President's Message June 2015
Rotary calendar. There is a misconception among Rotarians on what aspect
of the RI programs is being celebrated for this month of June. Let us clarify
the issue. When we talk about "Rotary Fellowships", we actually refer to the
groups of Rotarians, Rotarian spouses and Rotaractors who join together to:
- Share a common interest in worthwhile recreational activities (sports, hobbies, etc.);
- Further their vocational development through acquaintance with others of the same profession;
- Make new friends around the world;
- Explore new opportunities for service; and
- Have fun and enhance their experience in Rotary.
The field is so varied, which includes marathon running, scuba diving, flying, bird watching, chess, doll lovers, environment, Esperanto, go, gourmets, lawyers, magic, nurses, police and law enforcement professionals, recreational vehicles, singles, stockbrokers, venture capitalists, wine and yoga.
Each Rotary Fellowship operates independently of Rotary International, with its own rules, dues requirements and administrative structure. Membership is open to Rotarians, spouses of Rotarians and Rotaractors. It must be international in nature with active members in at least three (3) countries. Each fellowship elects at least three (3) officers to oversee the group's administration. The Rotary Fellowships are expected to facilitate communication among their members and maintain regular communication with RI.
What are the benefits for Rotarians in joining the Rotary Fellowships? Fellowship provide opportunities for Rotarians to make lasting friendships outside their own Club, District or country. Fellowships contribute to the advancement of world understanding and peace. Also, Fellowships serve as an incentive for attracting new members to Rotary and retaining our existing members. Indeed, Rotary Fellowship, together with the Rotarian Action Groups, serve as an effective tool in promoting membership development and should be actively promoted in our Districts.
Interested Rotarians can join a Rotary Fellowship by clicking http://www.rotary.org/programs/fellowships/index.html or even start a prospective Rotary Fellowship if their recreational or vocational interest is not in the list of approved Rotary Fellowships.