As the newest of five Rotary Clubs in Bedford and Kempston, we wanted to try and do things a little differently so from the very first day we welcomed members both male and female, as well as devising a programme of events and social activities that would appeal to a broad spectrum of age ranges.
This was a very successful strategy and today we still have almost a 50:50 split between men and women in the group and a younger than average age profile to many local Rotary Clubs.
We are actively involved in our local community as well as committed to supporting international groups and initiatives.
Locally we adopted Priory Lower School in Bedford in 2004. Located in the centre of Bedford the school has a highly diverse population and faces various challenges. We help in a number of practical ways, including assisting with redecoration and refurbishment of the building and grounds as well as providing a ‘foster’ PTA. One of our finest achievements has been the creation of the Centenary Garden in the school, giving the children an outdoor play area, giving teachers the opportunity to teach safely outdoors in good weather and giving local mother and toddler groups somewhere to meet, chat and play.
Internationally, we have supported the Tribal Health Initiative in Sittilingi (south India) since 2005. The initiative provides much needed medical and healthcare services in a poorly served area. We have raised funds to help contribute to the purchase of vital medical and other equipment, including a new ambulance and laundry facilities. We have also recently developed links with a local Rotary Club in Zanzibar, where we have not only raised funds, but Club Members have also visited the island and helped build much needed high quality housing for local families.