Transformative Impact and Funding Opportunities through Rotary Projects

By Lorraine Kirigia

Empowering Our Communities through Holistic Development

It’s been Two months since the We Are One flight took off. What an exciting journey it is, traveling to different clubs with our District Governor Leonard Ithau, albeit virtually and through his social media handles. Seeing the work, Rotarians are doing in our respective clubs has been absolutely riveting. The clarion call from our DG has been consistent; collaborate, show impact and scale up on our projects.

From a fundraising and partnerships perspective, I believe it is important for us as Rotarians to answer this call. Not sure if as Rotarians we appreciate or grasp the fact that we belong to a globally renowned organization that has been at the forefront of positive change for over a century! I doubt there is any other organization this old with proven commitment to humanitarian service, ethical leadership, and community development.

Rotary indeed has established itself as a formidable force in driving social progress. Armed with this information any organization be it a corporate or private fund, will be honored to partner and work with Rotary District 9212. For us to get these partners and funding, however, in this very tough economy may I add, as a District, we must showcase the tangible impact of our ongoing or completed projects. We can then leverage corporate and private funding by effectively demonstrating how these projects/initiatives align with the values and goals of these potential corporates and private partners.

Here’s how the district (again through the recent club visits by the DG) can strategically leverage its impact projects to attract local partnerships and funding. We shall look at how through just telling our stories this month has a huge impact and introduce the other areas in the subsequent editions.

Compelling Impact Stories: As a district we should develop compelling narratives around our completed/ongoing projects, highlighting the transformative changes brought about in communities. Sharing real-life stories of individuals whose lives have been positively impacted by Rotary’s initiatives can resonate with potential funders, emphasizing the direct and meaningful change that their support can bring.

On July 12^th, 2023, a number of Rotarians accompanied the DG in Mwingi, Kitui County to handover the Sand Dams project by RC Embakassi in collaboration with two other international clubs in District 1145. From this one project delivered to the Katethya Self Help Group, we can demonstrate how this initiative has brought about remarkable transformation in the lives of this community, fostering food security, improved hygiene, enhanced nutrition, economic empowerment, peace, and sustainable development. Notice how our seven areas of focus are in play by just providing water to this community. Let’s start with the empowering impact the Sand Dams have;

1. Food Security: This initiative has strengthened food security within this community. Through innovative agricultural practices, families are now able to produce food, reducing their dependency on external sources and ensuring a steady food supply. They were so happy to show us the vegetables they are now able to grow in their kitchen gardens. Which corporate organization has a focus on improving food security? Find them and invite them to partner and support you financially to enhance this.

2. Improved Hygiene and Disease Reduction: By promoting better hygiene practices, the women group confessed that they had seen a significant reduction in diseases. Access to clean water and improved sanitation facilities has led to healthier living conditions, preventing the spread of waterborne illnesses. Again a number of organization are big on disease prevention. Showcase this and request for partnership and funding.

3. Economic Empowerment: Thanks to this initiative new economic activities were introduced to this community such as animal husbandry, apiculture (beekeeping), and brick-making. These activities have provided additional income streams for households, leading to improved economic stability and reduced vulnerability. Every corporate organization through their CSR or Foundation departments has this as a goal, economic empowerment. Right here is a proven demonstration on what as Rotary we are doing to empower our communities. Package it well and invite these organizations to partner.

5. Peace and Security: Engaging individuals in productive farming activities has contributed to a sense of peace and security within communities. Government officials present at the handover testified to the positive impact of this initiative in fostering stability and reducing conflict.

6. Improved Housing: With the introduction of brick-making, families now have access to construction materials that enable them to build better homes. This has elevated their quality of life by providing safer and more comfortable living spaces.

7. Education Access: Children no longer have to embark on long treks in search of water before or after school. This has led to increased school attendance as students can now focus on their education, thereby improving their prospects for the future. It also created a need for an Early Childhood Development (ECD) school for the 3-5-year-old children.

8. Strengthened Families: The positive changes brought about by this initiative have fostered stronger bonds within families and communities. Through collective efforts, individuals are united in their pursuit of common goals, leading to cohesive and supportive social structures. In fact, many women testified that their men who mostly work in the city are now back home every weekend! Impact I tell you!

The above clearly demonstrates what value any partner would get partnering with RC Embakassi. Foundations and organizations whose CSR or ESG is tied to empowering communities economically. This club was also challenged to partner with the over ten clubs that had accompanied the DG on this visit. What this means is this combined support will not only sustain ongoing projects but also enable RC Embakassi expand their reach and create an even more profound impact on the lives of community members. By extending this invite to corporate partners, D9212 through RC Embakassi you can guarantee any partner the following:

Make a Meaningful Difference: Your financial contribution will directly contribute to improved living conditions, enhanced economic opportunities, and a brighter future for communities in need. This has clearly been demonstrated above and you can measure the impact using a number of different metrics.
Align with Sustainable Development: Rotary’s initiatives align with global sustainable development goals, demonstrating your commitment to positive social and environmental impact. Environmental, Social and Governance investing is at the core of deliverables every corporate has today.
Enhance Your Brand Reputation: By supporting impactful community projects, your brand will be associated with positive change and philanthropy, enhancing your reputation and goodwill.
Receive Recognition: As a valued partner, your support will be acknowledged through our communication channels, events, and project materials, showcasing your dedication to making a difference.

I encourage us not to shy away from using this language to seek funding not to dwell so much on sponsorships. Let’s prove that the transformative impact of our initiatives on food security, hygiene, nutrition, economic empowerment, peace, education, and community cohesion speaks volumes about our commitment to holistic development. District 9212 invites partners to contribute to our efforts and be a catalyst for lasting positive change. Together, we can create brighter futures for the communities we serve and make a profound difference in the world.

Lorraine Kirigia is the Rotary District 9212 Chair, Resource Mobilization & Partnerships

Enquiries: partnerships@rotary9212.org