NAME: Nora Dowsett
HOME CLUB: RC of Duncan Noon
AG AREA / CLUB NAMES: • Duncan Daybreak • Duncan • South Cowichan • Chemanius • Ladysmith • Saltspring Island • Shawnigan Lake Eco Club
YEAR JOINED ROTARY: 2002
- Why did you join Rotary? What did you expect from your Rotary membership?
When I was turning 40 I decided it was time to join a service club and give back to the community as well as to network with other professionals. I wanted to join Rotary in Kitchener Ontario, but they didn’t take women at the time, so I joined Kiwanis instead. We moved back to Vancouver Island in 2001 and went to join Kiwanis here and, guess what? They didn’t take women! But Rotary Club of Duncan did and I found my home!
- Rotary lived up to your expectations – how?
Yes! I am so proud to belong to such powerful and far reaching organization that has done so much good in the world. There’s also the added personal benefits like Friendship Exchanges and Rotary Home Exchanges. When you belong to Rotary, you belong to Rotary worldwide.
- We know Rotary is a big part of your life, but what do you like to do for fun? Hobbies?
I am obsessed with gardening (as anyone who looks at my Facebook page can tell). I am a plant collector and love planning new flower gardens. It’s my artistic outlet and stress reliever. Andrew and I also love to travel and explore new places. But we also love our home – there’s nothing better than sitting in our garden with a glass of wine and a good book!
- What inspired you to become involved at the club level? Then at the district level?
I was asked early on (first year?) to be on our Executive. Mainly I served at Youth Chair. I just thought it was the duty of every member who could to take their turn at being President. And then PETS!!! I drank the koolaid there, that’s for sure! It was also there that I decided that I would really enjoy being an AG at some point as you get to meet so many Rotarians from other clubs.
- Best experience so far as Assistant Governor?
It’s been a crazy year with COVID. I was lucky to be able to attend PETS just before the pandemic and it was so great to spend time in person with my incoming Presidents. Zoom meetings have been okay, but I am looking forward to being able to visit my clubs in person. - When will we see you as the District Governor?
Oh….I think that is above my pay grade!
