Service in Action

By Claudia Urbano, Rotary Service and Engagement staff

The holiday season is not only a time for festivities but also an opportunity to make a positive impact on the world around us. In December, Rotary International recognizes Disease Prevention and Treatment Month, encouraging clubs worldwide to dedicate their efforts to promoting healthcare and combatting diseases in their communities.

Harnessing the Power of Rotary Action Groups
In this endeavor, Rotary Action Groups play a crucial role. These specialized groups within the Rotary network bring together experts and enthusiasts dedicated to specific areas of service, including disease prevention and treatment. By collaborating with Rotary Action Groups, clubs can tap into their extensive knowledge, resources, and global network to plan and implement sustainable and impactful service projects.

Expert Guidance for Sustainable Projects
Rotary Action Groups offer invaluable expertise to Rotary and Rotaract clubs, assisting them in navigating the complexities of project planning and implementation. They can provide practical guidance on:

• Identifying specific healthcare needs within the community
• Developing effective strategies to address those needs
• Securing funding opportunities to support project initiatives
• Connecting with relevant partners to enhance project impact
• Accessing tailored resources and tools to streamline project execution

Exploring Rotary Action Groups Dedicated to Disease Prevention and Treatment
Rotary has a diverse range of Rotary Action Groups specializing in various aspects of disease prevention and treatment. These groups offer specific expertise and support in the following areas:

• Addiction Prevention addresses substance abuse and addiction through long-term, structural interventions.
• Alzheimer’s/Dementia supports Rotary members affected by Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia and promotes related projects.
• Blindness Prevention promotes eye health and better vision worldwide through awareness, education, and access to eye care.
• Blood, Tissue, and Organ Donation organizes and supports blood drives to ensure a reliable blood supply for communities in need.
• Diabetes raises awareness, promotes prevention, and contributes to effective treatment and management of diabetes.
• Family Health/AIDS Prevention empowers communities in Africa and South Asia with quality healthcare resources to address various health challenges.
• Health Education and Wellness advocates for healthy lifestyle choices and disease prevention through education and awareness campaigns.
• Hearing assists clubs and districts in implementing projects that aid individuals with hearing loss, including access to hearing aids and assistive technology.
• Hepatitis Eradication, participates in hepatitis testing campaigns and supports initiatives to eradicate hepatitis.
• Malaria works towards eliminating malaria by reducing transmission rates and enhancing treatment accessibility.
• Mental Health Initiatives utilizes practical toolkits and resources to integrate mental health initiatives into projects and advocacy campaigns.
• Multiple Sclerosis raises awareness about multiple sclerosis and encourages collaboration with MS societies on related projects.

Making a Lasting Impact
By collaborating with Rotary Action Groups, your club can significantly enhance its impact in combating diseases and promoting wellness in your community. Their expertise, resources, and global network will empower you to make a lasting difference in the lives of others. Contact an Action Group for guidance or support on a project within their area of expertise or use your Distritct Resource Network to find nearby Action Groups members with relevant field experience. Join Action Groups to share your expertise and/or support their efforts to bring positive change to communities in their area of service.