PEOPLE OFTEN ASK . . .
WHO ARE THOSE ROTARIAN PEOPLE AND WHAT IN THE WORLD DO THEY DO?
A short answer to this two-part question is quite difficult since Rotary International has been around for over 100 years and has a lot of stories to tell. But here is a short synopsis.
Rotary is a global network of 1.4 million neighbors, friends, leaders, and problem-solvers who see a world where people unite and take action to create lasting change – across the globe, in their communities, and in themselves.
Solving real problems takes real commitment and vision. For over 100 years, Rotarians have used their passion, energy, and intelligence to act on sustainable projects.
Rotary members believe they have a shared responsibility to act on the world’s most persistent issues. Over 46,000 clubs and their 1.4 million members work together to "be a gift to the world." Rotary is a secular organization and is open to all people around the world.
Rotarians are working to make a difference. They are dedicated to Rotary’s primary motto “service above self,” and the secondary motto, “One Profits Most Who Serves Best.”
What does “service above self” mean to a Rotarian? These three powerful words describe acting with compassion, generosity, and humility, without expecting anything in return. Helping others gives Rotarians joy, fulfillment, and purpose in their lives which is best described by the secondary moto. Additionally, research has shown that volunteering can lower blood pressure, improve mental health, and even extend lifespan.
Rotary International District 6970, also known as “Florida’s Crown District” has seven Rotary clubs in Clay County. The district comprises twelve Florida counties: Alachua, Baker, Bradford, Clay, Duval, Flagler, Marion, Nassau, Putnam, St. Johns, Union, and Volusia. Sixty-four (64) clubs are making positive change in the area and the in world.
The Rotary Club of Northeast Florida exemplifies “people in action.” For instance, since January 2023, the RCNEFL has completed 15 service projects in five of Rotary International’s Focus Areas. Those projects include four in Education and Literacy, one in Maternal and Child Health, one in Disease Prevention and Treatment, eight in Community and Economic Development, and one in Peace and Conflict Prevention/Resolution.
Who is the Rotary Club of Northeast Florida?
The Rotary Club of Northeast Florida is the 61st club in the District and is a relatively young club receiving its charter from Rotary International on April 16, 2015. It is a small but mighty club. Members prefer to roll their sleeves up and become “people of action” delivering hands-on service to people and projects.
Club dues are minimal because members desire to give their time, talent, and resources to “see the change” up close and meet the people involved.
Members can access their club meetings anywhere, 24 hours a day, six days a week via a personal computer, tablet, or cell phone. The weekly meeting is called to order at 6 p.m. Saturday and is adjourned at 6 p.m. the following Friday. In fact the club is still the only "e-club" in the District. The members never "flinched" during COVID. Meetings were attended each week as always.
So now, the question of “who and what” is Rotary hopefully has been answered somewhat. However, there is one more important Rotary measurement. The Four-Way Test is the cornerstone of all action. It has been for years, and it will be in the future.
The test is one of the hallmarks of Rotary. Since it was developed in 1932 by Herbert J. Taylor, who later became RI president, it has never ceased to be relevant. Its four brief questions are not based on culture or religion. Instead, they are a simple checklist for ethical behavior. They transcend generations and national borders.
Rotarians should consider The Four-Way Test in every decision they make, all day long. A Rotarian’s utmost responsibility is to speak the truth, to be fair, to build goodwill and better friendships, and to do the very best in all situations.
Eligibility to Join the Northeast Florida Club
Have a servant’s heart.
Reside in Florida.
Attend weekly meetings.
Participate in club service projects, social events, and collaborative projects.
Submit an application and $25.00 initiative fee for consideration.
Pay quarterly dues of $55 on a timely basis. (Jan-Mar, Apr-Jun, Jul- Sept, Oct-Dec)
Board of Directors
Sandra Hartley, President
Susan Soltys, Secretary
Eric Johnson, Treasurer
Ann Breidenstein, Foundation Chair
Patty Miniard, Membership Chair
Susan Armstrong, Public Image Chair