Our lives have three phases: learn, earn, and return.

Rotary has given me an opportunity to return even while I am earning.

I have no hesitation in saying that I have got much more from Rotary than I have given it in terms of my attitude, outlook, tolerance, and leadership skills.

The reason I continue to be a Rotarian is that it expands my horizon.

Konrad Adenauer, former German Chancellor, once said, ‘We all live under the same skies, but we don’t have the same horizons.’

Rotary has continued to expand my horizons. My aim is always to encourage our clubs to be better clubs and make ourselves better Rotarians to make the world a better place.

While new members have been joining Rotary, the attrition rate has stagnated the membership numbers over the years. How can members be retained long-term in rotary?

The basic tenant of Membership Retention is: Involved Members Do Not Drop Out.

The moral is clear and straightforward – if we can get members involved, they won’t leave.

Remember, sweetness in a cup of coffee comes not from adding the sugar but from the stirring. We must stir our members so that they become assimilated into the fabric of our clubs.

Focus on individual members’ talents, not just their time.

Instead of asking new members to give up their time, ask them to lend their talent to their Rotary club. Make it a personalized approach. Ask specific people to use particular talents. When you approach members, ask them what skills they have rather than how much time they have. These questions focus on the individual, not the organization. This makes the members feel valued, lets them work up to their capacity, and creates a greater feeling of achievement.

Emphasize talent, not just time.

Club meetings must be engaging, worthwhile, fun, and enjoyable. Getting members actively involved in club activities can help them develop a sense of belonging.

From the Desk of District Membership Chair
PDG Jitendra Prasad