During Rotary 2018-2019, the District 7910 Membership Committee introduced several initiatives to help clubs attract and engage membership. These initiatives will continue, and new ones will be introduced in 2019-2020.
New Member Orientation Events were held during Fall 2018 and Spring 2019, with 60 total attendees. These events introduce newer (two years or less) and prospective members to the various facets of Rotary in a fun and interactive way. Clubs are encouraged to send their newer and prospective members to these events. Feedback indicates that attending these events significantly improves member retention. The next events are scheduled for October 3, 2019, and April 4, 2020 (during the District Assembly).
A series of animated videos covering a wide range of membership-related topics designed for clubs in Rotary Zone 32 was distributed on a monthly basis. Clubs are encouraged to have Membership Moments at regular meetings showing the two-to-three-minute videos, and discuss how the topics relate to their clubs. New videos are being produced, and will be distributed to clubs as completed.
The District Membership Committee will continue to meet on a quarterly basis. Rotary 2019-2020 meetings are scheduled for September 11, 2019, January 23, 2020 and May 13, 2020. Club membership chairs and presidents will be invited to these meetings, but they are also open to any Rotarian wishing to share and learn about strategies to attract and engage membership. Stay tuned for new initiatives in Friendship Exchanges and Fellowships as the '19-'20 Rotary year unfolds.
The latest data indicate that our District and clubs are making progress. Year-to-date, net membership has increased slightly and member attrition has declined significantly over Rotary 2017-2018. So, keep up the good fight. Together, we will grow Rotary!
For more information, contact District Membership Chair Ron Bott at ron@bottgroup.com.