Choose the right DRFCC

In Nov 2004, the RI Board agreed that every club should have, as part of its standing committees, a Rotary Foundation committee to educate club members about TRF and involve them in its activities. Only when Rotarians learn about their Foundation and become aware of the good that it does in the world, they will voluntarily support it, both financially and with their time and talent.

Similarly, every district is required to have a District Rotary Foundation Committee (DRFC) which assists in educating, motivating and inspiring Rotarians to participate in Foundation grants and fundraising activities in the district. This committee is headed by the DRFC chair (DRFCC). This is a critical assignment and, to be ­effective, the DRFCC must have continuity and is therefore appointed for a three-year term. The importance of this position can be gauged by the fact that districts will not have access to the District Designated Fund until the DRFCC is appointed.

Experience has shown that Rotarians who have participated in TRF programmes, or have seen first-hand how the Foundation transforms lives, are more likely to offer support and contribute to it. It is said, “the mediocre teacher tells. The good teacher explains. The superior teacher demonstrates. The great teacher inspires”.

In mid-October incoming governors in districts in which the three-year term of the DRFC ends in June 2021, will receive a notification to select a new DRFCC. The DGE must involve the DGN and DGND to ensure that the DRFCC is jointly selected by them. I request the incoming district leaders to make this choice carefully and wisely for the greater good of the district.

As Bill Cosby said, “Selecting the right person for the right job is the largest part of a leader”.

Gulam A Vahanvaty
Trustee, The Rotary Foundation