Review and Renew
Taunton Vale Rotary has been reviewing its last two years of activity and looking ahead to the next two.
The review was made by out going president Kathryn Robinson-Burge who has served in the lead role since July 2024.
In her handover speech Kathryn said: “As I reflect on the last two years, my overwhelming feeling is one of pride in our Club, but also gratitude to those who have helped me during my time in office.
“The Club is making and donating significant sums of money to those in society who need the most help and support; providing more than most, if not all, other Clubs in our District.
“Over the past two years, together, we have raised almost £52,000. That figure is impressive, but it is only a number until you consider what it became.
“It became support for families facing hardship. It became opportunities for young people. It became help for those living with illness, disability and isolation, both locally around Taunton and in far flung parts of the globe.
Tony Blackshaw, Kathryn Robinson-Burge with Peter Townley, Assistant District Governor
Incoming president, Tony Blackshaw, said the Taunton Vale Rotary is at a turning point. Pointing to the success of the Breakfast meetings and especially the introduction of corporate membership he said: “It’s doing way more than just filling seats. It’s bringing in fresh perspectives, new skills, wider networks, and a serious burst of energy.
“Local businesses want to do good in their community, and they trust the Rotary brand to help them do it. By becoming members of Taunton Vale Rotary, they are joining a network of people committed to making a real difference where it matters most.”
Tony confirmed that this coming year the club’s major charity partner will be St Margaret’s (Somerset) Hospice as well as equipping at least one Taunton Secondary School with supplies of Kit epipens and appropriate training.