Submitted by: Donald R. Cavalier, Membership Chair
 
Why “Getting New Members” should be the No. 1 Goal of all Rotary Clubs in our District!
 
Members frequently ask: “Why is it necessary to place so much emphasis on recruitment of new members?   We have a good club, and provide services to our community, surrounding area, our country and international causes.  Why can’t we just be happy and satisfied with our present membership?”
Unfortunately, these are comments from members of a club destined to die due to aging of members, members Leaving (Attrition), lack of enthusiasm, too much contentment, purpose, and a real desire and objective to share and help others experience the power of Rotary.  Recruiting new members brings the following benefits to the Club!
Increased capacity to serve our community.  With 10 members, a club can do “X” number of projects.  With 50 members, a club can mathematically do “Y” (more) number of projects.   In reality, studies show that the greater the mass (members), the effectiveness is greater.
Fresh ideas, interests, and energy.  New members bring new ideas, concepts, and approaches based on their experience and knowledge which broadens the total Knowledge base of the club and helps it better serve the community and mankind.
Diversity.  Diversity of ideas and experience broadens a Club’s ability to perform existing ideas better, as well as developing new ideas for service.
Future Leaders.  An ongoing recruitment program helps develop new leaders within the Club for future leadership roles—both within the Club and well as in their professions, community, and society.
Long term continuity of the club and the organization.  Perhaps the military is the best example of the need to constantly bring in new members.  Everyone ages each year, and it is critical that new members are added each year to have a constant-ongoing inflow of new talent
and younger people to provide the initiative and youth (supported by the trained middle aged and experienced military) to maintain a thriving and growing organization.
 
                                                   Planning and Execution
  1.  Every club needs to assign a Membership Chairperson (For at least a 3 year term).
 
  1. Membership chairperson needs to organize a membership committee.  While committee members will be selected for specific reasons, every club member is a member of the membership committee all year long if the program is to be a success.
 
  1. Membership Committee along with Club President set a membership goal for coming year that will show a positive net gain for the fiscal year.
 
  1. Coordinate activities with the public image committee and the foundation committee that will help support membership efforts
 
  1. Access the District 5580 Membership Site for more membership management ideas at rotary5580.org/sitepage/membership.
Give our membership a meaningful Rotary experience by offering them opportunities to make a positive difference and connect with others.  They’ll make valuable friendships and feel good about Rotary and the work we are doing to make our communities and the world a better place.  (2017-18 Rotary President Ian Riseley)
“ASK” yourselves: 
 
  • How strong is my club?
  • Are we engaging all members and finding New Members?
  • Are we using media to attract members? 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
David and Don