August is Membership Month for Rotary. In District 6420 our total membership has continued to decline, especially over the last two and a half years of the Covid pandemic. Past Rotary International President, Shekhar Mehta, wisely observed that with so much need in the world Rotary must “grow more to do more.”

 

We all know someone who would be a fine member of a Rotary club, but when you ask there is always an excuse like “too busy now, maybe in the future.” or something similar.

 

Too often we begin with a direct approach and end up with the “busy” excuse. There is a better way to attract a prospective member to attend a meeting, and after a meeting or two to participate in the club’s orientation program.

 

Before a possible new member ever gets invited to a club meeting build on their understanding of Rotary and answer any questions that person may have. For context and depth start by explaining that your club is part of an international organization of people who share a passion for service. Talk about Rotary’s mission and values, and our legacy to eradicate polio worldwide. You might also include how Rotary started and grew.

 

Be sure to explain the benefits of being a Rotary member. They include making a difference in the lives of others, networking with other professionals, building lifelong friendships, and a possibility of making international connections. Be sure to include the development of skills that can easily be applied to a career, like public speaking, project management, and event planning.

 

Finally, give the person a clear idea of what to expect as a member of the club.

Communicate financial requirements and participation expectations.

 

Include the club’s culture, various kinds of meetings, projects, and activities the club participates in, and fun social events. Include a little club history, and what the club does best and what it is known for. Also, point the person to the club’s website and social media pages.

 

Now ask this potential member if he or she might be interested in Rotary. If the answer is positive, invite that person to a club meeting.

 

At this point it becomes the club’s responsibility to offer a new member orientation for a potential new member. New membership is a responsibility of all Rotary members.

If you are interested in membership a District 6420 Membership Committee is being formed this month. E-mail PDG David Bills, District 6420 Membership Committee Chair at dobills@yahoo.com for more details.

 

David Bills, PDG

District 6420 Membership Committee Chair