Comments by John Germ Rotary International President Elect for the 2016-2017 year-

I should like to have Rotary run more like a business rather than a social services organization. A major source of Rotary’s income is membership dues. I’d look into new sources of revenue, such as partnerships or sponsorships. We also need to be sure the services offered are those that the clubs and districts want and not what we think they want or need. When a business begins to see expenses increase without an increase in revenue, the business looks at ways to cut costs and not necessarily increase fees charged for services. A business always looks for better ways to do things. From the March 2016 issue of The Rotarian.

 

Virtually all membership in Rotary is based upon a "classification." Basically a classification describes the distinct and recognized business or professional service which the Rotarian renders to society. The principle of Rotary classification is somewhat more specific and precise. In determining the classification of a Rotarian it is necessary to look at the "principal or recognized business or professional activity of the firm, company or institution" with which an active member is connected or "that which covers his principal and recognized business or professional activity." It should be clearly understood that classifications are determined by activities or services to society rather than by the position held by a particular individual. In other words, if a person is the president of a bank, he is not classified as "bank president" but under the classification "banking."