Key Contacts: Dick Brixner Chair Bob McGaughy Vice-Chair

Information: For Rotary International to continue its vital humanitarian work and expand its service to communities at home and abroad, its membership base must continue to increase. More members means more knowledge, more talent, and more energy to carry out ambitious projects that will touch the lives of hundreds of thousands of people. Each new Rotarian brings a range of personal and professional resources and skills that can greatly strengthen Rotary and the ability of its clubs to successfully serve their communities and the world. All Rotarians share the responsibility of ensuring membership growth and development through three key functions: Retaining existing members Recruiting new members Organizing new Rotary clubs Because these three elements are equally important to maintaining membership growth and development, each needs to be emphasized at the club and district levels to ensure that Rotary clubs continue to be strong, relevant, and effective. Effective Rotary clubs are able to Sustain and increase their membership base Implement successful projects that address the needs of their community and communities in other countries Support The Rotary Foundation through both program participation and financial contributions Develop leaders capable of serving in Rotary beyond the club level In some cases, Rotary clubs may find it impossible to continue increasing their membership. For example, meeting facilities may not be able to accommodate a larger group, or the meeting time may be inconvenient for new members. In some cases, prospective members are precluded from joining clubs because of their gender or age. In these situations, district governors are encouraged to assist in the organization of new Rotary clubs. To accommodate the ethnic composition of a community, it is also possible to organize a new Rotary club that would hold its meetings in a language other than the dominant language in that district. In recent years, charter members of new Rotary clubs have been a vital element of Rotary’s membership growth. Those interested in organizing a new Rotary club should contact their district governor and Club and District Administration (CDA) representative of the Rotary International office serving their area. Organizing a new Rotary club requires a great deal of time and work, but many Rotarians have found it to be one of their most rewarding experiences.

Upcoming Meetings:

• Organizing New Clubs 808en.pdf