In response to the tragic events occurring in Ukraine, please see the official statement from Rotary International below. I know you are getting many questions from members about how they can help, because that is how Rotarians respond to crisis and disasters when other people are in need. The events in Ukraine are changing rapidly. General Secretary John Hewko, Director Katerina Kotsali-Papadimitriou, and other European Rotary Senior Leadership are working closely with Rotary leaders in Ukraine to monitor and provide substantial humanitarian assistance in a coordinated, effective way. They thank you for your support and desire to help, and will be back to us soon with action we can take. Official Statement from Rotary International: It is a tragic and sad time for the people of Ukraine and the world. At Rotary, we are deeply concerned by the deteriorating situation in Ukraine and the escalating loss of life and humanitarian hardship there. Continued military action against Ukraine will not only devastate the region, but also risk spreading tragic consequences across Europe and the world. As one of the world’s largest humanitarian organizations, we have made peace the cornerstone of our global mission. We join the international community in calling for an immediate cease fire, withdrawal of Russian forces, and a restoration of diplomatic efforts to resolve this conflict through dialogue. In the past decade, Rotary clubs in Ukraine, Russia and nearby countries have transcended national differences and have actively engaged in peace-building projects to promote goodwill and to marshal assistance for the victims of war and violence. Today, our thoughts are with our fellow Rotary members and others in Ukraine coping with these tragic events. Rotary International will do everything in its power to bring aid, support and peace to the region. | 