(from Vocational Service newsletter - April 2018)
At the 2018 Rotary International Convention, 23-27 June, in Toronto, Ontario, Canada, you will hear inspirational speeches from keynote speakers, participate in a variety of service-related breakout sessions, and make new friends in the House of Friendship.
Preconvention events
- Join leaders from around the world at the Rotary Peacebuilding Summit, held 22-23 June. We’ll explore how we can foster peace in our communities and inspire others to take action. The event is open to Rotary members and nonmembers. Register today.
- Discuss water and health with the Water and Sanitation Rotarian Action Group and others at the 10th annual World Water Summit on 22 June. Learn how Rotarians are fighting waterborne diseases like Guinea worm disease, which has plagued parts of Africa for generations but has nearly been eliminated. Register today.
- If you’re a health professional, attend the Global Health Challenges symposium, organized by the International Fellowship of Rotarian Doctors and the Toronto Medical School, on 22 June. The conference will consider the world’s most critical health issues. Register today.
Make connections in the House of Friendship
Visit the House of Friendship to network with fellow Rotarians and Rotaractors and learn about Rotary Fellowships, Rotarian Action Groups, Rotary’s partners service projects, and much more. Download the Convention Events and Booth Exhibit Guide to find Rotary Fellowships and Rotarian Action Groups, then connect with the groups that share your interests and expertise.Breakout sessions focus on service
The Rotary Convention also offers more than 90 afternoon breakout sessions 25-27 June, including:- Engaging Young Professionals -- How can your club attract and engage young professionals in the work Rotary is doing? What does the next generation of leaders seek in a membership organization? We will discuss best practices, teach successful strategies, and share energizing stories of connections between Rotarians of all ages that will motivate you to incorporate these great ideas in your club and district.
- Fellowships: The Hidden Gem of Rotary -- Wherever your interests lie, chances are, you can find other Rotarians who share them. Rotary Fellowships are independent social groups in which members share a common passion. From cyclists to photographers, magicians to lawyers, these groups are a fun way to make friends, participate in projects, and share your enthusiasm for what you love. Enhance your Rotary experience by joining a fellowship!
- Fun and Value With Rotary Friendship Exchange -- When you open your club and home through a Rotary Friendship Exchange, you enjoy many benefits. In this session, you’ll gain insight into how to promote Friendship Exchange to enhance fellowship, boost service projects, increase international understanding, and so much more.
- Tap Into Expertise for Greater Impact -- As people of action united in service, we do good in the world through our humanitarian work. Our panel of district international service chair champions will share how they are using local experts to help with all aspects of project development, from needs analysis to technical planning in Rotary’s six areas of focus. Gain inspiration for leveraging your network of experts to enhance your projects and pioneer long-lasting change.
Download the preliminary breakout session schedule and the Rotary Events appto get convention highlights, tips, and resources.