Rotaract clubs
are a part of global effort to bring
peace and international understanding to the world. This effort starts at the
community level but knows no limits in its out-reach. Rotaractors have access
to the many resources of Rotary International (RI) and The Rotary Foundation. Rotary
International provides the administrative support that helps Rotaract clubs’
thrive.
History
·
In the early
1960s, Rotary clubs around the world began to sponsor university youth groups
as community service projects.
·
The 1967-68 RI
president, Luther H.Hodges, and the RI Board of Directors considered this club
activity to have international relevance and Rotaract was approved in 1968 as
an official program for Rotary clubs.
·
The first club
chartered was the Rotaract Club of North Charlotte, North Carolina, USA, on 13
March 1968.
·
Several
decades later, There are currently more than 7,600
Rotaract clubs in more than 158 countries, with an estimated membership of more
than 176,000 Rotaractors.
·
Rotaract is a service club for young professionals
and students ages 18-30.
GOALS
·
To develop
professional and leadership skills
·
To emphasize
respect for the rights of others, and to promote ethical standards and the
dignity of all useful occupations
·
To provide opportunities
for young people to address the needs and concerns of the community and our
world
·
To provide
opportunities for working in cooperation with sponsoring Rotary Clubs
·
To motivate
young people for eventual membership in Rotary
TOP REASONS TO JOIN ROTARACT
Professional Networking -
A founding principle of Rotary
was to provide a forum for professional and business leaders. Members are
leaders in business, industry, the professions, the arts, government, sports,
the military and religion. They make decisions and influence policy. Rotaract
is the oldest, most prestigious service-club organization in the world.
The Opportunity to Serve -
Rotaractors work as PARTNERS IN
SERVICE to provide service at both the community and international levels. Service
programs address health care needs, hunger and poverty, illiteracy, disaster
relief, and environmental cleanups, to name a few. Members experience the
fulfilment that comes from giving back to the community.
Personal Growth and Development -
Membership in Rotaract
ensures continuing personal and professional development. Leadership, public
speaking and communication, organization and planning, team-building,
fundraising and teaching are just a sampling of the skills that can be
exercised and enhanced through Rotary.
Quality Friendships-
Fellowship was a primary reason, Rotary
was started in 1905, and it remains a major attraction for rotaract club also.
Today, with more than 3,000 Rotaract clubs in over 160 countries, Rotaractors
have friends wherever they go. Rotaract helps to build community as well as
enduring friendships.
Cultural Exchange-
Rotary International is an
association of local clubs in many countries. Clubs are open to members of
every ethnic group, political persuasion, language and religious belief.
Rotaract clubs contain a cross-section of the world’s leaders. They practice
and promote tolerance.
Good Citizenship –
Membership in Rotaract makes one
a better citizen. Monthly Rotaract club programs keep members informed about
what is taking place in the community, nation and world. Rotaract’s expansive
network of clubs and programs provides extensive opportunities for service and
interchange.
World Understanding -
Rotaract members gain an
understanding of humanitarian issues and have a significant impact on them
through international service projects and exchange programs of RI and its
Foundation. The promotion of peace is one of Rotary’s highest objectives.
Entertainment-
Every Rotaract club and district
hosts parties and activities that offer diversion from one’s personal and
business life. Conferences, conventions, assemblies and social events provide
entertainment as well as Rotaract information, education and service.
Ethical Environment -
Rotarians and Rotaractors practice
the 4-Way Test that measures words and actions by their truthfulness, fairness,
goodwill and benefit to all concerned. Encouraging high ethical standards
in one’s profession and respect for all worthy vocations in professional and
private life.