We sadly lost our Immediate Past President Michael on the 10th September after a short illness. Michael was an enthusiastic and energetic Club President who unfortunately, due to the COVID restrictions, never had the opportunity to preside over a face to face meeting, having to rely on Zoom meetings all year.
Michael was passionate about many causes and through his leadership during COVID the Club was galvanised in raising funds to support good causes in Faversham. He was also an ardent supporter of international causes, and it is in his honour that all donations in his memory will be devoted to the purchase of a Literacy Box for a primary school in Zambia.
New Rotary Year – New President
The Rotary Year starts on 1st July and that’s the date when new Club Presidents take office.
Faversham Rotary Club’s President for the new year will be Dave Darby, taking over from Michael Hoey, who has lead the Club during a particularly challenging year.
Michael has the unique distinction of not holding a single face-to-face meeting with club members during his year as President, but that hasn’t stopped the Club from making a positive difference in Faversham.
Michael says, "I am proud of what the club has achieved in the past year. We supported local charities and helped local schools and St Vincent de Paul get support to families in difficulties. Our on-line Christmas stories also attracted thousands of views at a time when spirits were low. Dave is taking over a vibrant club and will make it an even more vibrant club in the year to come."
Incoming President Dave says, “It’s a great honour to be asked to be President for the forthcoming year. Faversham Rotary have for over 70 years been supporting local causes. During the pandemic, under Michael’s excellent leadership it has been no different, including providing Marshalls for the vaccine roll-out.”
Dave adds “I would encourage anybody who is likeminded in wanting to make a difference to check out our website
Despite lockdowns and restrictions, Rotary projects and activities have continued to take place nationwide to help those in need.
Thanks to fund-raising zoom quizzes and generous donations, Faversham Rotary has been able to provide financial help to several local groups so that their volunteers can continue to support the local community. These groups include the Abbey Physic Garden, Cinque Ports Rowing, FACE, Faversham Strike Force, Faversham Swimming Club, the St. Vincent de Paul Society, Young Carers and many others.
Faversham Rotary Club Volunteers have stood side by side with health care professionals and other key workers supporting the vaccine roll out across the district.
Volunteers’ Week – a time to say “Thank you” to all the unsung heroes who voluntarily help in so many ways to support their community.
The Rotary Club of Faversham Trust Fund - Charity No. 272383