The Rotary Club of Ladysmith’s latest initiative is turning empties into impact.
The service club's new beverage container drop-off bin, located across from Aggie Hall on Symonds Street, offers a convenient place for residents to donate refundable drink containers 24/7.
In March, Rotary members gathered on a sunny Saturday to paint and customize the shipping container, which now serves as the permanent drop-off bin for the program.
Proceeds from the recycling program are split between Rotary and a rotating roster of local community partners.
In June, the program supported LaFF (Ladysmith Family and Friends), a not-for-profit organization that offers free programs and support for young families. Staff and volunteers from LaFF helped with sorting donations and shared in the funds raised.
In July, the Rotary Club partnered with the Ladysmith Chemainus Orcas Swim Club. Proceeds will help the Orcas work toward their goal of hosting competitive swim meets in Ladysmith, something the club hopes will strengthen local athletics and maybe even inspire a future Olympian.
Rotary encourages residents to support the initiative by continuing to drop off refundable beverage containers in the marked shipping container, which is now permanently installed by Country Grocer.
The club is also inviting other Ladysmith-area organizations to get involved. Groups interested in being future recipients can apply by downloading the Beverage Container Project Application, available on the club’s website.
