Events

The Rotary Club of Santa Barbara is pleased to welcome Ellie Wason, the Executive Director of Natun, Guatemala (Formerly known as Mayan Families).  Natun is the largest benificary of international grants from our club over the past several years and has coordinated our visits to Guatemala. Ellie, along with Bill Dutton and Don Jack, will describe Natun's many programs in the Lake Aitilan area of Guatemala, including providing preschool programs, medical programs, fresh water and modern wood burning stoves.

Ellie has been Executive Director of Natun since May 2023, and has worked for the organization for several years.  She has a Masters Degree in governance, development and Public Policy from the University of Sussex and a Bachelors Degree in Philosophy and Polical Economy from the University of Exeter.

As a part of our meeting, we will also have a short meeting of the Santa Barbara Rotary Foundation to elect two members to the Foundation Board to fill two vacant positions.  A separate notice was mailed to all members last week.

In conjunction with our regular meeting on December 1, 2023, the Santa Barbara Rotary Charitable Foundation will have a very brief meeting to elect two members to fill vacant terms on the Foundation Board.  The vacancies have been created due to Connie Green taking a leave of absence from the club, and Greg Knowles resigning from the club due to moving out of State.

Pursuant to the Foundation Bylaws, the Nominating Committee, composed of the Past President, current President, and President Elect met and are pleased to nominate David Shea to fill the Greg's remaining term until June 30, 2026, and Van Do-Reynoso to fill Connie's remaining term until June 30, 2025. Nominations from the floor for the Foundation Board can also be made at the Special Meeting.

As a member of the Rotary Club of Santa Barbara, all members are also members of the Charitable Foundation.  Special Meetings of the Foundation require all members receive a notice ten days in advance.  This invitation serves as that notice

Please join us for our annual Rotary Holiday Party at the Lure Fishhouse in the La Cumbre Plaza.  We will enjoy food, drink and holiday cheer together.  There will be a white elephant gift exchange so if you would like to participate bring a $20 generic gift.  My favorite gift from last year was the the yearbook sized remote control which I expect to be regifted this year.  There is no cover charge but you will need to pay for what you consume.  So put on your best holiday outfit/sweater and come enjoy the holidays with your fellow Rotarians.  
Happy Holiday's