Service defines Rotary's character; whether local or international, it promotes Rotary's appeal and visibility in the community, and is the reason Rotary continues to grow. Community Service responds to the needs of the Barrie and surrounding communities. Our Club determines top priorities for service projects by first learning about our community's needs and assets, and then developing a response that addresses them. Effective Community Service projects: Respond to a real issue, not an imagined one. Improve the lives of community members. Incorporate the abilities of those who are served. Recognize all participants' contributions as important and necessary. Come from a realistic assessment of resources available. Aim for specific goals and objectives with measurable results. Build a working network. Our committee considers requests for financial assistance of all sizes and types from those persons and organizations in financial need. Applications for assistance should be made in writing to the Director of Community Service and should strive to meet the above criteria established by our committee. All applications for assistance are reviewed by the committee on a monthly basis and require final approval by our Board of Directors at the next Board Meeting. Accordingly, applicants should expect at least 60 days before a funding request is reviewed, investigated and approved.