Welcome to Rotary International District 6270

We serve 58 Clubs in Southeastern Wisconsin, USA
Our nearly 2,500 members represent...

LEADERS FROM ALL WALKS OF LIFE

Together, we see a world where people unite and take action to create positive, lasting change – across the globe, in our communities, and in ourselves.

 

End Polio Now District 6270 Fundraiser

Now through Dec 31st, join in the fight to end polio by making your donation today. Since 1985, on October 24 Rotary International celebrates our support with Rotary World Polio Day. 
 
District 6270 has a goal to raise $39,000 to commemorate Rotary's efforts for the past 39 years. 
D6270's Rotarians & Rotaracts have donated over $16,000 (41%), as of 11/1.  Join your fellow Rotary Members and Donate Today through your Club, online by clicking the link, or scanning the QR Code.

Donate Today!  

Welcome to Rotary International District 6270

Serving Clubs in Southeastern Wisconsin, USA
 

“Help others and give something back. I guarantee you will discover that while ... service improves the lives and the world around you, its greatest reward is the enrichment and new meaning it will bring your own life.” – Arnold Schwarzenegger

"Get to da choppa!" – ibid.

Hi, Everyone. I’m excited to begin my District Governor year. My role is to serve you, working with others at the district and higher levels to create opportunities, remove obstacles, and bring expertise and resources to support your initiatives. Our district’s success depends on making it easier and more enjoyable for you to serve others and build better friendships.

The other part of my job is to serve the greater organization. We’re tasked with increasing clubs, membership, and philanthropy. The key to achieving this also lies in enhancing the member experience. When we focus on that, the sought-after growth in all its dimensions becomes organic, heartfelt, and lasting. This little bit of organizational Jiu-Jitsu, serving the organization by serving its members, is just another part of The Magic of Rotary.

Let’s commit to improving our own and others’ experiences. Let’s make the coming Rotary year one of increasing service, collaboration, and camaraderie.

– Pete Bosch

Stay up-to-date by visiting my page weekly -  Notes from your District Governor   
Rotary International
JOINS LEADERS
Connect with leaders from your community, region, and the world.
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Attend district events and expand your network and your worldview.
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CLUBS TAKE ACTION
Create positive, lasting change in your community and in the world.

NEWS FROM DISTRICT 6270

 
Rotary District 6270 is excited to announce that Harry J. Farchmin, a dedicated and accomplished member of the Elmbrook Rotary Club in Brookfield, Wisconsin, has been selected as the District Governor Nominee Designate (DGND). Harry will serve as District Governor during the Rotary year 2027-28, highlighting his ongoing commitment to Rotary's mission of service and leadership.
 
Leif van Grinsven, a driven entrepreneur, is transforming lives in Malawi with his initiative, Small Farm Cities. This innovative project builds sustainable agricultural communities where families can own homes, increase their income, and benefit from shared infrastructure. This work exemplifies Rotary’s commitment to Growing Local Economies, one of Rotary’s key Areas of Focus.
 

Empowering Communities Through Agriculture

At its core, Small Farm Cities create opportunities for people to thrive. The communities are equipped with greenhouses, fishponds, and affordable housing. Residents work in agriculture, and their earnings allow them to pay for homes through manageable mortgages. Over time, they achieve homeownership, building a more secure future for their families. Economies of scale are leveraged by employing local carpenters, plumbers, and brickmakers to reduce costs and make this dream attainable.The initiative goes beyond housing. Small Farm Cities provides access to clean water, Wi-Fi, and communal sanitation—critical infrastructure that enhances residents’ quality of life. This holistic approach ensures

The Responsibilities of a District Governor

At the heart of a District Governor's duties is the task of facilitating effective communication. The DG serves as the main conduit between individual clubs and the larger Rotary organization, ensuring that the clubs are aligned with Rotary's mission and objectives. This position requires a deep understanding of Rotary’s values and an ability to mentor club leaders, helping them to cultivate their leadership skills, manage their activities efficiently, and amplify their impact within the community.

The District Governor is more than a figurehead. They are a mentor, advisor, and often, a source of inspiration for Rotarians. Their leadership is crucial in

How Do We Plan To Eradicate Polio?

The battle to eradicate Polio is complex and challenging, with changing tools and techniques, and a battlefield in constant flux. It is difficult to reduce it to an easily stated and understood set of goals. This article attempts to clarify the various timeframes and expectations in the recent Global Polio Eradication Initiative (GPEI) Strategy 2022-26.

Join Us for "Celebrate Community" Week!

Celebrate Community Week is back, from September 8-14, 2024! This inspiring annual event unites members of Rotary, Lions, Kiwanis, and Optimist clubs in a powerful week of collaborative service projects. Together, we tackle key community issues like health and wellness, food insecurity, education, and the environment. For many years, this initiative has shown the incredible impact we can make when we work together. Don't miss the chance to be part of this global movement—join us in making a difference!

For more details and how to get involved, visit the official Celebrate Community Week page or contact rotary.service@rotary.org.

Doodle is an online scheduling tool that excels at simplifying the process of finding the best time for meetings or events involving multiple participants. It is particularly useful for coordinating across various schedules, helping to eliminate the often tedious back-and-forth of group planning. Users can propose several dates and times for an event, and invitees can then indicate their availability directly on the Doodle poll. This streamlined approach not only speeds up decision-making but also enhances participation by allowing for a democratic selection of the most suitable meeting times. Doodle is ideal for both personal and professional use, making it a go-to resource for anyone needing to organize group meetings efficiently.
 
Note: This information is correct as of 6/24/2024 - if it becomes obsolete, please inform us.
Rotary International District 6270 is pleased to announce that The Rotary Foundation has named Jamie Constantine a Global Grant Scholarship recipient for 2024-2025, awarding her $30,000 toward a master’s degree in global development from SOAS University in London.
 
Ms. Constantine is a graduate of Oshkosh West High School in Oshkosh and received her collegiate undergraduate degree from Emory University in Atlanta, Georgia. Although born and raised in the Midwest, she has had unique opportunities to explore the world as a student and global citizen in China, Ecuador, Cuba, and Mexico.
Constantine’s objectives for the Rotary Global Grant Scholarship are to improve the economic well-being of poor, low-income, and underserved communities (particularly immigrant and refugee populations) through pursuing a Master of Science (MSc) in Global Development from the School of Oriental and African Studies (SOAS) in London, England. SOAS is ranked #2 in the world for development studies. She will learn from expert staff how to approach the world’s most pressing issues of poverty and insecurity. During her year-long graduate studies, she will reside at the Goodenough College in London. 
 
The scholarship is provided with funds from Rotary International District 6270, matched 80% by the World Fund of Rotary International. The World Fund is the primary funding source for global grants which support large international activities with sustainable, measurable outcomes in Rotary’s areas of focus. By working together to respond to real community needs, Rotary clubs and districts strengthen their global partnerships. 
 
Reacting to her award, Ms. Constantine states, “I’m thrilled to be the recipient of District 6270’s Global Grant Scholarship. I look forward to becoming an active participant within Rotary spaces and building community with the Rotary Club of Harrow!”  Earlier this month, Emory University in Atlanta released a story regarding Jamie's Rotary International Global Grant Scholarship and Jamie's personal story.
 
The Host for this scholarship is the Rotary Club of Harrow in Rotary International District 1130, Rotary in London, United Kingdom. RI District 6270, the International Partner and primary financial provider of the scholarship, is comprised of 55 Rotary clubs and two Rotaract clubs in Southeast Wisconsin with nearly 2,500 members. Rotary is a global network of 1.4 million neighbors, friends, leaders, and problem-solvers who see a world where people unite and take action to create lasting change – across the globe, in our communities, and in ourselves.
 
Submitted on May 10, 2024 by Larry Myers (Elmbrook (Brookfield)), Chair of the RI District 6270 Scholarships Subcommittee (scholarshipchair@rotary6270.org).

In a world often fraught with conflict and discord, there emerges a beacon of hope in the form of individuals dedicated to fostering peace and understanding. We proudly celebrate Jonathan “Jon” Ward, a retired U.S. diplomat, for his acceptance into the esteemed second cohort of Rotary Positive Peace Activators. Jon’s illustrious career, spanning diplomatic missions across diverse regions and his unwavering commitment to service, exemplifies the spirit of peacebuilding that lies at the heart of this transformative initiative.

Jon’s journey embodies the essence of Rotary’s mission to promote goodwill and peace worldwide. From his service in Saudi Arabia to his diplomatic postings in Papua New Guinea, Iraq, and beyond, Jon has represented his country and has also become a steadfast advocate for diplomacy and conflict resolution. His rich experiences, coupled with his educational background and military service, equip him with a unique perspective and invaluable insights into the complexities of global peace and security.

 

Mukwonago Rotary Club Helps Mayan Population in Chichicastenango, Guatemala

April 26, 2024  ~ Mark Blodgett

A group of people holding a large checkDescription automatically generatedAt their meeting on April 25, 2024, the Rotary Club of Mukwonago continued in its support of Guatemala Service Projects (GSP) by awarding a $5,000 check to its founder and president, Jennifer Demar.  The mission of GSP is to improve the lives of impoverished Guatemalans through direct educational projects, nutrition programs, and community assistance opportunities.  Their team consists of adoptive parents, teachers, business owners, healthcare professionals, and community leaders. 
 
Over the last several years, the Mukwonago Rotary has helped to fund a cistern for a community garden project, high-efficiency wood-burning residential stoves, and water filters. The club has also had members volunteer in the mountainous areas in and around Chichicastenango to help deliver 75 water filters and build chicken coops for the underprivileged Mayan population. A group of people standing in a rowDescription automatically generated
 
This latest donation will help with an elementary school kitchen remodel in Canton Xabillaguach. Other funding will go toward the purchase of six more cook stoves for individual families, six water filters for individual families, and vegetable seed packets and/or fruit trees for 122 families. 
Photo Credit, Rotary Club of Mukwonago.A group of people standing in front of a water coolerDescription automatically generated
Rotary District 6270's Pivotal Role in Supporting Ukrainian Relief Efforts
April 27, 2024 ~ Peter Bosch
 
The Rotary Clubs across Southeast Wisconsin, encompassed by Rotary District 6270, have played a significant role in supporting humanitarian efforts in Ukraine during its time of crisis. This article highlights the impactful work facilitated by these clubs, in partnership with Be an Angel e.V. Germany and Friends of Be an Angel USA (Mequon, Wisconsin).
 
Generators for Hope and Survival
In August 2022, anticipating the severe winter energy crisis due to ongoing conflict, Rotary District 6270 participated in a vital initiative to provide generators to Ukrainian hospitals, refugee centers, and other critical infrastructures. This project, coordinated by Friends of Be an Angel, supplied 1,715 generators, distributing over 8,017 kW of power. These generators are essential in ensuring that life-saving medical and heating equipment can continue to function despite attacks on Ukraine’s energy infrastructure. 
 
An estimated total of 20,475 people have been directly helped within the first week of this project.
The beneficiaries of these efforts included over 150 hospitals and clinics, 80 warming stations, and numerous other facilities that cater to vulnerable populations such as orphanages and schools. A particular focus was placed on the Donetsk region, where the need was greatest due to the intensity of the conflict. 
 
Broad Community Impact
The generosity of Rotary District 6270 extended beyond material donations. The District was integral in forming a network that included the Rotary Club of Lviv-Leopolis, which provided ground support, and the Women’s Movement for the Future, which managed warehousing and distribution of the aid. This network ensured that the aid reached where it was most needed quickly and efficiently.
 
Gratitude and Recognition
Be an Angel e.V. Germany and Friends of Be an Angel USA have expressed their deep gratitude to all the members of Rotary District 6270 for their unwavering support. Andreas Tölke and Anya Verkhovskaya, representing these organizations, have personally thanked the District for the contributions that have made a significant difference in the lives of thousands of Ukrainians.
 
Ongoing Commitment
The impact of Rotary District 6270’s involvement highlights the powerful role that organizations can play in global humanitarian efforts. The District continues to seek opportunities to assist and expand its reach to ensure that even in times of great need, the spirit of community and support shines through. Rotary District 6270 embodies the Rotary International’s commitment to serving humanity and supporting communities in need, both locally and globally. Their efforts in Ukraine are a testament to their dedication to making a positive impact on the world, proving that together, we can bring light during the darkest times.
 
Image of Statistics credit: Friends of Be an Angel USA website.

Nestled in the heart of Shorewood, Wisconsin, radiates a beacon of service, commitment, and dedication to Rotary ideals. Nancy Rhodes, a member since November 1, 1988, has devoted over 35 years to weaving an illustrious tapestry of service within Rotary.

Nancy's journey began humbly as a member of the Rotary Club of West Allis. Little did she foresee that her path would lead her to become a cornerstone of Rotary service, impacting lives across districts and continents.

Throughout her tenure, Nancy's steadfast commitment to Rotary has been evident in her diverse roles within the organization. From serving as Club Secretary to ascending to the esteemed position of Club President, her leadership acumen was apparent from the outset. Her influence transcended the local club level, culminating in her tenure as District Governor during the 2011-2012 term, leaving an indelible mark on District 6270.

When Russia invaded Ukraine in early 2022, Rotarian Fran Wargolet felt compelled to help those impacted by the escalating conflict.

As a long-time member of the Rotary Club of Kenosha, Wisconsin, Fran went to Rotary.org to explore ways to provide aid. She soon learned about ShelterBox, a disaster relief charity founded in 2000 by Rotary Clubs in the UK. ShelterBox was already on the ground in Ukraine, providing vital shelter and supplies to displaced families.

Though retired, 76-year-old Fran was determined to get involved. She contacted ShelterBox and asked, "How can I help spread awareness about your relief efforts?" Soon after, Fran became a ShelterBox Ambassador. She began traveling around Wisconsin giving presentations at Rotary Club meetings to share ShelterBox’s mission. To date, she has spoken to over a dozen clubs, garnering support and funding for ShelterBox initiatives.

How ShelterBox Works

ShelterBox has grown from its humble beginnings helping just 10 families into an independent charity that partners closely with Rotary International. When disaster strikes worldwide, ShelterBox is often one of the first organizations to

The Rotary International District 6270 Nominating Committee is pleased to announce the selection of Dawn Heath-Fiedler to serve as the District Governor for the 2026 - 2027 Rotary year.

Dawn became a member of the Rotary Club of Delavan-Darien in February 2015 after being told that she needed to join Rotary. The moment she stepped into her first meeting, she felt an immediate sense of belonging. Due to a change in employers, Dawn later transferred to the Rotary Club of Elkhorn.

As part of her preparations as a president-nominee, Dawn attended the 2017 District Conference. During a workshop on human trafficking, her life took a new direction. Inspired by the experience, she founded the 501(c)3 non-profit Join the Movement Events, Inc. (JTM), initially focused on raising awareness of human trafficking in rural communities.Following her term as club president, Dawn

Nicole McNevin, a Wisconsin native, is currently living in Tokyo as she pursues her Master's degree at the prestigious International Christian University (ICU). As one of Rotary International's honored Peace Fellows, Nicole is not only receiving a fully-funded graduate education but also gaining hands-on experience advancing the Rotary mission of peace and conflict resolution. 

So how did this small-town girl land such a competitive scholarship? A combination of strong international experience, language skills, and encouragement from her local Rotary club. Nicole spent four years teaching English in rural Japan as part of the JET program, where she immersed herself in the culture and became fluent in Japanese. This piqued her interest in barriers that prevent youth in rural areas from studying abroad. When Rotarian Betsy Rozelle (Rotary Club of Neenah) learned about the Rotary Peace Fellowship, she immediately thought of Nicole and persistently encouraged her to apply. 
 
On December 9, 2023, Betsy Rozelle interviewed Nicole with the assistance of District 6270's Rotary Peace Fellowship Committee Chair Larry Myers (Rotary Club of Elmbrook). The recorded interview here provides many insights into the Rotary Peace Fellowship program in general and into Ms. McNevin's experiences specifically. 
 
 

Now at ICU, Nicole is conducting groundbreaking research on how to expand access to study abroad programs for Japanese youth in underserved areas. She is collaborating directly with local governments in rural prefectures to distribute surveys to students and identify trends in barriers they face. Nicole hopes her Master's thesis will lead to actionable recommendations for exchange sponsors like Rotary Youth Exchange to reach more students.  

In her scarce personal time, Nicole squeezes in speaking engagements at Rotary clubs across Japan. As one of the only Peace Fellows fluent in Japanese, Nicole is in high demand to discuss the program. She's making connections that she knows will last far beyond her studies. 

What's next for this promising peacebuilder? Nicole is keeping an open mind, but sees herself continuing to promote educational exchange in Japan and bridge cultures however she can – perhaps through nonprofit work, government programs, or corporations.

Nicole's story demonstrates the

 

Sept 29, 2023 Update from Brigitte Potter, Global Grant Recipient

Just wanted to say a quick Hello!

This picture is from a Rotaract event I attended last night. It’s a small group that the leader is trying to get going so we had a brainstorming session with a pint. I also wanted to share the link to my blog for anyone who wants to follow along: brigittenpotter.wixsite.com/londonbrig

Brigitte Potter is a Masters student studying International Migration and Public Policy (IMPP) at the London School of Economics and Political Science (LSE) for the 2023-2024 academic year. Follow her blog to keep up with her activities.

Rotary International Districts 6270 and 6220 from Eastern Wisconsin and the Upper Peninsula of Michigan recently funded and delivered a customized trailer outfitted as a mobile emergency room to the Mykolaiv region. This area has faced heavy attacks during Russia's invasion, damaging healthcare infrastructure and cutting off access to essential medical services.

The sturdy mobile unit serves as a rapid-response platform to directly bring urgently needed trauma care to communities near the front lines. A Mobile Emergency Clinic (MEC) is staffed by military doctors and equipped to handle minor injuries, infections, childbirth, dental procedures, and other emergencies. The MEC contains an exam table, monitors, medications, surgical tools, testing supplies, and

Presently, over 100 million individuals worldwide are enduring the loss of their homes due to disasters and conflicts. ShelterBox’s mission is to make a difference in their lives. They work tirelessly to provide emergency shelter, tools, and household supplies to families displaced by calamities, empowering them to begin rebuilding and transforming despair into hope.

 

For six and a half decades, the Rotary Club of Mitchell Field had been a beacon of hope, supporting local initiatives and improving lives. The club celebrated its 65th Anniversary during the Changing of Guard on June 28th. The club and Rotary International have come a long way since the club received its charter on July 5, 1958. In 1958, there were 9,800 Rotary Clubs in over 100 countries. Today, there are more than 46,000 Rotary and Rotaract clubs in 221 countries worldwide. Through this network of clubs, members can work with like-minded individuals to advance community and worldwide understanding, goodwill, and peace.

Rotary Districts 6220 and 6270, encompassing much of Northern and all of Eastern Wisconsin and the Upper Peninsula of Michigan, have taken decisive action in response to the healthcare crisis unfolding in Ukraine due to ongoing conflict. The districts have pooled their resources to secure a Disaster Response Grant from Rotary International, resulting in a critical healthcare lifeline: a Mobile Emergency Clinic.


 
Leif Van Grinsven was the D-6270 Global Grant Scholar in 2019-2020. He is a product of Cudahy, Wisconsin, and a graduate of Wheaton College, where he not only excelled in academics but was also a three-time All-American in Track and Field. His Global Grant Scholarship resulted in a Master of Arts in Development Studies from the University of Sussex in the United Kingdom. After several short stints with the United Nations and the World Health Organization, he landed in Rwanda and then in Malawi, where his newly developed skills in economic development have produced great results.

In his own words, he reports the following. Small Farm Cities (SFC) has grown considerably. We have two sites, our development center, which acts as
 
Rotary International District 6270 is awarding a Global Grant Scholarship in the amount of $30,000 to Brigitte N. Potter of Glendale, Wisc. The grant has been approved by The Rotary Foundation with an 80% match of District Designated Funds (DDF) provided by the district. 

Ms. Potter will use the grant to obtain a Master of Science degree in International Migration and Public Policy at the London School of Economics and Political Science in the United Kingdom. She intends to focus on the issues surrounding refugees and forced migration. Her Rotary Area of Focus is “Peace and Conflict Prevention/Resolution.”
 
Ms. Potter is a graduate of UW-Milwaukee and 
Waukesha Club Uses a Custom “Zoom Machine” to Ease Tech Load
By Pete Bosch, April 13, 2023

Club meetings are more inclusive when delivered hybrid. But the equipment is time-consuming and complicated to set up and take down. Also, it is often difficult to show the audience, the speaker, and what the speaker is presenting, if they are including a PowerPoint in their program.

This article is about a simplified device and approach to hybrid meetings that my club uses. Setup and teardown both take less than 5 minutes. 

To read Pete's entire Zoom Machine article, download the PDF. It is filled with details and images.

At 8 AM on December 3rd, 2022 the first of two shifts assembled in a donated 40,000-square-foot warehouse in Germantown. Rotarians from the Milwaukee - and other - Rotary clubs and volunteers with the Ukrainian Medical Association of North America (UMANA) were briefed on the day’s efforts by Dr. Doug Davis.

Over the course of the morning, five pallets of donated medical supplies from Hospitals throughout Wisconsin were broken down and sorted into stations representing 12 situational categories from Front Line EMT & Emergency Room, to Surgical, Wound Care, Rehab, PPE, and others. At each of those stations, those supplies, along with others staged from previous efforts were further sorted by volunteers with medical experience into dozens of subcategories such as catheters, suture kits, central lines, wound care, ECG Electrodes, and so on. 

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