FAQs - Associate Membership
Further information about Associate Membership
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A non-Rotarian can now become associated with a Rotary Club allowing the individual to become aquainted with its members, its programmes and projects and the expectations of club membership with the intent of becoming an active member within a designated period of time.
No, it is up to each club to decide what this process should be. It is best to develop this process before inviting individuals to join as associate members.
Many clubs do have supporters who are considered Friends of Rotary but no official programme is in place. Many of the friends turn up to support clubs at events rather than have an interest in joining. Associate Membership gives people the opportunity to experience at first hand the work and fellowship of Rotary without the need to become an active member. As a simple comparison a ‘Friend of Rotary’ is more likely to be a valued supporter, but is unlikely to become an active member, whereas an associate member is a potential active member.
Associate Members are given an RI number and listed on the RI database as official members of Rotary. However, RI does not currently recognise Associate Members so they are marked as Honorary Members in the RI database and Associate Members in the Rotary GB&I database.
Yes, if the club wishes this. It is up to the club to consider what references should be on the badge in line with the club traditions. Some Rotary suppliers have associate member badges available.
For the purpose of general meetings it is up to the club to decide whether an associate member may vote on club matters. Because associate members are not official members of Rotary International they cannot take part in RI or Rotary GB&I voting. Districts have the right to decide whether they will accept an associate member as a voting member of a club.
Associate members are not entitled to hold any club officer position but they are encouraged to work with club committees.
There are no RI or Rotary GB&I dues for an associate member. Districts may decide if they wish to charge a fee. Clubs may also decide if they want to charge a fee. It is acceptable that fees vary from club to club as they do with active members.
Yes, this can be done at any time and the club should determine a process of how this can be achieved and record this. This will take into consideration the way in which the associate member was introduced to the club in the first place. For example, if the club used the ‘seven day letter’ process it may not wish to go through the full process again.
No, associate membership is for introducing new people to Rotary.
The club should consider a process for terminating membership. Article 12 of The Standard Rotary GB&I Club Constitution may be helpful.
It is for clubs to decide. The purpose is to encourage a new active membership so clubs may wish to consider how long associate membership should continue to attain this goal. Six months to two years is a suggested guide.
(Photo: © Rotary International)
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