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i RotaRact hanDbook
Rotaract hanDbook i
ROTARACTHAndbOOk
About RotARyRotary International is a global community of committed professionals working
together to serve others and advance peace. More than 1.2 million members
in over 34,000 Rotary clubs worldwide volunteer in communities at home and
abroad.
About RotARActRotaract is a service club for young men and women ages 18 to 30 who are
dedicated to community and international service. Its membership totals over
184,000 in more than 8,000 clubs worldwide. Rotaract clubs are self-governing
and self-supporting and can be either university- or community-based.
Individual Rotary clubs sponsor Rotaract clubs and offer guidance and support,
making the Rotaract clubs true “partners in service” and key members of the
family of Rotary.
About this hAndbookThe Rotaract Handbook is designed to help young men and women, and the
Rotarians who support them, learn how to
• StartandorganizeaRotaractclub
• Identifyserviceprojectsandraisefundstosupportclubactivities
• Promoteclubsuccessesandattractpotentialmembers
• ConnectwithRotaractorsaroundtheworld
• WorkwithparticipantsinotherNewGenerationsprograms,suchas
RYLA and Interact
The information in this 2012 edition of the Rotaract Handbook is based on
theRotaryCodeofPoliciesandtheStandardRotaractClubConstitutionand
Bylaws.ChangestothosedocumentsbytheRIBoardofDirectorssupersedeany
references in this publication.
If you have questions or comments, submit them to:
NewGenerationsDepartment
Rotary International
OneRotaryCenter
1560ShermanAvenue
Evanston,IL60201-3698USA
Email: rotaract@rotary.org
Phone:+1-847-866-3315
Fax:+1-847-556-2182
contEnts
1 Get started: organizing a Rotaract club in three Easy steps 1Rotarians’ Role Rotaractors’ Role
2 set your course: club Administration 5 BoardofDirectors ClubCommittees DistrictLeadershipTraining ClubMeetings
Finding and Keeping Members
3 Make a difference: service Projects 13PlanServiceProjectsSecureFinancialSupportforProjectsPublicizeClubActivities
4 Reach out: Rotary club, district, and international support 18 SponsorRotaryClub Faculty Adviser RotaryDistrict Rotary International
5 Meetings and Events for Rotaractors 22DistrictMeetingsMultidistrict Meetings International Events
6 connecting: Global service network 24OtherRotaractClubsGlobalNetworkingGroupsOtherNewGenerationsProgramsandTheRotaryFoundation
7 Resources 26 RIPublications Online Resources RINews
8 documents, Forms, and Guidelines 29RotaractStatementofPolicyStandardRotaractClubConstitution StandardRotaractClubBylawsRotaractClubCertificationFormRotaractEmblemUsageGuidelinesRotaract Merchandise RotaractClubWebsiteGuidelines
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1. GEt stARtEd: oRGAnizinG A RotARAct club in
thREE EAsy stEPs
RotARiAns’ RolEDecidingtosponsoraRotaractclubisthebeginningofarewardingjourneyfor
your Rotary club. Follow these three steps to get started.
step 1: do your researchForm a Rotaract committee to determine if your club is interested in sponsoring
a Rotaract club, and if it is prepared for the responsibilities of becoming a
sponsor club. Also, review the needs of the community and its young adults.
Your district Rotaract chair and district Rotaract representative can offer advice
and suggestions.
step 2: identify potential RotaractorsPotentialmembersareallaroundyou!Brainstormwithyourclubtodevelopas
wideamembershippoolaspossible.Consider
• CurrentandformerRotaryYouthExchangestudents,Interactors,and
RYLA participants, and Rotary Foundation alumni
• Sons,daughters,andotherfamilymembersofRotarians
• EmployeesandinternswhoworkwithRotarians
• Participantsinyoungadultprogramsatcommunitycenters,placesof
worship, health clubs, and other public venues
• Studentsinuniversities,colleges,andcontinuingeducationprograms
• Membersofnonprofitorganizations,professionalassociations,andsocial
networking sites
For a university-based club, ask the person who has volunteered to be its faculty
adviser to suggest possible club members.
step 3: invite prospective members to an informational meetingAfteryou’veidentifiedatleast15potentialmembers,invitethemtoameeting
to learn more about Rotaract. In addition to prospective Rotaractors, you’ll want
to invite
• Rotaractcommitteemembers
• YoursponsorRotaryclubpresident
• DistrictRotaractchairanddistrictRotaractrepresentative
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• Facultyadviser(forauniversity-basedclub)
• Rotaractorsfromnearbyclubswhocansharetheirexperiencesand
answer questions
At the meeting:
• BrieflydiscussRotaryandRotaract’shistoryandsharedcommitmentto
service.
• DistributecopiesofRotary Basics and show a video from the RI website or
Rotary Video Magazine collections.
• ExplainRotaract’spoliciesandgoals.Describesuccessfulserviceprojects
toshowhowRotaractclubsmakeadifferencelocallyandglobally(see
chapter3).
• HighlighthowRotaractorscanworkonserviceprojectswithyoung
adults in other parts of the world.
• GetpotentialmembersexcitedaboutRotaractbyaskingthemtosuggest
clubprojects.
• DistributecopiesoftheRotaractPromotionalCard and encourage
prospectiveRotaractorstoinvitetheirfriendstojoin.
• Maketimeforquestions.
At the end of the meeting:
• Takeavotetoseeifyouhaveenoughinterestandcommitment
to establish a Rotaract club. A minimum of 15 charter members is
recommended.
• Setadateforthefirstorganizationalmeeting.
From here, the club’s progress is largely in the hands of the new Rotaractors,
but your guidance is still valuable. Read on to understand what happens in a
Rotaractclubaftertheinitialorganizingphase,andhowyouandyourRotary
club can help a new Rotaract club succeed.
subscribe to the new Generations newsletterRotaractors and Rotarians will benefit from subscribing to this
monthly newsletter. Learn about upcoming RYLa, Rotaract, and
Interact events and read about new Generations participants in the
news. Subscribe at www.rotary.org/newsletters.
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RotARActoRs’ RolEAftertheinitialorganizingphase,itisuptoyou,thenewRotaractors,tocomplete
theprocess.Herearethreeeasystepstohelpyoulaunchyourclub:
step 1: hold organizational meetingsBuildmomentumandkeepenthusiasmhighbyschedulingorganizational
meetings no more than two weeks apart. Use sign-in sheets to collect attendees’
names,phonenumbers,andemailaddresses.Socialmediacanhelpyourecruit
more participants. Encourage attendees to invite their friends and colleagues to
meetings.
BeforeseekingcertificationfromRotaryInternational,yourclubmust:
• Holdelectionsforpresident,vicepresident,secretary,treasurer,and
other members of the board
• Developamembershipplantoensurethatyourclubincludesmembers
of different ages and genders
• Establishannualclubdues
• Determinewhereandwhenmeetingswillbeheld.Clubsmustmeetat
least twice a month, but are free to consider a range of options, including
meetinginperson,online,oracombinationofthetwo.Selecttimesthat
are convenient for club members.
• Beginplanningserviceactivities,fundraisingevents,andtheinaugural
ceremony
• Helpmembersunderstandtheconstitutionaldocuments
step 2: complete organizational paperwork NowthatyourprospectiveRotaractclubhasastrongmembershipbase,you
canapplyforcertificationfromRI.WorkwithyoursponsorRotaryclubto
accomplish the following tasks:
• CompletetheRotaractClubCertificationForm
(seechapter8).
• HavetheformsignedbyyourRotaractclub
president, sponsor Rotary club president, and the
district governor.
• PaytheUS$50organizationfee(normallypaidby
thesponsorRotaryclub).
• SendtheformandfeetoRIWorldHeadquartersor
theappropriateinternationaloffice(seetheinside
backcoverofthehandbookforacompletelist).
Good to know before a prospective club
can be certified, it must
adopt the Standard Rotaract
club constitution and club
bylaws consistent with the
constitution and policy
established by RI
(see chapter 8). these
bylaws are subject to the
approval of the sponsor
Rotary club.
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OnceyourRotaractclubhasbeencertified,aprocessthattakesabout
fourweeks,thesponsorRotaryclubwillreceiveyourclub’sCertificateof
OrganizationfromRotaryInternational.
step 3: Plan an inaugural ceremonyCharteringaRotaractclubisameaningfulandexcitingevent.Workwithyour
sponsorRotaryclubtoorganizeaninauguralceremony.InviteRotarydistrict
leaders, such as the governor, Rotaract chair, and Rotaract representative. Ask
local media to cover the event to help promote your club in the community.
Inaugural ceremonies are rich in tradition. Learn how your sponsor Rotary club
celebrates its special occasions, and then develop a ceremony that blends Rotary
traditionsandthenewenergyofyourRotaractclub.Herearesomeotherideas
to consider for your ceremony:
• WelcomenewRotaractorsintothefamilyofRotary.
• BrieflyexplainRotaryanditsmission.
• ReviewthehistoryofRotaractandhowthenewclubwasformed.
• Inductmembersindividually,andannounceboardmembersandofficers.
• PresenteachmemberwithaRotaractlapelpin.(Formoreinformationon
howtoobtainlicensedRotaractmerchandise,seechapter8.)
• Takephotostocommemoratetheevent.
• Createaninauguralceremonyprogrambookthatlistsclubmembers.
what’s next?Congratulations!Asyoubeginplanningforyourfirstyear,remembertoseekout
the advice and help of your sponsoring Rotary club and refer to the resources
available through Rotary International.
Active members are the key to a successful club. A Rotaract club should provide
opportunities for networking, community and international service, professional
development,andsocializing.Makesureyourfirstyearinvolvesavarietyof
activitiesandprojectsforeveryone.
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2. sEt youR couRsE: club AdMinistRAtion
StrongleaderscanhelpyourRotaractclubfindandretainmembers,raise
funds,andcarryoutsuccessfulprojects.Theclub’sboardofdirectorsshouldbe
familiarwiththeRotaractconstitutionaldocuments(seechapter8).Inaddition,
incomingRotaractclubofficersmustparticipateinleadershiptrainingoffered
by the district.
boARd oF diREctoRsThe board of directors serves as the governing body of a Rotaract club and
includes the president, immediate past president, vice president, secretary,
treasurer,andanyadditionalofficersyourclubdecidesitneeds.Rotarianand
faculty advisers should regularly attend board meetings to provide guidance.
Rotary club members may also attend these meetings as observers. The board
should meet at least once a month and report any action taken at the next
club meeting.
Duringitsmeetings,theboardreviewsandapprovestheclub’splansandservice
projects,ensurestheclub’sfinancialsolvency,anddelegatesresponsibilities.
AttheendoftheRotaryyear,theboardpreparesafinalreportthatdescribesthe
majoractionstakenoverthepreceding12months.Acopyofthereportshould
be sent to the sponsor Rotary club.
update your club informationEvery six months, the Rotaract president is required to update club
information and membership data with RI through Member access
at www.rotary.org/memberaccess. this online process lets RI know
that your club is active, confirms that your contact information is
listed correctly in the Worldwide Rotaract Directory, and ensures
that your club is kept up-to-date about Rotaract, preconvention
activities, and resources.
clubs that fail to update club information and membership data over a
two-year period will be terminated.
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PresidentThe president’s primary role is to ensure that the club’s professional and
leadershipdevelopmentactivitiesaresuccessfulandthatitsserviceprojects
benefitthecommunity.
Responsibilities include:
• Conductingeffectiveclubmeetingswithdetailedagendasthatallow
enoughtimeforreportsfromofficersandcommitteemembers
• Chairingmeetingsoftheboardofdirectors
• Appointingallstandingandspecialcommittees,withboardapproval,
andservingasanexofficiomemberofallcommittees
• Appointingcommitteechairsbasedonindividuals’experience,and
seeking their opinions about committee members
• Delegatingresponsibilitiestohelpmembersdeveloptheirleadership
skills for future club leadership roles
• Encouragingclubmemberstogetinvolvedinprojectsbybuildingon
their skills and interests
• Ensuringthatclubactivitiesandserviceprojectsaresuccessfully
promoted and executed
• Monitoringmembershiptomaintainanageandgenderbalance
• CommunicatingandcollaboratingwiththeRotarianadviser,Rotaryclub
members,anddistrictRotaractofficers.Inuniversity-basedclubs,the
president should also consult with the faculty adviser.
• Updatingclubinformationandmembershipdataeverysixmonths
through Member Access
Vice presidentThevicepresident’sprimaryroleistosupportthepresident.Someclubsmay
choose to have the incoming president serve as vice president.
Responsibilities include:
• Presidingovermeetingsinthepresident’sabsence
• Servingontheboardofdirectorsandasanexofficiomemberofall
committees
• Handlingspecialassignmentsasdirectedbythepresident
• Stayingcurrentonclubgoalsandactivities
• Succeedingtotheofficeofpresidentintheeventofavacancy
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secretaryThesecretary’sprimaryresponsibilityistohelptheclubfunctionefficiently.
Thesecretaryshouldbewellorganizedandhavegoodcommunicationskills.
Responsibilities include:
• Maintainingallclubrecords,includingmembership,committee
appointments, attendance, dues payments, and important club
documentssuchastheclub’scertificateoforganization,budgets,and
reports
• NotifyingthesponsorRotaryclubofclubmemberswhoareturning30,
to help it identify potential Rotarians
• Providingclubandmemberinformationtothepresidentforregular
updates to RI
• Takingminutes—aclear,concisewrittenrecordofmeetingdiscussion
andactions—atallclubmeetings.Minutesshouldcoverthesepoints:
– Date,time,andplace
– Presidingofficer
– Attendance
– Approval and correction of last meeting’s minutes
– Treasurer’s statement
– Summaryofreportsfromofficersandcommittees
– Summaryofagenda(includingoldandnewbusiness)and
actions taken
– Announcements
– Adjournment
treasurerThetreasurerworkswiththesecretarytomaintainaccuratefinancialrecords.
The treasurer should be a responsible, detail-oriented person.
Responsibilities include:
• Chairingthefinancecommittee
• Collectingmembershipdues
• Depositingduesandallproceedsfromfundraisingprojects
• Payingallclubbillsandreimbursementsforclubexpenses
• Preparingandadministeringthebudget
• Preparingamonthlyreportthataccuratelydetails
– Money on hand at the beginning and end of the month
– Income,withitssource(suchasmembershipduesorfundraising)
clearly indicated
– Payments,indicatingforwhatandtowhom
• Ensuringthattheclubcomplieswithallgovernmentfinancialreporting
requirements
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The outgoing treasurer should give the end-of-year report to club members
and the incoming treasurer. Treasurers’ reports become part of the club’s
permanent record.
immediate past presidentYour club’s immediate past president can provide useful feedback and
perspectiveintheplanningofclubactivities.Heorshecanassistwithspecial
projectsandprovidesupportforboardandclubmembers.
club coMMittEEsCommitteeshelpyourclubcarryoutitsactivitiesandprojects.Theclub
president,withtheapprovaloftheboard,appointsfivestandingcommittees
—clubservice,communityservice,internationalservice,professional
development,andfinance—asprescribedbytheStandardRotaractClub
Constitution.Additionalcommitteesmaybeappointedasneeded.
Committeesshouldmeetatleastonceamonthtodiscussplansandactivities.
A committee may divide into subcommittees to accomplish all of its tasks.
Allcommitteeactivitiesandexpensesaresubjecttotheboard’sapproval,
so committee plans should be shared with the club president.
The committee chair should:
• Notifycommitteemembersofthedate,time,place,andsubject
of meetings
• Prepareandfollowmeetingagendas
• Assigntaskstoeachcommitteememberandkeeptrackofthese
assignments
• Bepreparedtoreportbacktotheclub’sboard
Followingaretheresponsibilitiesofthefivestandingcommittees:
club service committee• Developsstrategiesforrecruitingnewmembersandkeepingcurrent
members active
• Publicizestheclub’sactivitiestomembersandthegeneralpublic
• Plansactivitiesfornetworkingandsocializing
• Maintainsahistoricalrecord,includingpicturesanddescriptionsofclub
activities
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community service committee• Reviewssuggestionsfrommembersforcommunityserviceprojects
to ensure they address real needs and can be successfully carried out
by the club
• Developsplansfortheclub’sannualcommunityserviceproject
• Leads,organizes,andimplementsthecommunityserviceproject
international service committee• Reviewsmembers’suggestionsforinternationalserviceprojectsto
ensure they address real needs and can be successfully carried out
by the club
• Developsplansfortheclub’sannualinternationalserviceproject
• Leads,organizes,andimplementstheinternationalserviceproject
• Developsadditionalactivitiesthatpromoteinternationalunderstanding
among club members and in the community
Professional development committee• Solicitssuggestionsfromclubmembersforprofessionaldevelopment
activities
• Reviewsandplansactivities
• Exploresresourcesinthecommunity
• Leads,organizes,andimplementstheactivities
Finance committee• Decideshowtheclubwillfunditsactivities
• Focusesonkeepingdueslowandmaintainingtheclub’sability
to support itself
• Collectsanydistrictandclubdues
• Seeksin-kindandmonetarydonationsfrombusinessesand
organizations
distRict lEAdERshiP tRAininG The district Rotaract committee provides leadership
trainingannuallyforelectedclubofficers,committee
chairs, and Rotarian and faculty advisers. The sponsor
Rotary club typically covers the cost of attendance for
theRotaractclub’sofficers,butotherarrangementsmay
bemade.ContactyourdistrictRotaractchairorRotaract
representative for more information about training
opportunities.
Good to know Rotaract clubs may amend
the Standard Rotaract
club bylaws as long as the
changes are in harmony with
the Standard Rotaract club
constitution and approved
by the sponsor Rotary club.
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club MEEtinGsRotaract clubs must meet at least twice a month, but where and how are up to
youandyoursponsorRotaryclub.Withyoursponsorclub’sapproval,youcan
choose to meet in person, online, or whatever makes sense for your members.
Considerappointingameetingchairtoorganizeayear’sworthofprograms
or assign each meeting to a different member who serves as that meeting’s
organizerandfacilitator.Involvingyourmembersinplanningensuresthatclub
meetings are interesting and relevant to everyone. The sponsor Rotary club can
be a good source for program ideas.
Invite experts from the community or university, outstanding business leaders,
orinternationalgueststospeakatyourmeetings.Considertakingafieldtripto
localbusinesses,communityorganizations,orculturalsites.Useameetingto
updatemembersaboutclubprojectsornewRotaryinitiatives.
AgendaFollowing an agenda is the best way to ensure that time is used effectively.
Your meeting agenda might include:
1. Timeforsocializingbeforethemeeting
2. Introduction of guests and new club members
3. Announcements and reminders
4. Board member and committee reports
5. Programpresentation
6. Closing,includingathank-youtotheprogramspeakerand
other program participants
7. Adjournment
officer installationhold installation ceremonies annually to introduce new officers
and to recognize immediate past officers for their dedicated work.
consider presenting certificates of recognition to all club members.
Invite the incoming president and officers of the sponsor Rotary club
to this event so they can get acquainted with new Rotaract officers.
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FindinG And kEEPinG MEMbERsYour ability to bring in new members and retain current ones is critical to your
club’ssuccess.Setmembershipgoalsforallclubmembers.Herearesomeways
to maintain a strong, active club.
1. involve new membersUnderstandyourmembers’motivationsforjoiningRotaract.Dotheywantto
make the world a better place, develop their leadership skills, expand their circle
offriends?Connectmemberswithactivitiesandopportunitiesthathelpthem
achieve their personal goals while making the club stronger.
Someotherideas:
• Welcomeandcelebratenewmemberswithaspecialmeetingorevent.
• AskexperiencedRotaractorstomentornewmembersandmakethem
feel welcome.
• Followupbyphonewithnewmemberswhomissameeting.
Encourage new members to invite their friends and family members to
participateinclubactivitiesandserviceprojects.
2. keep current membersKeepingclubmembersisjustasimportantasrecruitingnewones.Witha
large number of enthusiastic, dedicated Rotaractors, your club can carry out
successfulserviceprojectsandattractnewmembers.Considertheseideasfor
involving current members:
• Assigncommitteeresponsibilitiestoveteranmemberstoacknowledge
their importance to the club.
• Recognizeclubmemberswhodedicateextratimetoserviceprojects.
• Maintainagoodageandgenderbalance.Differentpointsofviewmake
for more interesting meetings, help ensure the club’s continuity, and
contribute to a richer Rotaract experience for everyone.
• Getfeedbackfrommembersonthetypesofmeetings,activities,and
projectstheyenjoy,andplanaccordingly.
• Plansocialeventstobringmembersclosertogether.
• Monitorattendancetoensurethateveryoneattendsatleast60percent
of club meetings. Members with high attendance are the most likely to
stay involved.
• Keepmembersinformedthroughaclubnewsletter,blog,orsocial
networking site.
• HelpRotaractorsgetinvolvedwithInteract, Youth Exchange, or
RotaryYouthLeadershipAwards(RYLA) programs and other Rotary
opportunities in your area.
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3. bring in new membersThefirststeptobringinginnewmembersistogetthewordoutaboutyourclub.
Therearemanywaystopromoteyourclubanditsserviceprojects.
• Organizeaspecialeventwhereyoucan
– Explain the purpose of Rotaract and show photographs or a video
of your club’s activities
– HandouttheRotaractPromotionalCard
– Emphasizehowpotentialmemberscanaccomplishtheir
goalsthroughRotaract.Whethertheywanttogivebacktothe
community, connect with new friends, develop leadership skills,
orbeinvolvedwithaninternationalorganization,Rotaracthas
something for everyone.
• Publicizeyourclub’sactivitiesintheuniversitynewspaperorother
localmedia(seechapter3).
• Invitepotentialmemberstoparticipateinaserviceprojectorattenda
club meeting.
• Developaclubwebsiteorblogwhereprospectivememberscanlearn
aboutclubprojectsandhowtheycangetinvolved.Inuniversity-based
clubs, ask for a link to your club’s site on the university website
(seechapter8).
• UseTwitter,Facebook,andothersocialmediatoshareyourclub’s
meeting,event,andprojectupdates.
• ArrangeforRotaractdisplaysatlocallibraries,
coffee shops, community centers, and other
placeswhereyoungadultsgather.Provide
information about Rotaract and make it easy
foranyonewhoisinterestedtofindyourclub.
Include a QR code on signs and handouts that
link directly to your club’s website.
• EncourageclubmemberstoweartheirRotaract
lapel pins and other logo items at community
meetings and events.
RotARy club AdVicEYour sponsor Rotary club
knows the importance of
strong membership. ask
for advice and resources
on recruiting and retaining
members. check out Rotary
membership development
strategies and best practices.
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3. MAkE A diFFEREncE: sERVicE PRojEcts
Rotaractclubscarryouttwoserviceprojectseachyear,onethatassiststhelocal
communityandonethathelpsacommunityinanothercountry.Theseprojects
are a great way for Rotaract clubs to get involved in their own community,
connect with young adults globally, and attract new members.
PlAn sERVicE PRojEctsGainsupportforclubprojectsbychoosingserviceactivitiesthataddressreal
needs. Communities in Action: A Guide to Effective Projects can help your Rotaract
clubselectaserviceprojectthatissuccessful,sustainable,andrelevant.
Rotary’s Areas of Focus Guide has information on Rotary’s six community service
priorities:peaceandconflictprevention/resolution,diseasepreventionand
treatment, water and sanitation, maternal and child health, basic education and
literacy, and economic and community development.
Beforeyourclubdecidesonaproject,considerthesequestions:
• Whatservicesdoesyourlocalcommunityneed?Fortheinternational
community, which area of focus is most compelling for your club?
• HowcanyoucollaboratewithyoursponsorRotaryclub,anotherlocal
Rotaract club, an Interact club, or a Rotaract club in another country to
increase your impact?
• WhatdistrictRotaractprojectscanyourclubjoin?
• Whattypesofserviceprojectsfitwithinyourclub’sbudgetandabilities?
Selectaserviceprojectthatallowsyourclubmemberstoseeanimmediate
benefittothecommunitywhileprovidingopportunitiesforfutureservice.
YoucanfindinnovativeideasforserviceprojectsontheRIwebsite.
international service projectsSomeofthemostrewardingprojectsarethoseconductedwithRotaractclubs
in other countries. Use the Worldwide Rotaract Directory to connect with another
club.Sendphotos,conductmeetingsoverthephoneorthroughSkype,or
exchange emails. Look for Rotaract clubs on Facebook and Twitter. Attend an
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internationalevent,suchastheRotaractPreconventionMeetingortheInterota
conference, to meet Rotaractors from around the world and explore ideas for an
internationalproject.
Rotaract outstanding Project AwardsEach year, Rotary recognizes seven Rotaract clubs for their
exceptional community and international service projects. award
recipients are invited to present their projects at the annual Rotaract
Preconvention Meeting. Learn how your club can submit its project
for consideration at www.rotary.org/rotaract.
Resources for planning service projects• Communities in Action: A Guide to Effective Projects offers step-by-step
instructionstodevelop,carryout,andevaluateaserviceproject,
including how to conduct a community needs assessment, work with
otherorganizations,andcreateafundraisingplan.
• Community Assessment Tools describes eight tools to identify effective
serviceprojects.
• Rotary’s Areas of Focus Guide provides an introduction to Rotary’s six
areasoffocus,withexamplesofserviceprojectsforeach.Theareasof
focusreflectcriticalhumanitarianissuesandneedsthatRotariansare
addressing worldwide.
• Rotary Showcase allowsuserstoaddtheirclubserviceprojects,
exchange ideas, and explore the wide variety of activities that Rotary and
Rotaract clubs are undertaking worldwide.
• Thedistrict Rotaract chair is a Rotarian who oversees Rotaract clubs
throughout the district and offers guidance and ideas. Ask your sponsor
Rotary club for contact information.
• TheannualWorldwide Rotaract Directory includes contact information
submitted by Rotaract clubs seeking to collaborate, correspond, or
exchangeideaswithotherclubs.ItalsocontainsdistrictRotaractofficer
informationandalistofRIBoard-recognizedmultidistrictinformation
organizations.ContactyourRotaractclubpresidentforthelatestedition.
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world Rotaract weekDuring World Rotaract Week, Rotaractors and Rotarians around
the world commemorate the chartering of the first Rotaract club.
the celebration, which takes place the week that includes 13 March,
is an ideal time for Rotaract clubs and their sponsors to carry out
joint activities and promote Rotaract clubs’ contributions to their
communities.
Rotaractors can decide the best way for their club to celebrate —
completing one, two, or an entire week’s worth of activities. after
the club has completed its World Rotaract Week events, the sponsor
Rotary club or district Rotaract chair can download a certificate of
recognition for presentation to the Rotaract club from www.rotary.org.
sEcuRE FinAnciAl suPPoRt FoR PRojEctsFundraisingiscrucialtofinancingclubserviceprojectsandotheractivities.
ExamplesofsuccessfulRotaractfundraisersincludedinners,festivals,raffles,
sportingevents,races,andbenefitperformances.
Whenputtingtogetherafundraiser,considerthesesuggestions:
• Becreative.Auniqueorunusualeventwillattracttheattentionof
potential club members, donors, and the media.
• Havearealisticideaofthefinancialsupportneeded,andsetrealistic
fundraisinggoals.Someprojectsmaybeexpensivetoconductbutcould
generate more than enough donations to cover the costs.
• Whenaskingformoneyfromindividuals,businesses,ororganizations,
offer something of value in return, either a service or recognition.
• Takeadvantageofyourmembers’skills,talents,andcontacts.
• Invitethemediatoattend(seetipsinthenextsection).
• AskthesponsorRotarycluborotherRotaractclubsforsuggestions.
A fundraiser that succeeded elsewhere could also succeed in your
community.
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PublicizE club ActiVitiEsYourclubanditsprojectswillreceivemoresupportifthecommunityknows
about them. A good image in the community can also help your club recruit new
members and contribute to a positive impression of Rotaract and Rotary.
Herearesomewaystoensurethatyourgoodworksreceivetheattention
they deserve:
• Appointapublicrelationscontactwhocangettoknowyourlocalmedia.
The public relations committee of your sponsor Rotary club may be able
to provide a list of local media contacts.
• PublicizeclubactivitiesonFacebook,Twitter,andothersocialmedia.
• Selectanactiveclubmemberandgoodcommunicatortoserveasyour
club’s spokesperson to the media.
• Informthemediaoftherealcommunityneedsyourserviceprojects
address.Providereporterswithbackgroundmaterialsonyourproject
and club, such as fact sheets or brochures. Also, identify community
memberswhohavebenefitedfromyourclub’sprojects.
• Photographclubevents(seeboxonpage17).
• Aftertheevent,sendphotosandashort,cleardescriptionoftheeventto
the media.
Find more ideas and resources, including sample press releases and tips for
working with the media, on www.rotary.org.
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how to Get your Photographs PublishedPhotographs are a great way to publicize your club and its activities.
here are some ways to make sure your club’s work gets noticed:
1. Make photography a key element of your public relations
efforts.
2. Find a photographer with the creative skill and technical
training to take high-quality photos.
– budget for a professional photographer who works with
community volunteers.
– Identify a Rotaractor or Rotarian with photography skills
to take on that important volunteer responsibility.
– ask for in-kind support from your university’s
photography club.
3. Show club members actively involved in a project or event.
avoid posed group shots.
4. take “before” and “after” shots at a service project location.
capture the gratitude expressed in the faces of the people
who benefit from your club’s work.
5. Include the Rotaract club name and Rotaract emblem in your
photos.
6. Post photos to your Facebook page. add them to your
club’s presentation for potential members. Send them to
your university newspaper or to a local blog with a caption
about how your Rotaract club is making a difference.
to publicize in your district and beyond, submit photos and project
information to:
• DistrictRotaractchairandrepresentative
• Districtgovernor
• RotaryInternational(rotaract@rotary.org)
high-resolution digital images are preferred, but all photos are
welcome. the following information must be included: name of the
Rotaract club, sponsoring club, and district number with each photo,
as well as the names and club offices of Rotaractors pictured.
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4. REAch out: RotARy club, distRict, And
intERnAtionAl suPPoRt
The support and guidance of the sponsor Rotary club, Rotary district, and Rotary
International are important to a Rotaract club’s success.
sPonsoR RotARy clubRotary clubs are encouraged to create a lasting bond with Rotaract clubs in
these ways:
• InviteRotaractorstoRotaryclubmeetingsandhavethemreportontheir
activities.
• ProvidementoringopportunitiesbetweenRotariansandRotaractors.
• DevelopanannualjointRotaryandRotaractserviceprojectorsignature
eventforWorldRotaractWeek.
• ShowRotaractorshowtoproduceclubpromotionalmaterials.
• HelpRotaractclubsdevelopstrategiestorecruitandretainmembers.
• EstablisharecognitionprogramtoacknowledgeRotaractors’
achievements.
• PublicizeRotaractors’accomplishmentstothecommunityandthe
Rotary world.
• InformRotaractorsofotherRotaryInternationalor
Rotary Foundation programs available to them.
• AskRotaractclubofficerstomeetwiththedistrict
governorduringthegovernor’sofficialRotaryclub
visit.
• InviteRotaractorstodistrictconferencesto
showcase club activities and to network with
Rotarians.
• InviteRotaractorstoobserveaRotaryclub
board meeting.
Rotarian adviserThe Rotarian adviser is the link between the sponsor
Rotary club and its Rotaract club. To stay informed of the
club’s activities, the adviser should attend the Rotaract
club’s meetings and stay in regular contact with Rotaract
clubofficers.
how cAn RotARActoRs MEntoR RotARiAns?• Sharesuccessful
fundraising projects.
• Offersocialnetworking
support to help Rotary
clubs promote their
service projects and
signature events.
• Hostdiscussionforums
about club diversity, global
citizenship, or innovative
service projects.
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Other responsibilities:
• OfferadvicetoRotaractorsastheyplanclubactivitiesandserviceprojects.
• ActasaliaisonbetweentheRotaryclubandtheRotaractors,andbetween
the Rotary club and the faculty adviser for university-based clubs.
• IntroduceRotaractorstootherNewGenerationsprograms,likeRYLA
and Interact, as well as educational opportunities available through
The Rotary Foundation.
• EncourageRotaractorstoattendRotaryeventssuchasdistrict
conferences,theRotaractPreconventionMeeting,andtheRIConvention.
• EncourageformerRotaractorstojoinRotary.
FAculty AdVisER (university-based clubs)the faculty adviser, usually a faculty member at a Rotaract club’s
university, oversees the activities of the university-based Rotaract
club and acts as a liaison between the sponsor Rotary club and
university administration. Patience, organizational skills, and a
commitment to working with young adults are essential qualities
of effective faculty advisers. While a non-Rotarian may serve in this
role, a Rotarian who works at the university can be an ideal choice.
Suggested responsibilities:
• Regularlyattendingclubmeetings
• Advisingtheclubonimplementingserviceprojects,
especially ones on campus or related to service learning
courses
• MaintainingacalendarofRotaracteventstoavoidconflicts
with other university activities
• Assistingwithpromotionandmediarelationsinthe
community
• VerifyingthattheRotaractclubanditsmembersmeetthe
university’s extracurricular and academic requirements
• ActingasaliaisonbetweenthesponsorRotaryclubandthe
university faculty and administration
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RotARy distRictARotarydistrictisagroupofRotaryclubsinaspecificareaorregion.Thereare
about 530 districts worldwide.
district governorEach Rotary district is led by a district governor, an elected Rotarian who serves
asanofficerofRotaryInternational.ThegovernorappointsthedistrictRotaract
chairtosupporttheorganizationanddevelopmentofRotaractclubs.
district Rotaract chair The district Rotaract chair administers the Rotaract
program and assists Rotary clubs that sponsor Rotaract
clubs. Each Rotary year, the district Rotaract chair
receives materials from RI to help strengthen the Rotaract
programinhisorherarea.DistrictRotaractchairshelp
RI maintain an accurate record of Rotaract clubs. They
regularly reconcile their district’s list of Rotaract clubs with
RI’s records and follow up with Rotaract club presidents in
their district to ensure that club contact and membership
information is updated with RI every six months.
district Rotaract representative A district Rotaract representative should be elected from
among the membership of all Rotaract clubs within
the district to serve as cochair of the district Rotaract
committee and as a representative of the Rotaract
program in the district. Under the supervision of the
district governor, this representative works to improve
communication among Rotaract clubs and to help them coordinate activities and
projectswithoneanotherandwiththeirsponsorRotaryclubs.
district Rotaract committeeThe district Rotaract committee, cochaired by the district Rotaract chair and
district Rotaract representative, is composed of equal numbers of Rotarians and
Rotaractors. The committee sponsors Rotaract district meetings and provides
leadershiptrainingforRotaractclubofficers.ItalsohelpstopublicizeRotaract
throughoutthedistrict,promotestheorganizationofnewRotaractclubs,plans
districtwideprojectsandactivities,andrecommendsresourcestostrengthen
clubs and increase their effectiveness.
DetailedinformationontheroleandresponsibilitiesofthedistrictRotaract
chair, district Rotaract representative, and Rotaractors on the district Rotaract
committee can be found in the Guide for District Rotaract Representatives, available
for download at www.rotaract.org/rotaract.
how cAn RotARiAns MEntoR RotARActoRs?• PairaRotarianwitha
Rotaractor in the same
profession or field to
share career insights.
• Sharemembership
recruitment and retention
ideas, plan service
projects, and raise funds.
• AcknowledgeRotaractors
who graduate from
college or receive
professional recognition.
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RotARy intERnAtionAl TheRIBoardofDirectorssetspoliciesgoverningtheRotaractprogram.These
policiesarecompiledintheStandardRotaractClubConstitution,theStandard
RotaractClubBylaws,andtheRotaractStatementofPolicy(seechapter8).
For current policy or questions about policy, see www.rotary.org/rotaract or
contact rotaract@rotary.org.
Ri Rotaract and interact committeeThis is a standing committee of experienced Rotarians and Rotaractors that
advises the RI Board on Rotaract and Interact and develops the program
fortheRotaractPreconventionMeeting.Thecommitteeconsiderspolicy
recommendations and makes proposals to the Board in support of Rotaract. The
list of current committee members can be found in the RI Official Directory, the
Worldwide Rotaract Directory, and at www.rotary.org/rotaract. Rotaract clubs can
submit suggestions for policy changes to this committee.
In addition to setting Rotaract policy, Rotary International provides support
to Rotaract clubs by certifying new clubs; maintaining the Worldwide Rotaract
Directory; distributing annual communications to Rotaract clubs, sponsor Rotary
clubs, district Rotaract representatives, and district Rotaract committee chairs;
andpromotingWorldRotaractWeek.Clubsreceivethesematerialsbykeeping
their contact information current.
RI is committed to supporting Rotaract. You can email Rotaract program staff at
rotaract@rotary.org(seeinsidebackcoverforothercontactinformation).
LearnmoreaboutRIresourcesinchapter7.
liability and Risk ManagementRisk management involves identifying situations and factors that may harm
peopleandproperty,andimplementingsolutionstominimizeoravoid
risk. Before any Rotaract club activity, evaluate potential risks and develop
coordinated plans to address them. University-based clubs should coordinate
any risk management plan with university administration. The sponsor Rotary
club’s Rotaract committee should assess Rotaract-related liability issues and
obtain appropriate insurance. It’s advisable to seek the advice of legal and
insurancecounselregardingliabilityprotection.NotethatRotaractclubsin
theUnitedStatesarecoveredunderRotary’sliabilityinsuranceprogram,
whileRotaractclubsoutsidetheUnitedStatesarenot.
Sendinsurance-relatedinquiriestoinsurance@rotary.org.
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5. MEEtinGs And EVEnts FoR RotARActoRs
Districtandinternationalmeetingsandeventsofferopportunitiestomake
connections and share information.
district MeetingsRotaract district meetings give Rotaractors a chance to exchange information
andideas,discussserviceprojects,enhanceprofessionaldevelopment,and
strengthen the spirit of teamwork and friendship. For more information on
planning a district-level meeting, including a sample program, see the Guide for
District Rotaract Representatives.
Multidistrict MeetingsMultidistrict meetings are conferences, seminars, or meetings at which Rotaract
clubs from several districts come together to discuss important issues. The host
district Rotaract representative must provide to the governors of the districts
involved a copy of the meeting proposal, which includes the date, location,
facilities, participants, program, budget, and proof of adequate insurance.
The host governor must approve any multidistrict meetings. The host district
RotaractrepresentativeshouldinformtheRIdirectorfromthehostzone.
Rotaract Preconvention Meeting Attending this international Rotaract meeting can help you strengthen your
Rotaractclub,learnaboutoutstandingRotaractserviceprojects,andbuild
lasting friendships with Rotaractors from around the world. At this annual
meeting, participants have the opportunity to discuss a wide range of Rotaract
topicsinworkshopsandhearengagingspeakers.Specialsessionsareoffered
for Rotaract club presidents and district Rotaract representatives.
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Ri convention Rotaractorsareencouragedtoparticipateinthefour-dayRIConvention
immediately after the preconvention meeting. Rotaractors are invited to take
partinspecialforums,workshops,projectexhibitions,andplenarysessions.
The convention gives Rotaractors a broader understanding of Rotary’s
international scope and service, as well as a better understanding of how
RotaractfitsintothefamilyofRotary.Moreinformationforbotheventscan
be found at www.rotary.org/convention.
interotaInterotaisatriennialworldwideRotaractmeetingorganizedbyRotaractors
andhostedonarotatingbasisindifferentcities.WhileitisnotanofficialRI
meeting,RotaryrecognizesthevalueofthiseventandsupportsInterotaby
approving its program content and ensuring that RI leadership is represented at
the event. The meeting offers workshops, discussions, and interesting speakers
aswellasculturalactivities.Delegatesalsopresentproposalsforthenext
Interota, and participants vote to select the next meeting site.
Before making a bid to host an Interota meeting, Rotaractors must obtain
approvalfromthehostdistrictgovernor(s).Afterasiteisselected,thehost
district Rotaract representative must submit a complete proposal to Rotary
International at least one year prior to the date of the event.
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6. connEctinG:GlobAl sERVicE nEtwoRk
Rotaractors have a unique opportunity to learn about other cultures and foster
goodwill through the global family of Rotaract and Rotary.
other Rotaract clubsRotaractors may use the Worldwide Rotaract Directory to establish regular
communication with other clubs through email, letters, and social media to
learnabouttheiractivities,projects,andculturaltraditions.
A twin-club relationship can be arranged with a Rotaract club in another
country. Twin clubs communicate regularly, arrange visits or exchanges, share
projectideas,andcooperateoncommunityorinternationalserviceprojects.
Considerchoosingatwinclubfromyourcity’ssistercityoraplacewhereyour
university has a study-abroad opportunity.
As Rotaractors travel for study, work, or pleasure, staying with local Rotaractors
can build international friendships and foster a better understanding of other
cultures.ContactanotherclubtoseeifitcanhostvisitingRotaractors.
Multidistrict information organizationsa multidistrict information organization (MDIo) may be formed
between two or more districts to help Rotaract clubs share
information and improve communication. Rotaract representatives
of the member districts comprise an MDIo’s membership. approval
for such organizations must be secured from two-thirds of the
Rotaract clubs in each district as well as the governors and Rotaract
representatives of the districts involved. the RI general secretary
must approve proposals on behalf of the RI board.
MDIos have no decision-making or legislative powers beyond those
concerning the activities of the organization itself. Funds needed to
implement a multidistrict organization’s activities must be secured
voluntarily.
Refer to the Worldwide Rotaract Directory for a list of MDIos.
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Rotary FellowshipsRotary Fellowships are groups of Rotarians and Rotaractors who share a
commonrecreationalinterestorhobby—everythingfromcyclingtosocial
networking, from the environment to marathon running.
Rotarian Action GroupsRotarianActionGroupsareorganizedbyRotariansandRotaractorswith
expertiseandaparticularinterestininternationalserviceprojectsinvolving
suchareasaswaterandsanitationorHIV/AIDS.
MoreinformationandwebsitesofGlobalNetworkingGroupsareavailableat
www.rotary.org/fellowships and www.rotary.org/actiongroups.
Rotary youth leadership Awards (RylA)RYLA, which is sponsored by Rotary clubs and districts, allows young people
to attend a training workshop that focuses on leadership, professional
development, and personal growth. Rotaractors may be either program
participantsorleaders.ContactyourlocalRotarycluboremailryla@rotary.org to
findtheRYLAchairinyourarea.
interact InteractisaRotary-sponsoredserviceorganizationforyouthages12to18.
LikeRotaractors,Interactorscarryoutlocalandinternationalserviceprojects
inpartnershipwiththeirsponsorRotaryclub.Rotaractorscanconductprojects
withInteractclubsormentorInteractorsintheircommunities.Contactyourlocal
Rotary club or email interact@rotary.orgtofindtheInteractchairinyourarea.
new Generations ExchangesNewGenerationsExchanges(partoftheRotaryYouthExchangeprogram)are
open to students and young professionals ages 18 to 25, and usually last from a
few weeks to three months, making this a suitable option for recent secondary
schoolgraduates,youngprofessionals,andRotaractors.Contactyoursponsor
Rotary club or email youthexchange@rotary.orgtofindtheYouthExchangechair
in your area.
the Rotary Foundation The Rotary Foundation offers university students and young professionals
the opportunity to foster peace and understanding through funded grants
thatenablethemtoearnmaster’sdegreesorcertificatesinpeaceandconflict
resolution.TheFoundationalsofundsgrantsforhumanitarianprojects,
scholarships, and other activities related to Rotary’s six areas of focus.
Learn more at www.rotary.org/foundation.
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7. REsouRcEs
Ri PublicAtions
Rotaract Promotion card This promotional item provides information about Rotaract activities to
potentialmembers.Includesspaceforyourclubtopersonalizewithcontact
information and your meeting time and date.
Guide for District Rotaract Representatives (download only)This training tool is designed to provide representatives useful suggestions
and resources.
Rotaract identification cardNewlycharteredclubsreceiveasmallcomplimentarysupplyofthese
wallet-sizeIDcardsforclubmembers.Additionalcardsmaybepurchased
at shop.rotary.org.
Many publications can be downloaded at www.rotary.org or
ordered at shop.rotary.org. You can also order publications at
shop.rotary@rotary.org or from your international office.
onlinE REsouRcEs
new Generations newsletterGetthelatestRotaract,Interact,andRYLAnewsinthismonthlyEnglish-language
newsletter that provides resources to help Rotary clubs enhance their programs
foryouthsandyoungadults.Subscribeatwww.rotary.org/newsletters.
social mediaUseFacebook,Flickr,andTwittertogetintouchwithotherRotaractors,find
projectpartners,andsharephotosandstoriesofyourclub’saccomplishments.
27 RotaRact hanDbook
Ri nEws
The RotarianThismonthly,English-languagepublicationistheofficialmagazineofRotary
International. Every Rotarian subscribes either to The Rotarian or to one of the
30regionalRotarymagazinespublishedin25languages.Rotaractorsandclub
advisers can subscribe to The Rotarian(data@rotary.orgor+1-847-866-3174).
Adigitaleditionofthemagazine is also available at www.rotary.org/rotarian.
Rotary LeaderRotary Leader is a free, multimedia newsletter featuring practical information
andlinksforclubanddistrictofficers.Rotaractorsareencouragedtosubscribe
at www.rotary.org/rotaryleader.
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8. docuMEnts, FoRMs, And GuidElinEs
The following materials and information can help you operate your Rotaract
club.Pagesmaybephotocopied,andphotocopiesmayserveasvaliddocuments.
These materials are also available at www.rotary.org/rotaract.
• RotaractStatementofPolicy
• StandardRotaractClubConstitution
• StandardRotaractClubBylaws
• RotaractClubCertificationForm
• RotaractEmblemUsageGuidelines
• RotaractMerchandise
• RotaractClubWebsiteGuidelines
30 RotaRact hanDbook
RotARAct stAtEMEnt oF Policy
1. The Rotaract program was created by and is an activity of Rotary International, and the
authorityfortheestablishmentandenforcementofconstitutionalprovisions,organizational
requirements and standards of procedure, and for the preservation of the Rotaract name and
emblem is retained by Rotary International.
2. ARotaractclubisaRotaryclub-sponsoredorganizationofyoungadultsages18to30,whose
purpose is to provide opportunity for them to enhance the knowledge and skills that will assist
them in personal development, to address the physical and social needs of their communities,
and to promote better relations between all people worldwide through a framework of
friendship and service, and whose goals are:
a) Todevelopprofessionalandleadershipskills;
b) Toemphasizerespectfortherightsofothers,andtopromoteethicalstandardsandthe
dignity of all useful occupations;
c) Toprovideopportunitiesforyoungpeopletoaddresstheneedsandconcernsofthe
community and our world;
d) ToprovideopportunitiesforworkingincooperationwithsponsorRotaryclubs;
e) TomotivateyoungpeopleforeventualmembershipinRotary.
3. Rotaract club programming shall consist of professional development, leadership development,
andserviceprogramdevelopmentasoutlinedinthe“StandardRotaractClubConstitution.”
4. ARotaractclubisorganized,sponsored,andcounseledbyaRotarycluborclubsandis
establishedfollowingtheendorsementofthegovernoranduponcertificationandrecognition
by Rotary International; it can be created and sustained in no other way, and its existence
depends upon the active sponsorship of its sponsor Rotary club and continued recognition by
Rotary International.
5. Rotaract clubs are strongly encouraged to mention after their own names “sponsored by the
RotaryClubof(name).”
6. WithintheframeworkestablishedbyRotaryInternational,thesponsorRotaryclubis
responsiblefororganizingtheRotaractclubandprovidingitwithguidanceandcounsel
thereafter.
7. RotaryclubsshouldappointRotarianmentorstotheRotaractorsintheRotaractclubsthey
sponsor.
8. WheretheRotaractclubisuniversity-based,controlandcounselbythesponsorRotaryclub
shall be exercised in full cooperation with the university authorities, with the understanding
thatsuchclubsaresubjecttothesameregulationsandpoliciesestablishedbytheuniversity
authoritiesforallstudentorganizationsandextracurricularactivitiesoftheuniversity
(orotherinstitutionofhighereducation.)
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9. AllRotaractclubactivities,projectsandprogramsshallbeconductedinharmonywiththe
policies of Rotary International; continued sponsorship of a Rotaract club by a Rotary club and
recognition of it by RI are contingent thereon.
10. Thereshallbea“StandardRotaractClubConstitution”prescribedbyRotaryInternationaland
subjecttoamendmentonlybytheBoardofDirectorsofRotaryInternational.Asaprerequisite
ofitsorganizationandcertification,eachRotaractclubshalladoptthe“StandardRotaractClub
Constitution”andshallautomaticallyadoptallamendmentstheretosubsequentlymade.
11. EachRotaractclubshalladoptbylawsnotinconsistentwiththe“StandardRotaractClub
Constitution”andwithpolicyestablishedbyRotaryInternational.Suchbylawsshallbesubject
to the approval of the sponsor Rotary club.
12. Rotaract clubs shall be sponsored only by Rotary clubs within the boundaries of the district in
which they are located.
13. ARotaractclubmaybeorganizedandsponsoredjointlybymorethanoneRotaryclubunder
the following conditions:
a) Thegovernormustapprove,inwritingthat,inthegovernor’sconsideredjudgment,the
best interests of the district, the Rotary clubs concerned and the Rotaract program would
beservedbytheproposedjointsponsorship.
b) ThecircumstancesmustbesuchthattheorganizationofseparateRotaractclubs,each
sponsoredbyasingleRotaryclub,wouldcreateanartificialdivisionofwhatisessentially
a single body of young adults within the community or university.
c) AjointRotaractcommitteemustbecreatedwitheffectiverepresentationfromeachof
the sponsor Rotary clubs.
14. Each member of a Rotaract club, agrees to accept and to adhere to the provisions of the
constitution and bylaws of his or her Rotaract club.
15. Rotaractors may make-up Rotaract club attendance at meetings of Rotary clubs at the
discretion of the individual Rotary club. Rotary clubs that sponsor Rotaract clubs should invite
Rotaractors to make up absences from their regularly scheduled Rotaract club meetings to their
regularly scheduled Rotary club meetings.
16. On 30 June of the Rotaract year in which a member becomes 30 years old, his or her Rotaract
membership will end.
17. MembershipinaRotaractclubshallbeevidencedbyRotaractmembershipidentificationcards
that include the name of the sponsor Rotary club.
18. The Rotaract name and emblem are the property of Rotary International and shall be preserved
fortheexclusiveuseofthoseinvolvedintheRotaractprogram.Whendisplayedbyindividual
clubmembers,theemblemsmaybeusedwithoutfurtherinformation.Whentheemblemis
usedtorepresentaclub,thenameoftheclubshouldappearwiththeemblem.WhereaRotary
districtexists,itmayusetherespectiveemblembutonlyinconjunctionwithreferencetothe
district and its number.
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19. Rotaract club members shall be entitled to use and display the Rotaract name and emblem in
anappropriateanddignifiedmannerduringtheirperiodofmembershipinaRotaractcluband
shall relinquish such entitlement upon termination of membership in a Rotaract club or upon
the termination of the Rotaract club.
20. A Rotaract club may be terminated:
a) ByRotaryInternational,withorwithouttheconsent,approvalorconcurrenceofthe
sponsor Rotary club, for failure to function in accordance with its constitution, or for
other cause.
b) ByitssponsorRotaryclub,afterconsultationwiththegovernorandthedistrictRotaract
representative, or
c) BytheRotaractclubitselfuponitsowndetermination.
21. Upon termination of a Rotaract club, all rights and privileges relating to the name and emblem
shall be relinquished by the club and by its members individually and collectively. The Rotaract
clubshallrelinquishallfinancialassetstothesponsorRotaryclub.
22. Asamatterofpolicy,theBoarddoesnotrecognizetherightofanyindividualororganization
exceptRItocircularizeRotaractclubsforanycommercialpurpose,exceptinthecaseof
RotaractorswhoareresponsiblefororganizingRotaractclub,districtandmultidistrict
meetings and only within the districts directly involved.
23. GovernorsshouldappointonejointdistrictRotaractcommitteecomposedofequalnumbersof
RotariansandRotaractors.ThedistrictRotaractcommitteechair(aRotarian)andthedistrict
Rotaractrepresentative(aRotaractor)shouldserveasco-chairsofthiscommittee.Where
feasible and practicable in the appointment of district Rotaract committees, there should be
provision for continuity of membership by appointing one or more members for a second term.
ThedistrictRotaractcommitteeshouldassistthegovernorinpublicizingtheRotaractprogram,
promotingtheorganizationofnewRotaractclubs,andadministeringtheprogramofRotaract
within the district.
24. Rotaractorganizationbeyondtheclublevel:
a) AdistrictwithtwoormoreRotaractclubsmustelectadistrictRotaractrepresentative
from among their membership. The method of election shall be determined by the
Rotaract membership and approved by the district Rotaract committee and district
governor. The district Rotaract representative must have served as a Rotaract club
president or as a member of the district Rotaract committee for one full term before
takingoffice.
b) InadistrictwithoneRotaractclub,thedistrictRotaractrepresentativeshallbethemost
recent, available past Rotaract club president.
c) ThedistrictRotaractrepresentativewillbeguidedandcounseledbytheRotarygovernor
and should work with the district Rotaract committee and other appropriate Rotary
district committees.
d) ThedistrictRotaractrepresentativeinconjunctionwithotherdistrictleaders,should:
1) DevelopanddistributeadistrictRotaractnewsletter;
2) Plan,arrange,andholdadistrictRotaractconference;
3) EncourageattendanceandparticipationbyRotaractclubofficers,directors,and
committee chairs at the Rotary district conference and all relevant district level
training meetings;
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4) ConductRotaractpromotionandextensionactivitiesthroughoutthedistrict;
5) Planandimplementserviceactivities(ifapprovedbythree-fourthsoftheRotaract
clubsinthedistrict);
6) ProvideadviceandsupporttoRotaractclubsinimplementingtheirprojects;
7) HelpcoordinatejointRotary-Rotaractactivitiesinthedistrict;
8) CoordinatepublicrelationsactivitiesforRotaractatthedistrictlevel;
9) PlanandimplementatrainingsessionforRotaractclubofficersinthedistrict.
e) Allelectiondisputesshouldberesolvedlocallyinconsultationwiththedistrictgovernor
and district Rotaract chair. RI will not intervene.
25. Rotaract meetings beyond the club level:
a) Thepurposeofthedistrict-widemeetingofRotaractclubsistopromotecommunity
serviceprojects,increaseinternationalunderstandingandenhanceprofessional
development in a context of friendship and camaraderie.
b) NomeetingofmembersofRotaractclubsbeyondtheclublevelshallhaveanylegislative
authoritynorshallbesoorganizedastogivetheappearanceofhavingsuchauthority.
Nevertheless,suchameetingmayincludeideaswhichmightbeofvalueasadvisory
observations to those involved at the district or other levels of Rotaract administration.
c) AtadistrictRotaractmeeting,athree-fourthsmajorityoftheRotaractclubsinadistrict
mayvotetoundertakeadistrictserviceprojectandtoestablishadistrictRotaractservice
fundtoraisefundsforthisproject.Contributionstosuchafundmustbevoluntary.Such
aprojectandservicefundmustbeapprovedbythegovernor,andspecificplansand
instructionsfortheadministrationofthedistrictprojectanduseofthefundmustalso
have the approval of the governor and three-fourths of the Rotaract clubs in the district.
The governor must appoint a district fund committee to be responsible for collecting
and administering the district fund, such committee to be composed of at least one
Rotaractor and one Rotarian from the district Rotaract committee. The district service
fund must be kept in a bank account which clearly indicates that the fund is the property
ofthedistrictRotaractorganizationandnotthepersonalpropertyofanyindividual
Rotaractor or Rotaract club.
d) AlldistrictRotaractactivitiesshallbefinancedbytheRotaractclubsinthedistrict.No
expenses of district Rotaract club meetings shall be paid by Rotary International. The cost
ofsuchmeetingsshallbeminimalandwithinthefinancialmeansofthoseparticipating.
26. Rotaract activities beyond the district level
a) RotaractMultidistrictServiceProjects.Rotaract-sponsoredserviceprojectsinvolvingclubs
intwoormoredistrictsmaybeimplementedprovidedthatsuchprojects
1) are,innatureandscope,withinthecapabilityoftheclubsandRotaractorsinthe
districts to undertake successfully without interfering with or detracting from the
scope and effectiveness of club activities;
2) shallnotbeundertakeninitiallyunlesseachdistrictRotaractrepresentative
concernedhasagreedtosuchajointprojectandthen,onlyafterapprovalof
two-thirds of the clubs in each district;
3) shallbeundertakenwiththeapprovalofthegovernorsconcerned;
4) shallbeunderthedirectsupervisionofthedistrictRotaractrepresentatives
concerned;thecustodyofallfundscontributedorcollectedforsuchprojectsshall
be the responsibility of the district representatives concerned, through a committee
of Rotaractors from within the districts involved, who may be appointed to assist in
administeringanysuchprojectandrelatedfunds;
34 RotaRact hanDbook
5) shallbeundertakenonlyafterthedistrictRotaractrepresentativeshavejointly
securedinadvancetheauthorizationofthegeneralsecretary,actingonbehalfof
theBoard,toundertaketheproject;
6) shallinvolvetheparticipationbyRotaractclubsand/orindividualRotaractorson
a voluntary basis, clearly presented as such; the cost of participation by a club or
individual Rotaractor, if any, should be kept to a minimum, and not be implicitly
or directly made an obligation in the form of a per capita tax, or assessment or
otherwise;
b) RotaractMultidistrictInformationOrganizations.Districtsmaydevelopamultidistrict
organizationforthepurposeofdisseminatinginformationandfacilitating
communication between Rotaract clubs in the districts concerned, provided that
1) thereisnoobjectionbythegovernorsofeachofthedistrictsconcerned;
2) authorizationissecuredfromthegeneralsecretary,actingonbehalfoftheRIBoard
ofDirectors,todevelopandmaintainsuchanorganization;
3) theorganizationcomplieswithRIpolicyorissubjecttoterminationofitsstatusby
thegeneralsecretaryonbehalfoftheRIBoardofDirectors;
4) eachmemberdistrictisrepresentedbyitsdistrictRotaractrepresentative.
EachdistrictRotaractrepresentativemayappointaproxyfromhis/herdistrict
organization,asneeded,tocarryouttheactivitiesofthemultidistrictorganization;
5) fundsneededtoimplementtheorganization’sactivities(i.e.productionand
distribution of regional club directories and newsletters, dissemination of Rotaract
programinformation,generalcorrespondence)shallbeobtainedonavoluntary
basis only;
6) theorganizationhasnodecisionmakingorlegislativepowers,exceptfordecisions
concerningtheactivitiesoftheorganization,forwhicheachmemberdistrict
(asrepresentedbyitsdistrictRotaractrepresentative)shallhaveonevote.
c) MultidistrictRotaractMeetings
1) MeetingsofRotaractclubmembersfrommorethanonedistrict,particularly
from districts in more than one country, are to be held under the guidance of the
hostgovernorandthedistrictRotaractcommittee,andinconjunctionwiththe
hostdistrictRotaractrepresentative.Suchmeetingsaresubjecttotheadvance
approval of the governors of the districts involved. Invitations to governors to hold
multidistrict Rotaract meetings must be accompanied by:
a) informationincludingthedate,location,purpose,facilities,programand
participants of the proposed meeting;
b) acopyoftheanticipatedmeetingbudgetwithassurancethatthesponsorsare
in a position to and will assume complete responsibility for contractual and
financialobligationsinherentinthemeeting;
c) assurancethattheplanningandimplementationoftheproposedmeetingwill
be carried out under the direct supervision of Rotaractors and Rotarians;
2) Thehostclubordistrictmustmaintainliabilityinsuranceformultidistrict
Rotaract meetings with coverage and limits appropriate for the geographic
location. Evidence of such coverage must be provided to RI or the governor of any
participating district upon request.
3) ThedistrictRotaractrepresentativeshallinformtheRIdirector(s)forthezone(s).
27. LeadershipTraining
a) AllincomingRotaractclubofficersshallbeprovidedwithRotaractclubofficersleadership
training at the district level, such training to include a one to two-day leadership training
35 RotaRact hanDbook
seminar facilitated by the district Rotaract committee chair and the district Rotaract
representativeforallincomingRotaractclubofficers,directors,andcommitteechairsto
be paid for by the sponsor Rotary clubs, or where circumstances dictate, by a mutually
agreed-uponfinancialarrangementinvolvingthesponsorRotaryclubs,Rotarydistrict,
and the Rotaract participants.
b) Allincominggovernors-electareencouragedtoprovideadequatetrainingtotheir
incoming Rotaract club presidents and, where appropriate, include such training as part
of the program of the Rotary district assembly.
28. Financing the cost of the Rotaract program:
a) AllsponsorRotaryclubsmustpayacertificationfeeofUS$50fornewRotaractclubs.
b) IndividualRotaractorsshallpayannualmembershipfeestotheirRotaractclubtocover
the cost of club administration.
c) Anyfees,duesorassessmentsonthemembershipofanyRotaractclubshallbenominal
and shall be only for the purpose of covering the cost of administering the club; funds
foractivitiesandprojectsundertakenbyRotaractclubsshallberaisedbysuchclubs
apart from such fees, dues or assessments and shall be placed into a separate account.
Athoroughauditbyaqualifiedpersonshallbemadeonceeachyearofalltheclub’s
financialtransactions.
d) ItistheresponsibilityoftheRotaractclubtoraisethefundsnecessarytocarryoutthe
program of the club.
e) RotaractclubsshouldnotmakegeneralsolicitationsforfinancialassistancefromRotary
clubsorfromotherRotaractclubs.Sponsorclubsmayprovidefinancialsupportwhen
mutually agreed upon.
f) ContributionstofunddistrictRotaractserviceprojectsmustbevoluntaryandcannotbe
made enforceable upon the individual Rotaractor or Rotaract club.
g) NopartoftheexpensesofmeetingsofRotaractclubsorgroupsofRotaractclubsshall
bepaidbyRotaryInternational,withtheexceptionoftheannualRotaractPreconvention
Meeting.
h) SponsorRotaryclubsshallstronglyencourageandpayfortheattendanceoftheir
Rotaractclubofficers,directorsandcommitteechairsatallrelevantandnecessary
district-levelleadershiptrainingmeetings(or,whencircumstancesdictate,these
meetingsshallbepaidforthroughmutuallyagreeduponfinancialarrangements
involvingthesponsorRotaryclubs,theRotarydistrictandtheRotaractparticipants).
i) Rotarydistrictsshallpayfortheattendanceoftheirdistricts’Rotaractrepresentativesat
district-level or multidistrict leadership training meetings.
j) RotaryclubsandRotarydistrictconferencesinvitingmembersorRotaractclubsto
participateintheprogramsofsuchclubsandconferencesshouldsubscribetosufficient
trip, accident and liability insurance to protect the Rotary club or district conference
against any possible legal or moral obligation and liability.
k) ThedistrictshouldmakeprovisionstofundtheadministrativeactivitiesoftheDistrict
Rotaract committee.
36 RotaRact hanDbook
29. Asamatterofprinciple,Rotaractclubsarenotauthorizedtoassumemembershipinormerge
withotherorganizationsregardlessofthepurposeofsuchorganizations.
30. Rotaract club presidents shall submit updated membership lists to RI each year no later than
30Septemberand31MarchthroughMemberAccess.Theselistsshallincludethenames,
e-mail addresses, and gender of each Rotaractor in the club. Rotaract clubs that do not submit
updated contact lists to RI in a two-year period will be terminated.
660-En—(1012)
The Board regularly reviews and amends, as necessary, the Rotaract Statement of
Policy, Standard Rotaract Club Constitution, and Standard Rotaract Club Bylaws.
TheRotaractStatementofPolicyisexcerptedfromRotaryCodeofPolicies,Article
41.020,andissubjecttochangebytheRIBoardofDirectors.PleaserefertotheRI
website for the most recent policy:
www.rotary.org/RIdocuments/en_pdf/code_ri_current.pdf
37 RotaRact hanDbook
stAndARd RotARAct club constitution
ARticlE i — name
ThenameofthisorganizationshallbetheRotaractClubof_________.
ARticlE ii — Purpose and Goals
The purpose of Rotaract is to provide an opportunity for young men and women to enhance the
knowledge and skills that will assist them in personal development, to address the physical and
social needs of their communities, and to promote better relations between all people worldwide
through a framework of friendship and service.
The goals of Rotaract are:
1. To develop professional and leadership skills;
2. Toemphasizerespectfortherightsofothers,andtopromoteethicalstandardsandthedignity
of all useful occupations;
3. To provide opportunities for young people to address the needs and concerns of the community
and our world;
4. To provide opportunities for working in cooperation with sponsoring Rotary clubs;
5. To motivate young people for eventual membership in Rotary.
ARticlE iii — sponsorship
1. ThesponsorofthisRotaractclubistheRotaryClubof__________which,throughacommitteeof
its Rotarians, the number of which shall be determined by the club, shall provide guidance and
have supportive responsibility for this Rotaract club. The continued well-being of this club shall
depend on the continued active personal participation of the sponsoring Rotary club.
2. Thebasisoforganizationshallbeyoungmenandwomenwhoarecommittedtothegoalsof
theRotaractprogramandtobuildingarelationshipwiththesponsoringRotaryclub.Wherea
university or other institution of higher education is located within the vicinity of the sponsoring
Rotaryclub,thestudentbodyofeachinstitutionmayalsobeabasisoforganization.Thisclubis
not a part of, and neither this club nor its members have any rights or privileges with respect to,
the sponsoring Rotary club.
3. Thisclubisanon-political,non-sectarianorganization.
4. In the event that the sponsoring Rotary club is terminated, the governor of the Rotary district
will seek to install another sponsoring Rotary club; if one cannot be found within 180 days, the
Rotaract club will be terminated.
ARticlE iV — Membership
1. The membership of this club shall consist of young men and women of good character and
leadership potential between the ages of 18 and 30.* It is recommended, but not mandated, that
there be a minimum of 15 charter members when chartering a new club.
2. The method of electing members of this club shall be determined by this club in consultation
with the sponsoring Rotary club. The method of electing new members of university-based**
Rotaract clubs shall have the approval of the appropriate authorities.
3. Each member of this Rotaract club shall attend at least 60% of the club’s regularly scheduled
meetings annually, provided that absence from a regularly scheduled meeting of the club may be
*On30JuneoftheRotaractyearinwhichthememberbecomes30yearsoldhis/herRotaractmembershipwillend.
**As used in this constitution, the term “university” is intended to include all institutions of higher education.
Goals
Rotary club Sponsorship
Membership Qualifications
38 RotaRact hanDbook
made up as follows: any member absent from a regular meeting of this club may make up such
absence by attendance at a regular meeting of any other Rotaract club or any Rotary club on any
day of the two weeks immediately preceding or following the day of the absence, or attendance
andparticipationinaclubserviceprojectoraclub-sponsoredcommunityeventormeeting
authorizedbytheboard.
4. All Rotary Foundation scholars, who are within the age guidelines adopted by the board for the
Rotaract program, shall be eligible for guest Rotaract club membership during the period of their
study in another country.
5. Membershipshallautomaticallyterminate(a)uponfailuretomeetattendancerequirements
unlessexcusedbytheboardofdirectorsofthisclubforgoodandsufficientreasonor(b)by
terminationoftheclubor(c)on30JuneoftheRotaractyearinwhichthememberbecomes30
years old.
6. Membershipmaybeterminated(a)uponfailuretocontinuetomeetthequalificationsfor
membership,or(b)forcause,asdeterminedbythisclubbyvoteofnotlessthan2/3ofallthe
members in good standing.
ARticlE V — Meetings
1. The club shall meet not less than twice per month, as provided in the by-laws, at a time suited to
the convenience of the members.
2. The board of directors shall meet as provided in the by-laws.
3. Rotary International recommends each sponsoring Rotary club to designate one or more
membersofitsclubtoattendthemeeting(s)ofitsRotaractclub(s)atleastonceamonth.
4. Meetings of the club and of the board of directors may be cancelled during holiday or vacation
periods at the discretion of the board of directors. The board may cancel a regular meeting if it
falls on a legal holiday or in case of the death of a club member, an epidemic, a disaster affecting
thewholecommunity,oranarmedconflictinthecommunitythatendangersthelivesofthe
club members. The board may cancel not more than four regular meetings in a year for causes
nototherwisespecifiedhereinprovidedthatthisclubdoesnotfailtomeetformorethanthree
consecutive meetings.
5. Minutes of the meetings of the club and board of directors shall be provided to the chair of the
sponsor Rotary club’s Rotaract committee within two weeks after each meeting is held.
ARticlE Vi — officers and directors
1. Theofficersofthisclubshallbeapresident,vice-president,secretary,treasurerandsuch
additionalofficer(s)asmaybeprovidedintheby-laws.
2. The governing body of this club shall be a board of directors composed of the president,
immediate past president, vice-president, secretary, treasurer, and additional directors whose
number shall be determined by this club, all to be elected from among the members in good
standing.Alldecisions,policies,andactionsoftheboardandoftheclubshallbesubjecttothe
provisions of this constitution and policy established by Rotary International and its members.
Ifuniversity-based,thisclubshallbesubjecttothesameregulationsandpoliciesestablished
bytheappropriateauthoritiesforallstudentorganizationsandextracurricularactivitiesofthe
university.
Theboardofdirectorsshallhavegeneralcontroloverallofficersandcommitteesandmay,for
goodcause,declareanyofficevacant.Itshallconstituteaboardofappealsfromtherulingsofall
officersandactionsofallcommittees.
3. Electionsofofficersanddirectorsshallbeheldannuallypriorto1Marchbymethodscompatible
withlocalcustomsandprocedures,butinnocaseshallmorethansimplemajorityofthe
members present and in good standing be required for elections.
bimonthly Meetings
Governing body
39 RotaRact hanDbook
Thetermofofficeofallofficersanddirectorsshallbeoneyear.Noprovisionsshallbemadefora
termofofficeshorterthanoneyearexceptwiththepermissionofthesponsoringRotaryclub.
4. AllincomingRotaractclubofficers,directors,andcommitteechairmenshallbeprovidedwith
leadership training from the district Rotaract committee.
ARticlE Vii — Activities and Projects
1. WithinthelimitsprescribedinSection1ofArticleIII,thisclubshallberesponsibleforplanning,
organizing,financing,andconductingitsownactivitiesandshallitselfsupplymoney,labor,
andcreativeimaginationnecessarythereto,exceptinthecaseofjointprojectsoractivities
undertakenincooperationwithotherorganizations,suchresponsibilityshallbesharedwith
suchotherorganization(s).
2. Thisclubshallundertakeamongitsactivitiesatleasttwomajorserviceprojectsannually,one
to serve the community and the other to promote international understanding, and each shall
involve all or most of the members of the club.
3. This club shall provide for a professional development program for its members.
4. It is the responsibility of the club to raise the funds necessary to carry out its program. It shall
notsolicitoracceptmorethanoccasionalorincidentalfinancialassistancefromthesponsoring
Rotary club, nor shall it make general solicitations from Rotary clubs other than its sponsoring
RotarycluborfromotherRotaractclubs;norshallitsolicitfinancialassistancefromindividuals,
businesses,ororganizationsinthecommunitywithoutgivingsomethingofvalueinreturn.All
fundsraisedforserviceprojectsmustbeexpendedforthatpurpose.
ARticlE Viii — committees
1. There shall be provided in the by-laws of this club the following standing committees; club
service,internationalservice,communityservice,professionaldevelopment,finance,andsuch
other standing committees as may be deemed necessary or convenient for the administration of
the club.
2. Thepresident,withtheapprovaloftheboard,mayappointsuchspecialcommitteesashe/she
may deem necessary, citing their duties at the time of appointment. All such special committees
shall lapse upon the completion of their duties, upon discharge by the appointing president, or
withtheendofhis/hertermofoffice,whicheveroccursfirst.
ARticlE iX — Fees
1. EachsponsoringRotaryclubuponorganizationofanewRotaractclubshallberequiredtopayan
RIRotaractorganizationfeeequivalenttoUS$50withthe“RotaractClubCertificationForm.”
2. Any fees, dues, or assessments on the membership of the club shall be nominal and shall only be
forthepurposeofmeetingtheadministrativecostsoftheclub.Fundsforactivitiesandprojects
undertaken by the club shall be raised apart from such fees, dues, or assessments and shall be
placedintoaseparateaccount.Athoroughauditbyaqualifiedpersonshallbemadeonceeach
yearofalltheclub’sfinancialtransactions.
ARticlE X — Acceptance of constitution and by-laws
Every member of the club, by acceptance of membership, thereby accepts the principles of Rotaract
as expressed in its purpose and goals and agrees to comply with the constitution and by-laws of
thisclub,andontheseconditionsaloneisentitledtotheprivilegesoftheclub.Nomembershallbe
absolved from the observance of the constitution and by-laws on the plea that a copy of them has
not been received.
objective
committees
Fees
constitution
40 RotaRact hanDbook
ARticlE Xi — standard by-laws
Theclubshalladoptthe“StandardRotaractClubBy-Laws,”togetherwithsuchamendmentsas
are not inconsistent with this constitution and which may be deemed necessary or convenient for
the government of the club, provided that such amendments are adopted in accordance with the
amendmentprocedureprescribedinthe“StandardRotaractClubBy-Laws.”
ARticlE Xii — Rotaract Emblem
1. TheRotaractemblemshallbepreservedfortheexclusiveuseandbenefitofRotaractclub
members. Each member of this club shall be entitled to wear or otherwise display the Rotaract
embleminadignifiedandappropriatemannerduringtheperiodofmembership.Such
entitlement shall be relinquished upon termination of membership or termination of this club.
2. Whendisplayedbyindividualclubmembers,theemblemmaybeusedwithoutfurther
information.Whentheemblemisusedtorepresentaclub,thenameoftheclubshouldappear
with the emblem.
ARticlE Xiii — duration
This club shall exist so long as it continues to function in accordance with the provisions of
this constitution and policy relating to Rotaract established by Rotary International, or until it is
terminated(a)bythisclubuponitowndeterminationandaction,(b)bythesponsoringRotary
club upon withdrawal of its sponsorship, after consultation with the district governor and district
Rotaractrepresentative,or(c)byRotaryInternationalforfailuretofunctioninaccordancewiththis
constitution or for other cause.
Upon termination of this club, all rights and privileges relating to the Rotaract name and emblem
shall be relinquished by the club and by its members individually and collectively. The Rotaract club
shallrelinquishallfinancialassetstothesponsoringRotaryclub.
ARticlE XiV — Administration
TheconstitutionmaybeamendedonlybytheBoardofDirectorsofRotaryInternationalandall
amendmentstothe“StandardRotaractClubConstitution”adoptedbytheBoardofDirectorsof
RotaryInternationalshallautomaticallyamendtheConstitution.
Standard by-Laws
Rotaract Emblem
Duration of club
amendment
41 RotaRact hanDbook
stAndARd RotARAct club by-lAws
By-LawsoftheRotaractClubof____________.
ARticlE i — Elections
1. Electionfortheofficesofpresident,vice-president,secretary,treasurer,anddirectorsshallbe
held annually prior to 1 March. A Rotaract club year is the same as a Rotary club year. Those
electedshalltakeofficeon1July.
2. Nominationsofofficersshallbemadeinwriting.Candidatesshallbevoteduponattheregular
meetingfollowingthemeetingatwhichnominationsaremade.Votingshallbebysecretballot.
Thosecandidatesreceivingamajorityofthevotesofthememberspresentandingoodstanding
shall be elected.
3. In addition to president, vice-president, secretary, and treasurer there shall be elected directors.
ARticlE ii — duties of officers
1. President.Thepresidentshallpresideatallregularandspecialmeetingsoftheclubandthe
boardofdirectors.He/sheshall,withtheapprovaloftheboard,appointallstandingandspecial
committees and, in the event of a vacancy in the board of directors, shall, with the approval of
theboard,fillsuchvacancybyappointmentuntilthenextregularelectionoftheclub.He/she
shallbeanexofficiomemberofallcommittees.He/sheshallmaintaincommunicationwiththe
sponsor club and the district Rotaract representative to ensure they are continually informed of
all actions taken by the club.
2. Vice-President.Thevice-presidentshallsucceedtotheofficeofpresidentintheeventorremoval
of the latter for whatever cause, and, in the absence of the president, shall preside at all meetings
of the club and of the board.
3. Secretary.Thesecretaryshallmaintainallclubrecords,He/sheshallkeepminutesofallthe
meetings of the club and board of directors, and provide copies of such to the chair of the
sponsor Rotary club’s Rotaract committee.
4. Treasurer. The treasurer shall have custody of all club funds, maintaining all necessary records
anddepositingallsuchfundsinabankapprovedbytheboardofdirectors.He/sheshallreport
ontheclub’sfinancialstatusateachmeetingoftheclubandshallholdallrecordsavailablefor
inspection by any club member. All disbursements shall be by check and with the signature of
twoauthorizedofficers.
ARticlE iii — Meetings
1. Meetings of the club shall be not less than twice a month, and meetings of the board not less
than once a month, at a time suited to the convenience of the membership.
2. Amajorityofthemembersingoodstandingshallconstituteaquorumatanyregularorspecial
meeting of the club. Any four members of the board, one of whom must be the president or vice-
president, shall constitute a quorum at any meeting of the board.
ARticlE iV — Fees and dues
1. Theadmissionforthenewmembersshallbe___.Annualduesshallbe___permember.
2. All fees and dues must be paid before a member will be considered in good standing.
VotingMethod
official Duties
Quorum Requirement
Fees and Dues
42 RotaRact hanDbook
ARticlE V — committees
The president, with the approval of the board of directors, shall appoint the following standing
committees:
1. Clubservice.Thiscommitteeshallberesponsibleforattendance,membership,programs,
fellowship, public relations, and such other matters as may be deemed appropriate.
2. International service. This committee shall be charged with primary responsibility for
enhancing knowledge and understanding of worldwide needs, problems, and opportunities
and developing activities to give service for promoting international understanding and
goodwill toward all people.
3. Communityservice.Thiscommitteeshallhaveresponsibilityforenhancingknowledge
and understanding of community needs, problems and opportunities, and for formulating
anddevelopingappropriateactivitiesforservingthecommunity(includingtheuniversity
community).
4. Professionaldevelopment.Thiscommitteeshallberesponsiblefordevelopingaprogram
designed to provide information about a wide cross-section of businesses and professions
and to stimulate awareness and acceptance of high ethical standards in business and
professional life.
5. Finance.Thiscommitteeshalldevisewaysandmeansoffinancinganyandallclubactivities
requiring funds, in cooperation with the appropriate committee.
The international service and community service committees shall each have the duty of initiating
andplanningonemajoractivityinitsfieldeachyearwhichshallinvolveallormostoftheclub
membership.
ARticlE Vi — Amendments1. Theseby-lawsmaybeamendedbymajorityvoteofthemembersingoodstandingatany
regular or special meeting of the club at which a quorum is present, provided notice of
intention to call such a vote is given at least fourteen days earlier at a meeting of the club at
which a quorum is present, and provided such amendment is approved by the sponsoring
Rotary club.
2. Nothingintheseby-lawsshallcontraveneanyprovisionofthisclub’sconstitution.
The Board regularly reviews and amends, as necessary, the Rotaract Statement of
Policy, Standard Rotaract Club Constitution, and Standard Rotaract Club Bylaws.
The Standard Rotaract Club Constitution and Standard Rotaract Club Bylawsaresubject
tochangebytheRIBoardofDirectors.PleaserefertotheRIwebsitefor
the most recent policy:
www.rotary.org/RIdocuments/en_pdf/661en.pdf
661-En—(1012)
committee Duties
amendments
43 RotaRact hanDbook
RotARAct club cERtiFicAtion FoRM
ThisformservesastheofficialnotificationtoRotaryInternationaloftheorganizationofanew
Rotaractclub.ToreceiveaCertificateofOrganizationfromRI,newRotaractclubsmustworkwith
their sponsor Rotary club to complete all of the following steps:
1. Fill out this form, including the name of each charter member.
2. Obtain the signatures of the district governor and sponsor Rotary club president. If there is
morethanonesponsorRotaryclub,eachRotaryclubpresidentmustsign.Note:RIwillnot
process this document if any signature is missing.
3. Make copies of the signed form and distribute it to the Rotaract club, sponsor Rotary club,
districtgovernor,districtRotaractchair,anddistrictRotaractrepresentativetokeeponfile.
4. SubmitthiscompletedformalongwiththeUS$50organizationfee(payableto“Rotary
International”andnotingtheRotaractclub’sname)totheRIinternationalofficeservingyour
area(seetheRotaract Handbookforthepaymentaddress).Ifpaymentisbyelectronicfunds
transferortoafiscalagent,acopyofthepaymentmustbeattachedtothedocument.
Afterreceivingcompleteinformation,RIwillmailtheCertificateofOrganizationtothepresident
ofthesponsorRotaryclub.IftherearemultiplesponsorRotaryclubs,certificationmaterialswillbe
sentonlytothefirstclubthatislistedontheform.Pleaseallowfourweeksforprocessing.
Pleasesubmitallcertificationquestionstorotaract@rotary.org.
RotaractClubName District
MailingAddressofRotaractClub
City State/Province
Country PostalCode
PhoneNumber Email
Website
SponsorRotaryClub(s)
Rotaractclub’sdateoforganization(day/month/year):_______/________/________
(datewillbelistedonCertificateofOrganization) DD MM YYYY
Typeofclub(checkone): University-based Community-based
The RI Board recommends, but does not mandate, a minimum of 15 charter members.
All members must be between the ages of 18 and 30.
44 RotaRact hanDbook
Name (Officer,ifapplicable)
TOTAL: Males__________Females__________
The members listed above are young adults of good character and leadership potential, who are between
theagesof18and30.ThisclubunderstandsandacceptstheprovisionsoftheStandardRotaractClub
ConstitutionandtheStatementofPolicyRelatingtoRotaractbytheBoardofDirectorsofRotaryInternational
(availableatwww.rotary.org).
Rotaract club connections
WouldyouliketoparticipateinhostingvisitingRotaractors? Yes No
WouldyouliketocorrespondwithotherRotaractclubsandallowthemtocontactyou? Yes No
DoesyouclubhaveatwinclubrelationshipwithanotherRotaractclub? Yes No
InwhichofthefollowinglanguagesdoestheRotaractclubpreferforreceivingcorrespondence?(checkone)
English French Italian Japanese Korean Portuguese Spanish
WeconfirmthatRotariansfromthesponsorRotaryclubwillbeappointedtomentortheRotaractors
in the club.
signatures:
President,RotaractClub
President,SponsorRotaryClub(s)
DistrictGovernor
Rotaract club certification checklist: Adopt a standard Rotaract club constitution.
CompleteRotaractClubcertificationform.
HavecertificationformsignedbysponsorRotaryclubpresident(s)anddistrictgovernor.
SendformtoRIWorldHeadquartersorappropriateinternationalofficewithUS$50charterfee.
672-En—(1012)
45 RotaRact hanDbook
RotARAct EMblEM usAGE GuidElinEs
TheRotaractemblemisatrademarkownedbyRotaryInternational.Clubsanddistrictsarewelcome
touseitwithproperidentifiers,subjecttotheguidelinesfortheRotaryMarkssetforthbytheRI
BoardofDirectors.WorkwithyoursponsorRotaryclubtoensurethatyoufollowtheseguidelines.
Also, see the RI Visual Identity Guide for more information about the proper uses of the Rotary Marks.
DownloadtheRotaractemblem(availableinvariousformats)atwww.rotary.org/graphics.
RotARAct MERchAndisE
If your club wants to order merchandise such as pins, banners, hats, clothing, or other items
featuring the Rotaract emblem, you must use vendors licensed by Rotary International.
Licensed vendors are listed in the Worldwide Rotaract Directory, RI Official Directory, and online at
www.rotary.org/graphics.Ifyoudiscoveranunlicensedindividualorfirmsellingemblem
merchandise,contacttheinternationalofficeforyourareaorRI’sLicensingSectionat
rilicensing@rotary.org.
46 RotaRact hanDbook
RotARAct club wEbsitE GuidElinEs
Rotaract clubs are encouraged to set up websites or blogs to stay connected with their sponsor
Rotaryclubs,otherRotaractclubs,andtheircommunity.Considerincludinglinkstothewebsitesof
your club’s sponsor Rotary club and RI. University-based clubs should also link to their school.
choose a domain name
To use a domain name that includes the words Rotaract or Rotary, you must include the name of
your Rotaract club or sponsor Rotary club.
For example:
www.anytownrotaractclub.org
www.rotaryclubofanytowndistrict0000.org
www.anytownrotaractors.org
use Rotaract and Rotary emblems
BrandyourwebsitebyincludingtheRotaractandRotaryemblems.Checkwithyoursponsor
Rotary club to ensure you’re following the proper guidelines for the Rotary Marks. Rotary
International accepts no responsibility for the content of any non-RI website.
oFFicEs oF thE Ri sEcREtARiAt
WorldHeadquartersRotary International
OneRotaryCenter
1560ShermanAvenue
Evanston, IL 60201-3698
USA
Tel:847-866-3000
Fax:847-328-8554,-8281
Website:www.rotary.org
BrazilInternationalOfficeRotary International
Rua Tagipuru 209
01156-000SãoPaulo,SP
Brazil
Tel: 55-11-3826-2966
Fax:55-11-3667-6575
Website:www.rotaryint.com.br
EuropeandAfricaInternationalOfficeRotary International
Witikonerstrasse15
CH-8032Zurich
Switzerland
Tel:41-44-387-71-11
Fax: 41-44-422-50-41
JapanInternationalOfficeRotary International
NS3Bldg.1F
2-51-3 Akabane
Kita-ku, Tokyo
Japan 115-0045
Tel: 81-3-3903-3161
Fax:81-3-3903-3781
KoreaInternationalOfficeRotary International
Rm.705,MiwonBldg.
43 Yoido-dong, Yongdungpo-gu
Seoul150-733
Korea
Tel:82-2-783-3077,-3078
Fax:82-2-783-3079
SouthAsiaInternationalOfficeRotary International
ThaparHouse
2ndFloor,CentralWing
124 Janpath
NewDelhi,110001
India
Tel: 91-11-4225-0101
Fax: 91-11-4225-0191
SouthernSouthAmerica InternationalOfficeRotary International
Florida1,Piso2
1005BuenosAires,CF
Argentina
Tel:54-11-5032-0096,-0097,-0098
Fax: 54-11-5032-0099
SouthPacificandPhilippines InternationalOfficeRotary International
Level 2
60PhillipSt.
Parramatta,NSW
Australia 2150
Tel: 61-2-8894-9800
Fax: 61-2-8894-9899
RIinGreatBritainandIrelandRotary International
Kinwarton Road, Alcester
Warwickshire
EnglandB496PB
Tel:44-1789-765-411
Fax:44-1789-765-570
Email: secretary@ribi.org
This information was accurate at the time
of printing. For the most up-to-date contact
information, consult the RI Official Directory or
the Worldwide Rotaract Directory.
Rotary International
OneRotaryCenter
1560ShermanAvenue
Evanston,IL60201-3698USA
www.rotary.org
562-En—(1012)
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