The Rotary Club of Ashbourne has marked a record-breaking year of fundraising while unveiling an exciting programme of activities aimed at providing help where it is most needed and attracting new members to the organisation.
Record Fundraising Achievement
Club President David Hidgecock announced that the club raised more than £20,000 through a variety of community events and fundraising activities. This success was made possible by the dedication of Rotary members and the generous support of local residents and businesses. Fundraising events included the sale of Christmas trees, a horse riding event, the Brailsford Ploughing Match, a charity golf day, and collections outside Marks and Spencer. The club also organised local Shoebox Appeals and Easter Egg Campaigns for children and families in Eastern Europe.
Funds Distributed to Wide Range of Causes
The funds raised have supported numerous local, national, and international causes, including Carsington Sailability, educational programmes at the National Stone Centre, English language lessons for Ukrainian doctors, Ace Youth Trust, Derbyshire Blood Bikes, local Scouts and Guides groups, Clifton School, CAPE, the Mayor’s Charity, Support Dogs, children’s cancer charities, community park benches, and Clifton Cricket Club. Internationally, support went to the Ukraine Film School, Aquabox, Convoy4Ukraine, and Lending with Care in Africa. The Rotary Foundation, in partnership with WHO, has also been instrumental in the 99.9 per cent eradication of polio worldwide.
Focus on Youth Initiatives
Looking ahead, Club President-Elect Stuart Smalley MBE announced a strong focus on supporting and inspiring young people in the community. Applications will soon open for several youth-focused initiatives, including:
- Young Musicians – providing an opportunity for talented local young performers to showcase their abilities.
- Young Writer Competition – encouraging the storytellers of tomorrow to develop and share their creative talents.
- Rotary Youth Leadership Awards (RYLA) – a life-changing residential leadership programme held in Derbyshire, helping young people develop confidence, leadership skills, and lifelong friendships.
Dates and further details for each event will be announced closer to the time.
New Membership Drive
The President-Elect also highlighted the wealth of experience and expertise within the club’s membership. Many Rotary members possess valuable professional skills that can be used to support younger people, including help with CV preparation, interview techniques, and career development. A key objective for the coming year is to attract new members and broaden the club’s reach within the community. The club is keen to welcome both men and women of all ages who would like to make a difference, support local causes, and enjoy friendship and fellowship with like-minded people.
Open Evening Invitation
As the club prepares for another busy year of service, members are encouraging local residents to find out more about Rotary and the many ways they can get involved. Whether through full membership or as a “Friend of Rotary”, there are opportunities to contribute to community projects, support fundraising events, and help improve lives both locally and internationally. Anyone interested is invited to attend a special open evening at Ashbourne Golf Club on Tuesday, June 16, at 7pm for a 7.30pm start. Guests will be treated to an Asian buffet and will also hear from Sarah Dufton of the Cyber Crime Unit, who will give a presentation on “Cyber and Scams in the Digital World”. Those wishing to attend are asked to book in advance for catering purposes by emailing ashbournerotary@gmail.com. The club hopes the event will encourage more people to discover the rewards of Rotary membership and become part of an organisation dedicated to friendship, service, and making a positive difference in the community.
