Vocational Service: Uniting for Good Through Our Work
Dear Fellow Rotarians,
As we begin the month of January and a new calendar year, we turn our focus to one of Rotary’s core pillars: Vocational Service. This theme reminds us that our professions are not separate from our service — they are often the very tools through which we create impact, build trust, and strengthen our communities.
Vocational Service calls on us to use our skills, experience, and ethical leadership to serve others. Across District North Atlantic, Rotarians are mentoring young people, supporting workforce development, promoting high ethical standards, and sharing professional expertise in ways that make a tangible difference locally. Whether through career talks, mentorship programs, partnerships with schools, or hands‑on support for those entering or re‑entering the workforce, our clubs are helping individuals build dignity, confidence, and opportunity through meaningful work.
This commitment to Vocational Service also plays an important role in growing Rotary membership. Many professionals today are seeking organizations that align with their values, recognize their skills, and offer opportunities to give back in practical ways. Rotary provides exactly that. When we invite others to join us in service rooted in professional purpose, we open the door to new members who want to make a difference while building connections and leadership skills.
Vocational Service reminds us that Rotary is uniquely positioned to bring together people from diverse backgrounds and professions, united by a shared desire to serve. When we actively showcase the meaningful work our members do — both in their careers and through Rotary — we tell a powerful story about who we are and why Rotary matters. This story resonates with business leaders, tradespeople, educators, healthcare professionals, and young professionals alike.
This year’s theme, Unite for Good, is especially fitting as we reflect on Vocational Service. When we unite our talents, experience, and ethical commitment, we multiply our impact and strengthen our clubs. By welcoming others to serve alongside us, we grow not only our membership but also our collective ability to serve our communities.
As we move into this new year, I encourage every club and every Rotarian to celebrate Vocational Service — to share your professional story, invite others to join you in service, and continue to Unite for Good through the work we do every day.
Yours in Rotary service,
Marcel A. Gervais
District Governor, District North Atlantic
January is Vocational Service Month
Vocational Service Month is an opportunity to begin year-long vocational service activities, ranging from Rotary discussions to awards to community projects.
Rotary Vocational Service is one of Rotary's core principles, encouraging members to use their professional skills and expertise to serve their communities, uphold high ethical standards in business, and recognize the worthiness of all useful occupations as opportunities to serve society. It involves members applying their careers to address local needs, mentoring youth, and promoting integrity in all professions, often highlighted during January, Rotary's Vocational Service Month, with activities like workplace tours and skill-based volunteering.
District Governor Elect Chris Hornberger is pleased to announce the appointment of Maureen MacDonald as Area Governor for PEI and Northumberland, effective July 1, 2026.
A retired educator and Registered Nurse, Maureen brings extensive leadership experience, deep community involvement, and a strong Rotary background, including service as Club President and recipient of both the True Rotarian Award and a Paul Harris Fellowship. She will serve a three-year term ending June 30, 2029.
We need YOU to help shape the future of Rotary District 7815! With multiple positions available, now is your chance to bring your ideas, passion, and leadership to the table. Be a part of something bigger—step up, make a difference, and help lead our District to new heights!
Francophone Friendship Group Forming in Zones 28 & 32
Immediate Past District Governor Dino Marzaro (District 7790) is leading the creation of a Francophone Friendship Group to support French-speaking Rotarians across Zones 28 & 32. The initiative aims to strengthen connection, improve access to information in French, and build cross-district relationships.
The group’s first activity will be Rotary International’s Francophone Dictation on January 31, 2026, a global event held in 33 countries and recognized as a strong membership engagement opportunity.
Stay connected and inspired by joining our Zone's monthly Membership Meetups on Zoom, held the first Monday of each month at 7:30 PM ET / 4:30 PM PT. These sessions are designed to share ideas, build momentum, and support clubs in strengthening and growing membership across the district.
Global leaders pledge US$1.9 billion in Abu Dhabi to end polio and protect children worldwide
International leaders, philanthropists, and global health partners announced pledges totaling US$1.9 billion to advance polio eradication at an event in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates. This funding will help vaccinate 370 million children against polio each year while strengthening health systems in affected countries to protect children from other preventable diseases, too.
Celebrate Vocational Service Month with Rotary’s updated guide
January is Vocational Service Month, a time to think about how to use our professional skills and ethical standards in meaningful service. Revisit Vocational Service in Action, a practical guide that helps you integrate Vocational Service into your Rotary activities.
Download the guide and explore how your vocation can become a powerful tool for service.
District 7815 continues to advance youth leadership in 2026 with Youth Exchange, Interact, and RYLA initiatives underway. Long-Term Youth Exchange outbound orientation will take place January 22–25 in Halifax, while compliance requirements remain a priority for clubs. Applications are being finalized for the Youth-to-Youth Truth and Reconciliation Experience in March, and planning continues for two RYLA programs this spring. Thank you to our Rotary and Teacher Advisers, Interactors, and volunteers for their continued commitment to youth leadership across the district.
Ready to take your Rotary learning to the next level? Registration is now open for the upcoming Rotary Leadership Institute (RLI) Atlantic Division online courses: Level 1 and Level 2. These interactive sessions are a fantastic way to learn, connect, and grow—no travel required!
Level 1 – Online Ideal for all Rotarians, regardless of experience. Explore Rotary’s purpose, connect with peers, and build foundational leadership skills.
January 8th, 15th, and 22nd, 2026 - 6:30pm- 8:30pm AST Register here:Level 1 Registration
Level 2 – Online Designed for those who’ve completed Level 1 and are ready to deepen their knowledge. Topics include strategic club leadership, membership engagement, and effective service.
February 12th, 19th, and 26th, 2026 6:30pm- 8:30pm AST Register here:Level 2 Registration
Spaces are limited and filling quickly—don’t wait! We look forward to seeing you online as we learn, lead, and inspire together.
Experience a weekend full of connection, inspiration, and unforgettable Rotary moments.
📅 May 29: PELS & SELS – In-person learning sessions for all incoming Presidents and Secretaries 📅 May 30–31: North Atlantic District Conference 2026 – For Rotarians and partners
A sneak-peek of the conference program is coming in the early new year!
We’re also seeking volunteers to join the Conference Planning Committee. If you’re interested, contact Steph Letemplier (Sletemplier.rotary@gmail.com). Finally, did you attend last year’s District Conference in Halifax? There’s still time to share your feedback and help us create a memorable experience in 2026. Take the short surveyhere.
Zones 28 & 32 Public Image Award Build Visibility. Tell Your Story. Grow Impact.
The Zones 28 & 32 Public Image Award is designed to help Rotary clubs and districts strengthen their public image through practical, achievable actions that build long-term visibility and credibility.
Throughout the Rotary year, clubs will complete a series of Public Image Challenges released every two months. Each challenge focuses on essential public image fundamentals—helping your club create a clear strategy, tell compelling stories, and consistently showcase the good you do in your community.
Clubs that complete the challenges will earn recognition for Public Image excellence at the Zone level.
We have confirmed that an exchange is in the process of being set up with District 1610 & others in southern Netherlands this Spring. The dates to visit them will be May 3rd until May 16th. A definite date for a return visit will be established for later this year.
Known highlights include the world-famous Tulip gardens “Keukenhof”. This visit will also coincide with the celebration of the Liberation of The Netherlands.
Although all details are yet to be confirmed, we are now accepting applications from those who may be interested in participating in this RFE.
Please complete the application FOUND HERE or under District Documents on the D7815 website, and return to PDG Tom McCaughey by 15th February at dgtom7820@gmail.com
DG Marcel accompanies Happy Valley–Goose Bay Rotarians to Deliver Joy, Tradition, and Community Impact
Rotarians from the Happy Valley–Goose Bay Rotary Club, joined by District Governor Marcel Gervais, recently brought the spirit of Christmas to Labrador through long-standing traditions that continue to make a meaningful impact. From a festive celebration at the Labrador Health Long-Term Care facility to the beloved Santa to the Coast initiative reaching remote northern communities, these efforts once again delivered joy, generosity, and Rotary fellowship across the region.
At RLI, we often ask: what makes a service project truly great?The answer isn’t money or size—it’s meaning, planning, and follow-through.
Great service projects: ✅ Meet a real community need ✅ Involve club members in meaningful ways ✅ Have clear goals and lasting impact
Want to make your next project “stick”? 🔹 Involve the people you’re serving—ask them what they actually need. 🔹 Collaborate with partners and other clubs. 🔹 Celebrate and reflect—share the story beyond your club.
Projects don’t have to be huge to matter. When done well, they energize your members, raise your profile, and show Rotary at its best.
Want more ideas like this? RLI offers 3 levels of interactive leadership development across Atlantic Canada. Email us at rli.atlantic.atlantique@gmail.com to learn more.
United Nations and Rotary Celebrate 80th Anniversary of UN Charter
Members of Rotary International joined representatives of the United Nations on 11 December to observe a key milestone in the quest for global solidarity: The 80th anniversary of the signing of the UN charter. Leaders from both organizations reflected on and reaffirmed the principles the UN stands for.
Rotary members served as official observers at the UN Charter Conference in 1945. They helped create agendas, proposed wording for resolutions, and mediated disputes between delegates...
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This bulletin was sent to our French-speaking clubs in French. If you received the English version, but would prefer the French version, please send an email to our Bulletin Editor.
District Governor Elect Chris Hornberger is pleased to announce the appointment of Maureen MacDonald as Area Governor for PEI and Northumberland, effective July 1, 2026.
Membership Meetups
We will have four pre-PELS and SELS sessions this year, with our in-person PELS and SELS taking place on May 29th.
Level 1 – Online
Register here: 
Level 2 – Online
Zones 28 & 32 Public Image Award
he Netherlands in Springtime
DG Marcel accompanies Happy Valley–Goose Bay Rotarians to Deliver Joy, Tradition, and Community Impact
Members of Rotary International joined representatives of the United Nations on 11 December to observe a key milestone in the quest for global solidarity: The 80th anniversary of the signing of the UN charter. Leaders from both organizations reflected on and reaffirmed the principles the UN stands for.
