Rotary International President Stephanie A. Urchick pays pivotal visit to Hong Kong

Rotary International President Stephanie A. Urchick is currently visiting District 3450, which spans Hong Kong, Macau, Mongolia, and Guangdong Province. Her visit, taking place from 16-24 November 2024, highlights Rotary’s commitment to community service, global collaboration, and its enduring mission of “Service Above Self.”

A legacy of service

For over 116 years, Rotary International has been a cornerstone of humanitarian efforts worldwide. Through its seven focus areas, such as “Peace and Conflict Prevention,” “Disease Prevention,” and “Economic Development,” Rotary clubs customize initiatives to address local challenges while contributing to global impact.

A prime example of Rotary’s global impact is its long-standing fight against polio. Since the mid-1980s, Rotary has spearheaded efforts to eradicate the disease, significantly reducing cases globally. Urchick underscores this achievement, saying, “Our foremost project remains polio eradication, primarily concentrating on Afghanistan and Pakistan, with every Rotary Club worldwide supporting our efforts.”

The purpose of the visit

Urchick’s visit to District 3450 underscores Rotary’s unwavering dedication to fostering local and global collaborations. In Hong Kong, she is touring a Global Grant-funded service project that demonstrates the tangible results of Rotary’s international efforts. In Macau, she is visiting the Fu Hong Society, a prominent NGO focused on community support and development. Her itinerary also includes engaging with project leaders in Mongolia to explore ongoing initiatives and opportunities for further collaboration.

The visit’s agenda includes the Intercity Meeting, where President Urchick is recognizing significant donors to the Rotary Foundation. This meeting emphasizes the crucial role philanthropy plays in advancing Rotary’s mission and expanding its reach. The highlight of her visit is THE ONE Award Ceremony and Gala Dinner, a prestigious event celebrating unsung heroes who have made outstanding contributions locally and globally. This gala exemplifies Rotary’s commitment to honoring individuals who embody the spirit of service and dedication.

Building peace and serving those in need

Rotarians position themselves as “peacebuilders,” focusing on creating conditions for lasting harmony rather than brokering agreements in conflicts. Urchick explains: “If communities lack water, we provide it; if people are hungry, we feed them; and if they need education, we offer that as well. By addressing these basic needs, we help alleviate desperation, fostering an environment where peace can thrive.”

Urchick also stresses that serving those in need is at the core of Rotary’s mission. “Every Rotarian is dedicated to making the world a better place. Rotary Clubs and districts assess local needs and tailor their initiatives accordingly,” she says. For instance, in India, many clubs focus on providing shelter and food to combat poverty. In the United States, clubs often address issues like the opioid epidemic and services for the elderly. “Our approach varies significantly by region, reflecting the specific challenges faced by each community,” she explains.

District 3450: a model of diversity and unity

Encompassing Hong Kong, Macau, Mongolia, and Guangdong Province, District 3450 showcases Rotary’s ability to operate effectively in diverse political and cultural landscapes. Nigel Lo, District Governor of Rotary International District 3450, explains how the region’s multiculturalism strengthens its mission. “Growing up in Hong Kong, I’ve always appreciated our diversity. Rotary allows us to focus on service that improves our communities while uniting us under a shared purpose,” he says.

Lo adds, “We embrace the slogan ‘People of Action.’ When faced with challenges, we step up and take action—that’s the essence of Rotary.”

Global collaboration for local impact

Rotary’s strength lies in its global network, which facilitates impactful collaborations and transcends boundaries. Last year alone, the humanitarian organization awarded 1,285 global grants, bringing together clubs from different countries to address pressing issues. As Urchick puts: “this mobilization of 1.2 million members is our greatest strength in creating meaningful change.”