Since its beginnings in 2001, a group of volunteers have worked to make reliable healthcare in this part of Haiti a reality. Initially, small groups of doctors and nurses travelled to the Les Cayes area several times a year to provide make-shift, portable clinics to people who otherwise had little or no access to health care.

While those visits did extend some relief for a short period of time, they were hit-or-miss at best. Once the group began to grow and their non-profit organization became a reality, their first goal was to purchase land and build a healthcare clinic as a permanent resource for these people.

In addition, Forward in Health became committed to providing clean drinking water and preventative health education to this rural, poverty stricken area. Thus far, land has been purchased, the surrounding wall and gate have been constructed, and Phase I of the building project is complete. The walls and the roof of the clinic are up and a well has been dug that is now providing clean water to the community. The clinic expects to open in the next year.

Of course, there is still much to do. Completing and equipping the clinic and training the medical staff that are resident in Haiti all have to be finished before the clinic is operational. We are this close.  Proceeds from this tournament will help Forward in Health launch the clinic opening. Join this effort by participating in the tournament on Friday, July 12, 2013, at the Winchendon School Country Club (245 Spring Street, Winchendon). Registration begins at 8:30, with a shotgun tee off scheduled for 10:00am. Breakfast items by Panera will be served to golfers, and lunch will be held on the green.  An amazing country style dinner will be provided from 3:00pm until 6:00pm at the clubhouse afterward, which will also feature the awards program, auction and raffle. Separate dinner registrations are available for non-golfers.

We hope you can join us, and look forward to seeing you on July 12, 2013.

Sincerely,

Michael F. Ellis  Co-Chairs, 2013 FIH Tournament  978-516-8575

Alex Magay  Co-Chairs, 2013 FIH Tournament  978-869-6088

 

Following the introductory portion of the program, Matt spoke a bit about Brendan and his importance to the community and his response to families in need in the community due to severe medical issues similar to the circumstances Matt and his family are facing. In his speech to the guests gathered that night, Matt spoke about how many people have the best intentions to help, but best intentions do not go far enough. He spoke of Brendan as a "man of action" and encouraged all to act when people are in need.

Following dinner, videos about Rotary's mission to end Polio, and well-wishes for the Geartys were presented. Presentations were made by Representatives John Rogers and Paul McMurtry, Past President Joseph Pascarella for Blue Hills Regional HS, Lee Kennedy of the Norwood Circle of Hope Foundation, Sharon Gearty, Past President Mike Thornton, and President Lisa Rubini.

The Neponset Valley Sunrise Rotary Club is honored to have Matt speak at this year’s event to honor Norwood resident and businessman Brendan Gearty. Brendan has provided outstanding service to the Norwood and surrounding Neponset Valley communities – and beyond, through his involvement with Rotary. As the former owner of Norwood Printing and immediate Past President of NVSR, he has consistently placed “service above self” and has made a true impact in the lives of others. Proceeds from the event will benefit the Norwood Circle of Hope Foundation, an organization that Gearty has supported for many years, and Neponset Valley Sunrise Rotary charities and programs.

Cost to attend the “Service Above Self” Award Dinner is $40.00 per person. Seating is limited and is on a first-come, first-serve basis. Sponsorship opportunities are also available. Look for online forms to be available soon. Businesses or individuals who wish to honor Brendan by sponsoring this event should contact Event Co-Chairs Mike Thornton at 617-759-0251 and Pat Balerna at 617-593-1232, or email nvsrotary@gmail.com.

The Neponset Valley Sunrise Rotary supports local charitable organizations and the Rotary Foundation’s efforts to enhance our world. The club meets weekly at Holiday Inn, Dedham from 7:30 to 8:30 a.m. and represents the towns of Canton, Dedham, Foxborough, Medfield, Milton, Norfolk, Norwood, Randolph, Sharon, Stoughton, Walpole, and Westwood. For more information, visit www.nvsrotary.org or email nvsrotary@gmail.com.