The Rotary Club of Central Tortola officially launched its new Rotary year with an engaging and informative meeting centered on Rotary’s July Area of Focus, Maternal and Child Health. Photo: Rotary Club of Central Tortola

July is recognized throughout Rotary as Maternal and Child Health Month, highlighting Rotary’s commitment to ensuring that mothers and children have access to quality healthcare, proper nutrition, and the support they need to lead healthy lives. Around the world, Rotary clubs use this month to raise awareness, promote education, and support initiatives that improve maternal and child health outcomes, recognizing that healthy families are the foundation of thriving communities.

In observance of the month, the club welcomed Dr. Sharlon Lewis, who delivered a compelling presentation on the importance of nutrition during the first 1,000 days of life, from conception through a child’s second birthday. The session highlighted how proper nutrition during this critical period plays a vital role in healthy physical growth, brain development, immunity, and lifelong well-being. Dr. Lewis guided Rotarians through the three key stages of the first 1,000 days: pregnancy, infancy (0–6 months), and toddlerhood (6–24 months). She emphasized the importance of essential nutrients such as folic acid, iron, iodine, and omega-3 fatty acids during pregnancy, the benefits of exclusive breastfeeding during the first six months of life, and the introduction of nutrient-dense complementary foods as children grow.

Members also learned about the importance of regular maternal and child health monitoring, proper hydration, responsive feeding practices, and ensuring children receive the nutrients necessary to support healthy growth and cognitive development. True to Rotary’s spirit of fellowship and learning, the presentation sparked a lively and interactive discussion. Rotarians actively participated by asking questions, sharing experiences, and exchanging practical ideas on how families and communities can help provide children with the healthiest possible start in life. As the club’s first meeting of the 2026–2027 Rotary year, the presentation set a meaningful tone for the months ahead, reinforcing Rotary’s commitment to service through education, community engagement, and improving health outcomes for mothers and children.

The Rotary Club of Central Tortola looks forward to another impactful year of “Service Above Self,” beginning with a renewed focus on empowering families, supporting healthier futures, and strengthening communities through knowledge, collaboration, and action. This version gives readers context for why July is significant in Rotary, ties the presentation directly to the month’s theme, and ends with a stronger connection between Rotary’s mission and the club’s local efforts.