The work of Rotary International extends far beyond local club meetings. At the core of its global humanitarian efforts lies The Rotary Foundation, a powerful charitable trust that transforms financial gifts into sustainable service projects across the world.
For members of District 5370, the significance of this work will be front and center as they Unite in Whitehorse to welcome Trustee Marty Peak Helman to their upcoming district conference.
Spotlight on District 5370: Keynote Trustee Marty Peak Helman
As a current Trustee of The Rotary Foundation (serving a 2022-2026 term), Marty Peak Helman is part of the 16-person board that manages the global business of Rotary’s charitable arm. Her presence underscores the critical link between the Foundation’s global vision and the hands-on service delivered by Rotarians in District 5370.
Marty Peak Helman: A Champion of Peace and Philanthropy
Marty Peak Helman is a prolific fundraiser and humanitarian known for her deep commitment to the Foundation, particularly her passion for the Rotary Peace Centers. She has served on the working group to select a site for a new peace center and previously chaired the Peace-Major Gift Initiative, where she spearheaded an effort that raised $1 million to support the Sakuji Tanaka Rotary Peace Fellowship.
Beyond her leadership within Rotary, Helman has a background as a writer and editor for business executives and magazines, and served as president of the Otto and Fran Walter Foundation. In this role, she partnered with The Rotary Foundation to fund the new Rotary Peace Center located at Bahçeşehir University in Istanbul.
At the Whitehorse conference, Ms. Helman is set to deliver a keynote address specifically focused on The Rotary Foundation, offering attendees valuable insights into its strategic direction, financial stewardship, and the immense impact Rotarians have when they unite to support its mission.
The Rotary Foundation's Mission and Impact
Founded in 1917 by outgoing Rotary President Arch Klumph with an initial contribution of just $26.50, The Rotary Foundation has grown into a philanthropic powerhouse. Its fundamental mission is to advance world understanding, goodwill, and peace by improving health, providing quality education, improving the environment, and alleviating poverty.
For over a century, the Foundation has spent more than $4 billion on life-changing, sustainable projects. These projects fall within Rotary’s seven areas of focus, which include:
- Ending Polio: Leading the decades-long global effort to eradicate the disease.
- Promoting Peace: Funding the establishment of Rotary Peace Centers worldwide.
- Fighting Disease and Providing Clean Water: Supporting projects that save lives and improve community health.
- Supporting Education and Growing Local Economies.
The Foundation is the vehicle through which Rotarians turn ambition into action, supporting local and global grants that foster real, measurable change in communities around the world.
Marty Peak Helman’s visit to Whitehorse is an opportunity for District 5370 members to connect directly with the highest level of Rotary leadership and gain inspiration to continue their commitment to Service Above Self and Unite for Good through the ongoing, transformative power of The Rotary Foundation.