Though Covid has since June put some limitations on our usual community outreach, Rotary Hutt City is enjoying a successful year, based around three elements.
First, where Covid allows, we are continuing to support our community through our effort and resources. In July, we provided collectors for the Womens' Refuge annual street collection, In August, we donated a dishwasher to the Hutt Hospital Childrens' Ward for the use of the nursing staff. We are also continuing to work with the Regional Council in support of the ongoing development of the Hutt River Trail, which by 2021 should comprise 54 kms of walking and cycling trails in the Hutt Valley - a phenomenal local asset.
Second, our partnership with the Hutt City Council is driving forward the Innovative Young Minds initiative, which goes from strength to strength. While it was not possible this year to deliver a residential learning programme, IYM delivered in July an online programme to 70 young women in years 11 and 12, exposing them to research and career opportunities in science, technology, engineering, mathematics and high-tech manufacturing.
Third, as an active group of committed individuals, we are growing our numbers and exploring new opportunities to serve community needs in Wainuiomata, a rapidly growing suburb of Hutt City but with no current Rotary presence. Alongside this growth strategy, we aim to provide our members with a range of networking and social opportunities and the opportunity to hear top-notch speakers at our fortnightly breakfast meetings.