Posted by Roger Lindley on May 28, 2021

From MyRotary.org  Recently, there has been confusion among some CMIRC members as to the status and purpose of Rotary Action Groups.  They are not Rotary clubs, but they do serve a valuable role within Rotary.

Rotary Action Groups are independent, Rotary-affiliated groups made up of people from around the world (editor's note: not limited to Rotarians) who are experts in a particular field, such as economic development, peace, addiction prevention, the environment, or water.

Action groups offer their technical expertise and support to help clubs plan and implement projects to increase our impact, one of Rotary's strategic priorities. This support includes helping clubs find partners, funding, and other resources. Action groups can also help clubs and districts prepare grant applications, conduct community assessments, and develop plans to monitor and evaluate their projects. Read more about these activities in the Rotary Action Groups annual report.  (editor's note: the purpose of a Rotary Action group is to help and support Rotary clubs, not vise versa.)

Anyone who wants to share their expertise to make a positive difference can join an action group. Only Rotarians, Rotaractors, and Rotary Peace Fellows can serve in leadership roles.

Contact or join a Rotary Action Group

Contact a Rotary Action Group to:

  • Get expert advice on planning and implementing service projects, including those funded by Rotary Foundation district and global grants
  • Connect with potential project partners, both within and outside of Rotary
  • Get help fundraising and obtaining resources for projects

Join a Rotary Action Group to share your expertise and make a difference in projects outside your club or district. To get involved, look at our directory and contact the action group you're interested in.

Rotary Action Groups by area of focus

Promoting peace
Domestic Violence Prevention
Peace
Refugees
Slavery Prevention

Fighting disease
Addiction Prevention
Alzheimer's/Dementia
Blindness Prevention
Blood Donation
Diabetes
Family Health/AIDS Prevention
Health Education and Wellness
Hearing
Hepatitis Eradication
Malaria
Mental Health
Multiple Sclerosis
Polio Survivors

Providing clean water and sanitation
Menstrual Health and Hygiene
Water, Sanitation and Hygiene

Saving mothers and children
Clubfoot
Reproductive Maternal and Child Health

Supporting education
Basic Education and Literacy

Growing local economies
Economic Community Development
Disaster Assistance

Protecting the environment
Endangered Species
Environmental Sustainability

Action groups that work in more than one area of focus
Food Plant Solutions

How to start a Rotary Action Group

Resources & reference

Rotary Service in Action blog

Rotary support

Questions? Contact actiongroups@rotary.org