Events

Fellow Rotarians Shelley Crawford and David Legge from Port Arthur Rotary will share their exciting experience at the Rotary International Conference in Calgary this past June.

Marg Woods and John Stephenson will also be sharing their inspiring takeaways from the Rotary International Conference held in Calgary this past June.

HIKE INTO HISTORY – MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 1, 2025
Sleeping Giant Provincial Park, Thunder Bay, ON

On September 1, Judith and Fred Fox, Terry’s sister and brother, will lead a very special hike through Sleeping Giant Provincial Park—near the very place where Terry was forced to end his Marathon of Hope in 1980.  This powerful tribute honors Terry’s determination, his unwavering optimism, and the legacy that continues to inspire millions.

Whether you choose the short Sea Lion Trail, the scenic Tee Harbour route, or the challenging climb to the Top of the Giant, each step you take helps fund the cause Terry cared most about: a world without cancer.  Register today as an individual, family, or team, and be part of this unforgettable day. Participants are encouraged to register and complete their waiver in advance.

REGISTER HERE

Walk with purpose. Follow Terry’s path. Carry his dream forward with every step.

🌟 Unite for Good – Lakehead Rotary 2025/26 🌟

Lakehead Rotary is gearing up for an exciting year ahead under Rotary International’s theme, “Unite for Good.” This global call inspires Rotarians everywhere to come together, strengthen connections, and make a lasting difference both locally and around the world.

Join us at this planning meeting to share your thoughts and ideas as we work toward a year of service, growth, and community impact—living out Rotary’s call to Unite for Good and showing the power of working together.

Lakehead Rotary members and families — join us Sunday, September 7 for an afternoon at Ray and Kyla’s new home on the shores of Lake Superior. Drop in anytime for drinks, snacks, and great company.

650 West Green Bay Road, Shuniah ON  12-5PM   

No RSVP needed — just come by and enjoy. If you have any questions, give Kyla a call at 807-630-9872.

Lakehead Rotary Members – You’re Invited!

VENUE:                                WILDERNESS DISCOVERY CENTRE

ADDRESS:                           53 BARRED OWL ROAD, LAKE SHEBANDOWAN

TOUR START TIME:            4:15PM

DINNER SERVICE:              5:00PM

Join us at the beautiful Wilderness Discovery Centre in Shebandowan as we celebrate the completion of a brand-new accessible ramp, made possible through the generosity of HAGI.

This incredible lakeside facility offers so much to our community – from fully accessible cabins and trails, to peaceful waterfront views, fishing opportunities, and spaces designed for recreation, respite, and connection with nature. It’s a place where individuals, families, and groups of all abilities can enjoy the outdoors together.

Bring your friends and spend a couple of hours celebrating this milestone while enjoying a delicious buffet prepared by Chef Tanner Harris of the RFDA. It’s the perfect opportunity to explore the centre, share in the community spirit, and see first-hand the impact of accessibility and inclusion in action.

Please RSVP to Shirley DeWilde before September 5, 2025.

Peace Day Ceremony – Sunday, September 14 at 10 AM
Join the Rotary Clubs of Thunder Bay at the Tai Chi Garden, Marina Park, as we mark International Peace Day with a community gathering for peace and unity. Free parking available.

Terry Fox Run 2025 – Thunder Bay

Sunday, September 14 | Current River Recreation Centre

More than four decades after Terry Fox’s Marathon of Hope captured the hearts of Canadians, his legacy continues to inspire. The Terry Fox Run exists today because of Terry’s vision—a world without cancer. Every step we take honors his determination, courage, and unwavering belief in the power of community.

This year, we gather once again in Thunder Bay, where Terry’s journey came to a heartbreaking pause but where his mission continues to move forward with strength and hope.

Run Day Details:
📍 Location: Current River Recreation Centre
🕐 Registration begins at 1:00pm
🏃‍♂️ Run starts at 2:00pm and wraps up by 4:00pm

Route Info:
The course takes you through the beautiful Boulevard Lake area, welcoming participants of all abilities. Whether you're walking, running, biking, rollerblading, or wheeling—this day is about unity, purpose, and carrying Terry’s dream forward together.  No minimum donation, no entry fee—just your spirit and support. Join us. 

CLICK HERE TO REGISTER ONLINE

📣 Lakehead Rotary Invitation – Belluz Farms Visit & Dinner 📣

On Wednesday, September 18th, Lakehead Rotary will be heading to Belluz Farms for an evening of learning and fellowship.

🌱 4:30 p.m. – Belluz Farms
Enjoy a wagon ride through the farm while learning about different ways of growing crops, followed by an engaging presentation on eating seasonally—what’s in season, how to get it, and why it matters.

🍽️ 6:30 p.m. – Dinner at Cliffhanger Restaurant
After the farm tour, we’ll gather at the Cliffhanger Restaurant at the Best Western Plus Nor'Wester Hotel & Conference Centre (2080 Hwy 61, Thunder Bay ON). Dinner will be off the menu, and we’ll need confirmed numbers to reserve seating.

👉 Please RSVP to Tyler no later than September 11th if you plan to attend.  We hope you’ll join us for this evening of fellowship, good food, and fresh ideas!

A friendly reminder to all who are part of the Thunder Bay REAct Committee helping to plan Rotary Spooky Green Halloween! 🎃 Your ideas and energy are what bring this event to life, so we’d love to see you at the weekly planning meetings. Join us on Zoom every Thursday evening at 7:00 PM.

Join Zoom Meeting

https://us06web.zoom.us/j/87159711492?pwd=cgo23Yi7tA2cL3bnOHQTGBn3d0bDs6.1

Meeting ID: 871 5971 1492

Passcode: 876079

Participating in the media launch of the Rotary Santa Claus Parade is an important way to share the excitement of the season with our entire community. The launch helps spread the word, builds anticipation, and showcases the many volunteers, sponsors, and partners who make the parade possible. It also highlights the spirit of Rotary and the joy this tradition brings to families across Thunder Bay. By joining the launch, you help set the stage for one of the most magical events of the year and ensure that the parade continues to grow, inspire, and bring people together.

Danny Carroll - Sounds of the Heart

Date:  Thursday September 25, 2025

Location: Hilldale Lutheran Church 321 Hilldale Road, Thunder Bay ON

Time: Doors open at 7:00 pm | Concert begins at 7:30 pm

Tickets are available now: Get Your Tickets Here

A friendly reminder to all who are part of the Thunder Bay REAct Committee helping to plan Rotary Spooky Green Halloween! 🎃 Your ideas and energy are what bring this event to life, so we’d love to see you at the weekly planning meetings. Join us on Zoom every Thursday evening at 7:00 PM.

Join Zoom Meeting

https://us06web.zoom.us/j/87159711492?pwd=cgo23Yi7tA2cL3bnOHQTGBn3d0bDs6.1

Meeting ID: 871 5971 1492

Passcode: 876079

Investment Outlook for the Fall and Beyond
Guest Speaker: Philip Petursson, Chief Investment Strategist, IG Wealth Management

Understanding where markets are headed and what trends may shape the months ahead is an important part of making smart financial decisions. This session will provide insight into the economic outlook and what it could mean for investments moving forward.

Event Details
Location: IG Wealth Office, 1113 Jade Court
Time: Noon
A complimentary light lunch will be provided

This is a free event. If you would like to attend, please contact Michael Nitz at michael.nitz@ig.ca.

A friendly reminder to all who are part of the Thunder Bay REAct Committee helping to plan Rotary Spooky Green Halloween! 🎃 Your ideas and energy are what bring this event to life, so we’d love to see you at the weekly planning meetings. Join us on Zoom every Thursday evening at 7:00 PM.

Join Zoom Meeting

https://us06web.zoom.us/j/87159711492?pwd=cgo23Yi7tA2cL3bnOHQTGBn3d0bDs6.1

Meeting ID: 871 5971 1492

Passcode: 876079

Join us on Wednesday, October 8 at 6:30 PM at the George Jeffrey Children’s Centre gymnasium. Students who attended this summer’s RYLA leadership camp will share how the program helped them grow as young leaders. Refreshments will be served and all are welcome.

We have an opportunity to support our community.

The RFDA Harvest for Hunger 2025 will be held October 9th through 11th.  

Once again Lakehead Rotary will be supporting this food drive by working at the donation site.

This year, we will be stationed at the Metro on the corner of Arthur and James St.

The event will run from 4:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. on  Thursday, Oct. 9 and Friday Oct. 10, and from 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. on Saturday, October 11.  Each day will be divided into shifts of 1 hour duration.  You are welcome to sign up for any number of shifts as it fits into your schedule.

An opportunity to sign up will be delivered to your email with a link to the sign up sheet.  If you are having any difficulty reaching the sign up list, please let me know.

Take care,

Audrey Halvorsen, President

A friendly reminder to all who are part of the Thunder Bay REAct Committee helping to plan Rotary Spooky Green Halloween! 🎃 Your ideas and energy are what bring this event to life, so we’d love to see you at the weekly planning meetings. Join us on Zoom every Thursday evening at 7:00 PM.

Join Zoom Meeting

https://us06web.zoom.us/j/87159711492?pwd=cgo23Yi7tA2cL3bnOHQTGBn3d0bDs6.1

Meeting ID: 871 5971 1492

Passcode: 876079

The Lakehead Rotary Club is pleased to host Tim Larocque - Confederation College’s Director of Applied Research as a guest speaker. This position plays a key role in linking students, faculty, and industry partners to create hands-on projects that solve real challenges here in Northwestern Ontario. The applied research program helps local businesses with practical solutions, encourages innovation that drives economic growth, and provides valuable learning experiences for students.

At this session, Lakehead Rotary members will gain insight into how applied research works, the kinds of projects Confederation College is involved in, and how these initiatives are making an impact on both students and our community.

A friendly reminder to all who are part of the Thunder Bay REAct Committee helping to plan Rotary Spooky Green Halloween! 🎃 Your ideas and energy are what bring this event to life, so we’d love to see you at the weekly planning meetings. Join us on Zoom every Thursday evening at 7:00 PM.

Join Zoom Meeting

https://us06web.zoom.us/j/87159711492?pwd=cgo23Yi7tA2cL3bnOHQTGBn3d0bDs6.1

Meeting ID: 871 5971 1492

Passcode: 876079

3rd Annual Northwest Climate Gathering
Two Days of Inspiration, Connection, and Climate Action

The 3rd Annual Northwest Climate Gathering invites you to come together for a powerful two-day event celebrating ideas, innovation, and community resilience. Whether you are a climate advocate, community leader, or simply eager to learn how to make a difference, this gathering offers something for everyone.

Day One: Living the 1.5 Lifestyle – An Evening with Lloyd Alter
Friday, October 17 | 7:00–8:00 PM
Entershine Bookshop, 196 Algoma Street
Doors open at 6:30 PM

Begin the weekend with an engaging conversation with author and sustainability expert Lloyd Alter as he explores what it truly means to live the 1.5°C lifestyle. Discover practical ways to live more sustainably and be inspired by real stories of change.

Day Two: Building Resilience in an Uncertain World
Saturday, October 18 | 9:00 AM–4:00 PM
Lakehead University Faculty Lounge
Doors open at 8:30 AM

Spend the day learning, connecting, and collaborating with climate-focused organizations, local leaders, and engaged community members. Together, we will explore solutions, share ideas, and strengthen our collective capacity to build a more resilient world.

This two-day event is free to attend and open to everyone. Space is limited, so we encourage you to register early to secure your place.

Register Now

Invitation to Join Nipigon Rotary’s Annual Foundation Dinner

Dan Brown from the Nipigon Rotary Club invites all Lakehead Rotary members and their guests to their Annual Foundation Dinner.

Saturday, October 18th

Nipigon Curling Club
5–6 p.m.: Symposium
6 p.m.: Dinner
$30 per person

Let’s show our support and enjoy a great evening with our friends in Nipigon.
For tickets, please contact Sumiye at 807-887-4648.

You’re invited to a casual, conversation-forward dinner at Red Lion Smokehouse with Patrick Harrison and Linda Marrin—two dynamic voices in Rotary Public Image.

Let’s gather with the Fort William Rotary Club at their meeting at Daytona’s Restaurant to welcome Patrick Harrison and Linda Marrin for an inspiring, practical look at Rotary Public Image.

Please RSVP to Stephen - stephen.fwrotary@gmail.com

A friendly reminder to all who are part of the Thunder Bay REAct Committee helping to plan Rotary Spooky Green Halloween! 🎃 Your ideas and energy are what bring this event to life, so we’d love to see you at the weekly planning meetings. Join us on Zoom every Thursday evening at 7:00 PM.

Join Zoom Meeting

https://us06web.zoom.us/j/87159711492?pwd=cgo23Yi7tA2cL3bnOHQTGBn3d0bDs6.1

Meeting ID: 871 5971 1492

Passcode: 876079

We are pleased to share that Brendan Carlin from Shelter House Thunder Bay will be joining us as a special guest at the Lakehead Rotary meeting on October 30.

Shelter House plays a vital role in our community by providing essential services to individuals experiencing homelessness and food insecurity. From offering emergency shelter and meals to connecting people with outreach, health care, and supportive programs, their team works tirelessly to meet some of the most urgent needs in Thunder Bay.

We look forward to hearing Brendan’s insights on the challenges faced, the impact Shelter House continues to make, and how we as a community can help support their important mission.

Not long ago, members of TBay REAcT – the joint environmental committee of our three Rotary clubs – asked themselves a simple question: what more can we do to protect the lake and land that sustain us?  Two answers came forward.

🌱 Seeds for Conservation: Imagine a greenhouse right here on LRCA land, filled with native plants and seeds grown locally. Plants that will thrive along our shorelines. Plants that volunteers will help put into the ground as part of the ongoing cleanup and restoration of Lake Superior’s waterfront

🌊 Litter Free Lake Superior: Picture litter traps catching waste before it reaches our lake. Fewer microplastics in our waters. A cleaner, healthier Superior for the generations that follow.

Through a District Matching Grant, every dollar we raise will be doubled... but we are short in our original goal.  That’s why, on October 30, we are coming together. Not just to fundraise, but to stand for the future of our community, our water, and our planet.

This isn’t just an event. It’s a chance to write the next chapter of our shared story — one where Lake Superior remains strong, clean, and life-giving for all.

The annual Rotary Santa Claus Parade is more than just a tradition in Thunder Bay.  it is a celebration that brings our entire community together. Families line the streets, children wait with excitement, and neighbours gather to share in the joy of the holiday season. For many, it marks the true beginning of Christmas, filling our city with music, laughter, and festive spirit.

Hosted by Rotary, the parade reflects the values of service and community, reminding us all of the importance of coming together, supporting one another, and creating magical memories that last a lifetime.

Save the Date
November 22, 2025 | 7:00 – 11:30 pm | Canadian Lakehead Exhibition

The Port Arthur Rotary Club and Dougall Media will be transforming the Coliseum into a winter wonderland for one unforgettable night! Enjoy live bands, a DJ, festive food and drinks, and even photos with Santa.

This special evening raises funds for the Regional Food Distribution Association (RFDA), which helps supply food banks and community programs throughout Thunder Bay and the region — making sure families, children, and individuals facing food insecurity have access to the nourishment they need.

✨ Don’t miss out! Click here to get your tickets today.

✨ December Dreams ✨  Presented by the Lakehead Rotary Club

Join us for one of Northwestern Ontario’s most beloved holiday traditions — December Dreams, a celebration of creativity, craftsmanship, and community spirit.  With special thanks to presenting sponsor Thunder Bay Truck Centre, and our media sponsors at Acadia Broadcasting.

Saturday, December 6 · 9:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.
Sunday, December 7 · 11:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.
📍 C.L.E. Coliseum Building
425 Northern Avenue, Thunder Bay

🎟️ Admission: $2 per person
Children under 12 enter free!

The Rotary Club of Port Arthur is thrilled to invite all Rotary clubs, Rotarians, and friends to their Retro Rotary Christmas Lunch on Tuesday, December 9, at 11:30 a.m., hosted at the Royal Canadian Legion Branch #5.

Get ready to celebrate the season with a classic turkey dinner and all the fixings, live music, a children’s choir, fun games, great prizes, and three Santas joining the festivities!

This is your chance to reconnect, share some laughter, and kick off the holidays surrounded by Rotary fellowship and good cheer.

🎟 Tickets: $40 per person or $320 for a table of eight
📧 Reserve your seats early! Email bwalmark@tbaytel.net to book and include any dietary restrictions.

Let’s come together as Thunder Bay’s Rotary family—celebrating the season, strengthening friendships between clubs, and supporting the community projects that make a difference all year long.

Shining Together: The Canada Club Rotary Holiday Celebration

Join us for an evening of fellowship and celebration as we come together to honor the spirit of the season and the shared accomplishments of the Canada Club of Rotary. This special gathering will be a time to reflect on the year’s successes, enjoy fine dining, and celebrate the light we create when we shine together.

Event Details
Date: Saturday, December 13
Time: 6:00 PM
Location: Bight Restaurant, 2201 Sleeping Giant Parkway
Tickets: $100 per person

Seating is limited, and this event traditionally sells out quickly. We encourage you to secure your place early and be part of an unforgettable evening of connection, gratitude, and joy.

Purchase Your Tickets Here

✨ Save the Date! – Thursday, December 18, 2025 · 7:30 a.m. · RFDA ✨

The RFDA Gathering Room is officially booked for a very merry Lakehead Rotary Christmas Breakfast!

Break out your festive finest—whether that’s a dazzling Christmas sweater (the uglier, the better!), a cheerful elf hat, or anything that jingles—and join us for a joyful morning of fellowship, laughter, and a special holiday breakfast whipped up by Santa’s very own elves.

Board Members:
Our December Board Meeting will be held at the RFDA on Wednesday, Dec. 17 at 5:30 p.m. As soon as we wrap up, the Elf Network will spring into action!

 Looking forward to celebrating the season over a festive and delicious breakfast as we come together in the Rotary tradition of friendship, community, and goodwill.🎄✨

We were pleased to welcome Brittany Hearn, Community Development Manager for Donor Relations and Collections with Canadian Blood Services, as our guest speaker.

Brittany will be sharing insight into the vital work Canadian Blood Services does to support patients across the country. As Canada’s Lifeline, the organization is responsible for recruiting donors, collecting blood and plasma, managing stem cell and organ donation registries, and ensuring lifesaving products reach the hospitals and patients who rely on them every day. 

The Lakehead Rotary Club welcomes Brittany and is looking forward to learning more from Brittany about the impact of this important work.  Together, we are Canada's lifeline.

We’re delighted to welcome fellow Lakehead Rotarians Gail Brescia, Sharon Hollinsworth, and Scott Wilcken, who will share their personal perspectives on the Rotary District 5580 District Conference, an event that brought together clubs from Northwestern Ontario and Northern Minnesota for several days of connection, learning, and inspiration.

The conference showcased what Rotary does best. Service projects in action, updates on Rotary International priorities like peacebuilding, youth exchange, and community resilience, and keynote sessions that challenged us to think bigger about our impact. From fellowship events that strengthened cross-border friendships to breakout sessions focused on club innovation and membership growth, the experience was both energizing and practical.

Their experiences capture the spirit of District 5580. Thoughtful, welcoming, and action-oriented. We look forward to hearing how the conference sparked new ideas, strengthened Rotary pride, and perhaps even planted a few seeds for projects right here at Lakehead.

The discussion at the morning meeting will focus on the current health of the club, with an emphasis on membership engagement and sustainability. It will likely include conversation around the recruitment of new members into Lakehead Rotary, exploring opportunities to attract prospective Rotarians, share the value of membership, and continue building a strong, active, and welcoming club.