Dear Rotary member,
Even as we face new and serious challenges, Rotary takes care of its members and those we serve, works to build lasting peace, and embeds belonging and inclusion in everything we do. That is why I am asking everyone in Rotary to Create Hope in the World.
You can start by telling people about what Rotary means to you. Use these graphics on your favorite social media platform and add text or a video about your Rotary experience to share why you’re proud to be a Rotary member.
Pushing polio eradication to the finish line |
 This is a critical year for polio eradication efforts as Rotary and our Global Polio Eradication Initiative (GPEI) partners are aggressively working to interrupt transmission of the poliovirus in the remaining endemic countries and other areas. Polio eradication is Rotary’s top humanitarian priority until we deliver on our promise to protect children everywhere from polio. We had the audacity to take on this mission, and we have the tenacity to finish the job. How can you take action? Learn more and donate at endpolio.org |
Prioritizing mental health
This year, we’re prioritizing projects that aim to support mental health. This effort is deeply personal to me. I know what it’s like to see someone close to me suffer in silence. I have also witnessed the power of personal connections, the value of discussing emotional and mental well-being, and the lifesaving impact of preventive care and treatment.Research shows that performing acts of kindness is one of the most effective steps any of us can take to protect our well-being and make us more resilient to all the challenges we encounter in life. And by building peace within, we become more capable of bringing peace to the world.
How can you take action? Download the Prioritizing Mental Health brochure to learn how you and your club can support mental health. Also consider connecting with the Rotary Action Group on Mental Health Initiatives
Fostering peace
Building peace is the essence of Rotary. Many of our service projects foster the conditions for Positive Peace. We work tirelessly to overcome barriers and create new connections among people. This year, we’ll introduce virtual international exchanges for members to build those vital connections even further.Peace isn’t just a dream, and it’s not passive. It’s the result of working hard, earning trust, and having open conversations that may be difficult. Peace must be waged persistently — and bravely. Everything we do, across all our areas of focus, has the potential to foster the hope that can make peace possible.
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Creating a welcoming club experience
The spirit of connection and purpose should inspire every Rotary member. When club leaders focus on offering an excellent club experience, we retain more members and attract more prospective members. We must make our clubs as welcoming and engaging as we can.Our goal is to create a sense of belonging, from our club meetings to every service activity we offer. We need to continue creating inclusive, welcoming environments where everyone can be their fully authentic selves. All people of action need to be able to imagine a place for themselves in Rotary — it’s up to us to ensure that they can do so.
How can you take action? Learn more about Rotary’s diversity, equity, and inclusion efforts and how you can help create a club culture (My Rotary account required) where everyone belongs.
As we begin this journey together, I take inspiration from Scotland’s national poet, Robert Burns, who in the 18th century spoke of all the world becoming kin, promoting “Sense and Worth, over all the earth.” This has long been my call to action, and I share it now with you.Let us build peace within and spread it freely. Let us create belonging and imagine the future of Rotary afresh. Let us work together joyously as we Create Hope in the World.
R. Gordon R. McInally
RI President, 2023-24