Posted by Wilf Wilkinson

THE LANDMINE EFFECT

 
 
 
 
Dear Rotarians,

When was the last time you stepped on a landmine? Probably never — aren’t we fortunate. If you live in Cambodia, Iraq or Syria, to name a few, you may have not been so lucky.
 
Rotarians everywhere in Canada have committed time and money to eliminate many ills that plague our world, including longstanding support of landmine eradication. We Rotarians of the Canadian Landmine Foundation (CLMF) are, with the permission of your District Governor asking Rotarians across Canada to renew their commitment to eliminating these hideous devices.
As with our efforts with polio we continue to make progress on the landmines front, but not without setbacks. Landmine use is on the rise and funding has steadily declined over the past number of years. Canada was once the 3rd largest funder of landmine eradication, but is now 10th. Overall funding for landmine relief is at its lowest point in 10 years.
Yet many are still suffering.

As many as 18 people, are losing their lives or limbs each day to the catastrophic effects of landmines. Lives and communities are forever changed as a result.

It is now time for Rotarians to revisit their commitment to this worthwhile humanitarian cause. In keeping with this year’s Rotary theme — it is time once again for Rotarians “To Make a Difference.”
 
With a new Rotary year upon us we are asking clubs and districts to strongly consider supporting CLMF, an organization which has substantial and active Rotary representation.

Going forward CLMF’s efforts will concentrate its efforts on demining in Cambodia to make the most effective use of our funds. In Cambodia we have both state and local support for our initiatives, making contributions more meaningful, visible and lasting.

How can you help?
  • Consider a donation to CLMF as part of your International service budget. Did you know that for as little as US$200 you are able to fund landmine clearing for a day — that’s another 100 square meters that are now safe to work, safe to play, safe to live.
  • Combine fellowship and ‘fun’raising by holding a “Night of a Thousand Dinners.” Invite friends, neighbours, Rotaractors, Interactors as well as your club members. Use this gathering to not only raise money for a worthwhile cause, but also to build awareness and educate those in your community about the devastating effects of landmines.
Donations may be made as follows online at canadianlandmine.org/donate, or by mail at:

Canadian Landmine Foundation
c/o LCMSDS Wilfrid Laurier University
75 University Avenue West
Waterloo, Ontario, N2L 3C5

note: Tax receipts will be issued for donations of $20 or greater.

On behalf of the Canadian Landmine Foundation’s Rotary Engagement Subcommittee, composed of Rotarians Chris Snyder, Gordon Dowlsey, Bob Butterill and myself, we thank you for taking the time to consider supporting our Canada-wide efforts.

Wilfrid J. Wilkinson, CM, FCPA
President of Rotary International 2007-08
Chairman of the Rotary Foundation 2012-13