International Café Highlights Global Projects in Belize, Lebanon, and Angola
By: Bill Dunn, Secretary DISC, Yarmouth RC
Nearly 40 Rotarians gathered on Valentine’s Day for the latest International Café, where they heard about projects in Belize, Lebanon, and Angola, along with a report on District Global Grants.
Marsha Peterson and Nikki Stull of the Rotary Club of Placencia, Belize, introduced attendees to their vibrant club and its many initiatives. In addition to projects in basic education, community center improvements, and clean water and sanitation, they are seeking partners for a $250,000 Community Complex Project. The club has already completed a roofed and lighted basketball court and fenced the entire site. Remaining work includes demolishing an old building, installing a rainwater‑collection cistern, and constructing new bathrooms and locker rooms for youth sports. Clubs interested in supporting the project may contact Marsha (marshapeterson56@gmail.com) or Nikki (nikkistull16@gmail.com).
Emil Moawad from Lebanon shared the significant challenges his country has faced in recent years—COVID, civil unrest, wildfires, the Beirut explosion, economic collapse, and war. District 2452, which includes 36 clubs, is developing a $100,000 Global Grant to support firefighters and first responders, most of whom are volunteers with limited resources and training. The project aims to provide firefighting foam, vehicles, first aid and trauma kits, protective gear, hoses, modern rescue equipment, and professional training. Clubs wishing to help may contact Emil (emil.moawad@gmail.com).
Roland Gagne introduced fellow Biddeford‑Saco Rotarian Makengo Nzeza, who spoke about the Tuku Village School Project in northwest Angola, where he grew up. The project will provide schooling for 200 children ages 5–10 who currently have no access to education. The club is preparing a Global Grant to equip a new structure now under construction. Roland (rotaryroland@gmail.com) and Makengo are available to present the project to interested clubs.
District Governor Emma Bodwell closed the Café with an update on Global Grants across District 7780. Eight projects totaling more than $400,000 are currently underway, supported by over $50,000 each from District Clubs and District Designated Funds (DDF). The District is awaiting decisions on an additional $320,000 in Global Grants, with $88,000 of that possibly just approved. Drafts for new grants totaling $150,000 are also in development. Emma highlighted how Global Grant funding can significantly multiply a club’s contribution.
The next International Café is scheduled for Saturday, April 4, 2026, at 9:30 a.m. Mark your calendar.