The Rotary Club of St. John’s Northwest marks its 50th Anniversary today and is celebrating a distinguished history of community support and development that began in 1965 continues in earnest in 2015.
Some of the most significant initiatives of the Club include the 1982 construction of the original Janeway Hostel; the building of Rotary Manor and the ongoing support of the Rotary Music Festival; the largest festival in the Province for school bands and choral music. St. John’s Northwest Rotary also has the honored distinction of being the first Rotary Club in Newfoundland and Labrador to welcome women, having proudly inducted three in 1989. Today, with almost 40 women, the club boasts a healthy mix of men and women from varying cultural backgrounds, professions and ages.
St. John’s Northwest Club President Judy McCann-Beranger stated,” Our close to 100 members certainly stand on the strong shoulders of our founding members who were determined to establish a strong and vibrant club truly focused on community. We certainly have a lot to be proud of and we are committed to continue with meaningful projects that enhance the lives of Newfoundlanders and Labradorians.”
McCann-Beranger took the opportunity to announce the Club’s new Signature Project that will support the Salvation Army expansion of facilities and supportive services on Springdale Street by partnering in the development of affordable and/or supportive housing units, including furnishings and fittings. The partnership will also be a model of inspiration and leadership to our community and to the broader community at large, demonstrating active collaboration in answering a recognized community need and impacting positively on the social health of the community.
At a recent dinner celebrating the milestone, the only remaining Charter member, Evan Johnson was given a special presentation, along with other long-standing members. Mr. Johnson stated, “In 1965 when it all began, we had a great group of people with lots of initiative and creativity who knew they could make a significant difference in our community. It’s a proud moment to mark the 50th Anniversary of this Club and I’m celebrating in honor of all of those original members who were Charter members with me.”
At our recent 50th anniversary celebrations we recognized members with 40 or more years of service.
Back row, l-r: Jim Austin, Frank Fowler, John Harnett and Charter Member Evan Johnson
Front row, l-r: Cyril Elliott, Hubert Sorhaitz and John O’Reilly