Greater participation for our Foundation

I would be willing to bet that most Rotarians remember the person who sponsored them into their Rotary club. It’s a person we will never forget and to whom we will always be grateful for sharing with us such a life-changing opportunity. Having said that, I’m not really sure most of us can pinpoint exactly when our Foundation became so important to us. It’s not quite as simple as someone inviting you to a meeting. But I have to think there was some seminal event, project, or happening — whether in your club or district, or internationally — that turned on that light for you.

Since 1905, Rotary clubs have provided the outlet that allows Rotarians to be people of action in their communities. Our local clubs are where we live, work and make lifelong friends, and where and how we have the most direct, visible impact on the place we call home. I firmly believe that when most Rotarians hear “Rotary International,” they think of their Rotary club.

On the other hand, when Rotarians hear “The Rotary Foundation,” they think of the myriad humanitarian and educational projects and programmes that have made the Foundation the premier foundation in our world today. It is truly the magic that brings Rotary to life for them, makes their community the world, and allows them to be global people of action.

As we begin the new calendar year and think about the many things we would like to get done, many of us make New Year’s resolutions. I hope one of yours is greater involvement and participation in our Rotary Foundation. Let’s each make our Foundation our charity of choice. If we do that, we can make this Rotary year the very best in our incredible history. Please join me and make Rotary’s legacy your promise!

Ron D Burton
Foundation Trustee Chair