Why Rotary?

1. Friendship / Fellowship / Community: In an increasingly complex world, Rotary provides one of the most basic human needs: the need for friendship and fellowship. It is one of two reasons whyRotary began in 1905.

 

2. Business Development: The second original reason for Rotary's beginning is business

development. Everyone needs to network. Rotary consists of a cross¬section of every

business community. Its members come from all walks of life. Rotarians help each

other and collectively help others.

 

3. Personal Growth and Development: Membership in Rotary ensures continuing growth

and education in human relations and personal development.

 

4. Leadership Development: Rotary is an organization of leaders and successful people.

Serving in Rotary positions is like a college education. Leadership is all about learning

how to motivate, influence and lead leaders.

 

5. Citizenship in the Community: Membership in a Rotary club helps develop better

community citizens. The average Rotary club consists of the most active citizens of

any community.

 

6. Continuing Education: Each week at Rotary, there is a program designed to keep

members informed about what is going on in the community, nation and world. Each

meeting provides an opportunity to listen to different speakers on a variety of timely

topics.

 

7. Fun: Rotary is a fun and exciting place to be.

 

8. Prestige: Rotary members are prominent people: leaders of business, the professions,

art, government, sports, military, religion, and all disciplines. Rotary is the oldest and

most prestigious service club in the world. Its ranks include executives, managers, and

professionals - people who make decisions and influence policy.

 

9. Citizenship in the World: Every Rotarian wears a pin that says "Rotary International."

There are few places on the globe that do not have a Rotary club. Every Rotarian is

welcome - even encouraged - to attend any of the 30,000 clubs in 194 nations and

geographical regions. This encourages new friendships in both local and world

communities.

 

10. Assistance When Traveling: Traveling Rotarians can secure medical and professional

assistance as well as services and advice from fellow Rotarians throughout the world.

 

11. Public Speaking Skills: Many individuals who joined Rotary were uncomfortable

about speaking in public. Rotary develops confidence and skill in public

communication and the opportunity to practice and perfect these skills.

 

12. Entertainment: Every Rotary club and district has parties and activities that contribute

to a diverse, yet professional business life. Rotary holds conferences, conventions,

assemblies, and institutes that provide entertainment in addition to Rotary information,

education, and service.

 

13. Development of Social Skills: Every week and at various events and functions, Rotary

develops one's personality, social skills and people skills. Rotary is for people who

like people.

 

14. Family Programs: Rotary provides one of the world's largest youth exchange

programs; high school and college clubs for future Rotarians; opportunities for spouse

involvement; and a host of activities designed to help family members in growth and

the development of family values.

 

15. Vocational Skills: Every Rotarian is expected to take part in the growth and

development of his or her own profession or vocation; to serve on committees and to

teach youth about jobs or vocations. Rotary helps to make each individual a better

doctor, lawyer, teacher, etc.

 

16. The Development of Ethics: Rotarians practice a 4¬Way Test that governs their

ethical standards. Rotarians are expected to be ethical in business and personal

relationships.

 

17. Cultural Awareness: Around the world, practically every religion, country, culture,

race, creed, political persuasion, language, color and ethnic identity is represented

among members of Rotary. Rotary is a cross section of the world's most prominent

citizens who are aware of their cultures and have developed a love of working with

people everywhere. They become better citizens of their countries in the process.

 

18. Nice People: Rotarians are the nicest people on the face of the earth.

 

19. Absence of an Official Creed: Rotary has no secret handshake, no official creed, no

secret meetings or rituals. It is an open society of men and women who simply believe

in helping others.

 

20. Opportunity to Serve: As a service club, Rotary's business is mankind and its product

is service. This is perhaps the best reason for becoming a Rotarian: the chance to do good.