Over the weekend I was lucky enough to attend a Rotary District Assembly. This event is training for Rotarians to continue to develop their clubs’ membership, depth and ultimately influence to change things in our world. I am honored to be a Rotarian and have been for almost 5 years. Recently I was accepted to serve on my clubs Board of Directors, which is a great opportunity to impact my community.
At this meeting of Rotarians I listened to many programs regarding the growth of rotary and what the future looks like for Rotary. I found it amazing that among all of the Rotarians at this meeting there was probably less than 1% in my age range and nobody in my age range that seemed to hold any type of district wide leadership position. I was amazed. As speakers took turns informing us on how we (Rotarians) needed to embrace technology and the use of it to attract younger members my eyes lit up. I suddenly was paying attention and listening. I started to shake my head in acknowledgement. The speaker got it. As Rotarians we needed to realize that young men and women starting their professional careers, raising families and building their lives are just starting to build their influence and affluence. Generation “x” embraces technology and the use of it in daily life. We use technology to stay connected with others in our friends. This was a huge revelation that this speaker gave to the audience. I was amazed as his candor and his deep understanding of this situation. He was “preaching the gospel” of the generational divide. I hope that from my position and in my work with the Rotary club I will be able to inspire other young people to get involved.
To learn more about Rotary visit http://www.rotary.org/ and get involved in this or one of many other service clubs and or organizations.
