Notes from the Rotary Meeting 12.30pm Thursday, January11, 2024

President Jackie chaired the meeting. 

There was no winner on the Toonie Quest West draw this week so the winning amount will be rolled over to the draw next week on January 18.  Remember if you paid in advance last year do check to see if you need to add more toonies to the Toonie Quest West weekly draw which helps support Xavier House and Corner Brook Rotary Club.

Program-chair Adam introduced his guest presenters Jennifer Snooks and Jessica Turner of the Canadian Wildlife Federation.

Jennifer and Jessica did a joint presentation about a new program in the Corner Brook area, for youth 15 – 18 years, called WILD Outside. They began by introducing themselves so Rotarians could understand the skill set they brought to the program.

WILD Outside is a national conservation-based youth program whose mandate is to inspire youth participants to develop a passion for conservation, an awareness of their natural environment and a deeper appreciation for wildlife. This youth leadership program is open to all regardless of physical or economic barriers and there is no cost.

 The program includes opportunities for personal growth while developing and encouraging conservation. There are opportunities for outdoor adventure and immersive nature experiences. The benefits for youth are that this program is a way of students getting volunteer hours in a positive team environment and there is a community connection. There are mental health supports and benefits from the time spent in nature and there are many learning opportunities.   The experiences are different from those in a classroom or in organised sports activities.

The plans for 2023 – 24 include service projects such as community gardens, shoreline clean-up, community clean-ups and naturalist logging skills as well as recreation activities such as canoeing, paddling, hiking, snow shoeing and geocaching. The goal is to provide opportunities for new skills to be learnt, personal growth, and to encourage conservation ethic. Some of the learning opportunities are, Indigenous plant walks, leave no trace awareness, WILD Education training, wilderness survival skills , adventures smart training and a web series by industry professionals and other speakers.

During the school year the plan is to have one in-person activity per month, one speaker series per month often on-line. In summer there will be more activities planned.  Participants need to register.  For more information about WILD Outside and the program contact jennifers@cwf-fcf.org.

 Jennifer and Jessica concluded their presentation by explaining how since the program was only introduced to the area last May they have be publicising this fantastic program to the youth of the area.

Gerry thanked Jennifer and Jessica for the informative and interesting presentation about WILD Outside and its many benefits for local youth. 

The meeting concluded with the Rotary wheel being spun and good news shared before being adjourned.