Friends of Ingatestone Rotary

We recognise that not everyone is able to become a member of the Rotary Club. So for those who share our ideals and would like to maintain some connection with the local community we offer the opportunity to become a "Friend of Ingatestone Rotary".

Although our goal is to grow the Rotary Club of Ingatestone and encourage people from the area to join us, we are very aware that a high proportion of them are unable to make such a commitment at this time.

The reasons for this are many and varied and for us it is a real challenge to tap into our population, which is made up of a diversity of people with alternative views, extraordinary talents, amazing interests and backgrounds and a real sense of citizenship and community.  We need their support, talents, expertise, enthusiasm, willingness to serve and their interest in the well-being of others. Hence we are introducing what may be a 'halfway house' by seeking Friends of Ingatestone Rotary.

Now it's even easier to become involved with your local Rotary Club

Becoming a Friend of Ingatestone Rotary allows those who share our ideals and objectives to participate in our activities without the responsibility of full membership.

Being a Friend of Ingatestone Rotary allows you to help in local fund raising by participating in club events or by making annual donations. Some club events are not specifically for fund raising but for socialising and Rotarians call this fellowship, an opportunity to enjoy activities and each others company, catch up with old friends and make or develop new ones.

As a Friend of Ingatestone Rotary you will be kept abreast of club events and will be invited to participate or contribute to Rotary activities which may simply be by giving some of your time. There is no minimum level of financial or time contribution. All help is always appreciated in helping us help the community. 'Friends of Rotary' groups are covered by a Club's Public Liability Insurance when 'Friends of Rotary' are helping with Rotary organised projects. They would not be covered if they organised their own events.

Friends of Ingatestone Rotary cannot be existing Rotarians as it is not intended as a substitution for existing Rotary club membership. Anyone interested in becoming a member of Rotary would still have to follow the usual procedures for membership. 'Friends of Rotary' do not pay any subscription to Rotary and are not permitted to wear the Rotary badge.


The Joining Process:
Many of our current friends and supporters may be formally invited to join this group, and, as our community grows and changes, new friends and supporters who share the same ideals and want to actively contribute to their community will be invited, as well. You will be asked to complete and send an Application Form( plus your cheque) to the Honorary Treasurer. A member of the group responsible for membership will make contact and arrange to meet with you at a suitable date to talk about our club and 'Friends of Ingatestone Rotary'.

Membership Guidelines:
Information from endorsed Application Forms will be used to document a Register of Friends noting their special interests and expertise, and this will be regularly reviewed and updated by them. It may also be used by our club to access advice and assistance from our Friends.

Members of this group will remain members until they indicate a desire to cease membership or the Council sees fit to terminate an individual's membership due to actions that would damage the integrity and ideals of Rotary.

NB. Friends of Ingatestone Rotary have no voting rights in relation to the conduct or business of the Rotary Club of Ingatestone.

Friends of Ingatestone Rotary is not a substitute for Rotary Club membership, but an alternative for those who cannot meet the full time responsibilities of being a Rotarian.

If you are interested in becoming a Friend of Ingatestone Rotary simply complete the application form. We ask for an annual subscription of £35.00 to help cover any administration in running the group and all excess funds will contribute to Rotary's own charity, Rotary Foundation.

To download an application form, click here.

For further information, please 'Contact Us'