A look at the year ahead

Jennifer Jones
RI President, 2022-23
Dear Rotary family,

I’ve always been inspired by something my brother David once told me: “In order to live in the kind of society you want, you have to help build it.”

As people of action, Rotary members have a long history of creating positive change within our communities and ourselves. And now, as we begin the 2022-23 Rotary year, I’m excited to continue the work of growing Rotary into the organization we want it to be and know it can be.
 
 
 
Delivering on our promise
 

Diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) are not corporate buzzwords. They’re important reminders that we need to understand and embrace our differences, provide equitable opportunities for success, and welcome one another exactly as we are.

For Rotary, DEI means ensuring that our clubs, meetings, and events are places where participants can speak openly and respectfully and where everyone feels welcome. It’s about removing barriers to entry and success and opening doors to inclusion.

 
How can you help? We want to reflect the communities in which we live and serve. Invite community and business leaders and influencers from groups that are underrepresented in your club to participate in a club activity. Encourage a new club member to take a leadership role. Remove obstacles that could prevent some people from joining your club, like a meeting time or place that isn’t accessible to everyone. Our ability to adapt is the key to strengthening Rotary’s future.
 
 
 
Putting members first
 
The main reason Rotarians and Rotaractors remain Rotary members is that they feel welcomed and supported in their clubs. Increasing our membership continues to be a priority, but giving our members experiences they value and reasons to stay is equally important.

How can you help? To serve our communities, we first need to serve our members. Talk to your club leaders and fellow members about what they want from their Rotary experience and work together to make it happen. Learning what keeps members engaged is a powerful tool for strengthening Rotary. These membership resources can help.
 
 
 
Empowering women and girls
 
All over the world, gender can still affect a person’s ability to get an education, funding for a small business, or proper health care. We know that projects that improve the health, well-being, education, and economic security of girls will have a positive impact on the next generation of empowered female leaders.

How can you help? Develop a club-based initiative or apply for a district grant or global grant to fund a project that promotes girls’ health, education, or economic independence. From supporting a local women’s shelter to improving girls’ access to water and sanitation, every project can make a big difference. Share your stories and learn what other clubs are doing to empower girls and women on Rotary Showcase.