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Rotaract Club helps children in Philippines

The Rotaract Club of Coastal Carolina University collected money and supplies to help 70 children awaiting cleft palate surgery in Dipolog City in the Philippines.

The 40 student members of CCU Rotaract helped the Rotary Smiles Project, hosted by the International Children's Surgical Foundation and the Rotary Club of Dipolog City. In addition to raising $202, the students made a large banner and homemade cards for the children and sent toys, books, fruit and water.

The idea to partner in the project was proposed by the Rotaract president, Theresa Calabrese, in a club assembly.

"Every year we have come back from Rotary Youth Leadership Awards inspired by our international connections and commonality of service through our vast cultures,” says Calabres. “It has been a personal goal of mine to show the power and reach that Rotaract has, even for a club of less than 50 members.”

Rotaract Club of Coastal Carolina University made connections with the Rotaract Club of Dipolog City over the summer at the Rotary Youth Leadership Awards (RYLA) Conference in Washington D.C.

New member and public relations officer Skyler Burgess challenged club members, offering to match their gift if they raised $50. Immediately, members pulled money out of their pockets. In a moment, $132 was placed on the table before Skyler's contribution.

"I really enjoyed the fact that our club came together and that our small donation meant so much to those in need," said Burgess. The club ended up sending $202 (about 8,000 pesos) to the Rotary Club of Dipolog City to support the children going through the surgery.


 

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