District Governor, Vance Lewis in his remarks asked the community to join with Rotary in the establishment of a partnership that will make the VI the envy of the Caribbean. Photo:provided

This is also a significant tourism opportunity as Rotarians and their families make plans to visit the Virgin Islands for the historic conference and also to enjoy our destination and all that it has to offer. 

However, such an undertaking calls for the support of the community and local businesses and individuals are encouraged to assist Rotary in this endeavor. 

On 17^th September, a major partnership between Rotary and Scotiabank, was announced at a press conference where it was revealed that Scotiabank is the first Platinum sponsor of the Conference and has donated $25,000.00 to the cause.  Scotiabank’s Managing Director, Ms. Joycelyn Murraine said “Scotiabank is proud to be associated with the upcoming 2013 Rotary District Conference in our island.  Our investment in this conference is a signal of the trust and the long standing partnership which we want to build with Rotary.  Scotiabank and Rotary have common interests, focusing on health, education and youth issues.” 

Public Relations Committee Chair for the District Conference and a Past President of The Rotary Club of Tortola, Delma Maduro assured everyone that all partners, like Scotiabank BVI, will get excellent returns for their financial support of this very worthwhile event.  “Not only would sponsoring partners get excellent exposure at a local level but there will be an opportunity to reach the 6,200 plus Rotarians of our District and beyond.  Additionally, “The Tourism Industry via our hotels, land and water based transportation systems, restaurants, historical sites and local attractions all stand to benefit not to mention the Financial Sector and the boost to the economy.  We all have a role to play,” she added. 

Sponsorship for the events is as follows: Platinum - $25,000, Gold - $15,000, Silver- $10,000 and Bronze- $5,000 contributions in kind are also accepted.

District Governor, Vance Lewis in his remarks asked the community to join with Rotary in the establishment of a partnership that will make the VI the envy of the Caribbean.

 Whilst Conference Chair, David Archer expressed great enthusiasm for the District Conference which will be held under the theme “Experience the Passion of Rotary”, and will bring together Rotarians from Anguilla, The Bahamas, Cayman Islands, Dutch St. Maarten, French St. Martin, Haiti, Jamaica, St. Barths, Turks and Caicos Islands, USVI and the three clubs in the VI.

Rotary has had a presence in the Virgin Islands for over 40 years the work of Rotary is carried out by three (3) Rotary Clubs, one (1) Rotaract, one (1) Interact and two (2) Early Act clubs. Our community is well served by these Clubs who have introduced and executed new and innovative community service projects and fundraisers over the years. Indeed many lives in the Virgin Islands have been touched by Rotary in some way.   For more information on the 2013 Rotary International District Conference to be held in the VI in May 2013, please contact Public Relations Committee Chair, Past President Delma Maduro, at email madurodd@rtwbvi.com or telephone +1 284 340 2802.