Delivering on our promise
 

Diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) are not corporate buzzwords. They’re important reminders that we need to understand and embrace our differences, provide equitable opportunities for success, and welcome one another exactly as we are.

For Rotary, DEI means ensuring that our clubs, meetings, and events are places where participants can speak openly and respectfully and where everyone feels welcome. It’s about removing barriers to entry and success and opening doors to inclusion.

 
How can you help? We want to reflect the communities in which we live and serve. Invite community and business leaders and influencers from groups that are underrepresented in your club to participate in a club activity. Encourage a new club member to take a leadership role. Remove obstacles that could prevent some people from joining your club, like a meeting time or place that isn’t accessible to everyone. Our ability to adapt is the key to strengthening Rotary’s future.
 
 
 
Putting members first
 
The main reason Rotarians and Rotaractors remain Rotary members is that they feel welcomed and supported in their clubs. Increasing our membership continues to be a priority, but giving our members experiences they value and reasons to stay is equally important.

How can you help? To serve our communities, we first need to serve our members. Talk to your club leaders and fellow members about what they want from their Rotary experience and work together to make it happen. Learning what keeps members engaged is a powerful tool for strengthening Rotary. These membership resources can help.
 
 
 
Empowering women and girls
 
All over the world, gender can still affect a person’s ability to get an education, funding for a small business, or proper health care. We know that projects that improve the health, well-being, education, and economic security of girls will have a positive impact on the next generation of empowered female leaders.

How can you help? Develop a club-based initiative or apply for a district grant or global grant to fund a project that promotes girls’ health, education, or economic independence. From supporting a local women’s shelter to improving girls’ access to water and sanitation, every project can make a big difference. Share your stories and learn what other clubs are doing to empower girls and women on Rotary Showcase.
 
 
 
Imagine impact
 
We’ve always proudly showcased the many ways Rotary drives change and makes an impact. This year, we’ll use a variety of storytelling approaches to highlight projects in each area of focus. Our goals are to raise the visibility of our work; engage new influencers, media, leaders, and potential partners; and share what we’ve learned about how clubs can make projects in their communities even more effective.

How can you help? Visit the Learning Center to learn more about Rotary’s focus on increasing impact. And download resources from Rotary’s newly updated Brand Center to tell your club’s story. By sharing your club’s successes, you’re showing people that Rotary is a service and leadership organization that makes a difference.
 
Rotary members have demonstrated that when we dream big — as with our fight to end polio — we can make our dreams a reality. This year, I’m asking you to Imagine Rotary — and to imagine a world where we each contribute to lasting positive change.

Sincerely,
Jennifer Jones
RI President, 2022-23

Learn about Jennifer and her presidential initiatives by visiting My Rotary or listening to her speech from the 2022 International Convention.