To mark the commencement of the 2026–2027 Rotary Year, the leadership and members of the Rotary Club of Isolo held their inaugural fellowship with people with special needs at the Modupe Cole Memorial Child Care and Treatment Home School, Akoka, Lagos.
The fellowship, according to the Club President, Rotarian Adetutu Kamiyo, was organised to create a lasting impact in the lives of the individuals while celebrating compassion, inclusion, and humanity.
In Rotary International, the Rotary Year runs from July 1 to June 30. The theme for the 2026–2027 Rotary Year which commenced last Wednesday is “Create Lasting Impact,” reflecting the organisation’s commitment to sustainable service and meaningful community development.
Kamiyo commended the management and staff of the home for their unwavering dedication to the welfare and development of the children, describing their commitment as truly inspiring.
She noted that the fellowship was designed to celebrate the children’s strength, uniqueness, and resilience, urging them never to allow their circumstances to define their future.
“You are gifted, capable, and full of promise. Your resilience inspires us, and your smiles remind us that hope is always stronger than adversity. Never stop believing in yourselves, because the future belongs to those who dare to dream,” Kamiyo said.
The event featured interactive sessions, music, dancing, and moments of shared joy with the children. The highlight of the fellowship was the presentation of daily needs products, food items, and financial support to the management of the home to further enhance the welfare of the children.
In her remarks, the Head Teacher and Deputy Director of Education, Mrs. Abosede Oyeniran, expressed profound appreciation to the service club for its consistent support over the years, noting that the club’s interventions have continued to make a significant difference in the lives of the children.
“Rotary Club of Isolo has been incredibly supportive to Modupe Cole Memorial Child Care and Treatment Home School. They have consistently put smiles on the faces of our children, and we sincerely appreciate their generosity and compassion,” she said.
Oyeniran explained that many of the children were abandoned at birth, while some were rescued from difficult circumstances, making the role of caregivers even more demanding.
“Some of these children were abandoned by their parents, while others were rescued from places where they had been left without care. They deserve parental love and affection, so we go the extra mile every day to make them feel valued, loved, and accepted.”
She further disclosed that many of the residents are adolescents and young adults who require round-the-clock care because they cannot perform daily activities independently.
“Academically, some of them face learning challenges, but we focus on equipping them with vocational skills such as soap making, beadwork, and keyholder production to help them become productive members of society. We also have some who are physically challenged but intellectually sound and are currently studying in secondary schools nearby and higher institutions.”
According to her, beyond material support, what the children desire most is genuine love, acceptance, and inclusion.
“What these children need most is love and acceptance, and that is exactly what Rotary Club of Isolo has demonstrated today. We are deeply grateful for their kindness and continued commitment to our children. These gestures will go along way to complement the state government’s efforts.”
The rotary club hosted the program in partnership with Rotaract Club of Isolo with leaders and members of the two clubs in attendance.
