-Bingo). This was to encourage students to learn something about their peers and also to provide a glimpse of what Rotaract has to offer.
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Rotaract Blue joined the Family Resource Center in Celebrating International Peace Day at Camana Bay. Members participated in a Flash Mob, tile painting and chalk drawing with other members of the community.
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Mechon and Tommy Ebanks’ came and did a presentation, parents of little Skylar "Mimi" Ebanks on their experience with "Mimi" thus for, who has been fighting cancer since she was 6 months old.
that she wanted to do her part to raise awareness about childhood cancer being a mother herself and her family also being a affected by cancer. Stephanie managed to fundraise $22,000 and participated in the head-shaving event, Hero’s for Hannah. The event raises funds for the St. Baldrick’s Foundation, a childhood cancer research charity in the United States, so that Mimi would be able to continue her treatment. Members showed their support by attending the event and some donated.
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As hurricane Ivan is a part of the Cayman culture, the club thought this would be an excellent opportunity for members to share their experience of both a life changing and uplifting event.
Members of Rotary Central and Rotaract Grand Cayman also joined us on the tour.
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A Fundraiser to aid Rotarian Derek Haines raise funds towards his Six4Hospice initiative to raise funds for a new Hospice facility. Members stood outside two venues: Hurleys Supermarket and Cost-u-Less.
We raised $2,000 towards to fundraiser.
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The new board was installed at a fantastic changeover event - the team is ready to go!
The first ever Rotaract Blue 5K movement is scheduled for this Saturday November 5, 2011 at Camana Bay. Event day registration opens at 7am and the Movement starts at 7:30am. Registration booth will be located in the Paseo.
Rotaract Blue Cayman Islands, better known as Rotaract Blue, is under the leadership of a new board of directors and officers. Marzeta Bodden was recently installed as the new president of Rotaract Blue.
Rotaract Blue hosts 3rd Annual Family Fun Day in an effort to raise funds for persons with special needs. Part proceeds made will be used towards the club’s upcoming Annual Open Arms Award Ceremony which honour individuals who have enriched the lives of disabled persons, as well as persons that have managed to excel in their lives, despite having a disability.
Rotaract Blue would like to say "THANK YOU" to all the people who made our children's book drive a success! We would like to thank Books & Books for their generous donation of books, Book Nook, the Cayman Islands Humane Society book Loft and all the members of Rotaract Blue and the Rotary Clubs that donated to the cause. Thank you ALL!!!!!
The second school reading books were donated to was the New Testament Pre-school in Rock Hole. The children and teachers were thankful and appreciative for the books given.
Through our children's book drive, we were able to donate reading books to two schools this year. Among these is the Edna M. Moyle Primary School in North Side. The children and Principal was very excited for them.
Rotaract Blue held a newspaper collection drive where we collected newspapers to donate to the Humane Society. The newspapers were donated on September 6th 2014, after which, a few members volunteered to walk the dogs.It was a wonderful experience.
On Saturday, 23 August 2014, members and friends of Rotaract Blue paid a special visit to the residents of The Pines Retirement Home. We were greeted with smiles and open hearts. We provided lunch for the residents and staff members of the Pines. While some served food, others joined in for sing-a-longs.
Do you have a book that your child no longer reads? We are collecting new and gently used books for ages 3 to 11 through the months of July and August. If you wish to make a donation, please contact any Rotaract Blue member or email us at communityservice.rb@gmail.com and we will arrange pick-up.
The fun continues as the members of Rotaract Blue read and did arts and crafts with the children at Books & Books.
In light of July being Literacy Month, members from Rotaract Blue spreads the joy of reading with the children at St.George's Pre-School.
Rotaract Blue was please to present a check to the recipient of the Fred Speirs Vocational Grant, Ms. Shana Linwood.
To change things up a bit, members and guests enjoyed an evening of cocktails with Her Excellency the Governor Helen Kilpatrick this Wednesday at Government House.
Students in the Early Act Club have been learning about the issue of water pollution and ways it can be prevented.
As a part of their home restoration programme, Rotaract Blue answered the call of West Bay homeowner David Ebanks. After some assessment, the club recognized the home suffered damage from a
Supporting a worthy cause, Rotaractors participated in the 22nd Annual St Patrick's Day 5K Irish Jog. Proceeds made from registration will go towards the Cayman Islands Crisis Centre.
In celebration of Int'l Day for Persons with Disabilities on 1 December, members paid a special visit to the staff and students of Lighthouse School for their opening ceremony last Tuesday, 3 December.
With amazing projects and goals already lined up, the 2013-2104 Board is ready to hit the ground running.
Over 200 civil servants took part in a dress down day to support Rotaract Blue’s Open Arms Programme on Thursday, 28 March 2013.
Open Arms promotes non-discrimination for disabled persons and aims to help integrate those living with disabilities into the community while providing support and recognition to persons who care for them.
As part of this year’s programme, Rotaract Blue organized dress down months to raise awareness of the different disorders, and asking companies to wear a specific colour associated with the disorder on any chosen day that represent disorders. For the remaining months, and according to international standards: purple is for Attention Deficit Disorder (ADD) in March, grey for Dyslexia in April, and teal for Obsessive Compulsive Disorder in May.
The Honourable Deputy Governor and Head of the Civil Service, Mr. Franz Manderson, JP said, “On behalf of the entire Civil Service, I commend Rotaract Blue on their efforts within the Open Arms Programme and I am pleased that we were able to support persons living with disorders through this initiative. I wish to thank the many Civil Servants who participated in this dress down day. I look forward to the Civil Service participating in similar initiatives in the future, as we work towards becoming more community-minded.”
The Cayman Islands Civil Service, which is the second organisation to participate in the programme, donated a total of CI$1135 to support the fight against ADD in March. Ministry of Finance had the largest number of participants with 46 staff taking part.
Club President Jacqueline Golding-McDonald said, “The response from the Civil Service has been overwhelming. As Aristotle says: The ultimate value of life depends on awareness and the power of contemplation rather than mere survival – and bringing awareness and promoting non-discrimination is what we aim to do with our Open Arms Programme.”
With over one billion people living with disabilities around the world, Rotaract Blue stands committed to this initiative.
Over 200 civil servants took part in a dress down day to support Rotaract Blue’s Open Arms Programme on Thursday, 28 March 2013.
Open Arms promotes non-discrimination for disabled persons and aims to help integrate those living with disabilities into the community while providing support and recognition to persons who care for them.
A donation from a local business is assisting Rotaract Blue’s efforts to help the disabled community.
After a series of dress down days in January, Deloitte recently donated about US$1,000 toward the club’s Open Arms Award Programme. Deloitte also assisted with the donation of five computers for the Sunrise Adult Training Centre.
Staff at Computer Geekz volunteered time to ensure that the computers have been kept updated and functioning at maximum capacity.
Recognising the potential value of this partnership, Deloitte’s Managing Partner Stu Sybersma said: “The Deloitte management and staff are pleased to have been able to contribute and I commend Rotaract Blue for introducing the Open Arms Programme to our community. A project like this was much needed and it is a great honour to join the club in their efforts to build awareness about disabilities and honouring those who go that extra mile.”
Club President Jacqueline Golding-McDonald said: “Assisting the community has always been at the heart of Rotaract Blue and we are grateful to Deloitte for sharing this vision with us. We are confident that their contribution will enhance our awareness in helping to build a stronger community through our Open Arms Programme.”
The club is encouraging other companies to join the initiative by helping to raise awareness and promote nondiscrimination for the disabled community.
Companies can organise dress down days by wearing specific colours, which will help represent disorders: blue and yellow for Down’s syndrome, purple for attention deficit disorder, grey for dyslexia and teal for obsessive compulsive disorder.
For additional information on Rotaract Blue’s Open Arms Programme, contact the chairman at rotaractblue@gmail.com
Find more details about this exciting event on facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CapturedByRotaract
WHEN: February 23, 2013 12:00-4:00 PM
WHERE: Camana Bay- Market Street, Next to Eclipze.
Rotaract Blue would like all past, present and future sponsors and supporters to come out and see what we've been up to.
November 3 2011, Rotaract Blue hosted “Shades of Red”, an annual wine tasting event to benefit the Cayman AIDS Foundation. This annual event utilizes a warm and relaxed atmosphere in an effort to raise awareness about and encourage healthy lifestyle choices that prevent the spread of HIV/AIDS. HIV/AIDS education is one of Rotaract Blue’s key platforms.
This year’s event was hosted at The Brasserie with the theme: “Night in Paris”. Guests were treated to exquisite wines from France specially handpicked by sommeliers Roberto Logioia Dette of Blackbeard’s and Harvey Setterfield of Vino Veritas.
Exotic canapés by Brasserie's culinary team and soft music by Eugenio Leon completed a perfect atmosphere.
The event allowed Rotaract Blue to make a donation of CI$4,000 to the Cayman AIDS Foundation. On receiving the donation, Cherine Usherwood, Vice President of the Cayman AIDS Foundation, expressed deep gratitude and encouraged Rotaract Blue to continue its support of the Foundation.
Jacqueline Golding-McDonald, President of Rotaract Blue, said, “I am happy to see the continued positive results of Shades of Red. The event has allowed us to shed light on a community issue and make an impact in a way that is of great benefit to the Cayman Islands and its people. We are grateful for the momentum that this event has garnered in terms of public support and its ongoing contribution to the fight against HIV/AIDS. Rotaract Blue is proud to be part of the solution.”
Rotaract Blue would like to thank the sponsors of Shades of Red: Blackbeard's, Butterfield Bank, Cayman Airways, Cayman National, DART Cayman Islands, David Goddard Photography, dms Broadcasting Ltd., Intec Research Production Services, Island Companies, LIME, Maples, UBS, Voss Water, and The Brasserie. The support of these organisations is invaluable in enhancing the awareness and prevention of HIV/AIDS.
Small gestures make a big difference to Rotaract Blue.
In addition to Rotary’s fight for Polio eradication and as a part of Rotaract Blue’s international community service projects, the club recently held its second annual 5K Movement in aid of the Jaipur Limb project in India. This project is to help those victims who have lost their limbs during landmine explosions.
An increase in the number of persons who need special care or assistance left Rotaract Blue eager to find out just how well such individuals are accommodated.
The club is proud to join other countries around the world in celebration of International Day for Persons With Disabilities on 3 December. In keeping with this year’s theme: Removing barriers to create an inclusive and accessible society for all and in conjunction with the club’s Open Arms Programme, Rotaract Blue intends to promote non-discrimination for disabled persons and enhance society’s understanding of their needs.
Rotaract Blue, Rotary Central joined with Ocean Conservancy to give The Smith Cove beach a well needed face lift. Director Cedric stated “We were amazed at the amount of litter that was collected from the beach, and encourage patrons of this beach and the general public to be more considerate and conscious of the natural environment of our beloved islands.” The club plans to continue with this initiative and will execute other projects geared towards raising environmental awareness.
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By providing grants to young adults who are interested in pursuing a career in a vocational service, Rotaract Blue has been making dreams come true.
Through an application process, the Fred Speirs Vocational Grant was designed for eligible Caymanians between the ages of 16 and 30 wishing to pursue a vocational or technical course either locally or overseas. Like a typical scholarship, the grant may be used for education expenses such as tuition, fees, books, accommodation, food and other related expenses.
Awarded with CI$1000, the club is proud to announce this year’s Fred Speirs Vocational Grant - Jawara Alleyne. As he is no stranger in the local fashion scenes, Jawara is hopeful in pursuing studies in fashion design at London College of Fashion. His studies will begin in early September.
Followed by month long newspaper collection drive, Rotaract Blue was able to donate hundreds of papers to The Humane Society. The papers will be used as beddings for the animals.
Caption L-R (standing): Club members Alice Ramos, Marzeta Bodden, Vanessa Williams, Jacqueline McDonald, Cedric Gidarisingh, Dannel Rahamut, Brandon Lee of Rotary Central and Tunde McDonald (kneeling at front left) are seen with Shelter Manager Jason.
Overwhelmed by the sponsorship, Rotaract Blue extends a huge thank you to sponsors for its 5th Annual Open Arms Award Ceremony.
Open Arms Person of the Month features success milestones of persons with special needs.
18-year-old Tevin is an outstanding vocational student at Lighthouse School. He is responsible, dependable and always helpful. With an interest in culinary arts,
Rotaract Blue Cayman Islands together with its sister club, Rotaract Club of Grand Cayman, donated proceeds following a fruitful Cancer Walk which was held as a fundraiser in recognition of World Rotaract Week.
Rotaract Blue Cayman Islands is gearing up for its 4th Annual Open Arms Awards Ceremony on Saturday, 2 July.
The ceremony, at Ristorante Pappagallo at 7pm, will honour caretakers, teachers and others throughout the Cayman Islands who have assisted individuals with special needs.
The event will also recognise people who have excelled in their lives despite their disability.
If you know someone who has gone above and beyond with assisting disabled persons in our community and should be recognised for their hard work and dedication, please complete the form and submit to rotaractblue@gmail.com. Nomination forms are now available on www.rotaractblue.org. (HERE) The deadline for submission is 17 June.
Tickets for the award ceremony cost $50 and include a three-course dinner, entry for the drawing for raffle prizes and a donation to the Open Arms Programme.
Proceeds will benefit organisations such as the Lighthouse School, Sunrise Adult Training Center, Maple House, Special Olympics and other Rotaract Blue Open Arms projects.
This year's conference will be in Turks & Caicos!
Date: May 29, 2011 - June 5, 2011
Please check out the link below for more information on the conference.
http://www.rotaract7020conference.org/
Saturday August 14th
Camana Bay - Gardenia Court
Registration at 10:30am Event begins at 11am until 1:00pm
Rotaract Blue Fundraiser
Car Wash
June 26, 2010
The Auto Spa
Tickets must be purchased from Rotaract Blue members in advance. See below and flyer for more details.
Rotaract Blue invites you to our 3rd Membership Drive on May 15, 2010 starting at 4 pm at the Attic (in Queens Court). Come and see why Rotaract Blue is the club for YOU!!!
Every year, World Rotaract Week honours the chartering of the first Rotaract Club in North Carolina USA on March 13, 1968. The Rotaract Blue Cayman Islands joined Rotaract Clubs around the world in marking the 42
nd
year of Rotaract's existence by taking part in numerous activities throughout the week.
| A room in West Bay's newly renovated Golden Age Home will be named the "Rotaract Blue Suite" to commemorate the club's $5,500 donation to help outfit the retirement home. |
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We will be having a car wash on April 17, 2010 to raise funds for Rotaract Blue.
Please contact members from Rotaract Blue.
Rotaract Blue Cayman Islands was pleased to recently receive a contribution from the Young Cayman Community Awareness Society (YCCAS) for USD $1000 to be used to donate to ShelterBox for victims of the Haitian earthquake disaster.
The Cayman Islands Rotary and Rotaract clubs are hosting a Jazz for Haiti fundraising concert on Wednesday, 3 February.
Art @ Governors
January 30, 2010
1:00 to 5:00 pm
Rotaract Blue has been invited to Art @ Gov for a second time!!
http://www.cayman27.com.ky/news/item/2884
Rotaract Blue represented at UCCI's "Service Club Day"- letting students know what this fantastic group is all about!
The newly inducted members; Nadia Ebanks, David Hydes, Allison Anglin, Heather Roffey, Jessica Powell and Ranel Grant received their Rotaract pins during the month of August.
See excerpt below from a recent press release on our newest members!
In recognition of Literacy Month, members of Rotaract Blue paid a visit to the kids at Books & Books on Saturday, 25 July 2009, where they participated in a reading session followed by
Our very own club member and Director of International Service, Leigh Smellie, is one of the lucky Rotaractors who have been sponsored by Rotary Sunrise to attend the Rotary Youth Leadership Awards ("RYLA") in Washington, DC.
Rotaract Blue held its first Annual Membership Drive on June 13 2009 at Jillian's Billiard Lounge & Bar and it turned out to be a huge success. Over 20 people came out to hear what Rotaract Blue is all about.
Under our Vocational Grant Program, Rotaract Blue offered its first annual Vocational Grant in 2008. The Vocational Grant is available to eligible Caymanians from the ages of 16 to 30 wishing to pursue a vocational or technical course either locally or overseas, above and supplemental to high school.
As promised, our 2nd Annual Open Arms Award Ceremony, held on 30 May 2009, was as heart-warming as last year! The theme of the night was "Just Like You" which helped to promote non-discrimination against disabled persons and show that we are all equal.
Rotaract Blue marked World Diabetes Day on November 14th in the District of East End with a Diabetes Awareness and Prevention Booth at the East End Heritage Day.
Rotaract Blue understands the value of Vocational development in the Cayman Islands and takes action to create opportunities for young Caymanians to have access to the necessary training and education. Our Vocational Grant is heading into it’s 5th Year of providing Young professionals of the Cayman Islands with the opportunity to further their studies home or abroad. The Fred Speirs Vocational Grant is for eligible applicants, between 16 and 30 years of age, who are enrolled or have been accepted into a local or overseas vocational/ technical skills course, above and supplemental to high school.
Rotary Youth Leadership Awards North America
June 30, 2009 to July 5, 2009 Washington DC, USA
The deadline to apply to Rotary Sunrise for sponsorship to attend the upcoming RYLA North America 2009 is Thursday, 30 April. Let's not make this great opportunity pass us by!
Many thanks to Assistant Secretary Stephanie and Treasurer Yvette who contributed to the designs of the logo options that were put forward for consideration!
Martha's House, a Mustard Seed Community Home in
The Diabetic Support Group is pleased to introduce a '30-minute Beach Walk' starting 6:30 am on Wednesday 14 January 2009 at the Royal Palms Beach Club.
During the annual Rotaract District 7020 Conference, Rotaract clubs from Anguilla, Bahamas, BVI, Cayman, Hiati, Jamaica, French West Indies, Netherlands Antilles and US (which makes up District 7020) come together to network, fellowship, and gain knowledge while enjoying a lifetime experience! This year's conference will take place in Dutch, St Maarten starting June 4th - 8th 2009.
World AIDS Day began in 1988 when health ministers from around the world met and agreed on the concept of the day as an opportunity for all of us to come together to demonstrate the importance of AIDS and show solidarity for the cause. In 2008, this underlining principle of solidarity and awareness remains the same.
The Royal Cayman Islands Police Service (RCIPS) delivered key personal safety messages to 12 members of the Rotaract Blue during a recent meeting of the club.
Click the link to light a virtual candle and Bring Diabetes to Light!
http://www.worlddiabetesday.org/files/bannersnippets/WDD08-virtualcandle-skyscraper.txt
Rotaract Blue joins the Business and Professional Women's Club of Grand Cayman in the fight against Domestic Violence
On December 5, 2007, Ms. Rosa Mclean, currently working at the Department of Tourism, presented a business dining etiquette workshop to the club.
Rotaract Blue, a club for young professionals who are working to make a positive difference in the community, held their first Annual Open Arms Ceremony on Saturday, 12 July at the Marriott Beach Resort at 7:00 pm.
Rotaract Blue held their second Induction ceremony on March 19, 2008 where 9 persons became members of the club.
The final group picture of conference.
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