District Governor Gerry Lambert from Canton, New York was here on his official visit to our club. Rick Frasso introduced Gerry, a 23 year Rotarian with a background in the military, teaching, school administration, small business ownership, rental properties and now a Part-time Volunteer Transportation Driver.
Gerry's presentation focused on three main topics. First, membership growth - Gerry challenged us with two questions - first, how much time do we spend raising funds for our projects? Then, how much time do we spend on recruiting new Rotarians? The District and RI realizes that membership growth is a problem, especially in North America. The District is offering help to clubs to increase membership, and Gerry spoke about some early success stories with existing clubs in the District.
Second, Gerry spoke about co-operation between clubs, something he notes the Kingston Clubs do well. Other clubs in the District are combining to raise funds and support projects. Smaller clubs often act as facilitators, bringing together people and groups even outside of Rotary to get things done.
Gerry also spoke about the upcoming District Conference at Clayton in early November. Gerry urged club members to attend and learn about all Rotary can offer. For details and to register, go to the District website, www.rotary7040.com. Club cooperation and Rotarians getting together at a District Conference are just two examples of the year's Rotary Theme, Rotary Connects the World.
John Farrow thanked Gerry for visiting today, and presented him with the Club's contribution for The Rotary Foundation and for Polio Plus.
