Who Will Lead Oshawa’s Next Generation of Community Builders? Rotary Club Begins New Year with a Call to Serve

Who will step forward to help shape Oshawa’s next generation of volunteers, leaders, and community builders?

That question is becoming increasingly important as Oshawa continues to grow, welcome new residents, attract businesses, and become a more diverse city. Like many volunteer organizations across Canada, local groups are looking for new ways to attract people who are willing to give their time, share their skills, and take on leadership roles.

For the Rotary Club of Oshawa, the challenge is also an opportunity. The club believes the next chapter of service will depend on engaging younger professionals and welcoming newcomers who bring new ideas, experiences, and perspectives to the community.

For new members joining Rotary, the opportunity is not only to volunteer but to build relationships with people who share a commitment to making Oshawa stronger.

That message was at the centre of the club’s annual Backyard President’s BBQ held on July 6, 2026, where members, families, and community guests gathered as Mark Morissette officially began his term as President for the 2026–2027 Rotary year. During the event, he introduced this year’s Rotary International theme, Creating Lasting Impact, and shared his vision for the year ahead.

“As many of you know, July marks the beginning of a new Rotary year,” Morissette said. “This year’s Rotary theme is Creating Lasting Impact, and you’ll hear a lot more about what that means over the coming months.”

For Morissette, the theme is not simply about completing projects. It is about creating meaningful connections, encouraging more people to participate, and ensuring Rotary remains a place where people can make a difference.

“I hope that every meeting, every project, and every event becomes more than just another date on the calendar. Together, we can create meaningful experiences that strengthen friendships, inspire service, and leave a lasting impact on our community.”

Founded in 1920, the Rotary Club of Oshawa has spent more than a century improving lives through service. For more than 40 years, the club has proudly supported the 151 Chadburn Squadron, awarded scholarships to graduating Oshawa high school students, and made annual contributions to Grandview Kids. The club also provides regular volunteer service with Durham Outlook for the Needy, where members prepare and serve meals for vulnerable residents, while fundraising activities continue to support local charities and community organizations across Oshawa and Durham Region.

Beyond Oshawa, Rotary members have supported clean water projects in Laos, school initiatives in Jamaica and the Dominican Republic, the Oshawa Walk of Fame, the Night of a Thousand Dinners benefiting the Canadian Landmine Foundation, and Rotary’s global effort to eradicate polio.

Reflecting on his year as President, Omar Wisdom said Rotary’s greatest achievement comes from the people who come together with a shared purpose.

“The past year reminded us that Rotary is about people first,” Wisdom said. “Through friendship, trust, and a shared commitment to service, we’ve achieved meaningful results together and made a real difference in our community.”

During his tenure, the club strengthened its community partnerships, continued youth-focused initiatives, and expanded opportunities for members to serve.

Rhonda Kirkland, a former President of the Rotary Club of Oshawa and now the Member of Parliament representing Oshawa, reflected on how service organizations help develop leaders.

“Rotary teaches leadership through service,” Kirkland said. “The friendships built here last a lifetime, and the work you do continues to strengthen Oshawa. As our community grows, Rotary’s role in bringing people together has never been more important.”

Looking ahead, Morissette said membership growth, strengthening partnerships, and creating a welcoming environment for people from all backgrounds will be among his priorities.

“Communities don’t become stronger by chance,” he said. “They become stronger when ordinary people choose to get involved. Our challenge isn’t finding worthwhile projects; it’s inspiring more people to lead them.”

As Oshawa continues to evolve, the Rotary Club of Oshawa hopes its next chapter will be measured not only by the projects it completes, but by the people it inspires to volunteer, lead, and play a role in shaping the city’s future.