Belonging to one of the world’s most regarded international service organisations, Rotary Elizabeth Quay (REQ) embraces the sentiment of service above self and at the same time asks the question, how now? Our purpose is to inspire generosity, our mission to bring innovative service opportunities to fruition in a fast paced world.
Since chartering in February 2017 we have provided Perth professionals with the chance to learn about, connect with and get hands-on with numerous local charities. Our members come from all walks of life but stand united by their social conscience and a desire to give back. We believe everyone can make a difference.
In the past 12 months we have experimented with a new way of working aka “squad” culture to better suit the needs of our members. This model has enhanced our club culture and creativity and created more flexibility in meeting structure & project delivery. Being adaptable and open to change means we can be accommodating and attractive to a more diverse membership. In this way Rotary remains relevant, no matter what your agenda.
Past President and Multicultural Volunteer of the Year 2021 Awardee - Tristan Kolay, explains how to plan and deliver volunteering projects - the REQ way!
As in any volunteering pursuit, it’s worth considering what you bring, how much you can give and how you wish to contribute to the whole. At REQ we have found one of the most successful strategies is for members to channel their skills and interests to support charities that resonate with them. The following are examples of this in action.
In 2020 we introduced ourselves to Scott and David founders of Assisting Your Life to Achieve (AYLA), recognising the incredible work they do to provide shelter, mental health support and opportunities for those at risk in our LGBTQI community. Since that time, REQ has worked to establish a relationship with AYLA and a partnership that provides ongoing volunteering opportunities to our members.
In the past couple of months we’ve taken part in a Backyard Blitz (DIY/garden maintenance) and thrown a Catwalk OpShop event to raise funds for AYLA’s operations. These events have demonstrated the positive impact that can be achieved through collective action, inclusivity and understanding what diversity means in our world today.
REQ respects the long history of service provided by St Vincent de Paul (Vinnies) for many disadvantaged Australians. Being one of Australia’s largest not-for-profits, Vinnies is well- equipped to facilitate endless volunteering opportunities for our members! In the early months of the Covid-pandemic REQ responded by hosting a Covid-food drive to support families in need, with over 3.2 tonnes of items donated! The success of this event inspired us to back it up again 6 months later, giving us the chance to prepare Christmas hampers for 75 households, many of whom were from migrant and refugee backgrounds. Maintaining this relationship with Vinnies means we can reconnect with the beneficiaries of our volunteering and see the direct impact we are having in their lives.
REQ Volunteers at various events in 2021. Top left to bottom right; Dean Fuller at the Backyard Blitz on 10 April, the 100 Years of Rotary Joint District Conference Banner on 6 March, Dani Winzenried at the Regional Weekender 26 March, Minh Dang at Cat Haven 13 March, many members and friends at Camp Opportunity 13 January, Nadine Auguste and Rachel Hiu at Vinnies Clothes Sort on 20 March.
By Past President - Alex Truelove