Our August 17 meeting featured a panel of elected officials discussing Government / Community Organization Partnerships.
Capitola City Council Member Yvette Brooks started by describing the Jade Street project, which includes a Universally Accessible Playground. Universally accessible playgrounds give access to children of all abilities, encouraging them to break social barriers and play together.
The City of Capitola has allocated $475,000 towards the project, and County Parks Friends will lead community fundraising of an additional $1,000,000. Capitola - Aptos Rotary plans to work together with other Santa Cruz County Rotary Clubs to contribute to the fundraising campaign, similar to what we did for LEO's Haven in Live Oak.
Cupertino Mayor and Rotary District 5170 Governor Hung Wei spoke about her experiences with similar projects in both local government and Rotary. Key to success is getting the entire community involved, as everyone will benefit from the playground as a gathering place for residents and visitors.
Santa Cruz County Supervisor Zach Friend worked on LEO’s Haven with Tricia Wiltshire Potts. Zach said that community member collaboration with government works best when everyone agrees on the need, and then works together to explore and find the right solution.
Club members Paul and Lisa Duren spoke about the inclusivity, development and social benefits of UA playground, drawing on their experience as parents of a differently abled child. While their daughter Kayla has passed away, this project will benefit children and their families like Kayla. DG Hung Wei was moved, and contributed $1000 to kick off our fundraising drive! Thanks Hung!
Other community members attending included Tricia Wiltshire Potts from County Park Friends, Rotary Assistant Governor Kristin Fabos, Karen and John HIbble from the Aptos Chamber of Commerce, Steve Bennett and Sylvia Hernandez from Freedom Rotary, Richard Emigh from Surf City Kiwanis, Past District Governor Ron Sekkel, and Sam Storey, former Capitola Mayor. These and the other guests got to hear all members sing the club welcome song, accompanied by video of Sam and Rich McAdams.
DG Hung Wei recognized Dr. Art Dover for his Paul Harris Society membership and substantial history of contributions and service projects for Rotary.
We also photographed Hung with all Red Badge members.
The Club's next meeting is a dinner meeting on Thursday 8/24 5pm at the Fairfield Marriott - we’ll learn about the FoodWhat?! youth program.
So we have enough food provided by our caterer, Busy Bee's, please register at https://portal.clubrunner.
