In Gear | Rotary in Southern New Zealand Issue 1 | Page 43

Artist’s impression of 154 and 160 Paterson Street, Invercargill What can I do to help? So, you’re a Rotarian, but not based in Invercargill. What can you do to pitch in? What we want is for everyone to win out of it.” Richard Boyed-Manson, project organiser And, the greater the Building a Rotary Dream’s success, the greater the impact for those in need. To boost the profits, the Rotary clubs are calling out for labour and materials, calls that are increasingly being answered by businesses and individuals, eager to get in behind the project. Rotary organisers are keen to hear from anyone who’s willing to lend a hand. A series of “muck in” days are also planned during the build, and will be publicised on the project’s Facebook page. And, for those who mightn’t be in a position to offer their time or materials, the Rotary clubs have set up a Give a Little page for donations to help the project along. The beauty of such a high-profile project, Richard says, is the positive publicity that’s shining down on all who are involved and backing the project. “What we want is for everyone to win out of it.” He’s also hopeful the innovative project’s profile will create added interest in Rotary, and what the organisation can achieve, leading to more people wanting to join. • Remember, every little bit counts – why not donate your latte, espresso, cappuccino or chai tea to the project’s Give a Little page? If all of District 9980’s Rotarians gave just $5 each, we’d be looking at over $6000. • Keep an eye out for the upcoming “muck in” days – if you can make it to Invercargill for a weekend working bee, we’d love to share the experience with our fellow Rotarians. • If you have access to anything that’s needed on a new build that you’re able to donate or supply at a great rate, it would be fantastic to hear from you. Or maybe you have southern connections you can put us in contact with. Feel free to touch base with project organiser, Richard Boyed-Manson by email: [email protected] • Spread the word. We really want to reach as many people, as widely as possible, not just about our project, but also the cause. Homelessness is a growing problem, and we all need to act now. We’d be so grateful if you shared our project – our Facebook posts, our website, our Give a Little page, and the story behind the Southland Breathing Space Trust. • Looking to boost your property portfolio and back a magnificent cause all at the same time? Keep an eye out for details of the homes’ auctions – you might just score a stand-out home and play your part in making a life-changing difference to Southlanders in need. Page 43