What is Rotary?

 

What is Rotary about?

Professional Networking

A founding principle of Rotary was to meet periodically to enjoy camaraderie and enlarge one’s circle of business, community and professional acquaintances. As the oldest service organisation in the world, Rotarians represent a cross-section of the community. Everyone has skills they can offer and use to benefit others.

Service Opportunities

Rotarians have many opportunities for humanitarian service, both locally and internationally. Service programmes address such concerns as health care, hunger, poverty, illiteracy, and the environment. Rotarians experience the fulfilment that comes from giving back to the community.

 

International Awareness

With more than 34,000 clubs in over 200 countries & geographical areas, Rotarians gain an understanding of humanitarian issues through international service projects and exchange programmes. One of Rotary’s highest objectives is to build goodwill and peace throughout the world.

Friendship

Rotary was founded on fellowship, an ideal that remains a major attraction of membership today. Members enjoy the camaraderie with like-minded professionals, and club projects offer additional opportunities to develop enduring friendships. Rotarians who travel, have friendly contacts in almost every city in the world.

 

Good Citizenship

Regular Rotary programmes keep members informed about what is taking place in the community, nation, and world and motivated to make a difference.

Youth & Family

Rotary sponsors one of the world’s largest youth exchange, educational exchange, and scholarship programmes. Rotary clubs provide innovative training opportunities and mentoring for young leaders and involve family members in a wide range of social and service activities.

Entertainment

Social activities give Rotarians a chance to let loose and have fun. Every Rotary club and district hosts parties and social activities that offer diversions from today’s demanding professional and personal schedules. Conferences, conventions, assemblies, and social events provide entertainment as well as Rotary information, education, and service. 

Ethical Environment

Encouraging high ethical standards in one’s profession and respect for all worthy vocations has been a hallmark of Rotary from its earliest days. In their business and professional lives, Rotarians abide by The Four-Way Test:

Of the things we think, say or do:

1) Is it the TRUTH?

2) Is it FAIR to all concerned?

3) Will it BUILD GOODWILL and BETTER FRIENDSHIPS?

4) Will it be BENEFICIAL to all concerned?

 

Leadership Development

 

Rotary is an organisation of successful professionals. Team building, fundraising, public speaking, planning, organisation, and communication are just a sampling of the leadership skills that Rotarians can exercise and enhance. Being a Rotary leader provides further experience in learning how to motivate, inspire, and guide others. Members can participate in a variety of online courses.