RID 3234 (Chennai, India) Adopts a Unique Rotary Model for Organ Donation Awareness – A Learning Model for All RI Districts

Formation of Rotary Club of Organ Donation Three years ago, Rtn. Anil Srivatsa from Bengaluru approached RID 3234 to sponsor his cause-based e-club, the Rotary Club of Organ Donation. The club was swiftly chartered by Rotary International and has since become a flagship organization for organ donation awareness.

Diverse and Dedicated Membership The club comprises of members from Bengaluru, Ahmedabad, Chennai, New Delhi, Belgavi, as well as from the UK, USA, and Australia. Members include doctors, lawyers, organ donors, and organ recipients united by their passion for organ donation awareness.

Empowering Through Collaboration Meeting bimonthly via Zoom, the club empowers Rotarians, non-Rotarians, and Rotary clubs both within and outside the district to learn about organ donation and advance the cause.

Educational Resources and Workshops The club developed and written materials, book, chatbotand presentations for seminars and workshops, enabling Rotarians, Rotaractors, Interactors, and transplant coordinators to conduct awareness activities independently. Chat Bot in nine languge –

Youth Engagement: YODA Initiative An unique initiative by the club is the Youth Organ Donation Awareness (YODA) program, aimed at educating and engaging youth. Under this YODA initiative, the club has sponsored and chartered a cause-based Rotaract Club (Rotaract Club of Youth Organ Donation Awareness) and a cause-based Interact Club (Interact Club of Venky Yoda). – Webinar Video

Global Grant Success The club successfully applied to The Rotary Foundation (TRF) for a global grant to support economically disadvantaged women in South India. Through this initiative, aptly named LIFT UP (Life Increasing FUNDED TRANSPLANT FOR THE UNDERPRIVILEDGED), seven economically disadvantaged women hve already undergone free renal transplant surgeries at Manipal Hospital, Hebbal, Bengaluru, with the eighth operation underway. These beneficiaries are also provided with free doctor consultations and subsidized follow-up tests and medications for a period of three years post-transplant to ensure sustainability of the grafted organ. Beneficiary testimony

Resources and Media To learn more about the Rotary Club of Organ Donation’s activities, members are encouraged to view the club’s video on their global grant project and download the comprehensive brochure

Showcasing their activities at the District ConferenceThe District Governor of RID 3234 invited the club to present its achievements at the district conference held in Chennai on 1st & 2nd of March 2025. The booth highlighted the club’s impactful work and served as an inspiration for the attendees.

Global Recognition The booth was visited by RI President’s Representative Rtn. Ijeoma Pearl Okoro from Nigeria,who was impressed by the club’s efforts to make a palpable difference in the lives of those less fortunate. She invited club leaders to draft a proposal that will help  in implementing a similar model across the African subcontinent.

Star-Studded PresentationOn March 2, 2025, during the conference, veteran actress and passionate activist Revathi, a member of the Rotary Club of Organ Donation, presented the club’s activities and success stories.

A Memorable Conference The conference was a microcosm of the Rotary International Convention, featuring outstanding speakers, engaging entertainment, and vibrant fellowship. The House of Friendship showcased exceptional exhibits, while attendees enjoyed sumptuous vegetarian and non-vegetarian South Indian cuisine. Photos Album

Many clubs within district showed interest in colaboratign with Rotary Club of Organ Donation for organ donation awareness activities.

This club exemplifies the spirit of Rotary by addressing a critical global health issue through innovation, collaboration, and dedication. It serves as a model for other Rotary districts to replicate and expand the impact of organ donation awareness worldwide.

For more information and to undertake similer organ donation awareness project you may contact: Rtn. Hemali Ajmera Mo: +919898695396 / hemali@ajmeralaw.com