Rotarians from three districts recently gathered in Green Bay, WI for TriCon 2024, each arriving with their own intentions and unique purpose. Some attendees were eager to explore new service initiatives, others aimed to enhance their comprehension of Rotary’s impact, and many looked forward to rekindling old friendships and forging new connections. The event served as a platform for members to engage in meaningful discussions, exchange ideas, and collectively work towards “creating hope in the world,” championed by a message from Rotary International’s current president.
As TriCon 2024 unfolded, an overarching message echoed through our plenary sessions and presentations, challenging us to not only have intentions, but to embody intentional action. We were called to be “people of action” who actively cultivate a welcoming club atmosphere. To champion our club’s public image through our vitality and energy, and to advocate inclusivity and thoughtfulness in our actions and words. Throughout the event, we were reminded we each have a vital role to play in promoting and representing our club regardless of our positions we hold within our club. Basically, a club’s public image depends on everyone!
Here are a few ways each of us can promote a positive public image:
• Wear a Rotary pin – it’s a great way to start a conversation
• Dress in Rotary attire – grocery shopping, running errands, at Rotary meetings
• Be prepared with your “why I love my Rotary club” elevator speech (:30-:60 long)
• Share your enthusiasm for your club – actions speak louder than words
• Know why you are proud to be a Rotarian in your Club
• Understand how you are part of Rotary International
• Be an active member in your club
• Invite others in the community to help with a project or attend a meeting
• Engage with your newer members – it’s hard to be the newbie! o (52% leave within
their first three years)
• Contact a dis-engaged member and invite them to a fellowship
• Be willing to change – “Doing the same thing over and over again and expecting
different results” is insanity.” Albert Einstein
• Be flexible, progressive and inclusive – “The world is a changing place and we must be
prepared to change with it.” Paul Harris
By being Public Image ambassadors through our words and actions, we will also support our membership committee and embody the principles of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion. Let's proactively seek out opportunities to showcase our commitment by finding that pin, donning that T-shirt, and crafting our personal elevator pitches.
Lastly, thank you to our District Governor, Michelle McGrath, who represented District 6250 with excitement, enthusiasm, and positive energy throughout the year. She has truly been a positive public image during her position as our District Governor of 6250 (and she threw The Best district gathering at TriCon!)
