Branding Tips
While many Clubs have updated their Club Signature logos some have not, which harms the consistency of Rotary’s image across the world. "We need Rotary to speak with one voice," says Liz Thiam, Rotary’s brand specialist. As with major consumer brands, Rotary’s marks feature a standardized and specific font, color, and design that is legally protected, Thiam says, "just like the Nike Swoosh."
But have no fear: With these tips, within minutes any member can create a proper club logo for use on their website, social media accounts, or event signage by visiting the Brand Centre at My Rotary.
FIND OUT THE LAST TIME YOUR CLUB UPDATED ITS LOGO. Was it before 2013? Does your logo’s wheel contain more than one colour? If yes, then it’s time for an update.
DON’T SEARCH THE WEB to download the Rotary logo or other branding material. While Google may be your friend for many things, it’s also packed with off-brand Rotary logos. INSTEAD, OPEN YOUR ACCOUNT on My Rotary and go to the Brand Center.
There you’ll find the tools needed to create your own club logo, ads, and other club resources.
USE THE TEMPLATE IN THE BRAND CENTER to create your Club’s new Signature Logo. Type in the name of your Rotary club, download the logo, and you’re done.
DON’T OBSCURE THE WHEEL or use it to depict another graphic element like the wheel in a bicycle or the letter O in a word. It must stand alone and always be in proximity to your Club’s Signature Logo.
UPDATE YOUR DIGITAL PRESENCE FIRST, such as your website and social media. Then set aside a budget and update printed materials, starting with signage, event banners, and clothing. After that, refresh Rotary business cards, club flyers, brochures, banners, and name badges.
PROVIDE YOUR CLUB’S UPDATED LOGO to project partners and outside organizations so they don’t search online — and potentially download an old wagon wheel.
RESOURCES Find official logo templates and graphics for clubs, along with brand guidelines, at brandcenter.rotary.org.
To learn more about Rotary’s brand, take a quick course at rotary.org/learn.