Types of Membership

There can be many types of membership which are created by clubs.

Clubs are free to design different membership types that attract diverse members, as long as it’s documented how they differ from traditional membership in their club bylaws.

The Rotary International database does not track membership types – only whether a member is Active or Honorary.

Active: -

Rotary International defines active members as those who meet the requirements for membership, pay RI dues, are eligible to vote on club and district matters, are eligible to hold a club officer position and count in the club’s membership numbers in Rotary’s database. Active members are called Rotarians.

Honorary: -

Honorary membership is used to recognize people who have distinguished themselves by meritorious service and embody Rotary ideals, or those considered friends of Rotary for their support of Rotary's causes. They are exempt from paying RI dues, have no vote in Rotary matters, are not eligible to hold any club office, and are not included in a club's membership numbers in Rotary’s database. Honorary members are called honorary Rotarians.

Corporate: -

A corporate membership allows Rotary clubs to involve a corporation — or any

business, nonprofit, or government entity — in Rotary by offering an alternative

membership package to some of its employees. Having corporate members

increases the club’s membership while expanding its network and visibility in the

community. Members gain access to the fellowship and service opportunities of

Rotary with the possibility of a much smaller time commitment.

Family: -

Family membership – also called spouse or partner memberships – are similar to corporate membership, in that there is often a primary member and one or more alternate members. Often, the alternate members are young adult children of the primary member or a partner or spouse. Clubs that offer this type of membership typically offer a reduced rate for the alternate member(s) as an incentive to join. The alternate members can attend in the primary member’s place or come along with their family member Rotarian. Alternate members may be active.

Younger professional membership: -

Some clubs have designed a membership type for younger professionals with a more affordable dues structure, and more flexible expectations for participating. Clubs that create this type of membership recognize that younger members can play an integral role in the future of their club but may not have the financial resources or available time to attend weekly meetings at this point in their careers