One of the cornerstones of the Rotary movement is the what Rotarians refer to as 'The 4-Way Test'.
The 4-Way Test was created by Herbert J. Taylor, a Chicago Rotarian and President of Rotary International in 1954-55. Rotarians have been using the 4-Way Test as a practical decision making tool in their business, community and personal affairs for over fifty years. The 4-Way Test doesn’t provide answers. Rather it asks questions which users must answer to help them stand by their personal integrity and honesty. All Rotarians are encouraged to know and apply the 4-Way Test in their personal and professional lives. The test consists of four questions as follows: Is it the Truth? Is it Fair to all concerned? Will it build Goodwill and Better Friendships? Will it be Beneficial to all concerned?
The 4-Way Test, known worldwide, is a recognized recipe for the practice of ethical behavior and correct decision making. It has inspired safe driving programs, fire prevention campaigns, crime reduction activities and labor negotiations. Japan has led the world in the practical uses of the 4-Way Test.
In 2006, the Gander’s Rotary Club introduced the 4-Way Test Poster Contest at Gander Academy. The target group for this multi-week project is grade 4 students. Rotarians become actively involved. The project begins, usually in late January, with an assembly presentation to all grade 4 students and their teachers. Each student then begins the process of composing a poster, depicting her/his understanding of the meaning of the 4-Way Test. Upon completion of the project all posters were displayed in one area of the school for viewing and judging by a panel of Rotarians. The project concludes with an awards assembly.
This has been a tremendously successful activity, and the concept has spread to other clubs, both within and outside our district. Detailed information is available on the Club Website.
The 2017-18 edition of this project will be launched at a student assembly held at Gander Academy on Wednesday, January 29. This year's project leaders and presenters include Jack Waye, Lillian Decker, and Gary House. The panel of judges consists of Rotarians Allister Powell (lead judge), Larry Picco, Walter Cull, Dave Blundon, and Pat Kearney.
Updated from original 2014 article by Randell Mercer