The Rotary Club of Navan

My name is Breda Hayes. I am really honoured to accept the role of President for the 2024/2025 period in my home town in the Rotary Club of Navan’s forty fifth year. It particularly means a lot to me because my father Dr. Michael Hayes was involved in chartering this club back in 1980 and also was the first President of Navan Rotary. As a child growing up in Navan I would have met many of the past and also present members, many of whom have been past presidents I also attended Rotary events in particular the Navan Treasure Hunt which was always a challenge and remember going back to the Ardboyne Hotel for Miwadi Orange. I am following in the footsteps of Barry O’ Brien Lynch whose father also was a past president.

I am especially honoured to be part of the first all-female team leading the club. Geraldine Honan whose father Colm was also a previous president is the secretary and Marie Mullooley who is our treasurer. We are also honoured to have her as our Assistant District Governor.

I am working as an Adult Literacy Organiser in KLEAR Adult Education Centre. This job really values servicing a community with both literacy and Community Education(Hobby) courses. Similarly Rotary values “Service above self” where all members engage with International and Community projects while supporting local Rotary fund-raising activities. By partnering with local organizations and pooling our resources, we can make a tangible difference in the lives of those in need. Together, we can create initiatives that are not only impactful but also sustainable, leaving a lasting legacy for future generations and our community. We will continue to run our various events starting with the Golf Classic, the Kids' Day Out for St Mary’s and St Ulan’s special schools, the Annual Cinema Night, the Youth Leadership Awards and our Annual Christmas Tree of Hope and Remembrance in Johnstown and Navan Shopping Centres.

This year Rotary International President-elect Stephanie Urchick announced that the 2024-25 presidential theme is The Magic of Rotary. She says we create magic with every project we complete and also with every new member who joins. For me this magic is two-fold as a member you gain a network of friends with similar values and who wish to give back to their communities but who also who by ”working together can accomplish more than anyone of us alone”.

As a club we really hold dear all the continued support that is given to us in our events during the year. Our club is always looking for new members so I would encourage any of you who are interested in joining our club to make contact by emailing us at: secnrc@gmail.com