Becoming a Member - Why Rotary

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WHY ROTARY?

1.      The Opportunity to Serve- Rotary is a service club.  Rotarians provide community service to mankind - to both the local and international communities. This is the best reason perhaps for becoming a Rotarian: The chance to do something for somebody else. And to sense the self-fulfillment which comes in the process. And the return to one’s own life.

2.      Citizenship in the Community- Membership in a Rotary club makes one a better community citizen. The average Rotary club consists of the most active citizens of any community.

3.      Friendship- In an increasingly complex world, Rotary provides one of the most basic human needs: The need for friends and fellowship.

4.      Entertainment- Every Rotary club and district has events and activities which provide diversion from one’s business life. Rotary has conferences, conventions, assemblies, and institutes which provide entertainment in addition to Rotary information, education and service.

5.      Fun- Rotary is fun. A lot of fun. Each meeting is fun. The club projects are fun Social activities are fun. And the service is fun

6.      Continuing Education- Each week at Rotary there is a program designed to keep one informed as to what is going on in the community, nation, and world. Different speakers, different topics.

7.      Personal Growth and Development- Membership in Rotary continues one’s growth and education in human relations and personal development.

8.      Leadership Development- Rotary is an organization of leaders and successful people. Serving in Rotary positions is like a college education in Leadership: Learning how to motivate, influence and lead others.

9.      Public Speaking Skills- Many individuals who joined Rotary were afraid to speak in public. Rotary develops confidence and skill in public communication.

10.  Social Skills Development - Every week and at various events Rotary develops one’s personality, social and people skills, Rotary is for people who like people, or who want to.

11.  Family Foundations- Rotary provides one of the world’s largest youth exchange programs; high school and college clubs for future Rotarians; spouse clubs and programs, and a host of activities designed to assist family members in growth and the development of family values.

12.  Vocational Skills- Every Rotarian is expected to take a part in the growth and development of his or her own profession or vocation; to serve on committees and to teach youth about one’s job or vocation. Rotary helps to make one a better teacher, lawyer, doctor, (or whatever one does for a living) etc.

13.  Ethical Environment- Rotarians practice a 4-Way Test which governs one’s ethical standards. It measures words and actions by their truthfulness, fairness, goodwill, and benefit to all. Rotarians are expected to be ethical in business and personal relationships.

14.  Professional Networking- Everyone needs to network. Rotary consists of a cross section of every professional community. Its members come from all walks of life. Rotarians help one another, and collectively help others.

15.  Prestige- Rotary members are prominent people: leaders of business, professions, government, sports, military, religion and all disciplines. Rotary is the oldest and most prestigious service club in the world. Its ranks are executives, managers, and professionals: People who make decisions and influence policy.

16.  Cultural Awareness- Around the world, practically every religion, country, culture, race, language, color and ethnic identity is found in Rotary. It is a cross section of the world’s most prominent citizens from every background. Rotarians become aware of other cultures and learn to love and work with people everywhere. They become better citizens of their communities in the process.

17.  Worldwide Connection- Every Rotarian wears a pin that says: “Rotary International.” And, every Rotarian is welcome- even encouraged to attend- at 32,000 clubs in the 200 nations and geographical regions. There are few places on the globe which do not have a Rotary club. You can make instant friends in the world community.

18.  World Understanding and Citizenship- Rotary members gain an understanding of humanitarian issues and have a significant impact on them through international service projects and exchange programs of RI and its Foundation. The promotion of peace and eradication of polio are some of Rotary’s highest objectives.

19.  Assistance When Traveling- Because there are Rotary clubs everywhere, many Rotarians who have needed a doctor, lawyer, hotel, advice, etc., while traveling have found help quickly through Rotary

20.  Nice People- Rotarians above all are nice people; the nicest people on the face of the earth. 

21.  The absence of “official creed”- Rotary has no secret handshake, no secret policy, no official creed, no secret meeting or rituals. It is an open society of men and women that simply believes in helping others.