By Pat Short Hornsby, Rotarian
The second most common question we Rotarians hear after “What is Rotary?” is “How do I become a Rotarian?” The truth is you may already be a “Rotarian” at heart. Because membership in Rotary is by invitation, we need to meet you and you need to meet us to make it official.
A Rotarian is a person who sees a world where people unite and take action to create lasting change — across the globe, in our communities and in ourselves. Rotary is a global network of 1.2 million neighbors, friends, leaders and problem-solvers who have banded together to form Rotary clubs to take that action. The Rotary Club of Weston is an enthusiastic, positive, diverse group of professionals and community leaders who use their time, talent and vocational resources to improve the lives of others here in South Florida and around the world.
Ethics play a large role in the Rotary world, with a Rotary Code of Conduct calling on members to act with integrity and deal fairly with others in matters both personal and professional. Family is also important, both from the standpoint of Rotary welcoming individuals’ family members at events, and the warmth extended within the group. We call it the Family of Rotary.
Rotary clubs plan service projects, work with charities and humanitarian organizations, provide opportunities for youth, assist elders, honor veterans and heroes, fight disease and poverty … the list is long. Whatever the passion, there is very likely a group of like-minded Rotarians ready to welcome a new co-visionary.
In addition to connecting with other leaders who are changing the world, growing your leadership and professional skills, and making new friends, membership in Rotary offers many other benefits. Rotarians from more than 130 countries meet annually at the Rotary International Convention to celebrate successes and make plans for the future. The destination for 2020 is Honolulu! Rotary Fellowships are groups of members from everywhere who share similar interests, hobbies or vocations. From beer or cricket to flying, surfing or yoga, there’s a group for that.
If all of this sounds like something you’d like to be a part of, we’d like to meet you, and have you meet us. We can answer your questions, invite you to a meeting or event, explain Rotary programs and see if it’s a good fit. You may know a Rotarian already — just ask him or her about joining Rotary. Or reach out to the Rotary Club of Weston Membership Chair for 2019-20, Edwina Auguste, at [email protected]. We look forward to the opportunity to welcome you into the Family of Rotary. Come see how we’re changing the world.
- The Rotary Club of Weston meets weekly at 7:30 AM on Thursdays at Weston Hills Country Club.