Notes from the Rotary Meeting 12.30pm Thursday, February 19, 2026.

President Olaf chaired the meeting. 

Donna had asked for volunteers to look after the Toonie Quest West table on Saturday at the Winter Carnival Craft and Gift Expo. Could anyone with free time on Saturday who would be willing to help please contact Donna.

After lunch, Adam introduced the guest speaker, Melanie Barrow who spoke about the new Ukrainian National Federation Chapter being started in Western Newfoundland, UNF-WNL to be based in Corner Brook.  The Avalon Branch of UNF is sponsoring this new chapter.

 Melanie began reading a message outlining the work done by the Avalon Chapter of UNF and speaking about her current role in UNF and how an office has been opened on 38, Main Street, Corner Brook which will be the Ukrainian Cultural and Community Hub for Ukrainians now living here. It is hoped that this hub will provide integrated, bilingual services focusing on cultural preservation, employment and entrepreneurship in Western Newfoundland.

 Because of the Ukraine war when Russian President Vladimir Putin invaded Ukraine many Ukrainians came to live in Canada and in Newfoundland and Labrador and there are more than 4,000 Ukrainians living in the province with over 400 Ukrainians living in the Corner Brook area.

The UNF Avalon Chapter as will the Western Newfoundland Chapter be, is   a non-profit cultural and community organization dedicated to supporting Ukrainians living in their local region of Newfoundland and Labrador. As part of the national UNF network, this chapter plays a vital role in welcoming and assisting newcomers from Ukraine and fostering cultural pride through community engagement.

UNF-WNL plans to create a welcoming environment for individuals and families to connect, celebrate Ukrainian culture, and to receive practical support during their settlement journey. The organization will be led by volunteers and community leaders who will organize regular programs, cultural events, and outreach activities that benefit both newcomers and residents.
 It is hoped to offer programs and services such as settlement support for Ukrainian newcomers, community orientation events, cultural and heritage events, Ukrainian language and cultural education and youth and family events

 plus, collaboration with local organizations and government to advocate for Ukrainian newcomers and help promote inclusive policies.

 It is hoped to open Saturday school, Ridna Shkola, here for Ukrainian children so they will learn to speak and write Ukrainian but also discover Ukraine and Canada through fun activities.

 Melanie went on to speak of past and upcoming events celebrating Ukrainian culture for example Easter egg painting which will be open to all and will be held at the Corner Brook Rotary Arts Centre.  There will be a Ukrainian Blossom Festival later in the month and at the Hub on Main Street an exhibition.

 Melanie finished her presentation by showing a video of a mother speaking and one of Roman playing traditional Ukrainian accordion music. 

 Melanie mentioned that the Corner Brook UNF- WNL chapter is looking for volunteers to join a steering committee to help plan the role of this new chapter.

 Melanie answered several questions before being thanked by Olaf on behalf of the club.