Hope is a powerful force that has the potential to transform lives, communities, and even the world. It is the belief in a brighter future, the motivation to overcome challenges, and the driving force behind positive change.
In the world of service and humanitarianism, the Rotary International theme of 2022–23, “Create Hope in the World,” encapsulates the essence of my Rotary’s mission to take part to make the world a better place. Allow me to share the significance of this theme and how our Rotary club is actively engaged in creating hope through the diverse projects and initiatives that were executed.
The Power of Hope
Hope can be more than just our wishful thinking, but I can say that it’s a catalyst for action and resilience. It inspires me to look beyond the current circumstances, to dream big, and to work tirelessly to turn those dream projects into reality. Hope empowers our club members and communities around San Pablo City, especially during the pandemic, to face adversity with courage and determination. In essence, hope is the antidote to despair, and it is through hope that we find the motivation to create positive change in the world.
The Rotary International Theme: “Create Hope in the World”
Rotary International is a global network of 1.4 million members in over 35,000 clubs, that understands the transformative power of hope. Each year, Rotary International selects a theme that guides its activities and initiatives, and “Create Hope in the World” is a theme that resonates deeply with the organization’s mission and values.
Rotary’s primary areas of focus, including promoting peace, supporting education, providing clean water and sanitation, saving mothers and children, and growing local economies, all contribute to the creation of hope. By addressing these fundamental needs, Rotary clubs around the world are actively working to improve the quality of life for people in their communities and beyond.
RC of San Pablo City: Creating the Lasting Community Service
At the Rotary Club of San Pablo City, we are also at the forefront of creating hope through creating service projects and initiatives to attain the common mission. We collaborate with local and international partners to address pressing issues and make a lasting impact. Some of the prominent projects created for Rotary Hope Creating year which kicks-off campaign for creating hope in the world, include:
- Ngiti ng Pag-Asa (Smile of Hope) – the longest-running dental mission of the “Ngiti San Pablo, Ngiti” project that was initially funded through a grant from Rotary International, and it continues to this day.
- Liwanag ng Pag-Asa (Light of Hope): A two monumental project that consists of solar lamp posts for the barangay that needed street lighting and the “Eye Glasses of Hope” which benefited Senior High School students of public schools.
- Paaralan ng Pag-Asa (School of Hope): This is in partnership with the DepEd’s Adopt-a-School program where
- Providing Access to Clean Water: Rotary clubs are involved in projects to provide clean and safe drinking water to communities in need. This not only improves health and sanitation but also gives hope to people who no longer have to worry about waterborne diseases.
- Supporting Education: Through scholarships, school construction projects, and literacy programs, Rotary promotes education as a pathway to hope and opportunity for children and young adults around the world.
- Fighting Disease: Rotary’s commitment to eradicating diseases like polio demonstrates how concerted efforts can bring hope to millions by preventing suffering and disability.
- Promoting Peace and Conflict Resolution: Rotary fosters peace by supporting initiatives that address the root causes of conflict, bringing hope to areas ravaged by violence and instability.
- Community Development: Rotary clubs invest in local economies by promoting sustainable agriculture, microfinance, and small business development, creating hope for a brighter economic future.
Hope is the driving force behind Rotary International’s mission to “Create Hope in the World.” Through their dedication to service, Rotary clubs worldwide are actively engaged in projects and initiatives that improve the lives of individuals and communities. By addressing critical issues such as clean water, education, healthcare, and peace, Rotary creates hope where it is needed most.
Preparing for the 75th Anniversary: Continuing the Legacy of Service
As we wrap up another year under the banner of creating hope, the Rotary Club of San Pablo City is now turning its eyes toward a milestone that fills me with pride and anticipation—our 75th founding anniversary on June 5, 2025. This momentous occasion isn’t just about looking back at our rich history, but also about forging ahead, ensuring that the legacy of hope and service continues for the next generation of Rotarians.
In the spirit of this anniversary, we’ve already begun laying the groundwork for projects that will honor our club’s legacy while addressing the current and future needs of our community.
