As the Rotary Club of Retford embraces the start of 2025, members are focused on consolidating the efforts made during the festive season and organising the distribution of funds raised to support deserving causes.
The Bassetlaw Hospital Emergency Village appeal has already received £4,041 from the Club, which will be used to purchase equipment for the soon-to-open Children’s Assessment Unit. Bassetlaw Hospice was also delighted to receive £3,000 raised during the Christmas Victorian Fair held at Ye Olde Bell.
Despite torrential rain on Sunday 7th December, the Club’s street collection for the End Polio Now campaign proceeded, raising £200. The following day, the Santa Run went ahead in similarly wet conditions, generating further funds to support the Hospice and the Bassetlaw Food Bank.
The Percy Laws Trustees have also made a significant impact through recent awards, benefiting individuals, families, groups, and local organisations. Recipients include:
- The MOB for their future productions.
- Christians Against Poverty for Christmas hampers and meat tokens.
- A local EHS student towards overseas volunteering.
- Tuxford Manor Care Home for Christmas gifts for residents.
- Branching Out, to support young people using their services over the festive period.
Individuals or groups involved in projects that could benefit from Percy Laws funding are encouraged to contact the Club via their website at www.rotaryclubofretford.co.uk.
The Club welcomed two new members in December and remains eager to connect with local people interested in learning more about Rotary and membership. The Club offers diverse opportunities, including environmental initiatives, community and youth projects, international support programmes, and volunteering roles. Those interested are invited to reach out via the website or Facebook page to arrange a chat or attend a meeting.
At the first January meeting, the Club drew the winners of its Christmas Raffle, which included Sunday lunches at Ye Olde Bell and an array of hampers. Prizes have since been distributed to the winners, and the funds raised will support the Hope for the Homeless project in Bassetlaw.
As January progresses, planning is underway for the many events scheduled for 2025, featuring both familiar favourites and new ideas. The goal remains to create fun, sociable activities while addressing the needs of local and international communities. The Club looks forward to engaging with friends and supporters, both old and new, in the coming year.