from The Rotary Club of Halifax North West
Welcome to the monthly newsletter from the Rotary Club of Halifax Northwest, where we share the club’s and Rotary’s news and activities within the communities we serve. This issue highlights Rotary’s Youth Services. We are highlighting a very successful youth program offered to Canadian youth by the Rotary Club of Ottawa.
ADVENTURE IN CITIZENSHIP (AIC)
In 1951, the Rotary Club of Ottawa established its annual “Adventure in Citizenship” Program in which over 150 senior high school students from across Canada spend four days in Ottawa experiencing tours, lectures, discussions and social events designed to enhance their understanding and appreciation of Canadian citizenship. The Program is for students aged 16-18 years who are leaders in their community and reflect the broad spectrum of cultural communities that comprise Canadian society.
This annual event provides a unique opportunity for a select group of young Canadians to come together and gain a better understanding of our country. Through meetings with political leaders, senior officials, and others, they learn a great deal about the workings of our democratic institutions. Through meeting one another and having discussions among themselves, they learn to appreciate the diversity of Canada and the privileges and responsibilities of citizenship. The program is not only educational, but it’s also fun!
PROGRAM HIGHLIGHTS
The program normally includes a visit to the House of Commons and a presentation from the Speaker, meetings with aboriginal and local leaders, and motivational speakers. Other typical activities include a special sitting of a Citizenship Court, a visit to the Canadian War Museum and local universities, discussions with topical experts, a talent show and a French-Canadian meal. In addition to the focus on citizenship and Canadian national institutions, participants engage in fellowship among themselves, providing opportunities to exchange ideas and opinions, explore cultural differences, and develop an appreciation for Canada’s cultural diversity. The result is that participants invariably learn that Canadians hold much more in common than the matters that divide us.
OUR CLUB’S PARTICIPATION
Our club sponsors a candidate from J.L. Isley High School, selected through a competition including an essay by each candidate on what it means to be a Canadian, and through interviews. The successful candidates are invited to speak to our club on their return from Ottawa. They invariably impress us with their exuberance and their renewed pride in Canadian citizenship.
Our Rotary Club of Halifax Northwest welcomes everyone to explore community service with us! We pride ourselves on being diverse and inclusive – and we’re friendly! We currently meet virtually or in person every Tuesday from 1145 to 1 pm. at Station Six Restaurant, 247 Herring Cove Rd. in Spryfield. For more information contact Roger Chiasson at rogerchiasson305@ gmail.com or call 782 234 9408.
Photo credits to: https://rotaryottawa.com/
