Roses for Rotary: A Brief History
This will be the 19th year of our Roses for Rotary fundraiser. Back in 2001, an idea bloomed for Paul Roy to sell roses as a club fundraiser. As we learned at Paul's honourary member celebration, Paul has more than one "Rose" in his life, and we are proud to have unique Sunrise roses, thanks to his passion.
During the early days of the fundraiser, roses were initially purchased from a local greenhouse in Leamington. Rotarians would cut, watertube, wrap or box roses to be delivered.
The inaugural bud of fundraising in 2001, grew $2961 for our community, with a total of $215,000 raised over the past 18 years for community projects. Projects of note that we've supported and watch grow in our community include: YMCA Build $50,000; Hospice $40,000; Children's Treatment Centre $10,000; CKHA Equipment & Furnishings $10,000.
Roger confirmed on behalf of the Board at the last meeting that the proceeds from Roses for Rotary will be going towards CKHA's Oncology department, specifically focusing on Chemotherapy patients.
Our challenge this year will be to sell 1100 dozen roses; 900 dozen Sunrise roses (Orange, Yellow & Red) and 200 dozen red roses. Annually we bring in on average $10,000.
Roses can be delivered or people can pick up at the Portuguese Club (346 Grand Avenue East). Roses can also be ordered online on our website (
www.rotarysunrise.com)
Roses are $25 dozen and payment is accepted by credit card, cash or cheque.
We will have advertising on Blackburn News, and a radio spot on Monday, March 25th. Rotarians are encouraged to call, and text family friends, and visit local businesses. It's too bad it's too early for prom proposals.
Day of Event
Invite the Romeo or Juliet in your life (I've already got mine lined up), or the friends are that are considered family to assist us for either the morning or the entire day to deliver roses.