Written by Sandy Chase
Project Light of Manatee, Inc., is most fortunate that Bob Downie met Executive Director Elena Farkas, a fellow Bradenton Rotary Club member, prompting him to visit the nonprofit school for adults so he could learn more. He also met with volunteers and other staff of the Bradenton organization.
Elena knew from the first time she saw Bob in action at the club that he would be an ideal PL board member:
“Bob embodies the Rotary motto: Service Above Self. Over the years, he’s proved his unwavering volunteering locally and internationally. As a doctor, Bob uses his expertise to contribute to various nonprofits and help those in need. He’s traveled internationally to oversee Rotary projects that involve medical grants.
To reach even more people, he decided to learn Spanish. By placing himself in the role of a language learner, he’s gained a deeper understanding of the challenges our learners face when navigating a new environment and communicating with limited language skills. His insights are optimal for
understanding the thrust of PL.
From the beginning, I’ve viewed Bob as a strong candidate for Project Light’s Board of Directors. He actively assists others, amplifies their needs, and approaches volunteer work openly.”
Secretary, Rotary Trainer, and past District Governor Tim Milligan has only praise for Dr. Bob, knowing that he’ll excel in his Project Light position:
“Dr. Bob will be a great asset to Project Light, as he’s been a good addition to the Bradenton Rotary club. He and his wife, Patti, always greet you with a smile. Dr. Bob was especially helpful to me: I had mentioned to him that my leg cramps were keeping me up at night. Without hesitating, he produced a bottle of over-the-counter cramp medicine. Since then, I have had little to no problems sleeping.”
Interview with Dr. Bob Downie
What other volunteering have you done?
I’m a physician at Turning Points in Bradenton; member of the Immigration Support Coalition at Unitarian Universalists (UU) of Sarasota, where I’m a speaker at UU’s forum, helping to organize the committee to meet with political groups. I also participate at the Hispanic Caucus of Sarasota, canvassing and performing other reelection activities.
What has impressed you about the organization?
I’m impressed with the PL mission; the competence and dedication of the staff; and the enthusiasm and dedication of the leadership.
I understand that you’re fluent in Spanish. How has that mastery helped foster the PL mission?
As a bilingualist, I understand the importance and difficulty of English as a second language for immigrants. I’m comfortable speaking to Spanish groups about PL and answering any inquiries about the organization.
As a board member of two-plus months, what do you envision as your challenges? Rewards?
I’m looking forward to promoting the Winter Fundraiser and seeking donations for PL. My challenge is lack of connections with the Bradenton and Sarasota business communities. I expect to increase my association through Rotary and networking. My reward will be seeing the success of PL in fulfilling its mission.
How has your medical career helped with volunteering at PL?
Being a physician will help give me some creditability with potential donors. My experiences working with Rotarians in the US and other countries help me better understand the idea of working for a common cause or program.
What are your pastimes?
I belong to a philosophy group and a current-events discussion group; play tennis and pickle ball; attend musical and dramatic performances; and volunteer at Cascades, making coffee for meetings and helping with the audio-visual.
What advice would you give to those interested in volunteering in our community?
If you’re interested, contact Elena Farkas or any board member to learn more. You won’t be disappointed.
