Y NOW!
Now is the time for us to make a stronger commitment to the future of Rotary. As a district of clubs we are making great progress toward an exciting future. We are beginning to see the results of our seeds. Like watching a forest grow in time lapse photography. We need Rotarians to help find young leaders with potential from the ages of 21 to 35 now.
Think of who you know that may fit the examples below. Contact; Michael Sharron, Richard Gobeille or Jeff Breese to find out how they can meet other Y Gens.
Y GENS DILUTE ROTARY. They hold the same values as Rotarians, and do great service within their community. They seek a different approach that redefines the way they apply Service Above Self. The Y Gen is on the go, truly connected with multiple endeavors. They are dedicated professionals, passionate and able to shift gears and exceed expectations.
Y GENS ARE NOT COMMUNITY LEADERS. Were you a CEO at age 25? But did you have the heart and capacity to be that? By virtue of them volunteering they are leaders and set themselves apart from their peers. Because of our “Youth leadership Development” program in District 5510 we are able to observe young leaders emerge into Rotarians. That is already happening.
Y GENS DON’T WANT TO COME TO OUR MEETINGS. Ok, so they don’t have time in the morning and lunch because they have a commitment to their employer. They do have time to meet after work and plan their community service and fundraising activities.
CAN WE RECRUIT NEW YOUNG MEMBERS? That is essential for Rotary to survive. Young Rotarians are looking for a “hands on” volunteering experience. They have a high need for the human connection and strong relationships. Plus they need the mentorship from our Classic Rotarians that connects their career path and Rotary path.
HOW DO WE WORK WITH THEM? As Kalyan Banerjee emphasizes “create the space for them to fill”. We don’t have to feel like changing our current meetings for them, (we can if we want) we must allow them to meet on their terms in their comfort and their relationships. We can offer them a space called a Satellite Club.
WHAT IS THE SATELITE CLUB
Think of it as a “club within a club” somewhat like a committee. It meets at a different time, location and demographic. Like Rotary it still holds the core values, 4 way test and motto “Service Above Self” as the driving spirit. We have three pilot satellite clubs in our District; Tempe, Tempe Rio Salado and Winslow.
HOW DOES IT WORK? Tempe and Tempe Rio Salado are working to have their younger potential Rotarians meet at Robbie Fox in Tempe off Mill and 6th Street. The young generations meet there and decide what service projects they will do. They may become members at Tempe or Tempe Rio Salado but they will not meet with them. They’ll meet at Robbie Fox’s.
Winslow on the other hand is looking to become a North East Regional club by allowing members from outer lying communities like; St. Johns and Holbrook to participate as Rotarians doing service in their communities.
Think what you can do to expand Rotary. It’s all outside the box. Rotary is our legacy. Imagine a world without Rotary. Polio would still be here with us. The world needs us and our good work.
Thank you,
Alan Havir
