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ABCs of Rotary |
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ABC's of Rotary
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ABC's of Rotary
By Cliff Dochterman
1992-93 President
Rotary International
PREFACE
These short articles about Rotary were first published in the
weekly bulletin of the Rotary Club of North Stockton, California,
U.S.A. That was well before their author, Cliff Dochterman, became
president of Rotary International for the year 1992-93. Originally
called "Did Ya Know?" the pieces were prepared to share
interesting facts about Rotary International with members of the
North Stockton club. Later, in response to requests from other
Rotary clubs, the articles were reprinted in collected form. Now,
President Cliff has brought the collection up to date in keeping
with one of the emphases of his year in office as R.l.
president--to help Rotarians learn more about the colorful history
of their organization, its customs and traditions, and the current
status of its global programs. The articles may be reprinted in
Rotary club bulletins or presented as Rotary information at weekly
club meetings.
DEFINITION OF ROTARY
How do you
describe the organization called "Rotary"? There are so many
characteristics of a Rotary club as well as the activities of a
million Rotarians. There are the features of service,
internationality, fellowship, classifications of each vocation,
development of goodwill and world understanding, the emphasis of
high ethical standards, concern for other people and many more
descriptive qualities.
In 1976
the Rotary International Board of Directors was interested in
creating a concise definition of the fundamental aspects of
Rotary. They turned to the three men who were then serving on
Rotary's Public Relations Commit- tee and requested that a
one-sentence definition of Rotary be prepared. After numerous
drafts, the committee presented this definition, which has been
used ever since in various Rotary publications:
"Rotary is
an organization of business and professional persons united
worldwide who provide humanitarian service, encourage high
ethical standards in all vocations and help build goodwill and
peace in the world."
Those 31
words are worth remembering when someone asks, "What is a Rotary
club?"
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THE
OFFICIAL ROTARY FLAG
An
official flag was formally adopted by Rotary International at
the 1929 Convention in Dallas, Texas. The Rotary flag consists
of a white field with the official wheel emblem emblazoned in
gold in the center of the field. The four depressed spaces on
the rim of the Rotary wheel are colored royal blue. The words
"Rotary" and "International" printed at the top and bottom
depressions on the wheel rim are also gold. The shaft in the hub
and the keyway of the wheel are white.
The first
official Rotary flag reportedly was flown in Kansas City,
Missouri, in January 1915. In 1922 a small Rotary flag was
carried over the South Pole by Admiral Richard Byrd, a member of
the Winchester, Virginia, Rotary Club. Four years later, the
admiral carried a Rotary flag in his expedition to the North
Pole.
Some
Rotary clubs use the official Rotary flag as a banner at club
meetings. In these instances it is appropriate to print the
words "Rotary Club" above the wheel symbol, and the name of the
city, state or nation below the emblem.
The Rotary
flag is always prominently displayed at the World Headquarters
as well as at all conventions and official events of Rotary
International.
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ROTARY'S WHEEL EMBLEM
A wheel has
been the symbol of Rotary since our earliest days. The first
design was made by Chicago Rotarian Montague Bear, an engraver
who drew a simple wagon wheel, with a few lines to show dust and
motion. The wheel was said to illustrate "Civilization and
Movement." Most of the early clubs had some form of wagon wheel
on their publications and letterheads. Finally, in 1922, it was
decided that all Rotary clubs should adopt a single design as
the exclusive emblem of Rotarians. Thus, in 1923, the present
gear wheel, with 24 cogs and six spokes was adopted by the
"Rotary International Association." A group of engineers advised
that the geared wheel was mechanically unsound and would not
work without a "keyway" in the center of the gear to attach it
to a power shaft. So, in 1923 the keyway was added and the
design which we now know was formally adopted as the official
Rotary International emblem.
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SOME ROTARY FIRSTS
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The first
Rotary club meeting was in Chicago, Illinois, on February
23,1905. |
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The first
regular luncheon meetings were in Oakland, California,
chartered in 1909. |
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The first
Rotary convention was in Chicago in 1910. |
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The first
Rotary club outside of the United States was chartered in
Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada, in 1910. |
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The first
Rotary club outside of North America was chartered in Dublin,
Ireland, in 1911. |
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The first
Rotary club in a non-English-speaking country was in Havana,
Cuba, in 1916. |
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The first
Rotary club in South America was chartered in Montevideo,
Uruguay, in 1918. |
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The first
Rotary club in Asia was chartered in Manila, Philippines, in
1919. |
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The first
Rotary club in Africa was chartered in Johannesburg, South
Africa, in 1921. |
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The first
Rotary club in Australia was chartered in Melbourne in 1921.
(original idea from "Scandal Sheet")
|
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OBJECT OF ROTARY
In some
areas of the world weekly Rotary club meetings begin with all
members standing and reciting the Object of Rotary. This
statement, which comes from the Constitution of Rotary, is
frequently seen on a wall plaque in Rotarians' offices or place
of business. The Object of Rotary is "to encourage and foster
the ideal of service as a basis of worthy enterprise." The
statement then lists four areas by which this "ideal of service"
is fostered: through the development of acquaintance as the
opportunity for service; the promotion of high ethical standards
in business and professions; through service in
one's personal, business and community life; and the advancement
of international understanding, goodwill and peace.
The Object
of Rotary has not always been expressed in this manner. The
original Constitution of 1906 had three objects: promotion of
business interests, promotion of good fellowship and the
advancement of the best interests of the community. By 1910
Rotary had five Objects as increased emphasis was given to
expanding Rotary. By 1915 there were six Objects. In 1918 the
Objects were rewritten again and reduced to four. Four years
later they had again grown to six and were revised again in
1927.
Finally, at
the 1935 Mexico City Convention the six Objects were restated
and reduced to four. The last major change came in 1951, when
the "Objects" were streamlined and changed to a single "Object"
which is manifested in four separate ways. The "ideal of
service" is the key phrase in the Object of Rotary. This ideal
is an attitude of being a thoughtful and helpful person in all
of one's endeavors. That's what the Object truly means.
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ROTARY MOTTOES
The first
motto of Rotary International, "He Profits Most Who Serves
Best," was approved at the second Rotary Convention, held in
Port- land, Oregon, in August 1911. The phrase was first stated
by a Chicago Rotarian, Art Sheldon, who made a speech in 1910,
which included the remark, "He profits most who serves his
fellows best." At about the same time, Ben Collins, president of
the Rotary Club of Minneapolis, Minnesota, commented that the
proper way to organize a Rotary club was through the principle
his club had adopted--"Service, Not Self." These two slogans,
slightly modified, were formally approved to be the official
mottoes of Rotary at the 1950 Convention in Detroit--"He Profits
Most Who Serves Best" and "Service Above Self." The 1989 Council
on Legislation established "Service Above Self" as the principal
motto of Rotary, since it best explains the philosophy of
unselfish volunteer service.
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100 PERCENT
ATTENDANCE
Regular
attendance is essential to a strong and active Rotary club. The
emphasis on attendance is traced back to 1922 when Rotary
International announced a worldwide attendance contest which
motivated thousands of Rotarians to achieve a 100 percent
attendance year after year. Many Rotarians take great pride in
maintaining their 100 percent record in their own club or by
making-up at other Rotary club meetings.
Although
the by-laws of Rotary require members to attend only 60 percent
of all meetings, the custom has emerged that 100 percent is the
desirable level. Rotary stresses regular attendance because each
member represents his own business or profession and thus the
absence of any member deprives the club of the values of its
diversified membership and the personal fellowship of each
member. From time to time, proposals have been made to give
attendance credit to Rotarians who are on jury duty, serving in
the community, attending a trade convention, on vacation in
remote areas, on shipboard or unable to attend because of ill
health or other special reasons. None of these exceptions has
been adopted. The policy is very clear--a Rotarian is not given
attendance credit if he does not attend a meeting.
There are
a few circumstances where attendance credit is awarded when a
Rotarian participates in an alternate type of Rotary event. If a
Rotarian is requested to attend an Interact or Rotaract meeting,
attendance credit may be allowed. When a member attends a Rotary
district conference, district assembly, international
convention, Council on Legislation, a meeting of an
international committee, an inter-city meeting and a few other
specially designated events, attendance my be credited. A
Rotarian actively participating in a district-sponsored service
project in a remote area where it is impossible to make-up may
also receive attendance credit.
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THE 4-WAY TEST
One of the
most widely printed and quoted statements of business ethics in
the world is the Rotary "4-Way Test." It was created by Rotarian
Herbert J. Taylor in 1932 when he was asked to take charge of
the Chicago- based Club Aluminum Company, which was facing
bankruptcy. Taylor looked for a way to save the struggling
company mired in depression-caused financial difficulties. He
drew up a 24-word code of ethics for all employees to follow in
their business and professional lives. The 4-Way Test became the
guide for sales, production, advertising and all relations with
dealers and customers, and the survival of the company was
credited to this simple philosophy. Herb Taylor became president
of Rotary International during 1954-55. The 4-Way Test was
adopted by Rotary in 1943 and has been translated into more than
100 languages and published in thousands of ways. The message
should be known and followed by all Rotarians. "Of the things we
think, say or do: 1. Is it the TRUTH? 2. Is it FAIR to all
concerned? 3. Will it build GOODWILL and BETTER FRIENDSHIPS? 4.
Will it be BENEFICIAL to all concerned?"
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PAUL HARRIS--FIRST
BUT NOT FIRST
Was Paul
Harris the first president of a Rotary club? No. Was Paul Harris
the first president of Rotary International? Yes.
There is an
easy explanation to this apparent contradiction. Although Paul
Harris was the founder and organizer of the first Rotary club in
Chicago in 1905, the man selected to be the first president was
one of the other founding members, Silvester Schiele. By the
year 1910 there were 16 Rotary clubs, which linked up as an
organization called the National Association of Rotary Clubs. A
couple of years later the name was changed to International
Association of Rotary Clubs as Rotary was organized in Winnipeg,
Canada, and then in England, Ireland and Scotland. In 1922 the
name was shortened to Rotary International. When the first
organization of Rotary clubs was created in 1910, Paul Harris
was selected as the first president. He served in this position
for two years from 1910 until 1912. thus, the founder of the
Rotary idea, who declined to be president of the first club,
became the first president of the worldwide organization, Rotary
International.
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FIRST NAMES OR
NICKNAMES
From the earliest
days of Rotary , members have referred to each other on a
first-name basis. Since personal acquaintanceship and friendship
are cornerstones of Rotary, it was natural that many clubs
adopted the practice of setting aside formal titles in
conversations among members. Individuals who normally would be
addressed as Doctor, Professor, Mister, the Honorable or Sir are
regularly called Joe, Bill, Charley or Jerry by other Rotarians.
The characteristic Rotary club name badge fosters the first-name
custom. In a few areas, such as Europe, club members use a more
formal style in addressing fellow members. In other parts of the
world, mainly in Asian countries, the practice is to assign each
new Rotarian a humorous nickname which relates to some personal
characteristic or which is descriptive of the member's business
or profession. A member nicknames "Oxygen" is the manufacturer
of chemical gas products. "Trees" is the nickname for the
Rotarian in the lumber business, "Building" is the contractor,
"Paper" is the stationery or office supply retailer. Other
members might carry nicknames like "Muscles," "Foghorn" or
"Smiles" as commentaries on their physical features. The
nicknames are frequently a source of good-natured fun and
fellowship. But whether a Rotarian is addressed by a given first
name or a nickname, the spirit of personal friendship is the
initial step, which opens doors to all other opportunities for
service.
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FOUR AVENUES OF
SERVICE
The term
"four Avenues of Service" is frequently used in Rotary
literature and information. The "Avenues" refer to the four
elements of the Object of Rotary: Club Service, Vocational
Service, Community Service and International Service. Although
the Avenues of Service are not found in any formal part of the
constitutional documents of Rotary, the concept has been
accepted as a means to describe the primary areas of Rotary
activity. "Club Service" involves all of the activities
necessary for Rotarians to perform to make their club function
successfully. "Vocational Service" is a description of the
opportunity each Rotarian has to represent the dignity and
utility of one's vocation to the other members of the club.
"Community
Service" pertains to those activities, which Rotarians undertake
to improve the quality of life in their community. It frequently
involves assistance to youth, the aged, handicapped and others
who look to Rotary as a source of hope for a better life. The
Fourth Avenue "International Service" describes the many
programs and activities, which Rotarians undertake to advance
international understanding, goodwill and peace. International
Service projects are designed to meet humanitarian needs of
people in many lands. When a Rotarian understands and travels
down the "Four Avenues of Service," the Object of Rotary takes
on even greater meaning.
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THE ROTARIAN AND
REGIONAL MAGAZINES
The month
of April is annually designated as "Rotary's Magazine Month," an
occasion to recognize and promote the reading and use of the
official R.I. magazine, THE ROTARIAN, and the regional
magazines. THE ROTARIAN has been around since 1911 as the medium
to communicate with Rotarians and to advance the program and
Object of Rotary. A primary goal of the magazine is to support
the annual theme and philosophy of the R.I. president and to
disseminate information about new and special programs, major
meetings and the emphasis of the several official "months" of
Rotary THE ROTARIAN provides a forum in which both
Rotary-related and general interest topics may be explored.
Frequently the magazine presents lively debates on topical
questions. The magazine serves as an excellent source of
information and ideas for programs at Rotary club meetings and
district conferences. Many articles promote international
fellowship, goodwill and understanding. Regular readers usually
have superior knowledge of the activities of Rotary and how each
Rotarian may be more fully involved in the Four Avenues of
Service around the world. In addition to THE ROTARIAN there are
27 regional magazines printed in 21 languages. Although each
regional publication has its own unique style and content, they
all provide Rotarians with up-to-date information and good
reading in April--and all through the year.
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INTERNATIONAL
RESPONSIBILITIES OF A ROTARIAN
As an
international organization, Rotary offers each member unique
opportunities and responsibilities unlike those of other groups
one might join. Although each Rotarian has first responsibility
to uphold the obligations of citizenship of his or her own
country, membership in Rotary enables Rotarians to take a
somewhat different view of international affairs. In the early
1950s a Rotary philosophy was adopted to describe how a Rotarian
may think on a global basis. Here is what it said: "A
world-minded Rotarian:
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Looks beyond
national patriotism and considers himself as sharing
responsibility for the advancement of international
understanding, goodwill and peace; |
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Resists any
tendency to act in terms of national or racial superiority;
|
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Seeks and
develops common grounds for agreement with peoples of other
lands; |
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Defends the
rule of law and order to preserve the liberty of the
individual so that he may enjoy freedom of thought, speech and
assembly, and freedom from persecution, aggression, want and
fear; |
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Supports
action directed toward improving standards of living for all
peoples, realizing that poverty anywhere endangers prosperity
everywhere; |
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Upholds the
principles of justice for mankind; |
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Strives
always to promote peace between nations and prepares to make
personal sacrifices for that ideal; |
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Urges and
practices a spirit of understanding of every other man's
beliefs as a step toward international goodwill, recognizing
that there are certain basic moral and spiritual standards
which will ensure a richer, fuller life.
|
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" That is
quite an assignment for any Rotarian to practice in thoughts
and actions! |
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STANDARD CLUB
CONSTITUTION
Rotary
International is the most territorial organization in the world.
It exists in 184 different countries and territories and cuts
across dozens of languages, political and social structures,
customs, religions and traditions. How is it that all of the
more than 25,500 Rotary clubs of the world operate in almost
identical style? The primary answer is the Standard Rotary Club
Constitution. One of the conditions to receive a charter to
become a Rotary club is to accept the Standard Club
Constitution, originally adopted in 1922. The Standard Club
Constitution outlines administrative techniques for clubs to
follow in holding weekly meetings, procedures for membership and
classifications, conditions of attendance and payment of dues
and other policies relating to public issues and political
positions. This constitutional document provides the framework
for all Rotary clubs in the world. When the Standard Club
Constitution was accepted, it was agreed that all existing clubs
could continue to follow their current constitution. Although
most of those early clubs have subsequently endorsed the
Standard Constitution, a few pre-1922 clubs still conduct their
club affairs according to their former constitutional
provisions. The Standard Club Constitution has to be considered
one of the great strengths of Rotary to enable the organization
to operate in so many thousands of communities.
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THE SPONSOR OF A NEW
MEMBER
The bylaws
of Rotary clearly outline the procedure for a prospective member
to be proposed for Rotary club membership. The "proposer" 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. The task of the proposer should not end merely by
submitting a name to the club secretary or membership committee.
Rotary has not established formal responsibilities for proposers
or sponsors; however, by custom and tradition these procedures
are recommended in many clubs. The sponsor should:
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Invite a
prospective member to several meetings prior to proposing the
individual for membership.
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Accompany
the prospective new member to one or more
orientation/informational meetings.
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Introduce
the new member to other club members each week for the first
month.
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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 fellowship.
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Ask the new
member and spouse to accompany the sponsor to the club's
social activities, dinners or other special occasions.
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Urge the new
member and spouse to attend the district conference with the
sponsor.
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Serve as a
special friend to assure that the new member becomes an active
Rotarian. When the proposer follows these guidelines, Rotary
becomes stronger with each new member
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WOMEN IN ROTARY
Until 1989,
the Constitution and By-laws of Rotary International stated that
Rotary club membership was for males only. In 1978 the Rotary
Club of Duarte, California, invited three women to become
members. The R.I. board withdrew the charter of that club for
violation of the R.I. Constitution. The club brought suit
against R.I. claiming a violation of a state civil rights law,
which prevents discrimination of any form in business
establishments or public accommodations. The appeals court and
the California Supreme Court supported the Duarte position that
Rotary could not remove the club's charter merely for inducting
women into the club. The United States Supreme Court upheld the
California court indicating that Rotary clubs do have a
"business purpose" and are in some ways public-type
organizations. This action there- fore allowed women to become
Rotarians in any jurisdiction having similar "public
accommodation" statutes. The R.l. constitutional change was made
at the 1989 Council on Legislation, with a vote to eliminate the
"male only" provision for all of Rotary.
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R.I. WORLD
HEADQUARTERS
The headquarters
of Rotary International always has been in the area of Chicago,
Illinois, U.S.A. First it was in Chicago itself, but in 1954 an
attractive new building opened in suburban Evanston. The Ridge
Avenue building met the needs of the Rotary Secretariat until
the 1980s when the addition of new programs, the growth of The
Rotary Foundation, and the new PolioPlus activities made the
headquarters building extremely crowded and required some staff
members to be housed in supplementary office space nearby. When
a modern 18-story office building became available in downtown
Evanston in 1987, it appeared to meet all of Rotary's space and
expansion needs for years to come. The glass and steel
structure, built in 1977, provides 400,000 square feet of office
and usable space. The building was purchased by Rotary
International, which leases approximately two-thirds of the
space to commercial tenants, until needed by future Rotary
growth. The building provides a 190-seat auditorium, large
parking garage and 300-seat cafeteria, as well as functional
office space for the 400 employees of the world headquarters.
The executive suite on the 18th floor includes conference rooms
for the R.I. board and committee meetings, in addition to the
offices for the R.I. president, president-elect and general
secretary. One Rotary Center, as it is called, will enhance the
efficient operations of Rotary International for many years to
come.
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MORE ROTARY FIRSTS
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Rotary
became bilingual in 1916 when the first club was organized in
a non-English- -speaking country--Havana, Cuba.
|
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Rotary
established the "Endowment Fund" in 1917, which became the
forerunner of The Rotary Foundation. |
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Rotary first
adopted the name "Rotary International" in 1922 when the name
was changed from the International Association of Rotary
Clubs. |
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Rotary first
established the Paul Harris Fellows recognition in 1957 for
contributors of $1,000 to The Rotary Foundation.
|
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The Rotary
club which first held meetings on a weekly basis was Oakland,
California, the Number 3 club. |
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The Rotary
emblem was printed on a commemorative stamp for the first time
in 1931 at the time of the Vienna Convention.
|
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The first
Rotary club banner (from the Houston Space Center) to orbit
the moon was carried by astronaut Frank Borman, a member of
that club. |
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The first
Rotary International convention held outside the United States
was in Edinburgh, Scotland, in 1921. |
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The first
head of state to address a Rotary convention was U.S.
President Warren G. Harding in 1923 at St. Louis.
|
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WORLD
UNDERSTANDING MONTH
The month of
February is very special in the Rotary calendar since it is
designated World Understanding Month. The month also includes
the anniversary of the first meeting of Rotary held on February
23, 1905, now designated World Understanding and Peace Day. In
designating World Understanding Month, the Rotary International
board asks all Rotary clubs to plan programs for their weekly
meetings and undertake special activities to emphasize
"understanding and goodwill as essential for world peace." To
observe this designated month, many clubs arrange international
speakers, invite youth exchange students and international
scholars from schools and universities to club meetings, plan
programs featuring former Group Study Exchange team members,
arrange discussions on international Issues, present
entertainment with an international cultural or artistic theme
and schedule other programs with an international emphasis. Many
clubs take the opportunity to launch an international community
service activity or make contact with a Rotary club in another
country. It is a good month to initiate a Rotary Fellowship
Exchange, a 3-H project or encourage support for PolioPlus and
other Rotary Foundation programs. World Understanding Month is a
chance for every club to pause, plan and promote the Fourth
Avenue of Service--Rotary's continued quest for goodwill, peace
and understanding among people of the world.
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ROTARY AWARD FOR
WORLD UNDERSTANDING
Since 1981, the
Rotary Award for World Understanding has been given each year,
with one exception, to an individual or organization "whose life
or work demonstrates in some exemplary or worthy manner the
Rotary ideal of service, especially in the promotion of
international understanding, goodwill and peace." The award is
presented at the Rotary International Convention. A special
worldwide committee makes the selection, which must then be
approved by the R.I. Board of Directors and the Trustees of The
Rotary Foundation. In addition to a beautiful crystal sculpture,
the award provides the opportunity for the recipient to select
ten Rotary Foundation scholars who then receive their
ambassadorial scholarships in the distinguished award winner's
name. Past recipients of the World Understanding Awards have
been: 1981, Dr. Noburo Iwamura, Japanese professor of medical
research; 1982, Pope John Paul II; 1983, Dr. Lotta Hitschmanova,
Canadian humanitarian; 1984, World Organization of the Scout
Movement; 1985, Dr. Albert B. Sabin, developer of oral polio
vaccine; 1986, International Committee of the Red Cross; 1987,
Lady Hermione Ranfurly, for worldwide Ranfurly Library Services;
1988, The Salvation Army; 1989, no award; 1990, Vaclav Havel,
president of Czechoslovakia; 1991, Javier Perez de Cuellar,
secretary general of the United Nations; and 1992, Edward J.
Piszek, U.S.A. businessman-philanthropist.
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THE CLASSIFICATION
PRINCIPLE
Virtually all
membership in Rotary is based upon a "classification." Basically
a classification describes the distinct and recognized business
or professional service which the Rotarian renders to society.
The principle of Rotary classification is somewhat more specific
and precise. In determining the classification of a Rotarian it
is necessary to look at the "principal or recognized business or
professional activity of the firm, company or institution" with
which an active member is connected or "that which covers his
principal and recognized business or professional activity." It
should be clearly understood that classifications are determined
by activities or services to society rather than by the position
held by a particular individual. In other words, if a person is
the president of a bank, he is not classified as "bank
president" but under the classification "banking." It is the
principal and recognized activity of a business or professional
establishment or the individual's principal and recognized
business or professional activity that determines the
classification to be established and loaned to a qualified
person. For example, the permanently employed electrical
engineer, insurance adjustor, or business manager of a railroad
company, mining company, manufacturing concern, hospital,
clinic, etc., may be considered for membership as a
representative of the particular work he may be doing personally
or as a representative of the firm, company, or institution to
which he is devoting his professional services. The
classification principle also permits business and industries to
be separated into distinct functions such as manufacturing,
distributing, retailing and servicing. Classifications may also
be specified as distinct and independent divisions of a large
corporation or university within the club's territory, such as a
school of business or a school of engineering. The
classification principle is a necessary concept in assuring that
each Rotary club represents a cross section of the business and
professional service of the community.
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EXCHANGE OF CLUB
BANNERS
One of the
colorful traditions of many Rotary clubs is the exchange of
small banners, flags or pennants. Rotarians traveling to distant
locations often take banners to exchange at "make up" meetings
as a token of friendship. Many clubs use the decorative banners
they have received for attractive displays at club meetings and
district events. The Rotary International board recognized the
growing popularity of the banner exchange back in 1959 and
suggested that those clubs which participate in such exchanges
give careful thought to the design of their banners in order
that they be distinctive and expressive of the community and
country of which the club is a part. It is recommended that
banners include pictures, slogans or designs which portray the
territorial area of the club. The board was also mindful of the
financial burden such exchanges may impose upon some clubs,
especially in popular areas where many visitors make up and
request to exchange. In all instances, clubs are cautioned to
exercise discretion and moderation in the exchange of banners in
order that the financial obligations do not interfere with the
basic service activities of the club. Exchanging club banners is
a very pleasant custom, especially when a creative and artistic
banner tells an interesting story of community pride. The
exchange of banners is a significant tradition of Rotary and
serves as a tangible symbol of our international fellowship.
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NON-ATTENDANCE RULES
The Rotary Club
Constitution specifies three conditions under which a Rotarian's
membership will automatically be terminated for non-attendance.
These circumstances are: failure to attend or make up four
consecutive club meetings, failure to attend or make up 60
percent of club meetings each six months and failure to attend
at least 30 percent of the meetings of one's own club in each
six-month period. Under any of these three cases, a member will
lose his Rotary membership unless the club board of directors
has previously consented to excuse such failure for good and
sufficient reason. To some individuals, these rules may seem
unusually rigid. How- ever, being present at club meetings is
one of the basic obligations a member accepts upon joining a
Rotary club. The constitutional rules merely emphasize that
Rotary is a participatory organization which highly values
regular attendance. When a member is absent the entire club
loses the personal association with that member. Being present
at a club meeting is considered a vital part of the operation
and success of every Rotary club. For any Rotarian to miss four
consecutive meetings, or disregard the other attendance
requirements, should be considered tantamount to the submission
of one's resignation from the club. When a club terminates a
member for non-attendance, it is simply an acceptance of a
resignation and not a punitive action by the club officers. All
Rotarians know the consequences of non-attendance, so it clearly
becomes a conscious decision by a Rotarian to withdraw from the
club when he fails to fulfill the attendance requirements.
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SHARING ROTARY WITH
NEW MEMBERS
Are you
aware of the responsibility or obligation most Rotarians fail to
perform? Paying their dues? Attending meetings? Contributing to
the club's service fund? Participating in club events and
projects? No--none of these! Of all the obligations a person
accepts when joining a Rotary club, the one in which most
Rotarians fail is "sharing Rotary." The policies of Rotary
International clearly affirm that every individual Rotarian has
an "obligation to share Rotary with others and to help extend
Rotary through proposing qualified persons for Rotary club
membership." It is estimated that less than 30 percent of the
members of most Rotary clubs have ever made the effort to
propose a new member. Thus, in every club, there are many
Rotarians who readily accept the pleasures of being a Rotarian
without ever sharing that privilege with another qualified
individual. The Rotary policy on club membership states: "In
order for a Rotary club to be fully relevant to its community
and responsive to the needs of those in the community, it is
important and necessary that the club include in its membership
all fully qualified prospective members located within its
territory. " One merely has to glance through the yellow pages
of the local telephone directory to realize that most clubs have
not invited qualified members of all businesses and professions
into Rotary. Only a Rotarian may propose a customer, neighbor,
client, supplier, executive, relative, business associate,
professional or other qualified person to join a Rotary club.
Have you accepted your obligation to share Rotary? The
procedures are very simple, and everyone must know at least one
person who should belong to Rotary.
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TOLERANCE OF
DIFFERENCES
Occasionally there is a temptation to criticize the laws,
customs and traditions of another country which may seem strange
or contrary to our own. In some instances illegal practices or
customs of one nation are completely lawful and acceptable in
another. As members of an international organization dedicated
to world understanding and peace, it behooves Rotarians to
exercise restraint in judging our Rotary friends and citizens
from other countries when their behavior seems unusual to us. A
Rotary policy has existed for more than half a century relating
to this dilemma of international relationships. The statement,
adopted in 1933, says that because it is recognized that some
activities and local customs may be legal and customary in some
countries and not in others, Rotarians should be guided by this
admonition of tolerance: "Rotarians in all countries should
recognize these facts and there should be a thoughtful avoidance
of criticism of the laws and customs of one country by the
Rotarians of another country." The policy also cautions against
"any effort on the part of Rotarians of one country to interfere
with the laws or customs of another country." As we strive to
strengthen the bonds of understanding, goodwill and friendship,
these policies still provide good advice and guidance.
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VOCATIONAL SERVICE
Vocational Service
is the "Second Avenue of Service." No aspect of Rotary is more
closely related to each member than a personal commitment to
represent one's vocation or occupation to fellow Rotarians and
to exemplify the characteristics of high ethical standards and
the dignity of work. Programs of vocational service are those,
which seek to improve business relations while improving the
quality of trades, industry, commerce and the professions.
Rotarians understand that each person makes a valuable
contribution to a better society through daily activities in a
business or profession. Vocational service is frequently
demonstrated by offering young people career guidance,
occupational information and assistance in making vocational
choices. Some clubs sponsor high school career conferences. Many
recognize the dignity of employment by honoring exemplary
service of individuals working in their communities. The 4-Way
Test and other ethical and laudable business philosophies are
often promoted among young people entering the world of work.
Vocational talks and discussion of business issues are also
typical vocational service programs at most clubs. Regardless of
the ways that vocational service is expressed, it is the banner
by which Rotarians "recognize the worthiness of all useful
occupations" and demonstrate a commitment to "high ethical
standards in all businesses and professions." That's why the
Second Avenue of Service is fundamental to every Rotary club.
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ROTARY ANNS
In many
Rotary clubs throughout the world, wives of male members are
affectionately called "Rotary Anns." This designation was never
one of disparagement, but rather grew out of an interesting
historical occasion. The year was 1914 when San Francisco
Rotarians boarded a special train to attend the Rotary
convention being held in Houston. In those days few wives
attended Rotary events, and until the train stopped in Los
Angeles, the only woman aboard was the wife of Rotarian Bru
Brunnier. As the train picked up additional convention-bound
delegates, Mrs. Ann Brunnier was introduced as the Rotarian's
Ann. This title soon became "Rotary Ann." Since the clubs of the
West were inviting the Rotarians to hold their next convention
in San Francisco, a number of songs and stunts were organized
which would be performed in Houston. One of the Rotarians wrote
a "Rotary Ann" chant. On the train's arrival at the Houston
depot, a delegation greeted the West Coast Rotarians. One of the
greeters was Guy Gundaker of Philadelphia, whose wife was also
named Ann. During the rousing demonstration, someone started the
Rotary Ann chant. The two petite ladies, Ann Brunnier and Ann
Gundaker, were hoisted to the men's shoulders and paraded about
the hall. The group loved the title given to the two women named
Ann. Immediately the same term of endearment was used for all of
the wives in attendance, and the name "Rotary Ann" was here to
stay. Guy Gundaker became president of Rotary International in
1923 and Bru Brunnier was elected president in 1952. Thus, each
of the two original Rotary Anns became the "first lady of Rotary
International."
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LESSONS IN ROTARY
GEOGRAPHY
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Were you
aware that the Rotary Club of Reno, Nevada, is farther west
than the Rotary Club of Los Angeles, California?
|
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Would you
guess that the meetings of the Rotary Club of Portland, Maine,
are farther south than those of the clubs in London, England?
|
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Can you
imagine that the Pensacola, Florida, Rotary Club is west of
the Detroit, Michigan, club? |
 |
It's a fact
that the Cairo, Illinois, Rotary Club is south of Richmond,
Virginia. |
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There are 69
Rotary clubs with the word "Tokyo" in their club names.
|
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The Rotary
Club of Nome, Alaska, lies west of the club in Honolulu,
Hawaii, and the Santiago, Chile, club is located east of the
Rotary Club of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.
|
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Rotary
geographers will know that virtually every Rotary club meeting
in Australia is east of the Hong Kong Rotary Club.
|
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What do the
Rotary clubs of Quito, Ecuador, Libreville, Gabon, Singapore,
and Kampala, Uganda, have in common? You guessed right if you
said they all meet approximately on the equator.
|
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There are
many interesting relationships and things to learn as you
become acquainted with the 25,600 clubs in the wide world of
Rotary. |
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INVOCATIONS AT CLUB
MEETINGS
In many Rotary
clubs, particularly in Judeo-Christian nations, it is customary
to open weekly meetings with an appropriate invocation or
blessing. Usually such invocations are offered without reference
to specific religious denominations or faiths. Rotary policy
recognizes that throughout the world Rotarians represent many
religious beliefs, ideas and creeds. The religious beliefs of
each member are fully respected, and nothing in Rotary is
intended to prevent each individual from being faithful to such
convictions. At international assemblies and conventions, it is
traditional for a silent invocation to be given. In respect for
all religious beliefs and in the spirit of tolerance for a wide
variety of personal faiths, all persons are invited to seek
divine guidance and peace "each in his own way." It is an
inspiring experience to join with thousands of Rotarians in an
international "silent prayer" or act of personal devotion.
Usually all Rotary International board and committee meetings
begin with a few moments of silent meditation. In this period of
silence, Rotary demonstrates respect for the beliefs of all
members, who represent the religions of the world. Since each
Rotary club is autonomous, the practice of presenting a prayer
or invocation at club meetings is left entirely to the
traditions and customs of the individual club, with the
understanding that these meeting rituals always be conducted in
a manner, which will respect the religious convictions and
faiths of all members.
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OPPORTUNITIES FOR
FELLOWSHIP
Most
Rotarians are successful professional and business executives
because they hear opportunities knock and take advantage of
them. Once a week the opportunity for Rotary fellowship occurs
at each club meeting, but not all members hear it knocking. The
weekly club meeting is a special privilege of Rotary membership.
It provides the occasion to visit with fellow members, to meet
visitors you have not known before, and to share your personal
friendship with other members. Rotary clubs, which have a
reputation of being “friendly clubs” usually, follow a few
simple steps: First, members are encouraged to sit in a
different seat or at a different table each week. Second,
Rotarians are urged to sit with a member they may not know as
well as their long-time personal friends. Third, members invite
new members or visitors to join their table just by saying:
"Come join us, we have an empty chair at this table." Fourth,
members share the conversation around the table rather than
merely eating in silence or talking privately to the person next
to them. Fifth, Rotarians make a special point of trying to get
acquainted with all members of the club by seeking out those
they may not know. When Rotarians follow these five easy steps,
an entirely new opportunity for fellowship knocks each week.
Soon Rotarians realize that warm and personal friendship is the
cornerstone of every great Rotary club.
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SENIOR ACTIVE
MEMBERSHIP
Senior
active" is a form of membership reserved for members who have
provided substantial years of service to Rotary and is usually
regarded as a mark of Rotary distinction. Being a senior active
member signifies that a Rotarian has been involved in club
activities over a long period. A Rotarian automatically becomes
"senior active" upon completion of 15 years of service in one or
more Rotary clubs. Senior active status is also conferred upon a
Rotarian with ten or more years service who has reached the age
of 60, or with five or more years service who has reached the
age of 65. A Rotarian who serves as a district governor is also
eligible for senior active membership. One of the benefits of
being senior active is that the Rotarian no longer must reside
or have his place of business within the territorial limits of
the club. If a senior active member moves to another city, he
may be invited to join Rotary without having an open
classification. When a Rotarian becomes senior active, his/her
classification is released to enable another individual to join
Rotary. It is important to remember, senior active is not a
classification it is a type of membership. A senior active
member is always identified by "former classification," which
describes a business or profession.
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HONORARY MEMBERSHIP
Honorary"
is one of the four types of membership a person may have in a
Rotary club. This type of membership is the highest distinction
a Rotary club can confer and is exercised only in exceptional
cases to recognize an individual for unusual service and
contributions to Rotary and society. An honorary member is
elected for one year only, and continuing membership must be
renewed annually. Honorary members cannot propose new members to
the club, do not hold office and are exempt from attendance
requirements and club dues. Many distinguished heads of state,
explorers, authors, musicians, astronauts and other public
personalities have been honorary members of Rotary clubs,
including King Gustaf of Sweden, King George VI of England, King
Badouin of Belgium, King Hassan III of Morocco, Sir Winston
Churchill, humanitarian Albert Schweitzer, Charles Lindberg,
composer Jean Sibelius, explorer Sir Edmund Hillary, Thor
Heyerdahl, Thomas Edison, Walt Disney, Bob Hope, Dr. Albert
Sabin, British Prime Minister Margaret Thatcher and many of the
presidents of the United States. Truly, those selected for
honorary membership are those who have done much to further the
ideals of Rotary.
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MEMBERSHIP IN ROTARY
INTERNATIONAL
If you asked a
Rotarian if he or she belonged to Rotary International, the
individual probably would look puzzled and answer, "Of course
I'm a member of Rotary International." But in this instance, the
confident Rotarian would be technically wrong. No Rotarian can
be a member of Rotary International! The explanation of this
apparent contradiction is simple. The constitutional documents
of R.I. state that membership in Rotary International is limited
to Rotary clubs. Over 25,600 Rotary clubs belong to the
organization we call Rotary International. A Rotary club is
composed of persons with the appropriate qualifications of good
character and reputation, a business or professional
classification and who serve in an executive or managerial
capacity. The Rotarian belongs to a club--the club belongs to
Rotary International. This technical distinction is not obvious
or even known to most Rotarians and seldom does it create any
problems or complications. It does explain, however, why the
Rotary International Board of Directors places expectations upon
and extends privileges to Rotary clubs, rather than to
individual Rotarians. If someone asks if you belong to Rotary
International, your most accurate answer would be, "No, I belong
to a Rotary club." But I doubt if anyone would understand the
difference, or, in fact, would really care.
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DISTRICT GOVERNOR
The Rotary
district governor performs a very significant function in the
world of Rotary. He or she is the single officer of Rotary
International in their geographic area, called a Rotary
district, which usually includes about 45 Rotary clubs. The 500
district governors, who have been extensively trained at the
worldwide International Assembly, provide the "quality control"
for the 25,600 Rotary clubs of the world. They are responsible
for maintaining high performance within the clubs of their
district. The district governor, who must make an official visit
to each club in his district, is never regarded as an "inspector
general." Rather, he visits as a helpful and friendly adviser to
the club officers, as a useful counselor to further the Object
of Rotary among the clubs of his district, and as a catalyst to
help strengthen the programs of Rotary. The district governor is
a very experienced Rotarian who generously devotes a year of
their life to the volunteer task of leadership. The governor has
a wealth of knowledge about current Rotary pro- grams, purposes,
policies and goals. He or she is a person of recognized high
standing in his profession, community and Rotary club. They must
supervise the organization of new clubs and strengthen existing
ones. They perform a host of specific duties to assure that the
quality of Rotary does not falter in his district. They are
responsible to promote and implement all programs and activities
of the Rotary International president and the R.I. Board of
Directors. The governor plans and directs a district conference
and other special events. Each district governor performs a very
important role in the worldwide operations of Rotary. The
district governor is truly a prime example of Service Above Self
performing a labor of love.
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THE DISTRICT ASSEMBLY
In view of the
annual turnover of Rotary leadership each year, special effort
is required to provide the 25,600 club leaders with appropriate
instruction for the tasks they will assume. The annual district
assembly is the major leadership-training event in each of the
500 Rotary districts of the world. The district assembly offers
motivation, inspiration, Rotary information and new ideas for
club officers, directors and key committee chairmen of each
club. Some of the most experienced district leaders conduct
informative discussions on all phases of Rotary administration
and service projects. The assembly gives all participants
valuable new ideas to make their club more effective and
interesting. Usually eight to ten delegates from each club are
invited to attend the training session. Another important
feature of a district assembly is a review by the incoming
district governor of the program theme and emphasis of the new
R.l. president for the coming year. District goals and objects
are also described and plans are developed for their
implementation. The success of each Rotary club is frequently
determined by the club's full representation and participation
in the annual district assembly.
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THE DISTRICT
CONFERENCE
Most
Rotarians have never attended a Rotary district conference. They
have not experienced one of the most enjoyable and rewarding
privileges of Rotary membership. A district conference is for
all club members and their spouses, not just for club officers
and committee members. The purpose of a District Conference is
for fellowship, good fun, inspirational speakers and discussion
of matters which make one's Rotary membership more meaningful.
Every person who attends a district conference finds that being
a Rotarian becomes even more rewarding because of the new
experiences, insights and acquaintances developed at the
Conference. Those who attend a Conference enjoy going back, year
after year. Every one of Rotary's 500 districts has a conference
annually. These meetings are considered so important that the
Rotary International president selects a knowledgeable Rotarian
as his personal representative to attend and address each
conference. The program always includes several outstanding
entertainment features, interesting discussions and
inspirational programs. One of the unexpected benefits of
attending a district conference is the opportunity to become
better acquainted with members of one's own club in an informal
setting. Lasting friendships grow from the fellowship hours at
the district conference.
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YOUTH EXCHANGE
Rotary
Youth Exchange is one of Rotary's most popular programs to
promote international understanding and develop lifelong
friendships. It began in 1927 with the Rotary Club of Nice,
France. In 1939 an extensive Youth Exchange was created between
California and Latin America. Since then the program has
expanded around the world. In recent years more than 7,000 young
people have participated annually in Rotary-sponsored exchange
programs. The values of Youth Exchange are experienced not only
by the high school-age students involved but also by the host
families, sponsoring clubs, receiving high schools and the
entire community. Youth Exchange participants usually provide
their fellow students in their host schools with excellent
opportunities to learn about customs, languages, traditions and
family life in another country Youth Exchange offers young
people interesting opportunities and rich experiences to see
another part of the world. Students usually spend a full
academic year aboard, although some clubs and districts sponsor
short-term exchanges of several weeks or months. Approximately
36 percent of Rotary Youth Exchange students are hosted or sent
by the clubs in the United States and Canada. European countries
account for about 40 percent, and 12 percent come from Australia
and New Zealand. Asian clubs sponsor 5 percent, and 7 percent
come from Latin American countries. Over 70 percent of all
Rotary districts participate in Youth Exchange activities. Youth
Exchange is a highly recommended program for all Rotary clubs as
a practical activity for the enhancement of international
understanding and goodwill.
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NO PERSONAL
PRIVILEGES
Frequently friends
ask whether Rotarians receive special business benefits from
their Rotary membership. Should Rotarians expect a special
discount or some preferential service just because they are
dealing with a fellow Rotarian? The answer is clearly "no." The
Rotary Manual of Procedure expressly states the Rotary position
on this matter. The policy, originally approved by the R.I.
Board of Directors in 1933, is that in business and professional
relations "a Rotarian should not expect, and far less should he
ask for, more consideration or advantages from a fellow Rotarian
than the latter would give to any other business or professional
associate with whom he has business relations. " Over 50 years
ago the concept was expressed that "true friends demand nothing
of one another, and any abuse of the confidence of friendship
for profit is foreign to the spirit of Rotary." On the other
hand, if new or increased business comes as the natural result
of friendship created in Rotary, it is the same normal
development which takes place outside of Rotary as well as
inside, so it is not an infringement on the ethics of Rotary
membership. It is important to remember that the primary purpose
of Rotary membership is to provide each member with a unique
opportunity to serve others, and membership is not intended as a
means for personal profit or special privileges.
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EVERY ROTARIAN AN
EXAMPLE TO YOUTH
In much of
the official literature of Rotary International relating to
service to young people, a special slogan will be found--"Every
Rotarian an Example to Youth." These words were adopted in 1949
by the Rotary International Board of Directors as an expression
of commitment to children and youth in each community in which
Rotary clubs exist. Serving young people has long been an
important part of the Rotary program. Youth service projects
take many forms around the world. Rotarians sponsor Boy Scout
and Girl Scout troops, athletic teams, handicapped children's
centers, school safety patrols, summer camps, recreation areas,
safe driving clinics, county fairs, child care centers and
children's hospitals. Many clubs provide vocational counseling,
establish youth employment programs and promote use of the 4-Way
Test. Increasingly, drug and alcohol abuse prevention projects
are being supported by Rotarians. In every instance, Rotarians
have an opportunity to be role models for the young men and
women of their community. One learns to serve by observing
others. As our youth grow to become adult leaders, it is hoped
each will achieve that same desire and spirit to serve future
generations of children and youth. The slogan accepted over 40
years ago is just as vital today. It is a very thoughtful
challenge--"Every Rotarian an Example to Youth."
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WORLD COMMUNITY
SERVICE
World
Community Service is the Rotary program by which a club or
district in one country provides humanitarian assistance to a
club in another country. Typically the aid goes to a developing
community where the Rotary project will help raise the standard
of living and the quality of life. The ultimate object of World
Community Service is to build goodwill and understanding among
peoples of the world. One important way to find a club in some
other part of the world which needs help on a worthy project is
to use the WCS Projects Exchange, a list of dozens of worthy
activities in developing areas. The exchange list is maintained
in the R.I. Secretariat in Evanston and is readily available
upon request. It outlines projects, provides estimated costs and
gives names of the appropriate contacts. Clubs, which need
assistance, or are seeking another club to help with a
humanitarian project, such as building a clinic, school,
hospital, community water well, library or other beneficial
activity, may register their needs. Clubs seeking a desirable
World Community Service project may easily review the list of
needs registered in the Projects Exchange. Thus, the exchange
provides a practical way to link needs with resources. Every
Rotary club is urged to undertake a new World Community Service
project each year. The WCS Projects Exchange list is an
excellent tool to find a real need, a project description and
cooperating club in a developing area. The job then is to "go to
work" to complete the project, and at the same time build
bridges of friendship and world understanding.
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WOMEN'S GROUPS
ASSOCIATED WITH ROTARY CLUBS
Some very
significant programs of Rotary service are not conducted by
Rotarians | |