By Anne White
At a recent luncheon hosted by the Greenwich Rotary Club, the spotlight turned global as representatives from the Marshall Legacy Institute’s Children Against Mines Program (CHAMPS) addressed members with stories of humanitarian resolve and international cooperation. The event highlighted Greenwich’s continued partnership with the program, largely fostered by community liaison Betsy Parkinson, who coordinates a longstanding student-led fundraiser through North Mianus School.
Parkinson, whose husband Geoffrey is a member of the Rotary, has championed the CHAMPS initiative locally for several years. “When children realize they have the power to change lives halfway across the world, it changes them too,” she said during the gathering, underscoring the dual impact of the program on both recipients abroad and student participants at home.
Three speakers, each integral to the program’s operations, shared perspectives on de-mining efforts, youth leadership, and the unique role that Rotary’s support plays in advancing global safety.
Elise Becker, Executive Director of the Marshall Legacy Institute, opened the presentation by outlining MLI’s mission and progress. “Every landmine we remove is a life protected, and every child we teach becomes a bridge to a more peaceful world,” Becker said. She emphasized MLI’s focus on humanitarian mine action and civic engagement, noting that CHAMPS functions as both an educational platform and a mobilizing force for change.
Tamara Klingsheim, who manages MLI’s Children’s Programs and Victims’ Assistance, described the alignment between CHAMPS and Rotary values. “The spirit of service and compassion that Rotary stands for is the same spirit that drives CHAMPS,” she said. Klingsheim’s work has involved coordinating with schools across the United States and in mine-affected nations, where student ambassadors help raise awareness and support.
Anne Wooleyhand, a former school administrator turned MLI team member, spoke of her own transition from education to advocacy. A key figure in CHAMPS’ outreach efforts, Wooleyhand introduced a guest who quickly stole the room’s attention: Rico Cosby, a retired mine detection dog who now serves as MLI’s Canine Ambassador.
Rico, rescued from active duty in Bosnia, has met with thousands, including Capitol Hill lawmakers and foreign diplomats. His presence in Greenwich underscored the tangible effects of the program. “Rico’s courage reminds us that bravery comes in all forms — even on four paws,” said Wooleyhand.
The presentation concluded with remarks from Greenwich Rotary President Agathe Likoba, who praised the event as a testament to global collaboration. “Today was a celebration of hope, heroism, and humanity,” she said. “We are honored to be part of this mission to create a safer world.”
Rotary members offered thanks to all presenters and posed for photos with Rico, who stood calmly beside Wooleyhand as children from the local community approached to greet him
Through its partnership with CHAMPS, the Greenwich Rotary Club continues to invest in global safety while cultivating empathy and civic action among the next generation. The luncheon reaffirmed the role of local institutions in addressing international challenges one mine, one student, and one brave dog at a time.
