RIPE bats for membership, continuity, and change
Mumbai was one of the stopovers for RIPE Mario de Camargo during his recent India tour, where he addressed Rotarians on critical topics such as membership growth, retention, partnerships and leadership succession. “We need more members, because we are getting old. But don’t go fishing for Rotarians just to boost numbers. Identify people who share our values and collective mindset,” he emphasised, cautioning against indiscriminate induction of members. He urged Rotarians to explore professional and trade associations for potential members. “We must promote new format clubs such as satellite and cause-based clubs to attract youngsters, and promote Rotary’s good work on social media,” he said, and urged the delegates to revive their connect with former Rotarians.
But for all this to happen, “we must embrace change. If we don’t keep pace with change, we will become irrelevant. The trouble with our times is that our future is not what it used to be. If we want things to stay as they are, things will have to change.”
On leadership continuity, de Camargo stressed the importance of consultation and coordination. “True continuity comes from respecting and engaging with your successor. It’s not just about handing over a project; it’s about working together. Consult your predecessor and successor before making decisions,” he said.
Hailing Rotary’s partnerships with the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation, WHO, UNICEF, the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, and Gavi, The Vaccine Alliance, the incoming president pointed out that while Rotary raised $2.7 billion for polio eradication, its partners contributed $18 billion. “Our power lies in advocacy, not raising money. So far $22 billion has been spent on polio eradication, but we still need $100 million annually.”
RI Director Raju Subramanian reinforced the need to reconnect with former members. “Please reach out to those who have left Rotary, re-establish connections, and bring them back,” he said.
DG Chetan Desai summarised significant service projects and accomplishments of RID 3141. The event was hosted by RC Mumbai Juhu led by its president Subhashish Mazumdar. Fourteen past district governors, including two PDGs from RID 3142, attended the meet.
