What The World Equestrian Games is like the Superbowl or Olympics of the Equestrian
World. This is the first time the games have been held in North America,
so it's fitting that they will be in Lexington, the 'horse capital
of the world.' All of Kentucky can celebrate this historic event, but
more importantly, all Rotarians, their families and friends, whether in
Kentucky or elsewhere, can participate in this celebration. More
than half a million spectators will be in Kentucky for the games,
including 800 human athletes and 900 equine athletes! It will REALLY be
something to see. Previously held in
places like Italy and Germany, the World Equestrian Games is a
spectacular international event and will feature eight different types
of equestrian competitions. More than 1,000 members of the media will be
here including NBC which will broadcast the Games live.
Why Rotary
forged a unique relationship with the public concessionaire for the
World Equestrian Games. Rotarians, their families and friends, will be
the primary work force serving food and performing cashier duties at the
games' public concession sites. The money we earn will go to the Rotary
Foundation, including for Polio Plus. Based on projections, we estimate
that our efforts can earn between $300,000 - $400,000 to help us all
put "Service Above Self" and "End Polio Now." And what a great
way to raise money for this lifesaving effort!
When The Games take place September 25 - October 10. There are two shifts each day, 7:00am - 3:00pm and 11:30am - 7:30pm.
How it works Each club needs to recruit Rotarians, friends, family members, or anyone over the age of 18 to sign up to work one or more shifts. Non-Rotarians can list the name of the Rotarian who recruited them so that your club gets credit. Each shift worked will have a value, approximately 50 Rotary Foundation credit points or $50. The exact value of each shift will be determined by the total amount received by Rotary. Your club can determine how its credit will be used-- to fulfill your club's Rotary Foundation obligation, you club's Polio Plus obligation, or other endeavors. Clubs that earn 1000 points will also earn a Paul Harris Fellow that can be awarded to anyone the club chooses.
What else volunteers get Each volunteer will receive an additional
free pass for another day at the Games, as a spectator. Volunteers will also receive a free jacket or shirt to wear while working that they may keep.
How to sign up To sign up, go to www.Rotary-WEG.org and follow the website instructions.
Need a place to stay?
Several Rotarians in Louisville and surrounding areas are willing to host Rotarians in their homes during the games. This is a perfect opportunity for those clubs located father away from Lexington. For information on home hosting, or to offer to host Rotarians in your home, contact Mary Kathryn at mk [at] rotarydistirct6710.org.
Promote WEG at a Rotary Meeting You have a captive audience of Rotarians each week at your club meeting. Encourage members to sign up while they are at the meeting! Below is a link to a paper form you can download, copy, and hand out at your club meeting. Remember to encourage Rotarians to invite family and friends to volunteer as well.
Promote WEG to employees Many Rotarians represent companies that have many employees. Consider asking the business leaders in your club to invite all their employees to volunteer at WEG. One e-mail to all employees could generate many volunteers. Some employers have even allowed employees to take time off to work shifts during business hours.