Home Page 2011-12
The new Rotary Year is here! I could not be more excited as we begin this journey in Rotary together. Looking forward to the new responsibilities, challenges and opportunities ahead, let us keep in the forefront of our minds President Kalyan Banerjee’s theme, “Reach within to Embrace Humanity”. President Kalyan emphasizes that the first step to creating peace is finding peace within. Mohandas Gandhi said, “You must be the change you see in the world”. This is the basis from which stronger relationships, families, and communities can be built.
This is especially an incredible time to serve Rotary. Have you ever seen so many natural disasters in your life? If Haiti wasn’t enough, to be followed by Japan and now the devastation in our own country due to tornados and floods. We responded to Katrina and made a difference. Our nation and world once again cry out for disaster relief that only Rotarians can so quickly, passionately, and effectively deliver. Governor Johrita recently asked us to support the Joplin Rotary Club. Let’s rise to occasion once again.
The strength of Rotary lies in our vast diversity and numbers. With the ending of one year and the beginning of another, this is traditionally one of the most challenging times for membership. For most Rotarians the gift of Rotary was one of the most valuable gifts ever received. People we will never know will live better, healthier lives, and generations to come will have hope because of Rotary. Our accomplishments year after year are more than worth the price of admission. We understand that through small acts of kindness combined, our investment in humanity will continue to change the world. Please continue to serve and encourage a friend, colleague or acquaintance to hop on board. It’s a ride of continual satisfaction.
Through the remarkable programs of The Rotary Foundation, Rotarians advance world understanding, goodwill, and peace through the improvement of health, the support of education, and the alleviation of poverty. Johrita did an outstanding job of increasing Foundation support and it is my hope that we can continue to increase this support even further through encouraging Every Rotarian Every Year to make a contribution in any amount they can. Also, increasing the number of Major Donors and Society Members will mean larger funds for our District to use towards future projects.
The Club Presidents have shared their ambitious goals for membership and beyond which have inspired the formation of the District’s goals. You can view these goals on the District 5320 website or simply by clicking here. As visions become reality I have no doubt that these common goals will be achieved (or surpassed). The District team encourages all clubs to consider club visioning as a tool to develop a strategic plan. We have individuals to assist clubs in this resourceful planning. If you currently have a plan in place, now is the time to reevaluate your club’s progress and direction.
For clubs that have had members leave Rotary due to unusual circumstances, reconnect and see if Rotary is once again a possibility. If not, ask if our new Rotary eClub, Rotary online might be a reality for them. Even many potential new members have similar issues with time commitments, costs, etc. and Rotary eClub of the West may be a practical option for them as well. You can never replace the weekly fellowship of club meetings and face to face experiences with membership. It’s special and always will be. Look at our Rotary eClub as a vehicle to save membership, continuing the Rotary experience and when the time is right, continue your membership of choice, either online, in person or both.
The District team is here for one reason: to support your vision and provide resources for success. Our District website continues to be a powerful tool and I encourage you to explore all that it has to offer. Above all, let’s have fun and embrace Rotary fellowship. An exceptional year is ahead, and together we can transform the lives of others through Reaching Within to Embrace Humanity.
