'ACT4IMPACT' is a call to action for people of all ages to become community changemakers. The campaign aims to inspire individuals to take action and build a community committed to lasting impact through service, says Rotary International's District 9350.

The campaign kicked off at the Rotary Expo from Tuesday, 4 to Thursday, 6 February at the V&A Waterfront, where visitors explored the wide range of community service projects undertaken by Rotary over the years and learned how to engage with the 'ACT4IMPACT' campaign, which brings together passionate individuals to collaborate with local communities for positive change, the organisation adds.

Rotary District 9350 Governor, Stephen Young says, "At Rotary, we are passionate about service with the goal to inspire others as well. We strive to unite people and organisations committed to making a difference, empowering communities, and building a better future."

"The need is so vast that it will take all of us working together — even though our part of it may be small — together we can all make a significant impact," Young adds.

However, the campaign is more than just a call to action, the organisation says. It's supported by tangible examples from Rotary's community projects that have improved lives, from conducting 100 eye surgeries and establishing 40 food gardens to saving 600 sea turtles and a training hub that equips 150 community members with skills, to expanding 24 early childhood centres to 40.

Individuals and organisations can draw inspiration from Rotary’s century of impact through mentoring, volunteering, or spearheading projects that make a difference, the organisation adds.

"We have been collaborating with the private sector, both locally and globally, to address major community challenges and drive sustainable change. We witness the strength of these partnerships daily in our projects. Rotary offers a unique platform to discover opportunities, spark innovation, and devise solutions that address social issues and create lasting impacts," Young adds.

Building Healthier, Stronger Communities

In Africa, Rotary says that it provides free eye screenings and glasses to school children and collaborates with NGOs for transformative cataract surgeries.

Fighting Hunger

Rotary says that it has set up over 40 food gardens in the west of South Africa to combat malnutrition, teaching communities effective vertical gardening and entrepreneurial farming techniques.

Supporting Street Children in Luanda, Angola

Rotary adds that it supports street children in Luanda, Angola, by offering essentials like clean clothes and food, and educational and skills training opportunities to 500 children every year at Dom Bosco centres.

Environment Conservation and Providing Clean Water

Rotary partners with SANParks to protect biodiversity and teamed up with the Two Oceans Aquarium to rescue 600 turtles. Another project improved water access in Gugulethu by installing new multi-tap points, the organisation adds.

Supporting Early Childhood Education

The organisation adds that it has improved early childhood education in Langa, Cape Town, by upgrading facilities and integrating technology to assist struggling readers.

Growing Local Economies through Entrepreneurship and Leadership

Facing high unemployment, Rotary says that it promotes economic growth by encouraging and supporting entrepreneurship and leadership, aiming to break the cycle of poverty.

Individuals and organisations are invited to 'ACT4IMPACT' and to be a part of this journey.

"We want to encourage you and your organisation to be part of making a positive impact in your community. We bring people together — from diverse backgrounds — who want to create a lasting impact, build friendships and grow both personally and professionally. Act today and you will make an impact," Young concludes.

For more information, visit www.rotary9350.co.za. You can also follow Rotary District 9350 on Facebook and Instagram.

*Image courtesy of contributor