A Dream of Service: Weaving Heritage Into Our Rotary Future

By Adam Oldfield, President, Rotary Club of Hamilton (2025–2026)

As I take on the role of President for the Rotary Club of Hamilton, I wanted to mark the beginning of this chapter not just with words — but with a symbol. One that represents not only who we are as Rotarians, but also where we’re going.

At our Rotary Garden Celebration on June 25th, we unveiled something truly special: a handcrafted dreamcatcher created by my wife, Michelle Oldfield.

Now, this isn’t just any dreamcatcher. It’s a work of art and heart — designed with purpose, rich in meaning, and deeply rooted in culture. Michelle, a proud and strong Indigenous Mohawk woman, created this piece to reflect the spirit of Rotary and our ongoing commitment to service, unity, and truth and reconciliation.

We’ve named it “The Dream of Service.”

At the centre of the design are six golden spokes — echoing the Rotary wheel — symbolizing strength, movement, and shared responsibility. Surrounding them are 24 beads, one for every hour in a day, a reminder that Rotary’s work never stops. Service, whether seen or unseen, continues around the clock.

The colours? Yellow and blue. A nod to our Rotary identity — but also to the values of clarity, wisdom, and hope held dear in both Rotary and Indigenous teachings.

This dreamcatcher now hangs proudly in our club as a symbol of the path we walk together — a journey that embraces inclusion, celebrates culture, and strengthens our connection to the community we serve.

I’m incredibly proud of Michelle, and grateful for the meaning she’s woven into every thread and bead. It’s a reminder that service is more than action — it’s intention. It’s legacy. It’s love.

As we move forward into 2025 and beyond, this dreamcatcher stands as a testament to the future we are building together — one of understanding, compassion, leadership, and yes… a little bit of dreaming.

Thank you to every member, friend, and partner who continues to walk this path with us. We have work to do. Let’s do it with heart.