Four on the Fourth Success!
A New Rotary Year is Underway!
Life & Hope Haiti Inspires Us
Rotary Recap – July 10, 2026
York Rotary officially kicked off the 2026-2027 Rotary year as President Darcy Bastarache welcomed members and introduced Rotary International's new theme, "Create Lasting Impact." Following the Pledge of Allegiance and the SIX-Way Test, members shared Kindness Dollars celebrating family milestones, successful Fourth of July events, returning friends, and exciting opportunities for the year ahead.
Fourth of July Celebration Recap
Members reflected on another successful Four on the Fourth celebration. Volunteers were recognized for their tremendous efforts during a busy—and very hot—holiday weekend. Discussion focused on ways to improve next year's event, including exploring adding a QR code for donations, enhancing event signage, and finding creative solutions for water distribution while complying with town ordinances. Overall, members agreed the registration process went smoothly and participants appreciated the welcoming experience.
Upcoming Meetings
- July 17: Regular meeting at CAL.
- July 24: Field trip to York Community Service Association (YCSA), where members will see the new grocery-style food pantry and recently installed refrigerator made possible in part through York Rotary support.
- July 31: Return to CAL.
Congratulations to Edwin Tello of York for winning June’s Early Bird Drawing!
Guest Speaker: Amy Miller, Life & Hope Haiti
York Rotary welcomed Amy Miller of Life & Hope Haiti and the South Berwick Rotary Club for an inspiring presentation about the organization's ongoing work in Haiti.
York Rotary has partnered with Life & Hope Haiti since 2010, helping provide educational opportunities for hundreds of children through the Eben Ezer School in Milot. Today, approximately 600 students attend the school, and York Rotary continues its annual commitment to sponsor a teacher.
Amy shared updates from her recent trip to Haiti, including the successful installation of a solar-powered generator system funded through Rotary support. Despite ongoing political instability and travel restrictions, Life & Hope Haiti continues to find creative ways to sustain its mission, including operating a guest house and restaurant that help generate income for the organization.
Amy also noted the significant challenges facing many Haitians as temporary protected status work permits expired this week, making the organization's work more important than ever.
To learn more about Life & Hope Haiti or support its mission, visit https://lifeandhopehaiti.org.
Looking Ahead
President Darcy closed the meeting by encouraging members to embrace this year's Rotary theme—Create Lasting Impact—challenging each Rotarian to continue making a difference in our community and beyond.
The meeting adjourned at approximately 8:15 a.m.