Lunchtime Speaker- Kevin Mack

Kevin Mack, a member of Rushmoor Rotary Club and District 1145 Compliance Lead, spoke about the Rotary Children’s Fun Day. Previously organized in partnership with Kids Out UK, a charity supporting disadvantaged children, the event underwent changes in 2023 due to governance concerns. Kevin and two other Rotarians, appointed as trustees at Kids Out, resigned last June. The Fun Day is now run in collaboration with a new charity, Kids in Mind, while maintaining a similar format.

Rotary GBI has generously funded recovery efforts post-Covid lockdown, including subsidies for the event. Negotiations with the Army, which owns the Rugby Ground where the event is held, have been challenging. Additional inspections were required, and safety concerns arose due to uncertainty about the location of underground floodlight cables. To address this, bouncy castles were relocated to avoid potential risks.

The event remains successful, with 1,280 children attending last year out of 1,364 invitees. They were accompanied by 880 carers, teachers, and parents, along with 300 volunteers, including Rotarians and other helpers. Local Rotary clubs continue to provide strong support, with most clubs in the area participating.

Rotary has also secured funding for toy boxes designed for children with special needs or those fleeing domestic violence, continuing an initiative previously managed by Kids Out.

Terry Smith, delivering the vote of thanks, reminisced about the first Fun Day held at Thorpe Park in 1990. This event was made possible with support from Lady Grantchester, daughter of Sir John Moores, founder of Littlewoods. Terry expressed gratitude to Kevin for his engaging talk and dedication to the event’s success.