Shane Rabindranath Addresses the Club

Our speaker last week was Shane Rabindranath representing Where Hope Lives, the Phoenix Dream Center and Natalie's House. The presentation was a little hard to hear for many of us as Shane discussed Human Smuggling and Human Trafficking in our community and around the country. Most people mistakenly believe human trafficking happens only in rural areas and to poor people.  Shane dissuaded us of that notion, saying human trafficking can happen to anyone, anywhere. He also pointed out that 40% of girls trafficked are victims of their own family trafficking them.

Natalie’s House is a project of Arizonans for the Protection of Exploited Children and Adults (APECA). The Goodyear facility is an eight-bed home for girls ages 4  to 18 who are recovering from sexual exploitation and abuse. Girls at Natalie’s House are given shelter, food and clothing, in addition to an intensive recovery program that includes outings and educational strategies to help them transition to a normal life.  

The presentation was very compelling and ended with the Club presenting a check to Mr. Rabindranath to support Natalie's House.  Individuals who are interested, can also donate directly, including via the Arizona Tax Credit for Charitable Organizations.  A QR code is included in one of the following photographs.

Mr Rabindranath

Todd and President Holly present a check to Mr. Rabindranath (Todd brought Natalie's House to our attention and arranged the program)

Welcome Back Chef Barko

We also welcomed back our own Chef Kevin Barko to last week's meeting.  Chef Barko brought us up to date on the “Meals that Matter” program which delivers ready to eat meals to seniors and others around the Valley.

Congratulations Chef.  You are doing great work and it was great to see you.

Gathering Buckeye III - An Evening in Italia

It is time again for the club's annual gala fundraiser.  All club members are strongly encouraged to participate.  Buy tickets, sponsor a table, donate an auction item, volunteer for setup, cleanup or other tasks.  The goal is to have 100% of our membership involved in some way with this large undertaking.  Please contact Doug Bredow to learn more about how you can help.  Thank you.

Rotary District 5495 Conference May 1-2, 2026 - Registration is Now Open

May 1 & 2 2026 - Sheraton Mesa Hotel at Wrigleyville West, 860 Riverview Way, Mesa Arizona

Great Scott!   Join Rotarians from across District 5495 (all of Arizona north of the Gila River, plus Laughlin, NV), as we go “Back to the Future” for a weekend of service, inspiration, celebration and an unforgettable “Enchantment Under the Sea” prom.  Join Dave Faragher, Mike & Trish, Holly & Mike and other Rotarians from our club as we enjoy celebrating with our fellow Rotarians.  To register click on this link.  District Conference Registration.  There are hotel blocks at the Sheraton (closes April 10),  as well as the nearby Courtyard by Marriott (closes March 2). You can find links to the hotel pages on the Conference registration site.  

If you prefer you can attend for one day or two days and stay locally or head home at night.  (Driving distance from Verrado is 42 miles).