District 5020 has another new Rotary Club, and it’s a first. Although the idea of an E-Club was first envisioned by Past District Governor (PDG) Bob Martin in 2010, the 2016 Council on Legislation (COL) provided the flexibility to make it a reality. The COL drastically changed Rotary rules regarding flexibility, attendance, membership types, and classification. Just as we are discussing how to attract and retain “young” and busy Rotarians, we also need to bring former Rotarians back to our world of Service. We know many former and prospective Rotarians have careers that simply do not allow for a regimented schedule. “The Rotary E-Club of District 5020 International” is one option to meet that need. Although the Club is District 5020 based, the Club can accept members from around the world. The club hopes to reach former District 5020 Rotarians who may have moved of the District but wish to stay connected to their Rotary roots.
In the Summer of 2016, PDG Bill McCarthy started working on a concept of a new club, and received over 40 “hits” in one week in response to a note sent to former Rotarians. Energized by the response, PDG Bill moved ahead. 22 people will be Charter Members, and there are another 14 scheduled to join later this Rotary year. PDG Bill believes the Club will grow as other former Rotarians learn about this Club. The Club has a website http://rotaryeclub5020.org/ and Rotary has approved the application, with a Charter date of January 1, 2018. Please go the website and watch the Club grow. Meeting invitations will be posted so Rotarians can perform make-ups. A Facebook page will be opened in 2018.
District Governor (DG) Tom Carroll will be presenting the Charter to the E-Club on Thursday, January 4th in true modern fashion; the Club will host DG Tom for an online meeting wherein he will formally present the Charter. Go to the website and leave a message of welcome to the new club. Also, all new clubs need financial help in getting started, especially if they wish to participate in Community and Global grants. The Club would welcome any such financial gifts. Gifts can be forwarded to:
PDG William McCarthy
PO Box 14636
Tumwater, WA 98511