The R2 Hit List

To close out this year’s column, I’d like to return to the topic of young Rotarians. After all, young Rotarians represent Rotary’s next generation.

I was recently having a conversation with a Chilean Rotarian. (We were speaking complementary versions of Spanglish, augmented by copious hand gestures and exaggerated facial expressions.) He was describing diminishing Rotary membership over the last few years and a difficulty in attracting younger members into his club of seniors. It appears that some things are the same the world over. The conversation got me thinking about a short list of issues related to attracting and keeping younger members in Rotary. And so, here it is, at least the top few items. Add salt to taste.

Like Attracts Like. Getting the first young member is the hardest. After that it should be easier. Everyone should be a greeter now and then, but don’t stick your newest members there forever. Mentor your young members, give them responsibilities in your club early, and put them in active and visible positions. They will attract more of the same.

Family Values. Your young members are likely to have young children, and time away from family is limited. Consider having fellowship events for the whole family to build camaraderie while maximizing family time.

Follow the Money. While younger members can bring energy, ideas, and vitality to your club, they may not be well-heeled. Some clubs offer reduced dues for a period of time or have other club members sponsor new members by subsidizing their dues, especially for the first six months. Some disagree with a non-uniform dues structure, and both points are valid. Whatever works for your club is the right policy for you, but keep in mind that money may be a limiting factor in the acquisition of younger members.

With a Song in Your Heart. Ok, I’ll be frank. I love to sing. But I usually reserve it for the shower and try not to torture other people with my vocal talents or lack thereof. I feel safe in telling you that if you are a singing club, you will probably not be attracting younger members. I recently endured a singing club’s rendition of a children’s song which was substantially less impressive than the version offered by my youngest daughter’s kindergarten class. If you feel absolutely compelled to sing, then I recommend songs written after 1970 and preferably by artists with whom younger members are familiar (like Outkast or Linkin Park).

As always, your comments, questions, and criticisms are welcome.