Ahhh, the familiar Zoom Rotary meeting -- anywhere from six to 60 faces online. However, on July 21, 600+ attended the Largest Rotary Club Meeting EVER!, hosted by three U.S. clubs including Edina/Morningside. Many entire clubs joined via one login, so the participant number is undoubtedly hundreds more. At least 16 countries were represented.

 

The event focused on Rotary surviving and thriving during the pandemic and beyond. Past District Governor Tom Gump introduced guest speaker Stephanie Urchick, a Past RI Director.

 

Urchick noted that one-third of all nonprofits were predicted to close because of COVID. Four reasons she's sure all levels of Rotary will survived and thrive relate to the new Action Plan which:

She commended clubs who learned to use technology, held virtual events, and creatively and safely provided service. Continued virtual experiences will allow those who are unfamiliar with Rotary to test involvement with a club, whether locally or via an e-club.

 

"We don't know how strong we are until forced to step forward," she said. "There has never been a better time to be a Rotarian -- in a world that is new and different." 

 

Watch a recording of the Largest Rotary Club Meeting EVER!