Rotary’s influence, Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library puts books into the hands of childrenThe wonderful partnership between world famous country singer Dolly Parton who spoke at the 2010 RI Convention, Montreal and Rotary International continues to flourish in communities both large and small all across the USA, Canada, and the United Kingdom.
Although every community approaches the program in its own way, one thing impresses me much more than dollars raised or even time invested –and this is the enormous influence Rotarians exert in their communities.
On many occasions, we have witnessed how Rotarians use their influence to leverage support from both the public and private sector. Rotarians bring instant credibility to the table and consequently, local, state and provincial governments are eager to join forces with Rotary and Dolly to bring the Imagination Library to their children. Likewise many Rotary clubs have been successful in teaming up with United Way to launch the program in their communities.
Influence is an earned commodity and we are fortunate that the decades of good will and great work of Rotary now benefits the children of the Imagination Library.
Rotary AcronymsAcronym Description President of Rotary International in 2013-14
3H Health, Hunger and Humanity
3-H GRANTS Health, hunger and humanity - Grants of US$100k to $500K for multi- year international projects and social development
AG Assistant (District) Governor - One of a number of senior Rotarians appointed by District Governor (DG) to assist with administration of a group of clubs in that year
IFRAA International Fellowship of Rotarian Amateur Astronomers. www.rotary-ifraa.org/
ALUMNI District and Club Groups - Association of former members of Group Study Exchange teams (GSE), Scholars and other Foundation programmes
Ambassadorial Scholars An international programme of Rotary Foundation - Enables men and women to spend an academic year abroad in university level or vocational studies
Board of a Rotary Club The governing body of a Rotary club expected to meet monthly - Consists of President, Vice President(s), President Elect, Immediate Past President, Secretary, Treasurer, Directors and others as the By-Laws shall provide
CAP Community Assistance Program
Carl P Miller Discovery Grant RI Foundation grant up to US$3000 for travel, research of an international service project - To be used by a Rotarian or group thereof who have a written invitation from club in host country who will offer home-hosting
Catalogue List of all major publications, supplies etc available from RI - Supplementary updates issued annually in July Contains order forms to send to NSW Branch Office of RI (Gratis)
Charter Member The original members of a newly chartered club - Identified with a special lapel badge
Classification A principal concept to assure each Rotary club represents cross section of business/professions - Describes the distinct and recognised business or professional service which the Rotarian renders to society (Not position held)
Club and District Changeovers A mainly formal event held annually just prior to a new Rotary year and includes partners - Formal changeover to new President and team of incoming Officers/Directors and provides a review of past year achievements and activities
Club Banner/Flag A small flag expressive of the community, country or region of a club - Commonly used to present to visitors or exchange with clubs visited throughout the world
Club Charter A document issued when a new club is admitted to Membership in RI - Signed by RI Pres, General Secretary and DG Date thereon represents date of official membership Framed and preserved
Club Committees The "action" groups within a club - Comprise standing committees under the 4 Avenues of Service plus others approved by the Board Each headed by a Director, with Deputy and committee members
Club Forum Formal meeting of an entire club - Called to inform members about service activities and progress of projects Also an opportunity for members to air views
Club Secretary’s Manual Issued by RI to each incoming Club Secretary - Contains procedures and guides to dates and secretarial functions etc
Club Task Allocation List of essential tasks allocated to members - Enables spread of administrative and essential tasks to ensure effective outcomes List available from Secretary
CMS Citation for Meritorious Service
Council of Governors A District committee - Past DG’s who convene to give advice to the current DG on programmes, policies and procedures
Council On Legislation The legislative body of Rotary International - Composed of one delegate from each Rotary District that meet each 3 years to consider proposed changes to the Rotary Constitution and Bylaws
DDF District Designated Funds
DG District Governor - Directly responsible to the Board of Rotary International (RI) for the supervision of clubs within a designated district
DGD District Governor-Designate (DG next+2 Rotary Year)
DGE District Governor-Elect (DG next Rotary Year)
DGN District Governor-Nominee (DG next+1 Rotary Year)
DGN District Governor Nominee
DGND District Governor Nominee Designate
DIK Donations-in-kind - Supplies of donated educational and medical equipment available to serve a need in the developing world
DIN Donations-in-Kind Information Network
District Conference Annual event for members and partners - Held annually in each District to further the programmes of Rotary through fellowship, inspiring speakers and recognition of club activities etc
DIR District Interact Representative
DLP District Leadership Plan
DLT District Leadership Team - Approved by RI to begin 1/1/1997 An enhanced organisational structure in a District to enable cost-effective growth and faster, more responsive support to clubs by appointment of Assistant Governors
DRFC District Rotary Foundation Committee
DRR District Rotaract Representative
DSA Distinguished Service Award
DSG District Simplified Grants.
DSGs support the service activities or humanitarian endeavors of districts, and they may submit DSG requests in place of Helping Grants, Humanitarian Transportation Grants, Community Assistance Program (CAP) applications, and
New Opportunities Grants, beginning 1 January 2003.
DT District Trainer
EN English (language)
FAIM Fourth Avenue In Motion - Teams of Rotary Volunteers assist build hospitals, schools etc for under- privileged people and carry out specialist work
FARG Foundation Alumni Resource Group
Fellowship A major club function - Promotes acquaintance among members through participation in clubs? recreational and social activities
Founder of Rotary Refers to Paul P Harris - Organised the first Rotary Club in Chicago in 1905 Born 19 April 1868 died 27 January 1947
Four Avenues of Service The major elements of the "Object of Rotary" - Term used to refer to Club Service; Vocational Service; Community Service and International Service
Friendship Club A less formal agreement that may lead to Sister Club status after a trial period - As above but less demanding of mutual co-operation until proper communication lines and philosophy is established
Functional Literacy Programme An RI programme since 1992 - To meet the needs of adults deemed to be functionally illiterate and to promote support for reading, writing skills through community Literacy centres
GB and I Association of clubs in Great Britain and Ireland - Clubs located in England, Scotland, Wales Ireland, Channel Is and Isle of Man
GETS Governor-Elect Training Seminar
GSE Group Study Exchange
GSE Group Study Exchange
GSE Team Group Study Exchange Team Programme of Rotary Foundation of RI - A cultural and Educational exchange of young non-Rotarian professionals which promotes international understanding through travel and personal contact Usually once annually for duration of 4 to 5 weeks under Rotary leadership
Helping Grants Up to US$15K based on 2:1 match of club or district contributions - For projects in a country other than that of the sponsor where Rotary participation is not possible
Honorary Member Recognition of a past member or non-Rotarian - Persons who have distinguished themselves by meritorious service in the furtherance of Rotary ideals
Horizons A District or club Committee - To research and propose a forward planning approach within District or club to improve organisational structures and consider suggestions which will attract younger prospective members
ICUFR International Computer User Fellowshipo of Rotarians,
IG Individual Grants. IGs support the travel of individual Rotarians planning or implementing service projects, and under this program, Rotarians may submit Individual Grants in place of Discovery Grants and Grants for Rotary Volunteers,
beginning 1 April 2003.
Inner Wheel An international organisation of women - A Rotary sponsored service group open to wives, widows of present and past Rotarians
Interact Interaction between youth and service - World-wide Rotary sponsored group of young people dedicated to service and International understanding and is open to students in their last 4 years of secondary education
International Assembly An annual assembly of District Governor Nominees held in Anaheim, US in Feb/Mar - To educate, instruct and inspire DGNs and adoption of RI theme and new programmes of RI
International Convention World-wide gathering of all Rotarians and partners - Held usually in May in a different country chaired by RI President
INTERPLAST International Plastic Surgery Programme - Established by District 9800 in 1980 and sends teams of volunteer surgeons and nurses to developing countries to operate on deformities, burns et
IPAC International Projects Advisory Committee - A national committee to update registry of international projects identified as suitable for support by clubs
IPDG Immediate Past District Governor
IPEC International Polio Eradication Committee
IPP Immediate Past President
IPPC International PolioPlus Committee
Leave Of Absence Upon written request to the Club Board - May be granted to excuse member from meetings for a specified length of time but does not operate to give credit for attendance (See Make-Ups)
Make-Ups Making up of attendance at meetings or another Rotary Club or District meeting - A card is obtained from the visited club in order that credit for attendance is gained Make-ups can be within 14 days prior to or following the normal meeting
Matching Grants Up to US$50K that match club contributions - For projects involving Clubs in 2 or more countries for humanitarian service
Membership Identification Card Used by member to verify current membership (CD3-420-EN) - Issued by Club Secretary upon payment of annual dues Shows expiry date of year end
MOP Manual of Procedure - A reference manual for Rotary Leaders updated each 3 years Contains policies & procedures for club and RI administration
MUNA Model United Nations Assembly - An international youth project that simulates the workings of the United Nations Usually held annually for 2 days in March
NESS National Engineering Summer School
NID National Immunization Days
NYSF National Youth Science Forum - A programme sponsored by Rio Tinto to enable select secondary science students to attend a science forum annually
Object of Rotary A statement from the Rotary Constitution - The object is to encourage and foster the ideal of service as a basis of worthy enterprise
Official Directory A RI publication - Issued by RI annually containing list of all clubs, names and addresses of all Presidents, Secretaries, time and place of meetings etc Available from Club Sec
PDG Past District Governor
PE President-Elect
Peer Support Foundation Non-profit group founded 1971 with Rotary support - Operates in most state primary and secondary schools to offer leadership training for senior students who in turn assist integration of new students
Per Capita Dues Dues each club pays to RI for each active, senior active and past service member - Payable semi-annually on 1 July and 1 January at current rate of exchange notified by RI
PETS Presidents Elect Training Seminar - Held annually for incoming Presidents and partners to be trained in the administration of their club and to develop challenging projects and programmes
PHF Paul Harris Fellow - A form of recognition for financial or meritorious service to the Foundation or to the community generally
PHF Paul Harris Fellow
PHF Sustaining Member (Previous acronym). Recognises financial contributions to the Foundation in increments - Recognises individuals who have made contributions in instalments up to US$1000
(This is now Rotary Foundation Sustaining Member.)
PHF with Sapphire Supplementary recognition to above PHF - A special recognition gold pin with blue stone to represent additional financial contribution or meritorious service
PHSM Paul Harris Sustaining Member
Polio Plus An international programme of Rotary Foundation - To protect all of the world’s children from poliomyelitis through national immunisation days, laboratory networks and reporting of suspected cases
PP Past President
PRID Past Rotary International Director
PROBUS Professional and Business - A Rotary sponsored group for retirees and semi-retired professional and business people Meet monthly
Provisional Club A group organising the formation of a new club - Meets weekly until admitted to membership of Rotary International with minimum of 25 charter members
RC Rotary Club
RCC Rotary Community Corps
RCD Rotary Club Director
RCP Rotary Code of Policies
RDU Rotary Down Under
Rotary Foundation Sustaining Member Recognises financial contributions to the Foundation in increments - Recognises individuals who have made contributions in instalments up to US$1000
(Previously PHF Sustaining member)
RI Rotary International - The association of Rotary Clubs of Rotary Clubs throughout the world
RIBI Rotary International in Great Britain and Ireland
RID Rotary International Director
RIF Rotary International Foundation
ROTARACT A Rotary sponsored service group - For young people aged 18 to 30 who meet each two weeks to foster service to the local and international community
ROTARTANK Rotary Water Tanks - Established by District 9800 to supply and install portable fresh water tanks by Rotary Project Volunteers in neighbouring countries
Rotary Founded 1905 by Paul Harris in Chicago US - An organisation of business and professional persons united world-wide who provide humanitarian service, encourage high ethical standards in all vocations and help build goodwill and peace in the world
Rotary Club Flag The official flag of Rotary with emblem and club name - For display at club and district assemblies
Rotary Emblem An emblem representing "civilisation and movement" - A gear wheel with 6 spokes, 24 cogs, in colours of royal blue and gold A key was added in 1923 to signify the wheel was a "worker" not an "idler"
Rotary Foundation A philanthropic Trust - A not-for-profit corporation whose activities extend world-wide to achieve world understanding and peace
Rotary Themes or Mottoes Official slogans adopted annually by RI President - A theme that changes yearly to reflect the philosophy and programmes for the year Principal motto that remains constant is "Service Above Self" since 1989
Rotary Volunteers A local and overseas volunteer programme - Teams of from 2 to 6 volunteers visit for 2 to 4 weeks to developing countries to provide skills training and assistance
Rotary Volunteers Programme Voluntary overseas service -
Facilitates placement of volunteers and may cover some expenses of those serving abroad for 28 days or more
ROTEX Organisation of Ex-Rotary Exchange Students
ROTI Rotarians on The Internet
ROVE Rotary Overseas Vocational Exchange -
A programme to encourage vocational exchanges of up to 12 weeks
RRFC Regional Rotary Foundation Coordinator
RRVF Rotary Recreational and Vocational Fellowships
RTN Rotarian
RYLA Rotary Youth Leadership Award - A programme of a week’s leadership training.
RYPEN Rotary Youth Programme of Enrichment - A programme of weekend seminars for young people aged 14 to 17 years
SHARE Share (RF distribution of funds)
Sister Club Relationship agreement between clubs in other Countries/districts - To foster better understanding and fellowship exchange and mutual support and co-operation on humanitarian projects
Southwest Pacific Service Centre Office of RI based in Parramatta, NSW - Serves Rotary clubs and Districts in Australia, NZ and Pacific Islands
SRCC Standard Rotary Club Constitution
Standard Club Constitution Originally adopted in 1922 -
Provides the framework for all clubs in the world and is a condition to receiving a charter
SWSL Save Water Save Lives - Project teams of up to 3 weeks to funding and assisting install fresh clean water tanks and dams in overseas communities
The 4-Way Test A measure for Rotarians of conduct and thinking - 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?
The Rotary World An RI publication - Three copies sent bi-monthly to all club presidents direct from RI
Theme Months Focus in various months on major activities - Gives specific attention to Membership (August) Youth (Sept) Vocational (Oct) Foundation (Nov) Awareness (Jan) World Understanding (Feb) Magazine (April) Rotaract Week (Mar)
TRF The Rotary Foundation
WCS World Community Service
WFA World Fellowship Activities
World Fellowship Committee An international programme - For the many groups of Rotarians sharing common sporting & vocational interest and encourages reciprocal visits to other countries where home-hosted
YEP Youth Exchange Programme
Youth Exchange An international youth programme of exchange - Reciprocal 12 month secondary school exchanges between students sponsored by local and overseas Districts and clubs
Acronym Description
3H Health, Hunger and Humanity
3-H GRANTS Health, hunger and humanity - Grants of US$100k to $500K for multi- year international projects and social development
AG Assistant (District) Governor - One of a number of senior Rotarians appointed by District Governor (DG) to assist with administration of a group of clubs in that year
IFRAA International Fellowship of Rotarian Amateur Astronomers. www.rotary-ifraa.org/
ALUMNI District and Club Groups - Association of former members of Group Study Exchange teams (GSE), Scholars and other Foundation programmes
Ambassadorial Scholars An international programme of Rotary Foundation - Enables men and women to spend an academic year abroad in university level or vocational studies
Board of a Rotary Club The governing body of a Rotary club expected to meet monthly - Consists of President, Vice President(s), President Elect, Immediate Past President, Secretary, Treasurer, Directors and others as the By-Laws shall provide
CAP Community Assistance Program
Carl P Miller Discovery Grant RI Foundation grant up to US$3000 for travel, research of an international service project - To be used by a Rotarian or group thereof who have a written invitation from club in host country who will offer home-hosting
Catalogue List of all major publications, supplies etc available from RI - Supplementary updates issued annually in July Contains order forms to send to NSW Branch Office of RI (Gratis)
Charter Member The original members of a newly chartered club - Identified with a special lapel badge
Classification A principal concept to assure each Rotary club represents cross section of business/professions - Describes the distinct and recognised business or professional service which the Rotarian renders to society (Not position held)
Club and District Changeovers A mainly formal event held annually just prior to a new Rotary year and includes partners - Formal changeover to new President and team of incoming Officers/Directors and provides a review of past year achievements and activities
Club Banner/Flag A small flag expressive of the community, country or region of a club - Commonly used to present to visitors or exchange with clubs visited throughout the world
Club Charter A document issued when a new club is admitted to Membership in RI - Signed by RI Pres, General Secretary and DG Date thereon represents date of official membership Framed and preserved
Club Committees The "action" groups within a club - Comprise standing committees under the 4 Avenues of Service plus others approved by the Board Each headed by a Director, with Deputy and committee members
Club Forum Formal meeting of an entire club - Called to inform members about service activities and progress of projects Also an opportunity for members to air views
Club Secretary’s Manual Issued by RI to each incoming Club Secretary - Contains procedures and guides to dates and secretarial functions etc
Club Task Allocation List of essential tasks allocated to members - Enables spread of administrative and essential tasks to ensure effective outcomes List available from Secretary
CMS Citation for Meritorious Service
Council of Governors A District committee - Past DG’s who convene to give advice to the current DG on programmes, policies and procedures
Council On Legislation The legislative body of Rotary International - Composed of one delegate from each Rotary District that meet each 3 years to consider proposed changes to the Rotary Constitution and Bylaws
DDF District Designated Funds
DG District Governor - Directly responsible to the Board of Rotary International (RI) for the supervision of clubs within a designated district
DGD District Governor-Designate (DG next+2 Rotary Year)
DGE District Governor-Elect (DG next Rotary Year)
DGN District Governor-Nominee (DG next+1 Rotary Year)
DGN District Governor Nominee
DGND District Governor Nominee Designate
DIK Donations-in-kind - Supplies of donated educational and medical equipment available to serve a need in the developing world
DIN Donations-in-Kind Information Network
District Conference Annual event for members and partners - Held annually in each District to further the programmes of Rotary through fellowship, inspiring speakers and recognition of club activities etc
DIR District Interact Representative
DLP District Leadership Plan
DLT District Leadership Team - Approved by RI to begin 1/1/1997 An enhanced organisational structure in a District to enable cost-effective growth and faster, more responsive support to clubs by appointment of Assistant Governors
DRFC District Rotary Foundation Committee
DRR District Rotaract Representative
DSA Distinguished Service Award
DSG District Simplified Grants.
DSGs support the service activities or humanitarian endeavors of districts, and they may submit DSG requests in place of Helping Grants, Humanitarian Transportation Grants, Community Assistance Program (CAP) applications, and
New Opportunities Grants, beginning 1 January 2003.
DT District Trainer
EN English (language)
FAIM Fourth Avenue In Motion - Teams of Rotary Volunteers assist build hospitals, schools etc for under- privileged people and carry out specialist work
FARG Foundation Alumni Resource Group
Fellowship A major club function - Promotes acquaintance among members through participation in clubs? recreational and social activities
Founder of Rotary Refers to Paul P Harris - Organised the first Rotary Club in Chicago in 1905 Born 19 April 1868 died 27 January 1947
Four Avenues of Service The major elements of the "Object of Rotary" - Term used to refer to Club Service; Vocational Service; Community Service and International Service
Friendship Club A less formal agreement that may lead to Sister Club status after a trial period - As above but less demanding of mutual co-operation until proper communication lines and philosophy is established
Functional Literacy Programme An RI programme since 1992 - To meet the needs of adults deemed to be functionally illiterate and to promote support for reading, writing skills through community Literacy centres
GB and I Association of clubs in Great Britain and Ireland - Clubs located in England, Scotland, Wales Ireland, Channel Is and Isle of Man
GETS Governor-Elect Training Seminar
GSE Group Study Exchange
GSE Group Study Exchange
GSE Team Group Study Exchange Team Programme of Rotary Foundation of RI - A cultural and Educational exchange of young non-Rotarian professionals which promotes international understanding through travel and personal contact Usually once annually for duration of 4 to 5 weeks under Rotary leadership
Helping Grants Up to US$15K based on 2:1 match of club or district contributions - For projects in a country other than that of the sponsor where Rotary participation is not possible
Honorary Member Recognition of a past member or non-Rotarian - Persons who have distinguished themselves by meritorious service in the furtherance of Rotary ideals
Horizons A District or club Committee - To research and propose a forward planning approach within District or club to improve organisational structures and consider suggestions which will attract younger prospective members
ICUFR International Computer User Fellowshipo of Rotarians,
IG Individual Grants. IGs support the travel of individual Rotarians planning or implementing service projects, and under this program, Rotarians may submit Individual Grants in place of Discovery Grants and Grants for Rotary Volunteers,
beginning 1 April 2003.
Inner Wheel An international organisation of women - A Rotary sponsored service group open to wives, widows of present and past Rotarians
Interact Interaction between youth and service - World-wide Rotary sponsored group of young people dedicated to service and International understanding and is open to students in their last 4 years of secondary education
International Assembly An annual assembly of District Governor Nominees held in Anaheim, US in Feb/Mar - To educate, instruct and inspire DGNs and adoption of RI theme and new programmes of RI
International Convention World-wide gathering of all Rotarians and partners - Held usually in May in a different country chaired by RI President
INTERPLAST International Plastic Surgery Programme - Established by District 9800 in 1980 and sends teams of volunteer surgeons and nurses to developing countries to operate on deformities, burns et
IPAC International Projects Advisory Committee - A national committee to update registry of international projects identified as suitable for support by clubs
IPDG Immediate Past District Governor
IPEC International Polio Eradication Committee
IPP Immediate Past President
IPPC International PolioPlus Committee
Leave Of Absence Upon written request to the Club Board - May be granted to excuse member from meetings for a specified length of time but does not operate to give credit for attendance (See Make-Ups)
Make-Ups Making up of attendance at meetings or another Rotary Club or District meeting - A card is obtained from the visited club in order that credit for attendance is gained Make-ups can be within 14 days prior to or following the normal meeting
Matching Grants Up to US$50K that match club contributions - For projects involving Clubs in 2 or more countries for humanitarian service
Membership Identification Card Used by member to verify current membership (CD3-420-EN) - Issued by Club Secretary upon payment of annual dues Shows expiry date of year end
MOP Manual of Procedure - A reference manual for Rotary Leaders updated each 3 years Contains policies & procedures for club and RI administration
MUNA Model United Nations Assembly - An international youth project that simulates the workings of the United Nations Usually held annually for 2 days in March
NESS National Engineering Summer School
NID National Immunization Days
NYSF National Youth Science Forum - A programme sponsored by Rio Tinto to enable select secondary science students to attend a science forum annually
Object of Rotary A statement from the Rotary Constitution - The object is to encourage and foster the ideal of service as a basis of worthy enterprise
Official Directory A RI publication - Issued by RI annually containing list of all clubs, names and addresses of all Presidents, Secretaries, time and place of meetings etc Available from Club Sec
PDG Past District Governor
PE President-Elect
Peer Support Foundation Non-profit group founded 1971 with Rotary support - Operates in most state primary and secondary schools to offer leadership training for senior students who in turn assist integration of new students
Per Capita Dues Dues each club pays to RI for each active, senior active and past service member - Payable semi-annually on 1 July and 1 January at current rate of exchange notified by RI
PETS Presidents Elect Training Seminar - Held annually for incoming Presidents and partners to be trained in the administration of their club and to develop challenging projects and programmes
PHF Paul Harris Fellow - A form of recognition for financial or meritorious service to the Foundation or to the community generally
PHF Paul Harris Fellow
PHF Sustaining Member (Previous acronym). Recognises financial contributions to the Foundation in increments - Recognises individuals who have made contributions in instalments up to US$1000
(This is now Rotary Foundation Sustaining Member.)
PHF with Sapphire Supplementary recognition to above PHF - A special recognition gold pin with blue stone to represent additional financial contribution or meritorious service
PHSM Paul Harris Sustaining Member
Polio Plus An international programme of Rotary Foundation - To protect all of the world’s children from poliomyelitis through national immunisation days, laboratory networks and reporting of suspected cases
PP Past President
PRID Past Rotary International Director
PROBUS Professional and Business - A Rotary sponsored group for retirees and semi-retired professional and business people Meet monthly
Provisional Club A group organising the formation of a new club - Meets weekly until admitted to membership of Rotary International with minimum of 25 charter members
RC Rotary Club
RCC Rotary Community Corps
RCD Rotary Club Director
RCP Rotary Code of Policies
RDU Rotary Down Under
Rotary Foundation Sustaining Member Recognises financial contributions to the Foundation in increments - Recognises individuals who have made contributions in instalments up to US$1000
(Previously PHF Sustaining member)
RI Rotary International - The association of Rotary Clubs of Rotary Clubs throughout the world
RIBI Rotary International in Great Britain and Ireland
RID Rotary International Director
RIF Rotary International Foundation
ROTARACT A Rotary sponsored service group - For young people aged 18 to 30 who meet each two weeks to foster service to the local and international community
ROTARTANK Rotary Water Tanks - Established by District 9800 to supply and install portable fresh water tanks by Rotary Project Volunteers in neighbouring countries
Rotary Founded 1905 by Paul Harris in Chicago US - An organisation of business and professional persons united world-wide who provide humanitarian service, encourage high ethical standards in all vocations and help build goodwill and peace in the world
Rotary Club Flag The official flag of Rotary with emblem and club name - For display at club and district assemblies
Rotary Emblem An emblem representing "civilisation and movement" - A gear wheel with 6 spokes, 24 cogs, in colours of royal blue and gold A key was added in 1923 to signify the wheel was a "worker" not an "idler"
Rotary Foundation A philanthropic Trust - A not-for-profit corporation whose activities extend world-wide to achieve world understanding and peace
Rotary Themes or Mottoes Official slogans adopted annually by RI President - A theme that changes yearly to reflect the philosophy and programmes for the year Principal motto that remains constant is "Service Above Self" since 1989
Rotary Volunteers A local and overseas volunteer programme - Teams of from 2 to 6 volunteers visit for 2 to 4 weeks to developing countries to provide skills training and assistance
Rotary Volunteers Programme Voluntary overseas service -
Facilitates placement of volunteers and may cover some expenses of those serving abroad for 28 days or more
ROTEX Organisation of Ex-Rotary Exchange Students
ROTI Rotarians on The Internet
ROVE Rotary Overseas Vocational Exchange -
A programme to encourage vocational exchanges of up to 12 weeks
RRFC Regional Rotary Foundation Coordinator
RRVF Rotary Recreational and Vocational Fellowships
RTN Rotarian
RYLA Rotary Youth Leadership Award - A programme of a week’s leadership training.
RYPEN Rotary Youth Programme of Enrichment - A programme of weekend seminars for young people aged 14 to 17 years
SHARE Share (RF distribution of funds)
Sister Club Relationship agreement between clubs in other Countries/districts - To foster better understanding and fellowship exchange and mutual support and co-operation on humanitarian projects
Southwest Pacific Service Centre Office of RI based in Parramatta, NSW - Serves Rotary clubs and Districts in Australia, NZ and Pacific Islands
SRCC Standard Rotary Club Constitution
Standard Club Constitution Originally adopted in 1922 -
Provides the framework for all clubs in the world and is a condition to receiving a charter
SWSL Save Water Save Lives - Project teams of up to 3 weeks to funding and assisting install fresh clean water tanks and dams in overseas communities
The 4-Way Test A measure for Rotarians of conduct and thinking - 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?
The Rotary World An RI publication - Three copies sent bi-monthly to all club presidents direct from RI
Theme Months Focus in various months on major activities - Gives specific attention to Membership (August) Youth (Sept) Vocational (Oct) Foundation (Nov) Awareness (Jan) World Understanding (Feb) Magazine (April) Rotaract Week (Mar)
TRF The Rotary Foundation
WCS World Community Service
WFA World Fellowship Activities
World Fellowship Committee An international programme - For the many groups of Rotarians sharing common sporting & vocational interest and encourages reciprocal visits to other countries where home-hosted
YEP Youth Exchange Programme
Youth Exchange An international youth programme of exchange - Reciprocal 12 month secondary school exchanges between students sponsored by local and overseas Districts and clubs
RI President Nominee 2013-14
Ron D. Burton, a member of the Rotary Club of Norman, Oklahoma, USA,
is the selection of the Nominating Committee for President of Rotary International in 2013-14.
Burton will become the president-nominee on 1 October if there are no challenging candidates.
Dear Rotary District Leaders,
After a year-long, world-wide search process, the Rotary Peace Centers is excited to announce Uppsala University (Uppsala Universitet) will become the seventh Rotary Center for international studies in peace and conflict resolution.
The Rotary Peace Center at Uppsala will welcome its inaugural class of Rotary Peace Fellows in September 2012. All applications for the new Rotary Peace Center must be received by 15 August 2011.
Please note that the 1 July 2011 deadline for all 2012 applications has been extended to 15 August 2011 to allow districts time to recruit for the new center. Applicants interested in the Uppsala center must fill out a revised center ranking sheet and make any necessary edits to their personal statement. Please find the revised center ranking sheet here.
 |
| The Rotary Foundation Board of Trustees has selected Uppsala University in Sweden to host a new Rotary Center for International Studies in peace and conflict resolution. Photo coutesy of Uppsala University |
Because of the late deadline, the Rotary Peace Centers Department encourages districts to review all applications for completeness before submission. Applications received on 15 August 2011 with missing components will be reverted to districts and not considered.
In addition to being one of Europe’s oldest and top-ranked universities, Uppsala is also home to the department of Peace and Conflict Research, which is a founding peace program and is known as a leader of data and research in the peace and conflict field. The world’s leading peace professors and researchers make up the faculty of the peace department and eight Nobel Prize winners including two peace laureates have studied, researched or taught at Uppsala.
“A key aspect of the department’s research has been its numerous and wide-ranging collaborations with internationally leading scholars and institutions,” said Carl-Wilhelm Stenhammar, chair of the Rotary Foundation of Rotary International. “The new Rotary Peace Center in Uppsala will be a wonderful addition to our global network of Rotary Centers.”
RI Presidential Citation requirements: 2011-12
RIPE Kalyan Banerjee has established the criteria for recognition during year 2011-12. Please visit following link for details.
http://www.rotary2000.org/pdg/pdg_home/new_news/11-12RIP/DL/900A-11_EN_press.pdf
RI PRESIDENT KALYAN BANERJEE UNVEILS THE ROTARY THEME AND LOGO FOR YEAR 2011-12
RI President-elect Kalyan Banerjee will ask Rotarians to Reach Within to Embrace Humanity during the 2011-12 Rotary year.
Banerjee unveiled the RI theme during the opening plenary session of the 2011 International Assembly, a training event for incoming district governors.
He urged participants to harness their inner resolve and strength to achieve success in Rotary.
"In order to achieve anything in this world, a person has to use all the resources he can draw on. And the only place to start is with ourselves and within ourselves," Banerjee said.
Once Rotarians find their inner strength, he continued, they can accomplish great things in their communities and around the world.
"Discover yourself, develop the strengths within you, and then unhesitatingly, unflinchingly, go forth and encircle the world, to embrace humanity," he said
ROTARY NAMES NEXT GENERAL SECRETARY
The RI Board of Directors announced today that John Hewko will replace retiring General Secretary Ed Futa on 1 July.
"Rotary is fortunate to have attracted a candidate with John Hewko's proven ability and extensive international experience," said RI President Ray Klinginsmith. "His leadership will be an important asset for Rotary in the next few years."
Hewko is a former vice president of the Millennium Challenge Corporation and a past partner with the international law firm of Baker & McKenzie, where he focused on Eastern European nations. He currently works with the Carnegie Endowment for International Peace as a researcher and writer concentrating on international development issues.
Hewko holds a JD from Harvard Law School, a master's degree in literature from Oxford University, and a bachelor's degree in government and Soviet studies from Hamilton College in Clinton, N.Y.
A former Rotarian, Hewko was a charter member of the first Rotary club in Kiev, Ukraine. He lives in Washington, D.C., with his wife, Margarita, who is a native of Argentina, and their daughter.
Source: Rotary International News
"Rotary is fortunate to have attracted a candidate with John Hewko's proven ability and extensive international experience," said RI President Ray Klinginsmith. "His leadership will be an important asset for Rotary in the next few years."
Hewko is a former vice president of the Millennium Challenge Corporation and a past partner with the international law firm of Baker & McKenzie, where he focused on Eastern European nations. He currently works with the Carnegie Endowment for International Peace as a researcher and writer concentrating on international development issues.
Hewko holds a JD from Harvard Law School, a master's degree in literature from Oxford University, and a bachelor's degree in government and Soviet studies from Hamilton College in Clinton, N.Y.
A former Rotarian, Hewko was a charter member of the first Rotary club in Kiev, Ukraine. He lives in Washington, D.C., with his wife, Margarita, who is a native of Argentina, and their daughter.
Source: Rotary International News
Highlights of actions taken by the the Rotary International Board of Directors
November 2010 Board Meeting Highlights
The second meeting of the 2010–11 RI Board of Directors was held on 30 October–6 November 2010, in Evanston, Illinois, USA. At this meeting the Board reviewed reports from 14 committees and recorded 84 decisions.
Club and District Matters
The Board established three new pilot projects aimed at boosting membership in RI. They are: an associate member pilot project that will allow potential members to become associated and acquainted with a Rotary club, its members, programs, and projects for a certain length of time before becoming a full member; a corporate member pilot project that will allow a corporation or company in a club's area to become a member of the club; and an innovative and flexible Rotary club pilot project that will allow clubs to self-determine their operations to better accommodate their membership and community needs. These pilot projects will operate from 1 July 2011 through 30 June 2014. The Board also established a satellite club pilot project that will allow a Rotary club to conduct multiple club meetings a week, each meeting taking place at a different location, on a different day, and/or at a different time.
The Board took action to balance district membership by encouraging large districts to split into two or three new districts and by agreeing to merge smaller districts that do not meet minimum size requirements by specific dates set by the Board, with the ultimate goal of there being no district with fewer than 33 clubs or 1,200 members or more than 100 clubs and 4,000 members. The Board encouraged district leaders to work with the RI directors and Rotary coordinators to meet this redistricting objective.
Joint district conferences may now be scheduled without prior Board approval. The restriction against scheduling district conferences within eight days of an international convention was removed. Conference must not occur at the same time as the international convention, however.
RI Administration and Finances
Discussing the RI Strategic Plan, the Board agreed to review at its January 2011 meeting legislation for possible submission to the 2013 Council that would amend long-standing club meeting and membership qualification requirements. It agreed to transform RI programs to a "resource and support" model aimed at better helping clubs and districts in their service projects. In an effort to enhance awareness of RI's public image, the Board agreed to increase annual funding for district public relations grants from US$2 million to $4 million, beginning in 2011–12. The Board amended RI's Strategic Plan by replacing the vision statement with a "core essence" statement as follows:
Core Essence: A worldwide network of inspired individuals who translate their passions into relevant social causes to change lives in communities.
The Board clarified that Rotary coordinators are vital in achieving the goals and objectives of the RI Strategic Plan for 2010–13; that they are resource persons for the district governors, not supervisors or managers for the clubs and districts in their regions; and that they are to support the work of the governors and obtain approval of the governors before working with clubs in their respective districts. Rotary coordinators have the same rank and status as the regional Rotary Foundation coordinators and the two should work cooperatively on an equal basis.
The Board, subject to the review and recommendation by the Audit Committee at its November meeting, accepted the audited statements and report on RI's financial results for 2009-10. The results will be published in the annual report.
RI Programs, Communications, and Awards
The Board received a progress report on Rotary's US$200 Million Challenge and was advised that as of 22 October, US$149,222,000 had been raised.
The Board agreed to expand the recent Council on Legislation decision that allowed North American Rotarians to choose between a digital or print version of The Rotarian magazine to also include all international subscribers of the magazine. The Board further requested the general secretary to immediately process requests from qualified Rotarians for joint subscriptions to the magazine (therefore rescinding its June 2010 decision that requested this be done by 1 July 2011).
New Guidelines for Rotarian Action Groups were approved to clarify their purpose, governance, administration, use of the Rotary Marks, fund raising, and dues collection.
The Board agreed to appoint a Youth Exchange Committee to serve through 30 June 2011.
In a cost cutting measure, the Board discontinued holding the annual international RYLA event at the international convention, effective 30 June 2011.
In an effort to provide opportunities for young people in developing countries to participate in Youth Exchange, the Board encourages those districts participating only in outbound exchanges to become certified, and for certified districts to consider providing financial assistance to students from developing countries, when possible, to offset the expenses of the exchange to the students' parents or guardians. In discussing student travel insurance issues, the Board agreed to encourage districts to establish and participate in a voluntary global student travel insurance program at no cost to RI.
The Board agreed to recognize the Italian Culture Worldwide Rotarian Fellowship.
The Board selected 132 recipients for the 2010-11 Service Above Self award, which recognizes exemplary humanitarian service provided on a continual basis by Rotarians who might otherwise go unrecognized. The names of the recipients will be announced at the end of the Rotary year.
To increase Rotary's visibility and enhance its public image, the Board agreed to budget up to US$1 million in 2011–12 for targeted public relations efforts.
International Meetings
The Board accepted the proposal from districts 3330, 3340, 3350, and 3360, to host the RI convention on 6–9 May 2012 in Bangkok, Thailand.
Source: Rotary International / Courtesy: eFlash_Rotary
Strategic planning : RI Strategic priorities and goals
The revised strategic plan, effective 1 July 2010, identifies three strategic priorities supported by 16 goals:
1. Support and Strengthen Clubs -
i) Foster club innovation and flexibility
ii) Balance activities in all Avenues of Service
iii) Promote membership diversity
iv) Improve member recruitment and retention
v) Develop leaders
vi) Extend Rotary
vii) Encourage strategic planning at club and district levels
2. Focus and Increase Humanitarian Service
i) Eradicate polio
ii) Increase sustainable service focused on :
- New Generations Service programs
- Our six areas of focus
iii) Expand strategic partnerships and cooperative relationships
iv) Create significant projects both locally and internationally
v) Enhance Public Image and Awareness
Unify image and brand awareness
i) Publicize action-oriented service
ii) Promote core values
iii) Emphasize vocational service
iv) Encourage clubs to promote their networking opportunities and signature activities
RI President Elect 2011-12
Sakuji Tanaka, a member of the Rotary Club of Yashio, Saitama, Japan, is the selection of the Nominating Committee for President of Rotary International in 2012-13. Tanaka will become the president-nominee on 1 October if there are no challenging candidates.
Tanaka said he would like to see Rotary "continue its vital work as the force to improve our communities."
To do this work, Rotary needs active, involved clubs, he added. "We are fortunate to have our revised RI Strategic Plan to help build strong clubs that are vibrant, action-oriented, and relevant in the changing world."
For 32 years, Tanaka was president of Tanaka Company Ltd., a wholesale firm that went public in 1995 and later merged with other leading wholesalers in Japan. Currently, he serves as vice president of the Yashio City Chamber of Commerce and adviser to Arata Co. Ltd., an animal feed and pet food wholesaler. He also chaired the National Household Papers Distribution Association of Japan for eight years. Tanaka studied business at Nihon Management Daigakuin and Tokyo Management Daigakuin.
A past trustee of The Rotary Foundation, Tanaka chaired the 2009 Birmingham Convention Committee. His other service to Rotary includes RI director, regional Rotary Foundation coordinator, district governor, and member of the Polio Eradication Advocacy Task Force, the Permanent Fund Committee for Japan, and the Future Vision Committee.
Tanaka established an endowed Rotary Peace Fellowship, and he and his wife, Kyoko, are Paul Harris Fellows, Benefactors of the Permanent Fund, and Major Donors.
He is a recipient of RI’s Service Above Self Award and The Rotary Foundation’s Distinguished Service Award.
He is a recipient of RI’s Service Above Self Award and The Rotary Foundation’s Distinguished Service Award.
Tanaka said that eradicating polio will "fulfill the promise we made to children in the world" and that "there is no doubt in my mind that the day of this success will be realized in the near future."
Tanaka and Kyoko have three children and five grandchildren.
Banerjee elected RI president for 2011-12
Kalyan Banerjee speaks to attendees after being elected president of Rotary International in 2011-12 during the fourth plenary session at the 2010 RI Convention in Montréal, Québec, Canada. Photo by Monika Lozinska-Lee/Rotary Images
Kalyan Banerjee, of the Rotary Club of Vapi, Gujarat, India, was elected president of Rotary International in 2011-12 by delegates during the fourth plenary session at the 2010 RI Convention in Montréal, Québec, Canada. "I thank you from the depths of my heart for this incredible opportunity to serve the world's most outstanding service organization," said Banerjee, who stood beside his wife, Binota.
Banerjee told attendees about his first encounters with Rotary in India. "I loved the way the Rotarians seemed to enjoy meeting friends and enthusing about community service projects to benefit hundreds of people," he said. "I decided then that I must be a Rotarian as soon as I could make it."
As Rotary continues to grow and become more influential, it increases its capacity to effect change in India, Banerjee said. "As I have seen more and more Indians choose to become Rotarians, and I have seen what those Rotarians have achieved, it has become clear to me that India and Rotary International are part of a symbiotic relationship: Each is making the other stronger," he said, pointing to the PolioPlus program as a sign of Rotary’s ongoing success in India and other polio-endemic countries.
"In a way, some parts of India still exemplify a developing country, and this gives me perhaps a different perspective on Rotary's international service," he said. "I have seen the impact that our simplest projects can have. I have seen firsthand our work in literacy, in health, in hunger, in providing safe water -- and I have seen the difference it makes to each village, each family, and each individual human life."
Banerjee encouraged all Rotarians to self-reflect and to serve generously.
"Through service, we are able to look within ourselves to find reserves of generosity, of grace, and of care and concern, and to seek a deeper meaning to our daily lives. We discover what it means to help a human being and, in so doing, become more fully human ourselves," Banerjee said.
The Rotarians who will serve as RI directors in 2011-13 were also elected: José Antonio F. Antiório, of the Rotary Club of Osasco, São Paulo, Brazil; Kenneth R. Boyd, of the Rotary Club of Kerman, California, USA; Yash Pal Das, of the Rotary Club of Ambala, Haryana, India; Elizabeth S. Demaray, of the Rotary Club of Sault Ste. Marie, Michigan, USA; Allan O. Jagger, of the Rotary Club of Elland, West Yorkshire, England; Paul Knyff, of the Rotary Club of Weesp (Vechtstreek-Noord), The Netherlands; Shekhar Mehta, of the Rotary Club of Calcutta-Mahanagar, West Bengal, India; Ju-In Park, of the Rotary Club of Suncheon, Jeonranam, Korea; and Kenneth M. Schuppert Jr., of the Rotary Club of Decatur, Alabama, USA.
RI General Secretary Ed Futa also declared elected the nominees for district governor in 2011-12 and announced the officers for Rotary International in Great Britain and Ireland in 2010-11: President James A. Moulson, of the Rotary Club of Paisley Callants, Strathclyde, Scotland; Vice President Ray M. Burman, of the Rotary Club of Kelvedon & District, Essex, England; and Honorary Treasurer Greg Thacker, of the Rotary Club of West Woodspring, Avon, England.
Rtn. Kalyan Banerjee
RI President - 2011 -12
Kalyan Banerjee, a member of the Rotary Club of Vapi, Gujarat, India, since 1972, is the selection of the Nominating Committee for President of Rotary International in 2011-12. Banerjee will become the president-nominee on 1 October if there are no challenging candidates.
Banerjee said he would like to see Rotary "blossom from being the world's most recognized service organization to being the most important NGO [nongovernmental organization] in the world.
"Rotary, it is said, has the strength of a government and the tenderness of a parent," he added.
Banerjee is a director of United Phosphorus Limited, the largest agrochemical manufacturer in India, and the chair of United Phosphorus (Bangladesh) Limited. He is a member of the Indian Institute of Chemical Engineers and the American Chemical Society, a past president of Vapi Industries Association, and former chair of the Gujarat chapter of the Confederation of Indian Industry. He earned a degree in chemical engineering from the Indian Institute of Technology, Kharagpur, in 1964.
Banerjee has served Rotary as a director, Rotary Foundation trustee, committee and task force chair, International Assembly group discussion leader, president's representative, and district governor.
The chair of the Southeast Asia Regional PolioPlus Committee, Banerjee has served as a member of the International PolioPlus Committee for many years and has attended international meetings with the World Health Organization and UNICEF in that capacity.
Banerjee is a Major Donor, Benefactor, and Bequest Society member, and has been awarded the Foundation's Citation for Meritorious Service and its Distinguished Service Award.
Banerjee also serves as a trustee of Rotary club-sponsored trusts that support many educational and community development programs in India, including a 250-bed hospital.
He noted that Rotary's strengths include its ability to attract leaders from different vocations around the world, as well as its role in promoting peace. "Rotary needs to become the preferred organization for today's generation to join and participate in, to make the world better and safer and happier," he said.
Banerjee's wife, Binota, is a social worker and Inner Wheel club member. The couple have two children and four grandchildren.
The 2009-10 nominating committee members are: John F. Germ (chair), USA; Lennart Arfwidsson, Sweden; Keith Barnard-Jones, England; Ronald L. Beaubien, USA; Jacques Berthet, France; Robert O. Brickman, USA; Peter Bundgaard, Denmark; Ron D. Burton, USA; Gerson Gonçalves, Brazil; Jerry L. Hall, USA; Horst Heiner Hellge, Germany; Gary C.K. Huang, Taiwan; Toshio Itabashi, Japan; Kwang Tae Kim, Korea; Peter Krön, Austria; Donald L. Mebus, USA; Gerald A. Meigs, USA; Carlo Monticelli, Italy; Daniel W. Mooers, USA; David D. Morgan, Wales; G. Kenneth Morgan, USA; Samuel A. Okudzeto, Ghana; Luiz Coelho de Oliveira, Brazil; Kazuhiko Ozawa, Japan; Noraseth Pathmanand, Thailand; Barry Rassin, Bahamas; Ian H.S. Riseley, Australia; Robert S. Scott, Canada; Robert A. Stuart Jr., USA; Stan Tempelaars, The Netherlands; P.C. Thomas, India; O.P. Vaish, India; and Yoshimasa Watanabe, Japan.
PDG K. R. Ravindran - RIDirector / Treasurer 2010
Ravi Ravindran is CEO of a publicly listed company in the tea packaging industry and the founding president of the Sri Lanka Anti-Narcotics Association. As national PolioPlus committee chair, Ravi headed a task force of representatives from Rotary, UNICEF, and the Sri Lankan government and worked closely with UNICEF to negotiate a cease-fire with northern militants during National Immunization Days. He chairs the Schools Reawakening project sponsored by Rotary clubs and districts in Sri Lanka, which entails rebuilding 25 tsunami-devastated schools. Ravi is a Major Donor and a recipient of The Rotary Foundation Citation for Meritorious Service. He has served as a Foundation trustee and an RI task force and committee member. Ravi and his wife, Vanathy, live in Colombo.
DGE Meets RI President
DGE Gehan Siribaddana met the current RI President Ray Klingsmith at the RI convention Montreal.. Pictured here with RI president & DGE are PP Selva and Ann Quincy from the Rotary club of Charlotte Harbor, District 6960, USA. PP Selva visited RC Battaramulla in 20023 as the Guest Speaker.
RI President 2010-11 - Ray Klinginsmith
“Rotary is the best in the world at linking people of goodwill around the globe and then gaining their cooperation and support to make the world a much better place to live and work.” - Ray Klinginsmith
Matching Grant Budget
Trustees significantly restore Matching Grants World Fund budget
At their April meeting, The Rotary Foundation Trustees approved a Matching Grants World Fund budget of US$21.5 million for 2010-11. This amount represents an 82 percent increase over the previous year's budget of $11.8 million and, because funds for the 100 Future Vision pilot districts were budgeted separately, one of the largest World Fund budgets in Matching Grants history. The Trustees approved a Rotary Foundation Global Grants World Fund budget of $8 million for Future Vision pilot districts starting with the 2010-11 program year.
Although the 2010-11 Foundation programs budget is pending final approval by the RI Board of Directors in June, we want to reassure Rotarians that we do not anticipate the Matching Grant budget being fully committed early in the Rotary year. The Trustees plan to review Competitive Matching Grant applications at their October 2010 and April 2011 meetings; the Foundation will notify districts if this business cycle changes.
The Trustees were able to restore World Fund budget for Matching Grants largely because Rotarians and other friends of Rotary donated a record amount of almost $115 million to the Annual Programs Fund in 2007-08 (World Fund allocations are based on Annual Programs Fund donations three years prior). Additionally, because investment income stabilized, the Trustees did not need to use a significant amount of World Fund to supplement the Foundation's programs operations budget for the coming year.
If you have questions about Matching Grants and the 2010-11 program year budget, please e-mail them to contact.center@rotary.org .
Source : Rotary International News / Courtesy : eFlash_Rotary
Top 15 things Rotarians should know about global grants for vocational training
Rotary International News -- 8 June 2010
Under the Future Vision Plan, global grants may be used to fund vocational training teams in one of the areas of focus, including economic and community development.
Did you know that the new global grants offered under the Future Vision Plan can support vocational training teams? Here are some key concepts about how vocational training activities can work under The Rotary Foundation’s new grant model, which will be tested by 100 pilot districts beginning 1 July 2010. The plan will roll out for all districts in 2013. These ideas can get your club and district started as you develop vocational training opportunities.
1. Both clubs and districts can develop and apply for global grants to fund vocational training under the Future Vision Plan.
2. Clubs and districts are free to develop as many global grants for vocational training as they wish in a given Rotary year. Consider the number of trainings appropriate for your area.
3. Communities can provide inspiration. Clubs and districts are encouraged to pinpoint their community’s needs and strengths within an identified area of focus when developing vocational trainings with other clubs or districts.
4. Teams may either receive or provide training. Capacity building is key.
5. Either a single team or multiple teams may travel on a global grant. You determine the number of teams needed for each grant.
6. Each team may center training on a different area of focus , if more than one vocational training team is traveling on a grant.
7. A minimum of one Rotarian team leader and three non-Rotarian participants are required per team. There is no maximum team size. Develop your team according to the goals of your grant.
8. There are no age restrictions for participants. Instead, selection is based on expertise within the identified area of focus.
9. All participants on a single team must have careers linked to the goals of the grant , but they are not required to have the same professions.
10. Vocational training is an opportunity for Rotarian service. Rotarians may participate on vocational training teams that are providing training, if they have the needed skills.
11. Trainings may be developed for any time frame , depending on the scope of the training project.
12. Trainings may take place in a variety of settings , including universities, medical institutions, schools, companies, and community centers. Determine which setting is most appropriate for your training.
13. Teams may be hosted in a variety of places , such as Rotarians’ homes, university dormitories, and hotels. Determine what kind of hosting is most appropriate for your team.
14. Costs are flexible. There is no set, catalog cost associated with vocational trainings. Global grants must meet the US$30,000 minimum for total project cost, but this includes the expenses for the vocational training team as well as any other grant activities, such as humanitarian projects, scholarships, or additional teams.
15. A Rotary Foundation District Grant can be used to support a vocational training team that's more like a traditional Group Study Exchange. The vocational training exchange can be with any district (pilot or nonpilot), and teams are not required to train within one of the areas of focus.
What's new for Clubs and Districts
A new Rotary year is set to begin, and with it a number of changes to the way clubs and districts do business.
The annual per capita dues that Rotary clubs pay to Rotary International will increase to US$50 in 2010-11, as established by the 2007 Council on Legislation. The 2010 Council approved a $1 increase for the three subsequent years, setting per capita dues at $51 for 2011-12, $52 for 2012-13, and $53 for 2013-14.
The 2010 Council, which met in April, took several other actions that will go into effect 1 July:
* E-clubs will become a permanent part of Rotary International after years of participating in a pilot project. Districts will be allowed up to two e-clubs, which are defined as Rotary clubs that meet through electronic communications. Some of the pilot e-clubs have been meeting solely through online forums, while others have combined electronic with in-person meetings.
* New Generations Service will join the other Avenues of Service -- Club Service, Vocational Service, Community Service, and International Service. Before starting a project, Rotarians are asked to think broadly about how their club and its members can contribute within each avenue.
* Rotarians in North America will have the choice of receiving either an electronic or print version of The Rotarian magazine. Rotarians living at the same address may qualify for a joint subscription.
Here are some changes that will primarily affect Rotary districts:
* District assemblies must be held in March, April, or May, and presidents-elect training seminars in February or March.
* The chair of the nominating committee for district governor must notify the current governor of the committee’s candidate within 24 hours, and the governor must inform clubs within 72 hours.
* When a governor-elect position is vacant less than three months before the International Assembly, the successor will automatically fill the vacancy, if he or she is willing.
* If two or more governor election complaints are filed in a district in a five-year period and the Board believes that the RI Bylaws or election complaint procedures have been violated, it may disqualify the nominee, select a past governor to serve, and remove any governor, governor-elect, or past governor who is improperly influencing or interfering with the election process. The Board may dissolve any district and reassign its clubs to other districts if three or more election complaints are filed in a five-year period.
Here are some changes that will primary affect Rotary clubs:
* No club may limit membership based on sexual orientation.
* Clubs must inform their district governor of a proposed change to the club name or locality at least 10 days before voting on the proposal.
* The immediate past club president will be considered a club officer and a member of the board.
* The RI Board may suspend or terminate the membership of any club that retains any member who has misused funds from The Rotary Foundation or who otherwise has breached the stewardship policies of the Foundation.
* Clubs accepting a transferring or former Rotarian must first secure a certificate from the former member’s club confirming that person’s membership. The former club is obligated to verify that the member does not owe any debts to the club. A prospective member cannot join a new club until all debts have been paid.
Attendance Rules - Fulfill an important obligation as a member of Rotary Club!
Who is eligible to be a Member?
Let’s first see that by rule, other qualifications being extraneous, not mentioned. Adult persons of good character and of good business and professional reputation. Engaged as a proprietor, partner, corporate officer or manager of any worthy and recognized business or profession, or Hold an important position and have executive capacity with discretionary authority, or · Have retired from such a position and · having their places of business or residence located in the locality of the club or the surrounding area.
Having joined, what are his or her obligations
Let’s take those that are concerned directly in keeping one’s being a member. First and foremost - Paying dues is one item, the non-payment of which may result into termination; and the second one – Observing attendance rules. There are a few more, but not as equal.
Let’s talk more on attendance
Since grossly ignored and taken casually, and escape scot-free, without any action, most times. What are the basics on attendance, by rule? Meeting the minimum attendance requirement is our responsibility as a Rotarian.
Attendance Requirements
As explained in the Standard Rotary Club Constitution, each member needs to meet the
following requirements:
- Attend or make up at least 50% of your Rotary club meetings in each half of the year
- Attend at least 30% of your club’s .meetings in each half of the year.
- A member may not miss or fail to make up four consecutive meetings.
Attendance for a Meeting
You should be present for at least 60% of a club meeting for it to count towards the attendance requirement. For example, you would need to be present for at least 36 minutes of a 60 minute meeting.
Attendance at Your Club
You should attend at least 30% of your own club’s meetings in each half of the year.
For example, if your club holds 26 regular weekly meetings in six months, you must attend at least 8 meetings.
Make-ups
There are many ways that you can still receive attendance credit if you cannot attend your club meeting.
- Attend a meeting of another club
- Attend a meeting of a Rotaract or Interact club, Rotary Community Corps, or Rotary Fellowship
- Attend certain district or RI meetings
- Participate in club-sponsored event or service project
- Attend a club board or service committee meeting with authorization of the club board
- Participate in an E-club meeting for at least 30 minutes
Make-up Credit
In order to get attendance credit, you must attend a make-up meeting or event within 14 days before or after the regular time of your missed meeting.
Meetings of Other Clubs
You can make up at Rotary clubs all around the world, which allows you to:
- Meet a new group of Rotarians
- Observe how another club operates
- Share information about your club
- Make international contacts for club projects
Rotaract, Interact, RCC, or Fellowships
Making up your meeting with a Rotaract club, Interact club, Rotary Community Corps, or
Rotary Fellowship is a great way to explore and find out about these programs. To locate these meetings you can contact your:
- Club leaders
- District Rotaract committee chair
- District Interact committee chair
- District Rotary Community Corps committee chair
- District Rotary Fellowships committee chair
District or RI Meetings
You can also make-up meetings at one of the following district or RI meeting:
- District conference
- District assembly
- District committee meeting (at request of district governor)
- RI Committee meeting
- RI Convention
- Rotary Institute
Club-sponsored Events
Participating in a club-sponsored event is a great way to support the service work of your club and make-up a meeting. Check with your club secretary to see if these or other club events may count as make-ups:
- Club service project
- Club-sponsored community event
- Other meetings or events as authorized by the club board
Board or Committee Meetings
Serving your club through holding a seat on the club board or in an assigned club committee can count as a make-up, if authorized by the board.
.
Excused Absences
Absences will be excused if:
- The absence is approved by your club’s board
- The sum of the member’s years of membership and age equals 85 or more and the members age is 65 years or more.
Termination
Failure to meet the attendance requirement may result in termination of membership, if the member fails to:
- Attend or make-up at least 60% of club meetings in each half of the year
- Attend 30% of their own club’s regular meetings in each half of the year -unless the board consents to such nonattendance for good cause.
- Attend or make-up four consecutive meetings -by board’s intimation to the member and termination by majority. Termination is due for any other good cause ceasing to qualify for membership, board’s 10 days notice giving opportunity for written answer with a right to appear, and decision with two thirds majority, although right to appeal, mediate and arbitrate exists for the aggrieved member.
Irrespective of being a club office bearer or a district officer, any member will abide by these rules, simultaneously avail those given concessions. In case of a default, the onus of action will lie on the board and its angle to the case.
ATTENTION - CLUBS
Rotary club Official Directory data reporting made easier
Rotary International News -- 9 July 2010
Rotary International News -- 9 July 2010
Rotary International is excited to introduce new capabilities for Rotary clubs to report their club
contact and officer information through Member Access at Rotary.org. Each current Rotary club
president, secretary, executive secretary/director is now able to report and maintain the
following club data online:
· Club permanent mailing address
· Club phone, fax, e-mail, and website
· Club meeting details
· Current and incoming club officers (name and contact details)
Information submitted through Member Access is automatically added to the Rotary
International database, and no additional follow up by paper or e-mail is necessary. Please note
that RI collects club permanent mailing information for better communication with clubs.
This quicker, paperless process replaces the printed Official Directory Data Form, formerly
mailed to Rotary clubs in October. By moving this process online, Rotary International saves
postage and printing costs and supports environmentally sustainable business practices.
Ready to get started?
Log into Member Access
USEFUL GLOBAL SITE LINKS FOR ROTARY WORK
Rotary International – www.rotary.org
Avoidable blindness Task Force South Asia - www.rosaonline.org/avoidableblindness
Gift of Sight Foundation (GOSF) - www.gosf.org
Heartbeat International - www.heartbeatintl.org
Rotary Blood Bank - www.rotarybloodbank.org
SCAW - www.scaw.org
Wheelchair Foundation - www.wheelchairfoundation.org
WHO - www.who.int
United Nations Children's Fund (UNICEF) - www.unicef.org
Rotary Leadership Institute – www.rotaryledershipinstitute.org
RLI Curriculum for Courses – www.rlifiles.com
Rotary International District 3131 - www.rotarydistrict3131.org
ClubRunner - www.clubrunner.ca
Library of graphics for Rotarians - http://www.graphics-for-rotarians.org/-
Club President and Secretary Resource - -
www.rotary.org/newsroom/downloadcenter/pdfs/club_pres_sec_resources.pdf
Club President's Monthly Check List
www.rotary.org/newsroom/downloadcenter/pdfs/pres_checklist.pdf
CLub Administration - www.rotary.org/support/club/index.html
Club Leadership Plan - www.rotary.org/support/club/clubplan.html
Forms and Downloads - www.rotary.org/newsroom/downloadcenter/support/index.html
Club and District Training Manuals
www.rotary.org/newsroom/downloadcenter/training/index.html
Rotary search engine which lists many Rotary sites - www.mylinea.com/rotary
ROTI - www.rotilink.org/roti/rotiwrld.htm
ICUFR - www.icufr.org/botrw2003.html
Hands Across The Sea -www.handsacrossthesea.org/funding.html
RI OnLineUniversity - www.rotary.org/training/elearning/index.html
Rotary in Sinhala
