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I’ve just wrapped up my first month as District Governor, and I’m excited to share the first of my monthly video updates.
Rotary International President Olayinka Babalola’s message is Create Lasting Impact, with a key focus on growing membership around the world. In response, our District’s focus this year is Rotary 2.0 – The Next Generation.
As Paul Harris said:
“If Rotary is to realize its proper destiny, it must be evolutionary at all times, revolutionary on occasion.”
Whether that means being revolutionary or somewhere in between, that spirit of growth and innovation is at the heart of our district this year.
It’s been a busy and inspiring start.
I recently visited the clubs in Gander, Stephenville, Corner Brook, and Exploits, and what struck me most was the enthusiasm of our members and the incredible legacies these clubs have built in their communities. From music festivals and parks to global grants and countless local initiatives, these clubs are creating lasting impact every day. I can honestly say no one told me just how much fun being District Governor was going to be!
Monthly Theme
August is Membership and New Club Development Month, and Rotary International has set a bold goal of reaching 1.25 million members worldwide by 2030, our 125th anniversary.
For our district, that means growing to 2,030 members by 2030. That goal is absolutely within our reach if every club recruits and retains one net new member each year over the next four years.
One of the most important things every club can do is set a membership goal. Think about where you want your club to be by next July and begin planning now.
There are many ways to attract new members. Host a barbecue or open house, invite volunteers to participate in your projects, increase your visibility in the community, and don't be afraid to use AI as a resource to help generate ideas and promote your club.
It's also worth thinking differently about how your club meets. Some clubs are meeting every second week, replacing meetings with community service projects or social events, changing meeting times, or trying other flexible approaches that better meet the needs of today's members.
Companion clubs are another exciting opportunity. They provide greater flexibility for people who want to serve but cannot commit to traditional weekly meetings, while remaining part of an existing Rotary club.
Our Public Image Team will also be launching a membership awareness campaign to help tell Rotary's story across our district and support clubs in promoting their own stories locally.
Our Assistant Governors, Louisa Horne's Zone 28 membership meetings on the first Monday of each month, and our expanded District Membership Committee—led by Membership Chair Noel Eustace—are all available to support your club's membership efforts. Noel can be reached at bumperchute@ca.inter.net.
This and That
- The district's purpose is to help clubs thrive, and your Assistant Governors and district leadership team are here to support you.
- We currently have district vacancies for a Learning Facilitator and a Service Chair. I would love to hear from you if you're interested. You can reach me at Chris.Rotary@halifaxglobal.com.
- Please remember to update ClubRunner with this year's club officers and committee chairs. Holly Thompson, District Data Manager, is available to help if needed. She can be reached at d7815datamanagement@outlook.com.
Looking Ahead
Planning for the 2027 District Conference begins on August 10. If you're interested in helping or attending the planning meeting, please reach out.
We're also expanding our mini-conferences across the district. These regional events provide opportunities for learning, collaboration, idea-sharing, friendship, and fellowship without requiring members to travel long distances. Several dates have already been confirmed, with others currently in the planning stages.
Final Thoughts
I'll leave you with a Facebook post from the Rotary Club of Addis Ababa Central Mella:
"Rotary grows one invitation, one friendship, and one act of service at a time. Every new member brings fresh energy, new ideas, and greater opportunities to create lasting impact in our communities and around the world."
That message beautifully captures the vision behind Rotary 2.0 – The Next Generation. Together, we can grow Rotary by inviting others to experience the fellowship, service, and impact that make our organization so special.
The district is here to help.
Enjoy the rest of your summer, and I look forward to connecting with you again in next month's update.
