The Sponsor of a New MemberThe bylaws of Rotary clearly outline the procedure for proposing someone for Rotary club membership. The “proposer” or sponsor is the key person in the growth and advancement of Rotary. Without a sponsor, an individual will never have the opportunity to become a Rotarian. Individuals must be asked to join Rotary; thus, it is every member’s responsibility to identify and invite prospective members. The task of the sponsor should not end merely by submitting a name to the club secretary or membership committee. Rotary has not established formal responsibilities for sponsors; however, these procedures are recommended in many clubs. The sponsor should 1. Invite a prospective member to several meetings prior to proposing the individual for membership 2. Accompany the prospective new member to one or more orientation/informational meetings 3. Introduce the new member to other club members each week for the first month 4. Encourage the new member to become involved in any club service projects underway 5. Invite the new member to attend meetings of the Interact or Rotaract clubs sponsored by the club 6. Provide opportunities for the new member to get involved in international program efforts, such as Group Study Exchange or Youth Exchange 7. Invite the new member to accompany the sponsor to neighboring clubs for the first make-up meeting to learn the process and observe the spirit of friendship 8. Ask the new member and spouse to accompany the sponsor to the club’s social activities, dinners, or other special occasions 9. Urge the new member and spouse to attend the district conference with the sponsor 10. Serve as a special friend to assure that the new member becomes an active Rotarian When a new member becomes involved and connected, both Rotary and the new member become stronger. Past RI President Cliff Dochterman |
