Dear D7090 Rotarian,
In times of crisis and conflict, such as the horrible situation that is going on in Ukraine, the world can feel overwhelming. During a crisis, everyone will process things in their own unique way. There is not ONE right response to this dark situation. However, I take pride and hope in knowing the many ways that Rotary is helping to support all those in need. People have been asking me - "What can I do as a Rotarian?". Here are four suggested actions - you pick which one works for you and / or your Rotary club. 1. Give to The Rotary Foundation Disaster Relief Fund. Those monies are going directly into Ukraine. To quote John Germ, Chair of The Rotary Foundation - "this is the priority" - to direct all funds knowing that disaster response grants to supply water, food, medicine, shelter and clothing will be put to use quickly and effectively in the regions most in need. Our relief fund works with our partner Shelter Boxes, the United Nations High Commission on Refugees as well as The Rotary Action Group for Refugees, Forced Displacement, and Migration is also mobilizing its resources to assist in this crisis. https://my.rotary.org/en/disaster-response-fund. You can do it online of course donate online www.rotary.org/en/donate 2. Read and share Rotary's official position on the war. You will find the statement in our March 7090 District Newsletter that was published this weekend. Rotary is a peace promoting organization. This is a powerful message and I am sure there will be more such statements coming in the near future. In fact, the Rotary Action Group Chairs Council is meeting with General Secretary of Rotary International - John Hewko on March 16. Our CEO John Hewko is a chartered member of the Rotary Club of Kviv so he is directly involved and focused on finding the best ways for Rotary to respond. 3. Reach out and offer some words of support directly to the various Rotary clubs in the war-torn region. There are 50+ clubs in Ukraine; over 125 in Russia. This message would be way too long if I listed all the ways to connect with our fellow Rotarians. In the spirit of Rotary, each of these Rotary clubs is working to transcend national differences and find peace building and aid activities to help all victims. If you are a hashtag user, #StandWithRotary is one of many you might want to use when on Twitter or FaceBook or other social media. 4. Find another way of response that appeals to your club - using the amazing networks of Rotary. I have been contacted to tell me about clubs shipping Medical Supplies by container; another sending basic food and clothing to Rotary partners in Poland and Germany. I attach a document that has a list of all the projects currently being driven by Rotary. Of course, more are being planned each day. As Governor, it is not fair of me to advocate one response over another - there are so many ways Rotarians are helping. There is no wrong response. I am going to stay true to the message from Rotary International to direct my energy and monies to the Rotary Disaster Fund focused on this crisis. You do what you think is best. Whatever you choose, it will be right for you and that is what matters most. Stay safe and take good care of yourselves and others. Anne Bermingham Governor, Rotary District 7090 (Best of Friends District) Proud Member, Rotary Club of Hamilton AM We are "People of Action" who "Serve to Change Lives" | 
It is a tragic and sad time for the people of Ukraine and the world.