Editor’s note: The conflict in Ukraine has displaced millions of people and has created a humanitarian crisis across Europe. The following is an interview between Rotary magazine and Mykola Stebljanko, editor of Rotary magazine in Ukraine.

Q: What’s your situation there now?

Stebljanko: I’m now living in Odesa. It’s the third most populist city on the southwest of Ukraine, an important port city on the Black Sea coast. Currently, there’s no military action here yet, but we live under the constant threat of bombs and missiles. Often, air raid sirens will wake us up in the middle of the night. We have to get up and hide in a safe place. You know, in my apartment, the safest place is the bathroom. We huddle together and spend the rest of the night there. Occasionally, we experienced a few rocket attacks, but most of the time, it’s a safe place.

Most of the military actions now center around Kyiv, the capital of Ukraine, and Kharkiv. More than a dozen smaller cities are also under attack. The city of Mariupol in the Southeast of Ukraine is under siege. More than 2,500 civilians have died there and close to 400,000 people are trapped in the city. The Russian army stopped anyone from escaping. Many are without electricity, water, and heat.

Q: What is happening with Rotary clubs in Ukraine?

Stebljanko: There are 62 Rotary clubs in Ukraine. At the moment, only the Rotary Club of Kherson has temporarily suspended meetings because the city is now under the control of the Russian military. I recently spoke with a Rotarian there. None of them are able to escape and are trapped inside the city. They no longer meet or do any projects for fear of personal safety. Our district governor sent a letter of support to all the Rotarians in Kherson.

Broaden your connections and discover the positive impact of DEI

By Arnold R. Grahl

Interview with Todd “Bowtie” Jenkins – Rotary Club of Fayetteville, Arkansas – Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) Task Force member.

1. You have worked with such companies as Walmart, Google, Facebook, American Airlines, and Kellogg’s. What can Rotary learn from these companies regarding DEI?

There is no one right way or one-size-fits-all to make DEI (diversity, equity, and inclusion) work. As individuals and as an organization, we must understand that we are all on a journey. These big companies have done a great job of understanding the business case for practicing DEI — that the most diverse companies are more likely than ever to outperform less-diverse peers. Rotary must use its connections to continue to activate an inclusive growth-mindset and become something the world hasn’t seen before — an organization where inclusion is at the core of everything we think, say, or do.

2. You speak to Rotary clubs and districts worldwide about DEI. Are there frequent questions you hear, and how do you address them?

There are certainly some common themes. One common question is: “Where do we start?” This is a great first question. It is vital to assess your community, where you are at, and understand where you wish to go. Then, most important, build a plan to get there, and live out your plan in behaviors and actions.

Another question is: “How do we connect with diverse communities?” This one should be so easy for Rotary because connection is all about building relationships — authentic relationships! Get to know people who are different from you, and partner with marginalized communities through service projects or meaningful events.

A third, frequent question is: “How do we get buyin?” This is where it is so important to make sure that DEI efforts extend to all activities and involve everyone. Make sure there is a commitment to the work at the highest levels of the club and district, and if you can, make sure all the goals have measurable results.

Conley Publishing Group

MEQUON — A news Alzheimer’s Caregiver Support Group meeting will take place at 3 p.m. on the third Tuesday of the month, beginning April 19, at Crossroads Presbyterian Church, 6031 Chapel Hill Road.

The group, led by trained facilitator Bob Anderson, will be a safe space to develop mutual support, relationships and care. This group will provide a time and space for caregivers to tend to their mental health. One benefit of this group will be insights, healing, reassurance, understanding and practical advice from others who are walking a similar path, according to a support group press release.

The group is free, open to the public and in person. To ensure they accommodate everyone who wishes to participate, call the Crossroads church office at 262-242-1670 or visit the church website www.crossroadspres.org to register.

Sunday worship service is at 9 a.m. with fellowship and Christian education for all ages after worship. Wednesday night classes and activities are available for all ages during the school year. Crossroads is an intentional Christian community where all people are invited and welcome.