Introducing new members to Rotary
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Welcome
You've just begun a truly rewarding journey — and we’re so glad to have you with us.
We understand that joining Rotary can feel a bit overwhelming at first. There’s a lot to take in, but don’t worry — we’re here to support you every step of the way.
To help you get started, we’ve created a special resource that will guide you through the essentials of Rotary. This resource will be used in our workshops and will also be available for you to access afterward — whether you attend in person or via Zoom.
Another great way to support your learning is by having a mentor in your club. Choose someone you feel comfortable with — ideally, someone who knows Rotary well and has plenty of experience to share.
Navigating MyLearning
Read the following instructions on how to navigate MyLearning.
Rotary Acronyms
Rotary uses many acronyms and this may be very confusing for new Rotarians. So download the file of Rotary Acronyms and use it to familiarise yourself with the terms.
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Rotary is an international membership organisation made up of people who share a passion for and commitment to enhancing communities and improving lives across the world. Rotary clubs exist in almost every country. Our members change lives locally and connect with other clubs to work on international projects that address today’s most pressing challenges. Being a member is an opportunity to take action and make a difference, and it brings personal rewards and lifelong friendships in the process. There are more than 1.2 million Rotary club members, or Rotarians, around the world. Your potential to do good in your community as a Rotarian is far greater than it was before you joined. You’ll have the privilege of working with other professionals and the opportunity to make a difference in the lives of others by bringing together your expertise, skills, and resources.
(Adapted from Rotary Basics)
Learn about Rotary
Read the information in the following resource to learn about Rotary.
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This short quiz will help you to check your understanding of Rotary.
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There are many Rotary projects that you can engage in as a new member. All Rotary projects are aligned to its key areas of focus.Projects are divided into Community, International, Youth/New Generations, and Vocational. Club projects vary greatly and are designed to best meet the needs of its community.
Take the time to learn what is available to you as a new Rotarian. Working on a project will get you involved in your community, allow you to connect with others in your club and in other organisations. You will also have some fun!
Learn about the projects available
Read the information in the following resource to learn about Rotary Projects. Scan the types of projects and read about the ones that may interest you. There is also a new website becoming available which will highlight other projects happening across the District.
There are many projects that Rotary is involved in locally, nationally and internationally. They are divided into:
- Community
- New Generations and Youth
- International
- Vocational service
Have a look at the projects available and this will give you a great understanding of the extend of the service Rotary provides.
Activity
Think about the type of project/s that you may be interested in-check with the Chairs of the different portfolios, ask your club directors about club projects and your mentor-they may be able to help guide you. Then get involved in a project as this is a great way to connect with other Rotarians and your community.
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The Rotary Foundation is a not-for-profit
corporation, supported solely by voluntary contributions from Rotarians and
friends of the Foundation who share its vision of a better world.The mission of The Rotary Foundation is to enable Rotarians to advance world understanding, goodwill and peace through the improvement of health, the support of education, and the alleviation of poverty. Its motto is simply “Doing Good in the World”. The Rotary Foundation, established as an endowment fund in 1917, enjoyed modest growth until 1947 when Rotarians made a significant number of contributions in memory of Paul Harris who died in January 1947.
Rotary clubs and Rotarians raise and contribute funds to The Rotary Foundation annually enabling humanitarian work to be done around the globe. Clubs can apply for use of these funds for local and international projects providing access to funding not otherwise achievable given their size. Today the fund is almost US$1 billion. Its unique funding model provides for a perpetual capital resource which annually funds thousands of club projects all over the world through Rotary District and Global grants.
Rotary International and The Rotary Foundation have developed many very influential partnerships that support and expand the scope and effectiveness of the humanitarian programmes and projects throughout the world.One example is the partnership to eradicate polio from the world with the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation, with others.
The Rotary Foundation was recognised as the world's Outstanding Foundation of 2016 by the International Association of Fundraising Professionals. This unique award honours organisations that show philanthropic commitment and leadership through financial support, innovation, encouragement of others, and involvement in public affairs.
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There are many rewarding aspects to being a Rotarian. As part of an international organisation, you’ll have the opportunity to connect with fellow Rotarians locally, nationally, and around the world.For many members, the greatest benefit is the chance to make a meaningful difference — to help others and contribute to building a better world. Along the way, you’ll form lasting friendships with like-minded people and enjoy plenty of fun and fellowship.
Rotary also offers opportunities for personal growth. Through the District Learning and Development team, a wide range of courses are available — from understanding how your club and district work, to developing valuable leadership and communication skills.
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As a new Rotarian you need to take the time to explore the resources available to you.Firstly get familiar with the District website (MyDistrict). This site stores information about all Rotarians in the District and what their role is and what groups they belong to. Current news about what is happening in the district and upcoming events are posted on MyDistrict.
MyRotary and there is a wealth of information and resources available to you in this site.
The following resources will help you to access these sites so make sure you log onto these sites. If you have any problems then speak to your mentor, they will be able to help you.
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Being a new Rotarian is exciting but can also be challenging. Rotary is a complex organisation due to its size and multiple projects and functions. A mentor can support you and guide you so that you can realise the full benefits of belonging to this amazing organisation.
A mentor will share knowledge, skills, and life experience to guide you; it is a journey of shared discovery. So we encourage you as new Rotarians to find a mentor. This resource will help you understand what a mentor can do for you.