October: Economic & Community Development Month in Rotary

October is Rotary’s Economic and Community Development Month, a time to recognize how lasting change begins with healthy, educated, and empowered individuals. For the Chiang Mai International Rotary Club (CMIRC), this theme is deeply connected to our mission to promote child safety, health, and education in Northern Thailand.

Our active projects reflect Rotary’s vision of sustainable community development. The Children’s Water Safety and Drowning Prevention Program gives students essential life-saving skills, while the School Vision Screening Project helps children learn effectively and stay in school. The Nursing Scholarship Program invests in future healthcare professionals, improving both career opportunities and public health. At the B.K. Kee Patient House, CMIRC supports patients and their families during medical treatment, offering care, comfort, and dignity during recovery.

As the host club for a major Water and Sanitation Global Grant, supported by over 30 Rotary Clubs worldwide and the Integrated Tribal Development Foundation (ITDF), we are improving hygiene and infrastructure in Northern Thailand - fundamental to health, education, and local economic stability. Each year, the Children’s Winter Clothing Appeal brings warmth and relief to children and families in remote northern villages, allowing them to stay healthy and attend school during the cold season.

Our past initiatives also reflect CMIRC’s dedication to holistic development. We have provided financial support to the Mae Tao Clinic, ensuring migrants' access to family health services. During the COVID-19 pandemic, our Free Food for the Poor Initiative offered relief to those facing economic hardship. The Cultivating a Peace Culture Program, which used Taekwondo to teach conflict management and non-violent communication among students, promoted empathy and cooperation among parents and teachers as well. Likewise, our Children’s Developmental Screenings supported mothers’ health and early intervention for young children, strengthening family well-being.

This October, CMIRC celebrates how every project - past and present - builds stronger, safer, more self-reliant communities and a brighter future for children across Northern Thailand.