Rotary District 5190 is one of the largest districts in the world, covering over 96,000 miles in area! We are so large and far apart that we are divided into 13 geographic areas. By working together in their respective areas our clubs are able to give back to their local communities stronger than would be possible for a single club. We do great things in our communities and the world. We welcome you to visit with us and hopefully consider joining us in "Doing Good In The World".

Find the JOY in your Rotary JOurneY

Welcome to 2020-2021! We flip the calendar from June to July. A new Rotary year begins. And, as it does, we each take a step forward onto a new leg of our Rotary journey and look ahead to what’s next. It’s time to determine where we will put our energy in 2020-21 and what we want to do to make a difference. And it is time to decide HOW we can and will take action in this changed COVID-19 dominated world.

The world needs Rotarians - People of Action - more than ever, to assess the needs in our communities and to innovate ways to address those needs – safely. As we continue to blaze new trails to accomplish our clubs’ missions, what stands out for me is how the Rotarians in our district are approaching all the changes mandated by the pandemic with character and grace, demonstrating the Rotary Core Values that define us: we provide positive leadership; we operate with integrity; we embrace the diversity of our communities; we treasure the fellowship of our relationships and friendships; and we take action with our hearts – and hands and feet – of service.

I am inspired by the strength and vibrancy of our clubs and our members who are finding meaning and joy in their Rotary experience from the inside out, changed as it is. With this attitude and fortitude and strength of character, we WILL grow Rotary. Yes, right now we are going through a period of change and a bit of chaos, but we ARE adapting with new club formats, reassessing our fundraising approaches, and expanding our online training methods. From the outside in, new potential members are seeing how flexible we really are and how Rotarians respond, especially in a time of crisis.

The goals I set for our district (click here) before COVID-19 have not changed, although how we accomplish them might! Let’s explore the new trails we are on with curiosity and excitement, with belief in our own capabilities to solve problems and to lead to improvements for the individuals and communities we serve. For example, although our traditional youth programs (RYLA, REGL, RYE) are postponed until next year, let’s look for different ways to support our local youth. Let’s maximize the impact of our dollars by utilizing our Global and District Grants. Let’s continue to donate to the Annual Fund of The Rotary Foundation so that in future years even more dollars will be available for grants. Let’s push toward the finish line for eradicating polio so that we can keep our promise to the children of the world. Let’s stand up – every one of us – as proud leaders and take advantage of Rotary’s opportunities to expand our own skillsets as well as develop the skills of the young people with whom we interact. Let’s learn continuously and improve continuously so that we stay relevant and nimble and prepared to address the needs of our local and global communities now and in the future.

Yes, our clubs and our district are on a new, uncleared trail but I am confident in our club members and I am excited to see where this journey leads, especially as I set out next week to meet with each of the clubs between now and December. Let’s find the JOY in this JOurneY together and open the doors to every opportunity we can in the year ahead. I can’t wait to see you on the trail!

Berta Pickett

District Governor 2020-21
Rotary International District 5190