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WHAT DEFINES A ROTARY CLUB:
Article by John Hewko, Rotary International General Secretary
What Rotary has achieved over the past century is remarkable. We were one of the world’s first membership service organizations. Rotary members have made a decisive positive impact in our communities and around the world.
But as our Foundation enters its second century, we also need to think hard about how we will continue to have the kind of impact and influence that has shaped our first 100 years. Our members, of course, are the beating heart of Rotary. So membership is a good place to start.
Greater flexibility
Over the past 15 years, Rotary has carried out pilot programs that have explored new definitions of membership, classifications, and the club experience. We have consistently found that when clubs are given the freedom to determine how to hold their meetings, the composition of their membership, and what defines engagement, the club is more vibrant and better able to grow.
In some parts of the world, the traditional club model works just fine, but in others, our membership is flatlining. To be frank, a single club model applied universally across our incredibly diverse Rotary communities is probably not sustainable.
To address this, and support Rotary’s future health, Rotary’s Council on Legislation adopted two measures that in my mind are critical for our organization: clubs now have greater flexibility in when, where, and how they meet and the types of membership they offer.
It’s your choice
While this flexibility is available to those clubs that choose to amend their bylaws, a club that wishes to continue to adhere to the traditional requirements regarding meetings, attendance, structure, or categories of membership may continue to do so.
Some clubs are already taking advantage of the new flexibility,Rotary needs to retain the talents of qualified young leaders as well as attract members from all demographic groups. The membership decisions, like many others at this year’s Council, are a significant step for Rotary’s future.
WOULD LIKE TO HEAR YOUR THOUGHTS - Bring along your ideas to forthcoming meeting(s)
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