Lesley's letter:
December has been very busy for many members with our seasonal projects.
Sincere thanks to the team at Donations in Kind for their efforts in sourcing, collecting and facilitating the huge donation of Lego and toys. Peter Cribb and I collected our allocation and with our cars full, delivered to our many community recipients in the last 2 weeks.
Recipients included the Venny, Flemington Hub children's programs, Wingate Avenue M&CHN, Ascot Vale Heights, Kensington CHS, West Welcome Wagon and Bendigo Bank toy appeal.
There was a great deal of joy, gratitude and awe at the quantity and range of toys.
Members again donated items for the Share the Dignity appeal and the bags were packed at the op Shop last week. Mel, Alex, Muna, Chris and I ran the production line packing toiletries, sanitary items and gifts into the very good quality bags supplied by Donations in Kind.
DiK also supplied us with a range of additional items including hand sanitizer, sunscreen, soap, socks, flasks and diaries. I then delivered the bags to Jenni at Danny Pearson's office who is our local contact.
We enjoyed a lovely Christmas lunch at Riverside Golf Club last week. Mel thanked our shop volunteers for their efforts this year and we gave them a Rotary Christmas cake and a gift card. We were joined by Len's friend Michael, Jan Chantry, a friend of Chris Richardson and by Abdihakim, Soraya and her daughter, friends of Abdi and Mohammed. Mel also brought along regular volunteer Marty, Mark and Ross.
**I was sad to receive Mel's resignation as shop manager. She needs to focus on her health in the next year.
Currently we are looking for a new manager and members are asked to share this opportunity with someone who would be suitable. A role description is available from Lesley.
In 2025, we have a renewed focus on including Rotarians in regular shop volunteer sessions. This was the process when the shop first opened under Dulcie as manager and ensured an application of service as well as regular Rotary involvement. Please consider your availability and let me know.
I intend to make this a Wednesday commitment myself.
Thank you all for your service and contribution this year.
I wish everyone a safe, happy, peaceful and joyous festive season.
Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!
Lesley