This Christmas marks 30 years since the Rotary Clubs of Sechelt, Sunshine Coast, Gibsons, and Pender Harbour began selling the annual Rotary Calendar. “Looking back, we created the ability to raise funds for many community initiatives thanks to our generous business community,” said Marnie Hatton of the Rotary Club of Sechelt, who has been involved with calendar sales for 15 years.
The annual Rotary Calendar has consistently provided spectacular photographs from amateur photographers residing on the Sunshine Coast while awarding daily prizes amounting to $14,400 annually. This New Year’s Day, the prize is $3,000, with daily cash prizes throughout the rest of the year. Over $432,000 in prizes have been awarded.
Since 1993, proceeds from sales have gone into the community, granting over $345,000 in scholarships to high school graduates and funding initiatives for youth in the arts, sports, and Special Olympics, nearing $525,000. Contributions to community initiatives include the Sunshine Coast Community Services Food Bank, St. Hilda’s Cold Weather Shelter, the Festival of the Written Arts and many other causes totalling over $112,000. “That’s why people come to our kiosks at Trail Bay Centre, Sunnycrest Mall and Pender IGA with $20 to buy a calendar each year: they know how the money benefits our community,” Hatton said.
Cameron Reid of the Rotary Club of the Sunshine Coast was one of the members who, 30 years ago, began the sale of annual calendars. He also noted that the commitment of community corporate sponsorship has been integral since the beginning. “Selling calendars has been one of the main reasons Rotary could respond so well to the community,” he said. “We try to see needs and respond.”
“It is a major fundraiser at Christmas for the Rotary, but only a small part of how Rotary gives back. We are always grateful to the community and especially the sponsors for their continued support of our beloved calendar,” said Hatton.
