Rapla Rotary Klubi, in cooperation with its partners, organizes every autumn an environmental conference “Environment and Us”, primarily aimed at young people (aged 15–19) but open to all interested participants. In 2026, the conference will take place for the sixth time, with growing interest each year—more than 100 young people attended the 2025 event.
One of the key initiatives of the club is the Environmental Idea Award, which has been presented for four consecutive years. Its goal is to encourage young people in Rapla County to think critically and creatively about environmental issues. Over time, more than 30 works have been submitted, some of which have been showcased on the club’s website, while the best have been included in charity auctions.
Among the standout works of the 2025–2026 competition was “Kuhu on kadunud minu kodu” (“Where Has My Home Gone”) by 16-year-old Laua Mäekuusk. The artwork was auctioned at the Rotary District 1420 conference and was purchased by Past District Governor Aune Past from Tartu Hansa Rotary Klubi, thereby also supporting the End Polio Now initiative.
The proceeds from the auction held during the district conference are directed to Rotary’s international polio eradication fund, contributing to the global goal of eliminating polio once and for all.
Through its activities, the Rapla Rotary Club successfully combines the promotion of youth environmental awareness with global humanitarian action—demonstrating how local ideas can have a worldwide impact.
