Rotarians Committed to Ignite Club Membership

Posted by Steve Schumann 
 

From ancient times, the torch bearers have been the first on the paths of discovery, exploration and battle, illuminating the ways for those to follow. Rotarians committed to be a torch bearer will invite, unite and ignite new members, whose fire and energy will add to theirs to help overcome the darkness of poverty, illiteracy, hunger, and disease.

 

            Our Club Membership Chair Sandy Nichols gave an overview of District Governor Frank Ortiz' plan to increase Rotary membership in District 5240. He has developed the notion of a "Premier Club" based on a simple scoring system that will enable the clubs under his direction to quantify their efforts in not only attracting new members, but by also integrating them into Club life. Everybody, he says, has something to contribute.

            Each District Club's Membership Chair has been given a worksheet and is responsible to report its contents monthly to District leadership.

            Sandy opened the floor to comments and questions. What ages make a good member? All ages can join Rotary, with an emphasis and encouragement given to the 25-to-35-year-old who can become an associate member and in two years a full member in Rotary. The associate member becomes a Rotarian in all aspects, but cannot vote in the local club and attendance is not mandatory. Our Grover Beach Club is taking on associate members as part of a trial program to see if this does indeed attract and retain Rotarians.

            "Think about why we're in Rotary," Past President Scott Nichols said, "Why shouldn't we be inviting people?" Contests don't work, we agreed, as it all comes down to each one of us to ask.

            Daniel Bronstein, our Club Vocational Chair, suggested we become more visible in the community, demonstrating our uniquely Grover-ness. President Brad Evans agreed we should represent the Club at the community functions, such as the Sunday Concerts, and that, said Terry Merlo, will let the people know we are out there helping out.

            The fifth Wednesday "Mingle" would be an excellent opportunity to show a guest the club in a social setting, and would be a great meeting to invite friends to attend.