A New Partnership

Rotary needs to provide different ways of being a Rotarian than just our traditional clubs.  These are still very important – they have been the backbone of the Rotary organisation for over 100 years and continue to appeal to many people.  However, Rotary needs to provide other routes into the organisation.  One possibility is “Corporate Membership”.

What is a Corporate Member?

The organisation would participate in its own name with a nominated principal member being the official member of the club and primary link with our Club, and it could also elect up to three alternate members to spread the load of attending meetings and planning activities.  As a minimum, one of these primary or alternate members would attend meetings and actively participate in the life of the Club.

This ensures that the organisation is aware of the Rotary Club’s plans, and update the club on the organisation’s plans in order to identify opportunities for mutual support.  All meetings would be open to members if they have the desire to attend more than once a month.

Benefits to All

There are clear benefits to Rotary Club Membership for both parties not least in formally recognising the strength of community activity in Billericay which can be used to address a wide range of local matters going forward.  Membership of a Rotary Club makes it clear to all that the ideal of service to the community is exemplified in the joining organisation.  The Rotary Club of Billericay has a strong local presence, and this relationship will enable us both to carry out a broader range of activities. 

Global connections are offered through the Rotary International network of some 1.2M Members and a commitment to serving others is a central Rotary principle which reinforces good ethical behaviour.

Through joining Rotary, the organisation is visibly giving back to its community, addressing key areas of need.  It is a formal opportunity for an organisation including its members, to constructively use their knowledge, resources and expertise to actively help local people to a better life whilst at the same time enjoying the fellowship of the Rotary Club.

It is seen as an opportunity to exchange ideas.  In return, the organisation may add membership of Rotary to their marketing materials, have an opportunity to network and share in the fellowship of Rotary, and display a “Corporate Member” plaque on the school building.

Investiture

Our club meeting on June 9 was the official Club Assembly where incoming president Stephen King and his officers outlined their plans for the coming Rotary Year.  The meeting was attended by Assistant Governor Mark Chambers who represented the District Governor-Elect at the meeting and commented on the plans (see article elsewhere in this Newsletter).

We were therefore delighted to welcome Ann Robinson, Head teacher of Buttsbury Primary School, and Adam Graves, Deputy Head of that school, to the meeting.  It was an opportunity for them to learn about our plans for the coming year, and a  celebration of Buttsbury Primary School becoming our first Corporate Member.  Ann is the primary member and Adam is an alternate (along with Srah Harris and Stacey Barnes).

Something to Celebrate

Patrick welcomed them both. “A warm welcome to Anne Robinson and Adam Graves from Buttsbury primary school who are joining us as corporate members”, he said.  “Her dedication to education and shaping young minds will surely bring a fresh perspective to our community efforts.” 

“The connection between the Billericay Rotary Club and the school through RotaKids is truly something to celebrate, the achievements of the students are a testament to the positive impact of this initiative fostering leadership, community spirit, and a sense of responsibility in young minds.”

“You may not be aware but our club has had links with many schools over the years and past members of our club have included the Heads of Billericay schools including John Goldwin, Arthur Lingard, Sue Hammond (Billericay School); Walter Higby (St Johns School); Ernie Cox (Sunnymeade School); Dr Smith (Mayflower School) and Jim Bromhead (Buttsbury Junior School).” 

“I now have great pleasure in presenting Buttsbury Primary School a certificate of Corporate Membership and a Rotary Plaque.” 

“We welcome the School and members of staff into the worldwide Rotary movement.”

Patrick then handed both Ann and Adam their membership packs containing their Rotary roundel badge, our club’s Rotary members name badge and documentation accompanied by applause from all present.

Welcome Buttsbury Primary School – Corporate Member.