Public Image

Rotary has a great story to tell. Every day, Rotarians across District 1100 are making a difference in their communities and around the world.

But are enough people hearing that story?

Membership across Rotary is declining, and if we continue doing things in the same way, the future of Rotary in our District is at risk. We have a limited window in which to change that — and Public Image has an important part to play.

It’s time to tell our story differently

For too many people, Rotary can still seem old-fashioned, formal or difficult to understand. The familiar ROMEO joke — “Retired Old Men Eating Out” — may be amusing, but it also highlights a perception we need to change.

Rotary today is about people of all ages working together to make a difference. We need to make sure the outside world sees the Rotary that we know exists.

That means being prepared to try new ideas, embrace new technology and communicate in ways that connect with today's audiences.

And we don't have to do it alone.

Public Image is now a team

District 1100 has created a new Public Image Team to work alongside clubs and help them tell their Rotary stories more effectively.

Our approach is based on four simple principles:

1. Public Image is a team effort
We want to work with clubs, sharing ideas, skills and resources rather than leaving Public Image as the responsibility of one person.

2. Be prepared to try new things
Social media, video, digital communications and new technology give us opportunities to reach people we may never have reached before. We need to experiment, learn and find what works.

3. Make Rotary attractive and accessible to new generations
This isn't about abandoning what makes Rotary special. It's about making sure our clubs, meetings, events and communications are welcoming and relevant to people who may never have considered joining Rotary.

4. Work hand in hand with Membership
Public Image and Membership go together. We need to create awareness and interest in Rotary, while working with clubs to turn that interest into conversations, visitors and ultimately new members.

The future is in our hands

Rotary has been making a difference for generations. We want it to continue doing so for generations to come.

The world has changed. The way people communicate has changed. The way people choose to give their time has changed.

Rotary can change too — without losing what makes it Rotary.

If you're concerned about the future of Rotary, you're not alone. And you don't have to tackle it alone.

Talk to your club. Talk to us. Let's look at what we can do differently, together.

The Public Image Team is ready to help.

Let's tell the Rotary story in a way that makes people want to be part of it.