Message from the president of Rotary International
“During my travels last year, I visited many vibrant clubs and districts that have a real impact in their city, and during their meetings I could feel a lot of energy. I met people who take action and visiting their cities, I saw the impact of their work.
I also visited cities where Rotary clubs were little more than social clubs. This should never be the case and, fortunately, there is a simple solution that, in my opinion, can revitalize any club.
I challenge all Rotary clubs: make at least one action with a big impact. Each club has the potential and the resources to make it happen. Every club can change lives.
You do not need millions of euros. One of the most wonderful things I saw was the purchase of a Jeep for a group of midwives in Haiti. We asked them what they needed and told us that they needed a way to reach pregnant women in the most remote parts of the country. We supplied the Jeep that we painted in pink with the Rotary logo. Three years later, when we returned to see where they were, they were very happy to announce that the maternal and newborn mortality rate had dropped by 50 percent in the region.
This is what I call a great action.
Barry Rassin, President 2018-2019
But the Jeeps are not eternal and, after 8 years on the road, this vehicle was out of breath. So we bought a pink Land Cruiser that is still in circulation. Midwives can continue to provide antenatal care to women in this remote area.
What makes a great action? It does not have to be a lot of money. The important thing is to help people and to have a major impact in the city or the community. This is the key and it is here that good planning and in-depth studies are essential. Perform all necessary studies; use your resources at best; build partnerships to increase your impact; and take action.
Of course, actions are only one element of an effective club. You must also have good speakers, train your leaders, involve Rotaractors and Interactors, and bring value to your members, as well as the reasons for them to participate in Rotary events.
If your club is great and well organized, the rest will follow. Its members will be involved and others will hurry to join you. Fundraising will also be easier as people always prefer to give to trusted organizations – which have an impact and are transparent. Your club will be dynamic, relevant and alive. He will truly be an inspiration to his members and to the city he serves. “
Speech of President Barry Rassin (2018-2019)