Membership Corner - February 17, 2014
Posted by Thomas Sturiale
Why are we Rotarians?
Maybe a more important question is "Why do we think others want to be Rotarians?"
What is the real attraction?
What is the real attraction? To many Rotarians the answer is clear - they know why they joined and why they remain but many struggle in articulating their heartfelt reasons. There are so many other alternatives for folks who want to congregate with friends for fellowship reasons, or those who want to network for business reasons, or others who want to help people in their community, or some who are interested in foreign humanitarian ventures or those who simply want to be associated with other prominent citizens in their community.
So why Rotary? One possible answer is that Rotary satisfies all those needs, and many more. In one worldwide organization one can pursue one's dreams to whatever extent they desire. The list of Rotary possibilities is virtually endless. One needs to begin exploring Rotary.org to learn of the range of opportunities for "Service Above Self" (and attend Rotary Learning Institute and district meetings).
So what is our challenge? And I believe it is a serious challenge which clubs need to address. Club members need to engage in a serious discussion during assembly or fellowship meetings about the many attractions of Rotary.
What attracted you to Rotary?
Why do you remain in Rotary?
What are the most satisfying aspects of Rotary?
How would you improve the total Rotary experience?
Do you know enough about Rotary to be able to answer those questions? How do you translate all those positive attributes into an "elevator speech" and a subsequent informational meeting to attract other friends, business associates and community leaders into the Rotary family? We cannot assume that everyone knows the history of Rotary and all the fantastic accomplishments of the past 109 years. It is up to you to tell the Rotary stories to folks in your area. When you are convinced of the reasons you joined Rotary and remain in Rotary, you will have no problem in convincing others. Try having this discussion at a club assembly.
Tom Sturiale - Membership Chair District 7910