One of the challenges of managing a Community Service program is the seemingly endless number of projects that turn up on the list of work. This list inevitably becomes a loosely aligned set, typically involving fund raising or providing volunteers at an event.
 
The projects usually turn up on the list as a result of a request by a charitable group for help or support. In addition, without an overall plan and specific focus areas, measuring outcomes is done at the individual project level and not at an overall program level.
 
To address this challenge, the Rotary Club of Wahroonga’s Community Service team conducted a brief analysis of local community data; this study included the local council areas of Ku-ring-gai and Hornsby. The analysis revealed that the following areas are high on the community priorities;
 
  • a greener environment;
  • embracing increasing diversity;
  • staying healthy as we grow older; and
  • looking after those in need.
With these priorities in mind, the following focus areas have been chosen to guide the future community service activity of the Rotary Club of Wahroonga:

The focus area:
 
  • ‘Greening Spaces’ recognises that individual citizens can do much to improve the environment and not rely entirely on local councils;
  • ‘Diversity Connections’ supports the call by Rotary International to increase our connections with the world;
  • ‘Youthful Ageing’ focuses on staying healthy at all ages as we grow older;
  • ‘Community Food’ builds on the work that has been done by Hornsby Connect and seeks to expand this activity; and
  • ‘Community Caring Awards’ will recognise individuals and organisations who continue to care and support our community.
 
Over the coming months, each of these focus areas will be expanded into individual plans with specific objectives and projects designed to deliver on the vision of each focus area.
 
In recognition of Rotary Down Under celebrating its 100th year anniversary in 2021, each of these plans will have a set of activities to support this upcoming event. This will provide the opportunity for a 24-month milestone for the Rotary Club of Wahroonga’s Community Service plan.