D3300 MEMBERSHIP DEVELOPMENT

THE WHEELS OF LIFE

2011-12-16T23:38:00.000-08:00

So my friends - NOTHING lasts forever.

MEMBERSHIP UPDATE JULY - SEP 2011

2011-10-28T23:12:00.000-07:00

List of New Members Inducted in July 2011

Rotary Club of Bangsar - 2

Rotary Club of Bandar Sungai Petani - 2

Rotary Club of Greentown - 1

Rotary Club of Kerian - 1

Rotary Club of Kelana Jaya - 1

Rotary Club of Klang - 2

Rotary Club of Kuantan - 1

Rotary Club of Kuala Pilah - 3

Rotary Club of Bukit Bintang - 2

Rotary Club of Seri Changkat Jong - 1

Rotary Club of Klang Central - 8

Rotary Club of Bukit Tinggi Klang - 1

New members inducted in August 2011

Rotary Club of Ampang - 1

Rotary Club of Bahau - 1

Rotary Club of Bangsar - 1

Rotary Club of Bentong - 3

Rotary Club of Butterworth - 1

Rotary Club of Damansara - 1

Rotary Club of Melawati - 1

Rotary Club of Metro Ipoh - 1

Rotary Club of Pantai Valley - 1

Rotary Club of Petaling Jaya - 3

Rotary Club of Port Dickson - 1

Rotary Club of Senawang - 1

Rotary Club of Sentul - 3

Rotary Club of Seremban - 3

Rotary Club of Sitiawan - 1

Rotary Clubof Sungei Way - 4

Rotary Club of Teluk Intan - 1

List of new members in September 2011

Rotary Club of Bandar Utama - 1

Rotary Club of Damansara West - 1

Rotary Club of Indera Mahkota - 1

Rotary Club of Kajang - 1

Rotary Club of Pantai Valley - 1

Rotary Club of Port Dickson - 1

Rotary Club of Pudu - 3

Rotary Club of Titiwangsa - 3

There is a net gain of 40 members till September 2011.(Total gain of new members = 65, loss = 25. Net Gain = 40)
34 clubs out of 74 clubs had membership growth in the first quarter = 45.94% of the clubs have positive growth.

My dear Rotary friends. We have conducted 3 MAPS (Membership Action Plan Seminars) in Kuala Lumpur for the Klang Valley clubs, in Penang for the Northern clubs and in Ipoh for the Perak Clubs. Our next MAPS will be in Seremban for the Klang Valley and Negeri Sembilan clubs on the 27th November.

I wish to thank the nearly 200 Rotarians who have attended the MAPS thus far in this Rotary year and encourage as many Rotarians as possible to attend the next one in Sereban to share ideas and build Rotary in D3300.

The input thus far has been invaluable to all of us. It time now for ACTION. Go out and reach out. If you LOVE Rotary - SHARE Rotary.

PERAK MAPS #3

2011-10-25T02:29:00.000-07:00

The Perak MAPS was just completed this Sunday (23rd October 2011) with great success in Ipoh. The hall was packed with nearly 50 Rotarians and all the Perak clubs were represented at the MAPS. Thank you RC Metro Ipoh and Organising Chairperson PP Amy Chin for doing a great job.

Once again PDG Leslie Salehuddin did an outstanding job in helping the clubs take a good hard look at what their respective membership challenges were and in developing a customised Membership Action Plan (MAP).

The first panel discussion on “What’s Breaking Up Rotary?” was moderated by PP Amy Chin and the topics covered were (1) “Negative External Influences” by PP Graham Bennett, (2) "Infighting, Conflicts and Other Cancers” by PP Varpal Sagoo and (3) "The Politics of Rotary” by PP Choolathileka Adris. The discussion that followed showed clearly that Rotarians want less conflict and more amity. Especially among top Rotary leaders.

The second panel discussion on “What’s so great about Rotary?” was moderated by PP Ho Yok Loy and the topics under discussion were (1) “My Rotary Journey” by PP Edwin Seibel, (2) "The Great Rotary Fellowship” by PP Dato’ Dr M Subramaniam and "Friends Around The World” by PP Christie Daniels. All the participants agreed that Rotary was a wonderful organisation and many great things are being done by Rotary around the world.

All in all, it was a great weekend in Ipoh. Personally, I really enjoyed meeting up with so many old friends and thanks to PP Amy and her spouse William, sampling the culinary delights of Ipoh!!

Next MAPS will be in Seremban on the 27th of November being organised by RC Senawang. Contact AG Ananda 0196200066 for more information.

LATEST UPDATES - 51 NEW MEMBERS INDUCTED IN JULY & AUGUST 2011

2011-10-11T22:22:00.000-07:00

CONGRATULATIONS ROTARY DISTRICT 3300!!!

A total of 51 new members have been inducted in the month of July and August 2011.

Clubs that inducted members in August are:

Rotary Club of Ampang - 1

Rotary Club of Bahau - 1

Rotary Club of Bangsar - 1

Rotary Club of Bentong - 3

Rotary Club of Butterworth - 1

Rotary Club of Damansara - 1

Rotary Club of Melawati - 1

Rotary Club of Metro Ipoh - 1

Rotary Club of Pantai Valley - 1

Rotary Club of Petaling Jaya - 3

Rotary Club of Port Dickson - 1

Rotary Club of Senawang - 1

Rotary Club of Sentul - 3

Rotary Club of Seremban - 3

Rotary Club of Sitiawan - 1

Rotary Club of Sungei Way - 4

Rotary Club of Teluk Intan - 1

26 clubs out of 74 have membership increase between one to eight members ie @ 35.13 %
A total of 30 members have resigned in July & August 2011. A net increase of 21 members in two months. RETENTION of members has to be addressed more.
PP Surendra Kaur
District Secretary - Attendance
D3300 MDRC - Member

INDUCTION OF NEW MEMBERS - THE 3 "I"S

2011-10-05T05:43:00.000-07:00

It is important that we induct new members with the required formality and dignity. May I share the following suggestions with you. I call them the 3 "I"s - INFORM, INDUCT and INVOLVE.

Inform then Induct (Don't Induct then Inform)

I have seen many new members inducted into Rotary clubs without any real effort being made to inform them about what Rotary is all about. In some cases, they are misinformed - this is a recipe for failure in the future. Educating prospective members about Rotary membership contributes to the long-term retention of new members. Your club’s prospective member information program should provide a broad overview of Rotary International and The Rotary Foundation, with a focus on the benefits and responsibilities of membership in Rotary, including an overview of your club’s primary projects and activities.

Conduct group informational sessions for prospective members quarterly (or periodically). Organize them as special events separate from regular club meetings, either on weekday evenings or weekends, and schedule them well in advance so that club members are able to promote them to prospective members. Club members who invite prospective members to attend these events should also attend. Plan for the educational portion of the event to last approximately two hours, and encourage prospective members to bring their spouses. Host a lunch, dinner, or reception to accompany the event if your budget allows. Get senior members of your club to share their knowledge of Rotary and the club culture openly. If you need backup, contact your club MDR mentor or me directly. We are ready to assist you.

Ask attendees to complete an evaluation at the end of the event to obtain feedback on the educational program you’ve presented. Feedback is the key to knowing what you are doing right and also what you are doing wrong.

The session should focus on the following - you may require more than one session:

1. History and organization of Rotary International

2. Mission of Rotary

3. Benefits of Rotary club membership

4. Responsibilities of membership

• Attendance requirements and options for meeting make-ups

• Financial obligations

5. Club projects (past and present)

6. RI programs and opportunities for involvement

7. Club and district structure and current officers

8. The Rotary Foundation

• Humanitarian and educational programs

• Financial support

Induct them with dignity

A simple yet dignified Induction will show the member that we take his membership in Rotary seriously and that he is undertaking this obligation voluntarily. As PDG Paul Lee always says whilst you join Rotary voluntarily - once you are a member you must take your obligations seriously. If the member is married, make sure you invite the spouse to the ceremony and recognise the spouse as well.

A simple induction charge:Fellow Rotarians, it is my privilege and pleasure today to welcome into membership in our club Mr/Ms__________________, whose name was proposed by Rtn________ . The proposal has been reviewed in accordance with our club constitution and bylaws. I now ask (sponsor) to come up here with (proposed new member). __________, we now proceed to admit you into membership in the Rotary Club of __________ and to the friendship of Rotary throughout the world with more than 1.2 million Rotarians, serving in more than 34,000 communities around the world.

It has already been explained to you that the ideal of Rotary is service. Our principal motto is Service Above Self and the object of this club and all Rotary clubs is to encourage and foster this ideal as a basis of worthy enterprise in every endeavour. You are to share in this effort because we believe that your possess the qualities of head and heart that make you worthy of this noble pursuit.

You have been approved for membership in this club because we believe you to be a worthy representative of your vocation, interested in the ideals of Rotary, and willing to do your share in translating these ideals into action. You have agreed to accept the obligations of membership in this club and to obey this club’s constitution and bylaws. You will be loaned the classification _______________.

Now I have the pleasure of asking your proposer to pin on the Rotary emblem, which we hope you will wear with pride. May I now invite the President to give you our Induction kit with some basic Rotary information.

Welcome to the Rotary Club of ____________. Fellow Rotarians, I am happy to present to you Rotarian _____________ , our newest member.

Involve the new Rotarian

The best way to keep members is to involve them in the club activities and make them feel that they are making a real and meaning contribution to the club.

Every new member should have a senior Rotarian as a Mentor. They mentor should:

Monitor the new member’s comfort level and involvement in the club through periodic personal meetings.
Accompany the new member to club meetings on occasion.
Introduce the new member to every club member.
Explain the various club committees and suggest a committee assignment that is compatible with the new member’s interests, if possible.
Inform the new member about special meetings and Rotary social events held throughout the year. Attend as many of these events as possible, and act as an informal host to the new member and the member’s family, introducing them to other club members and making them feel at home.
Ensure that the new member understands all club rules, including the attendance requirement and options.
Monitor the new member’s attendance. Suggest make-up alternatives, when necessary, and accompany new members to meeting make-ups, if possible.
Be readily available to answer questions and provide advice or guidance if asked.

Get the family involved

Participating in Rotary activities often conflicts with family time, therefore, family members should be informed about Rotary and understand the responsibilities and benefits of membership.

INPUT FROM AG BASKARAN

2011-09-25T20:39:00.000-07:00

It took me sometime to write this mail and I was reluctant initially but I thought I should share with you some of my thoughts on Membership development and Retention.
The biggest problem we face at club level in the issue of membership is a lack of a solid Public image of Rotary,our clubs and our projects. We are not convincing enough and my suggestions are mainly to improve our image. If we have a good and prominent profile,it is only a matter of time before we start seeing people queuing to join Rotary.

How do we improve our Public Image?

I am firm believer that people will be attracted to us if we start thinking big in terms of our projects that would create a powerful impact on the Public and as well as making sure that the benefits are long term and meaningful. Today,we have a situation where we have 72 clubs doing 72 different projects which though meaningful in their own right, gives an impression to the newcomers or potential members that what we are doing is no big deal to them and we are too individualistic. We need to make a big leap in our planning to make sure that every one who joins us feel that Rotary is the best.

How do we do it?

First and foremost,we need to implement a "DISTRICT PROJECT" . This could be done together with District 3310 .
We need to identify a meaningful and long term project (3-5 years) in consultation and co operation with the Government of the day and the project should bring about significant socio-economic changes to the beneficiaries. This project should be decided by the District with all the clubs informed at least a year before the implementation so that all the clubs would be fully prepared to commit themselves. Undertaking a project of this nature nation-wide will generate enormous publicity and goodwill to Rotary. For this to succeed,the District must have the desire and will and mark my words,we will see the difference.

Secondly,we need to think of a "STATE PROJECT" whereby all the clubs from a single state undertake a common project at the state level. The project should follow the pattern of the District project which should be meaningful and long term and working hand in hand with the Government of the day and other departments.

Carrying out District and State projects will bring all our clubs together bonded with a sense of purpose in the pursuit of a common cause. This will generate a lot Positive publicity for Rotary,district as well as our clubs and this in turn will appeal to new members.

Clubs should carry on with their projects with every club having at least 1 Flagship project which again should be long term and bring significant changes to our local communities.

Besides projects,it is time that our District come up with a book about ourselves,about the projects we do as well as our goals and and long term strategies.This could be another significant tool in our membership development drive.

These suggestions involve planning and requires co operation at all levels. I believe we should work on new strategies if it is feasible as we Rotarians have nothing but concern for our organization.

BALI ROTARY INSTITUTE 2011

2011-09-23T19:05:00.000-07:00

Dear Rotary friends

As you may be well aware, the Bali Rotary Institute is just around the corner (2th Dec - 4th Dec 2011).

We wish to take this opportunity to thank you all for your overwhelming support. The registration has been most encouraging with approx 90 Rtns and spouses have registered todate. We are confident that our delegation will exceed a hundred-strong especially a few more members of the HOC of the Selangor Institute 2012 having yet to register.

We are planning a ground promotional gambit and cultural dance item to “welcome” Rtns from abroad to our Institute next year.

The organiser have informed us that they are closing the hotel booking of the Grand Hyatt, Nusa Dua on 26th Sept 2011.If you wish to book for a room in this hotel, please do so immediately. This is special rate for the Institute as it is almost half the normal rack rate.

Rtns who has yet to provide us the flight bookings details, please do so no later than 15th October 2011 as the organiser need the information for local transfer arrangments.

Apart from that, if you wish to book the hotel room for your family members (other than spouses & children), kindly find details as follows:-
1.Grand Ocean : USD 165 nett/r/n
2.Club Garden : USD 200 nett/r/n
3.Club Deluxe Garden : 215 nett/r/n

All prices incl breakfast for 2 pax.
Furthermore, for those who are planning to stay back after the Institute for sightseeing, the organiser would be pleased to extend the rates 4 nights prior and after the Institute.

Those who need assistance in registering, please do not be hesitate to contact me.

Warmest regards
Leslie Salehuddin

RC KAJANG GETS GOING WITH INDUCTION OF YOUNGEST MEMBER!

2011-09-23T03:02:00.000-07:00

On 20^th Sept 2011, RC Kajang held a joint meeting with RC Puchong Centennial in conjunction the induction of their new and youngest member, Mr Tee Han Seng. RC Kajang is now 24 members strong and answering the call from RI and District 3300 to recruit younger members. In conjuction with our event our guest speaker was PP Dr Siva Ananthan, Chair MDR. Dr Siva entertain us with his take on membership development espousing the need for change, the importance of being a Rotarian, the necessity of PR exercise by individual Rotarians and the need to do things differently so that people will have a desire to become Rotarians. Dr Siva emphasised that as individual Rotarians we have the power to make a difference as long as we have the belief that we are doing is important.

All Rotarians feel that what they are doing is important, if it is important to us then we must walk the talk and overcome The Paradigm of Powerlessness. As Rotarians we must never give up and never accept that we are powerless to change anything that can contribute to the betterment of all humanity.

We congratulate and welcome Rotarian Tee to our club, we thank Dr Siva for sharing his thoughts with us on Membership Development and we also thank AG Ananda for his presence in supporting our club activities and club development.

Rtn Mah
RC Kajang

ROTARY STATISTICAL UPDATE

2011-09-19T23:27:00.000-07:00

The family of Rotary extends beyond individual Rotarians and Rotary clubs to include other service-minded people who help with the organization's work. Groups such as Rotaract, Interact, and Rotary Community Corps serve side by side with sponsor clubs, using their diverse skills to improve the quality of life in their communities. Below are some of the latest statistics available, as of 30 April 2011. (*as of 4 April 2011)

ROTARY

Members: 1,222,293
Clubs: 34,118
Districts: 530

ROTARACT

Members: 195,040*
Clubs: 8,480*

INTERACT

Members: 303,991*
Clubs: 13,217*

ROTARY COMMUNITY CORPS

Members: 161,759*
Corps: 7,033*

PENANG MAPS - WHAT A GREAT DAY!!!

2011-09-19T23:18:00.000-07:00

The Penang MAPS was successfully carried out on the 14th of August 2011 organised by RC Tanjung Bungah and attended by about 50 Rotarians will all the Kedah and Penang clubs represented.

The sessions were highly interactive and many innovative and progressive ideas were put forward by the Rotarians present. These were a group of dedicated and committed Rotarians who sacrificed their day of leisure (Sunday) to make Rotary greater in their communities.

The first session was presented by me and entitled “The

Rotary Way." I was overwhelmed by the enthusiasm and

appreciation shown by the Rotarians for this presentation

and I hope that the inspiration provided to you will spark

greater growth in your clubs.

This was followed by a great presentation by PDG Leslie who

shared some vital points and pointers with those present. His

presentation was titled - "A Custom Approach to

Membership Development". I must say that PDG Leslie is a

very committed and valued Advisor to our MDR Committee

and we have benefitted greatly from his positive

input. PDG Leslie also conducted a Membership Action Plan

Round Table discussion that saw some very interesting

discussions.

After lunch we had a very interesting Panel session – “What’s Breaking Up Rotary?” moderated by PP Ronnie Tan. The topics under discussion were:

1. “Negative External Influences” – IPP Shamrat Sen Gupta

2. “Infighting, Conflicts and Other Cancers” – PP Cheang

3. “The Politics of Rotary” – PP Ricky Ch’ng

The next panel session focussed on – “What’s so great about Rotary?” moderated by PDG Dato’ Bill Ng. It was a great session and we all benefitted from the experience and wisdom of PDG Bill. The topics under discussion were:

1. "My Rotary Journey” – PDG Dr Santokh Sing

2. “The Great Rotary Fellowship” – AG Dr Baskaran

3. “Friends Around The World” – AG Ananda Pillai

All round I think the Penang MAPS was a resounding success and we head next to Ipoh for the MAPS for Perak clubs. See you October 23rd in Ipoh. For further details contact PP Amy Chin from RC Metro Ipoh.

"The future belongs to those who believe in the beauty of their dreams." - Eleanor Roosevelt.

BENTONG INDUCTS 3 NEW ROTARIANS

2011-09-19T22:53:00.000-07:00

It was a great pleasure to attend RC Bentong's grand Installation Dinner at the Genting Awana Resort last month on the 13th of August 2011.

Our D3300 MDR Team consisting of PDG Leslie, AG Ananda and myself were on route to Penang for the Penang MAPS the next morning but this was a wonderful pitstop with plenty of fellowship and fun.

The highlight of the day for the MDR Team was the induction of 3 new Rotarians. Welcome to the Rotary family and our best wishes to RC Bentong for greater growth and more Rotarians!!

"I shall pass through this world but once. Any good therefore that I can do or any kindness that I can show to any human being, let me do it now. Let me not defer or neglect it, for I may not pass this way again."

Some Thoughts on Club Extension - PP Christie Daniels (RC Danau Desa)

2011-09-11T21:34:00.000-07:00

It has not been comforting to know that Clubs have been rushed to charter at the end of last term. No fault of the Clubs. But there has been expressed reservation and lack of mitigation.

1. Parts of the actions were exasperating. It has invited condemnation for the way the charter has been rushed in some cases and ROS registration in others. Given the lack of preparation and experience it won’t be without consequences. But that’s when the District has to demonstrate maturity and be responsible, help them adjust the sails, correct the emphasis. The atmosphere has to be moderated. We cannot be like the proverbial ostrich and pretend that it is someone else’s problem. It’s necessary to re-jig the focus, what has begun must now continue on a good note.

2. The irony of it all is, when a new Club comes into inception it is often by way of a heart-wrenching tear-away from a ‘parent’ Club. Like hunger that drives wolves out of the woods, it’s the ‘discarded’ (not meant rudely) fellow Rotarians passion and I think that may be acceptable. At this juncture engagement is more productive than alienation and isolation. Let’s not dampen their passion.

3. There was perhaps very little by way of conceptual mapping and thoughtful dissemination of the Rotary structure, information and understanding. Past reviews are replete with polemics.

4. RI has a carefully crafted running-order and the responsibility lies with the District. But I guess up to this point it has been mostly ‘hands-off’ and allowing ‘discourse’ to flourish. There are many ways to govern a Club but only one way to treat the Mbrs – with acceptance.

5. Be conscious of the fact that we are getting this opportunity to impact the lives of so many people, starting with Rotarians… Where there was passion, there was anger and in cases it spilled over into despair. Right now there is perhaps no necessity for any investigation, it is rendered academic

6. But, as an appointed DGSR, let me reflect the range of my initial excitement and later concerns. I did not take offence but was left embarrassed at a Joint Mtg. Others were being announced as the DGSRs and that their appointment letter will arrive soon!!! Well, I was there with the (then) DG’s official letter of appointment, and the Provisional Club Pres’ Invitation! Such mistakes should never repeat. It also placed the Host in a quandary.

7. In the unfolding confusion, I was then appointed to mentor the Provisional Club of Bkt Tinggi. So much for principled stand. But it was immensely and mutually enriching and inspiring. Pres Richard’s commitment has already established optimism.

8. It is my earnest hope (and for all Rotarians I believe) that future Club extensions must continue to strive for proper understanding of Rotary. It is not for the District to fit into the context of the Club but the reverse.

9. For me as a DGSR it has been a particularly special experience. But the District has to look again at the entangled mess. There were many ‘flames’ of dissension. Naturally, the Provisional Club has to be built in reflexes of group thinking and emphasis of Rotary values. Sustainability never comes with a warranty.

10. Every new Club must have character; it must ‘belong to its community’. We must avoid ‘anonymous’ Clubs, which is what we are inadvertently doing by expanding so rapidly.

11. Club Extension is important but do not let any one use it frivolously. Perhaps the Club Ext Comt be placed under the Dist Strategic Planning Comt for prior approval, monitoring and final review for charter!

12. RI advisory on Club Extensions, implemented thru the Dist inter alia include specifics, one of which is that all inclinations (to form Clubs) must have best capacity. I propose that the Strategic Planning Comt hold the tool to review for final approval. Failure to meet minimum standards established by the RI Board of Directors and low attendance rates are compromises not to be accepted and will be the best way to bring home the gravity of the fact. Timeline perhaps must not be a condition but a review process must be governed by a timeline to resist manipulation.

13. There must be a clear and coherent plan to avoid unseemly conduct by all and sundry! Incidentally, the saving grace is, at least 2 Clubs in the Klang Valley are buzzing with creativity and have embarked on some serious projects.

Some issues no long exist and have been overtaken by the march of time! Let’s ignore them.

Who Knew How Many Rotarians Were Walking Out? - PDG Jim Henry (D6960)

2011-09-11T21:09:00.000-07:00

PP Shankar Duraiswami from the Rotary Club of Melawati drew my attention to the following article and I want to share it with all of you. Read on.......

Annually, More Than 157,000

Rotarians Have Been Walking Out Clubs’ Doors Taking With Them Over

US$7,500,000

Of Rotary International's Dues Revenue.

“On 30 June 2003, we had approximately 1.2 million members in 31,551 clubs. As of 30 June 2010, we had approximately 1.2 million members in 34,103 clubs. Since 2003, we have added 2,552 Rotary clubs yet only increased our overall membership by 226 members. Shocking? Even more disturbing is that in this seven-year period, we inducted into our Rotary clubs more than 157,000 Rotarians walked out of Rotary clubs’ doors during each one of those seven years, reducing Rotary1.1 million members.”

- Director John Smarge’s address to the 2011 International Assembly.

What’s even more mind-boggling is that an average of International’s annual dues income by more than us$7,500,000, or 12.5%. We can only hope that RI’s Board of Directors had not been made aware of the magnitude of these osses.

We can only wonder about the full life value of an additional 1.1 million Rotarians advancing the Object of Rotary. We can only wonder about the lost full life value of

1.1 million entrepreneurial brains sharing ideas, which would have given birth to countless other ideas. We can only wonder about how much the full life value our worldwide network of business, professional, and community leaders could have contributed to 1.1 million families and personal networks. We can only wonder about the lost full life value of 1.1 million sets of hands and feet participating in a wide variety of projects. We can only wonder of the full life value to local societies if each of those 1.1 million were in contact with fifty to one hundred others from different walks of life. And, of course, we can only wonder of the lost full life value to The Rotary Foundation, to district coffers, and to local club treasuries and foundations.

But why did this human and monetary capital walk out? Clubs will always lose members

for reasons they cannot control, such as death, health, and relocation. Assume this uncontrollable loss to be 7% annually. Is anything being done to keep the remaining 146,000 Rotarians from walking out with over US$7 million in dues every year?

In May, 2011 Rotary International’s Board of Directors instructed the general secretary to

engage an agency to assist RI with brand revitalization. It allocated US$975,000 over the next two years to implement the process, and directed US$600,000 of that amount to be included in the 2011–12 budget. This is a major, refreshing step, because for years assisting member clubs with their #1 priority, membership, has not been RI’s #1 priority. Though it does seem a bit strange that serving its customers’ needs would not have always been Rotary International’s number one priority (see previous Strategic Plans.)

In most businesses, a 12.5% annual customer and monetary loss would trigger prompt and substantial evaluations of the organization’s four Ps (priorities, policies, procedures,

practices), starting with the means of reporting gains and losses. After all, if the Board of

Directors had been made aware of the magnitude of these losses several years ago, I suspect a cause and effect analysis would have taken place long before now. All clubs send membership gains and losses to RI. All clubs send semi-annual reports to RI. These reports include paid membership information. It seems that regardless of how complicated it would be to compile the information, the secretariat could, semi-annually, report to the Board the real number of Rotarians that walked out by zone, district, and club. Had this information been available seven or more years ago, and priorities and recognitions placed on retaining and recruiting members, perhaps the brains of 1.2 million business, professional, and community leaders working together would have made our condition today substantially different.

There’s no question that clubs and individual Rotarians are responsible for membership. But just talking about it does not help. How much importance have Rotary leaders placed on retaining members until this Rotary year? How much emphasis are zone and district leaders, even this year, placing on retaining members through recognitions and awards based on accurate numbers? What priorities are being placed on supporting clubs

in helping them discover and practice Rotary fundamentals through GETS, PETS, and other training programs?

Rotary is in the people business. The only measure of an effective club, regardless of how many projects and programs each have in place, is their ability to retain and attract members.1 It seems only logical that an association serving such a diverse group of clubs would have an objective data base from which to gauge overall branding, public information, and training efforts, and a monetary base of reference to measure return on investment potential.

It will take years to adjust practices of 34,000 clubs with over 1.2 million Rotarians. It seems that RI could put a priority on data consolidation and reporting that would supply beneficial information to RI’s Board of Directors, zones, districts, and clubs. After all, if

only ten percent more Rotarians would continue walking into club meetings, overall membership would return to the growth stage, more Rotarians would be advancing the Object of Rotary, RI revenues would increase about US$700,000 a year, district and club revenues would increase, and the Rotary Foundation would receive more contributions. Doesn’t that make an investment in time, data processing, and meaningful reports worth considering?

Can we improve retention by up to ten percent?
Together We Can!

WE HAVE GROWN BY 34 NEW MEMBERS

2011-08-21T21:09:00.000-07:00

We have had an outstanding first month in this RY 2011-12 as far as membership development is concerned. WE HAVE GROWN BY 34 NEW MEMBERS.

The following clubs should be congratulated for SHARING ROTARY. And I hope that the rest of us will work hard and be inspired by their example.

RC Klang Central - 8
RC Bentong - 3
RC Seremban - 3
RC Sentul - 3
RC Bandar Sungai Petani - 2
RC Klang - 2
RC Bangsar - 2
RC Bukit Bintang - 2
RC Greater Kuala Lumpur - 1
RC Kelana Jaya - 1
RC Kuantan - 1
RC Seri Changkat Jong - 1
RC Bukit Tinggi Klang - 1
RC Senawang - 1
RC Georgetown - 1
RC Kerian - 1
RC Sitiawan - 1

My special congratulations to RC Klang Central for an outstanding job sharing Rotary. Congratulations also to RC Bentong, RC Seremban and RC Sentul for vigourously focussing on growth.

Remember that our biggest challenge is not recruitment but retention. Now that you have Identified, Invited and Inducted, please take the next vital steps:

INFORM - Share as much Rotary information as you can with them, and
INVOLVE - Get them involved your club activities - so that they can see and feel the power of Rotary's good work.

I am sure that many other clubs have also inducted new members but have yet to report it to PP Surendra. Kindly do so.
REMEMBER - IF YOU THINK WHAT YOU ARE DOING IN ROTARY IS IMPORTANT - SHARE ROTARY. WE DON'T NEED MORE MEMBERS - WE NEED MORE ROTARIANS

Penang MAPS - Opinion of Rtn A Joseph Walter - RC Bandar Sg Petani

2011-08-16T21:15:00.000-07:00

The Membership Action Plan Seminar for the clubs in Penang and Kedah which was held on Sunday - 14th Aug 2011 at the 1926 Heritage Hotel in Penang was a day always in my memory. First time I attended and was an eye opener for me. Dr Siva not only kept me awake but drilled the right and relevant message straight into my brain. He made to realize the Membership Development is the lifeblood or the pillar of any clubs. Without members, clubs die.

His invaluable information made me to love the club more. “Never beg for members” still quakes in my heart. We want Rotarian and not members prick my heart. We need quality Rotarians are his wisdom words that makes me to realize that I am called to serve with Rotarians and not members. I fully agree with him, we never want members but committed Rotarians. As Dr Siva reminded me, we should never, never and never beg for members but with our service, Rotarians must voluntarily join us.

In fact, I was at the edge of leaving the club because of one or two Rotarians. Listening to Dr Siva and PDG Dr Santokh Singh and AG Dr Baskaran made me to stay to make the change. Change is want we need. Change makes us to be different. As the Membership Director at RC of Bandar Sungai Petani, I want to bring Quality Rotarians and not members.

Thank you Dr Siva, you are my superhero now, opps underwear inside please heheheh. I have no regrets at all attending the MAPS. Honestly I attended the MAPS with heavy heart and for the sake of attending. But believe me, Dr Siva turned my perception to be completely different and his message vibrates through my blood veins.

Thank you and Terima Kasih PDG (Potential District Governor) Dr Siva and AG Dr Baskaran for making the difference in me. Please come and visit us at RC Bandar Sungai Petani, Kedah.

Presidential Citation, Changemaker Award can help your club set tangible membership goals - By Joseph Derr

2011-08-15T01:06:00.000-07:00

What is your club’s approach to recruiting and keeping members?

August, Membership and Extension Month, is an ideal time to discuss membership strategies for the year.
The Presidential Citation and Changemaker Award both include membership criteria and are excellent resources to help you set your goals.

Clubs aiming for the Presidential Citation this year must add at least one new member and keep at least 85 percent of their membership. Additional goals include recruiting RI and Rotary Foundation program alumni and young professionals, and increasing diversity by adding more female members. Districts must meet similar goals.

The Changemaker Award, established by RI President Kalyan Banerjee, also puts membership in the spotlight. Clubs must achieve a specific set of club service goals, including adding one new member under the age of 40 for each 50 members, implementing a comprehensive strategy for keeping members, and demonstrating that they have retained 85 percent of their members for the three Rotary years ending with 2011-12.

Both recognitions also include criteria for supporting Foundation programs, crucial to Rotary’s continued global success.

Past RI Vice President Monty J. Audenart, chair of the RI Membership Development and Retention Committee, encourages all clubs to focus on their membership goals as they take a fresh look at strengthening Rotary.

“When building strong clubs, attracting new members and retaining existing ones are given first priority. Then, the rest of our service activities and programs will take care of themselves,” says Audenart.

A New Approach to Rotary - Rotary International News - 20 January 2011

2011-08-15T01:04:00.000-07:00

Katie Ischkin, president and founder of the Rotary Club of South Metro Minneapolis Evenings, Minnesota, USA, believes in a new approach to Rotary.

Her Rotary club, chartered in June, has already grown to 25 members, including 12 new Rotarians who were recruited in a three-month period. The club has signed up for its first Matching Grant and international service project and has participated in more than 10 community service or hands-on volunteer efforts.

Ischkin shared her ideas on how to attract young professionals to Rotary during the International Assembly, an annual training event in San Diego, California. As a "proud, young, female Rotarian," she is among only 2 percent of club members worldwide under the age of 30, and only 11 percent under 40.

"We need to focus on generating interest in young people for the future success of Rotary," she said. "We are faced today with the need to grow not just for the sake of numbers but to create strong, young, global leaders who are going to help continue the success of the Rotary organization."

Ischkin advocates a new outlook on membership and a different approach to club structure. As a change management consultant, she said she understands people's fear of change. But she stressed that her approach doesn't mean altering the core pieces of the organization or losing what Rotarians hold dear.

"What does change are what I call surface-level elements," she said. "The pieces that individual clubs have the power to shift and redesign, such as meeting times and locations, program structures, club member involvement, and committee formats."

Manage expectations

Ischkin's club meets in the evening and lowers costs by not having meals. And it doesn't hold a traditional meeting every week: The third meeting of the month is a happy hour/networking event at different locations in the city, and the fourth meeting is a hands-on volunteering opportunity.

Ischkin added that it's important to understand the mindset of the new generation and manage expectations accordingly. Younger people are "always on the go and truly connected," she explained, whether it’s through social networking, text messaging, or other means. They face a lot of pressure to be involved in multiple endeavors and to balance work and personal life. As a result, they may be "on call" with their careers, but they are no less dedicated to service.

"When you’re trying to recruit younger members or even sponsor and start a New Generations Rotary club, take time with your club and committee to outline what your expectations are and whether they will align with the younger generation you are trying to attract and work with," she said. "Not every Rotary club can quickly shift gears to attract younger members; it takes time and baby steps."

But for many clubs, she said, "all it takes is opening up your minds and starting to think differently about the future of your club's membership."

MAPS KL & SELANGOR

2011-08-14T23:14:00.000-07:00

The MAPS held for KL and Selangor clubs proved very successful with 31 clubs being represented by more than 90 Rotarians. Here is a photo record of the event.

PDG Leslie (MDRC Advisor) shared his views on how clubs must customise a SPAM - Strategic Plan To Activate Membership! SPAM of course he pointed out is MAPS read backwards!

Rotarians busy coming up with an Action Plan or ap for membership development during the round table discussion. There discussions were very productive and useful. The MDR Committee believes that every Rotarian's input is valuable and vital if we are serious about growing membership and Rotarians.

PP Charlie Chan moderating a session with gusto and passion.

PP Christie Daniels sharing his Rotary journey with everyone.

PP Sonny Leong talking about great Rotary fellowship.

The panelists of the "What's breaking up Rotary?" Panel discussion.

DGN Mohinder promises to take the views expressed by the Rotarians seriously and to implement the necessary reforms to make D3300 Bigger, Better and Bolder.

PP Varpal Sagoo tackling the difficult topic of conflicts and infighting in clubs.

PP Graham Bennett sharing his views of what negative external factors are inhibiting our growth.

More discussions and brainstorming.

Participants sharing their deliberations and findings with everyone.

PP Dr Siva giving his input - we don't need more members. We need more ROTARIANS!

More sharing.

Yes, we can do it. If we work together and beileve in Rotary.

Let us REACH WITHIN TO EMBRACE HUMANITY BY SHARING ROTARY.

MAPS IN PENANG

2011-08-12T00:40:00.000-07:00

The Membership Action Plan Seminar for the clubs in Penang and Kedah will be held this Sunday - 14th Aug 2011 at the 1926 Heritage Hotel in Penang.

Please be assured that these seminars have as their primary focus - SHARING BY ROTARIANS. I believe that we all share a collective responsibility for membership development and retention and therefore everyone should have a voice. Come and express your views candidly and share your experiences so that we can make D3300 all that it can be.

The programme for the day is as follows:

09.00 – 0930 Registration

0930 – 10.00 Welcome Address by Organizing Chairman

Address by Host Club President

10.00 – 10.45 “The

Rotary Way

” – PP Dr Siva Ananthan – D3300 MDRC Chair

10.45 – 11.30 “A Custom Approach to Membership Development” – PDG Leslie Salehuddin – D3300 MDRC Advisor

11.30 – 11.45 Tea Break

11.45 – 12.45 Membership Action Plan Round Table – PDG Leslie Salehuddin

12.45 – 01.45 Lunch

01.45 – 02.45 Panel Discussion 1 – “What’s Breaking Up Rotary?” – Moderator – PP Ronnie Tan

Panelists

“Negative External Influences” – IPP Shamrat Sen Gupta

“Infighting, Conflicts and Other Cancers” – PP Varpal Sagoo

“The Politics of Rotary” – PP Ricky Ch’ng

02.45 – 03.45 Panel Discussion 2 – “What’s so great about Rotary?” – Moderator – PDG Dato’ William Ng

Panelists

“My Rotary Journey” – PDG Dr Santokh Singh

“The Great Rotary Fellowship” – AG Dr Baskaran

“Friends Around The World” – AG Ananda Pillai

03.45 – 04.00 Tea Break

04.00 – 04.45 Membership Action Plan Review – PP Dr Siva Ananthan

04.45 – 05.00 Closing Remarks

I know that we all love Rotary and this is why we must SHARE IT.

See you soon in Penang.

PP Dr Siva Ananthan

MDR Chair D3300

Comments from Rtn Dr Arasu (RC Bandar Sunway) on the recent KL MAPS

2011-08-12T00:23:00.000-07:00

It was an awsome experience attending the MAPS seminar and it was well beyond my expectations. I am so glad that I participated. This is my first seminar and workshop that I was attending as a Rotarian since joining this wonderful club. There were 90 rotarians (mostly Past Presidents and Membership Chairs) from 31 clubs in KL and Selangor.

The MAPS was declared open by DG Dr Ravee who gave us a rousing speech laden with much food for thought. The majority of sessions were conducted interactively and invoked a lot of participation from the Rotarians present. Almost every view raised in the seminar was given serious consideration and it was an enormous learning experience for me. To be truthful, when I was absorbed into the Board as an alternate to PP Sinnu, I had no inkling of on how to carry out the responsibilities but thanks to this seminar, I can play a more active role in the membership development of the Club.

The primary message in the seminar was that as Rotarians we should live a life of service to others so that the memory of our deeds will live long after we have gone. The other key message that I got was a simple one yet exceedingly meaningful for the growth of Rotary - ‘if we think what we do as Rotarians is important, then we must spread our message of hope more vigorously and with great commitment’.
We must approach potential members in the general public and share our passion and commitment for humanitarian service. Now our club’s proposed PR project of sending leaflets promoting Rotary in the vicinity of Sunway and the recent floral project in Putra Jaya makes a lot more sense to me after attending this seminar.

The conclusion at the seminar is that we do not need just members - we need more Rotarians who truly believe in service to humanity and dutifully commit some time for that purpose. We simply do not have enough committed Rotarians for the needs of the less fortunate and hence the need to recruit more. Membership development in simple terms is about ensuring that we leave a legacy of good so that more will be inspired to do the same in the future.

‘There is no higher religion than human service. To work for the common good is the greatest creed.’- Albert Schweitzer.

MEMBERSHIP ACTION PLAN SEMINAR (MAPS) FOR KL AND SELANGOR CLUBS

2011-08-07T23:45:00.000-07:00

I am happy to announce that yesterday (7th Aug 2011), we had successfully completed the MAPS for all the clubs in KL and Selangor. We had 31 clubs there and an attendance of more than 90 Rotarians. My thanks to RC Danau Desa for organising it and OC PP Christie Daniels for a great job. The MAPS was declared open by DG Dr Ravee who gave us a rousing speech and food for thought.

We approached this whole Membership Development Seminar very differently. Firstly, the presenters were all Rotarians that has some currency in the District being active Rotarians in their own clubs and outside them. The majority of sessions were conducted interactively and this saw a lot of participation from the Rotarians present. I am was very pleased with this outcome since I believe that District Officers and Committees must listen to what every Rotarian has to say in devising their plans for a better D3300. I want all of you to know that your views are very important to me and that my committee and I will take them seriously.

The first keynote address was presented by me as the MDR Chair and entitled - THE ROTARY WAY. My mesage - simple - if we think what we do as Rotarians is important, then we must spread our message of hope more vigourously and with greater committment.

Here are some of the ideas I shared for the benefit of all the Rotarians who could not attend.

It is an undisputed fact that many Rotarians for one reason or another fail in their obligation to share Rotary. This is not due selfishness but because we are complacent or lack conviction in what we are doing in Rotary. We lack the courage of our convictions are we ourselves are not convinced that what we are doing in Rotary is truly meaningful. For some, it is because their fellowship has no purpose, for others it is because they lack an understanding of their true power as Rotarians to make a better world.

I want to share with you this painting by Rosa Branson commissioned by Rotary International in Great Britain and Ireland (RIBI). The thematic work, entitled Service Above Self, depicts the many facets of Rotary’s humanitarian service, including the global campaign to eradicate polio and efforts addressing literacy, health, hunger, and water issues. Branson discovered Rotary’s work on a trip to Sierra Leone to visit the land-based operations of Mercy Ships, which is depicted in the painting and provides health care to port cities around the world.

I love this depiction of Rotary. It is empowering and makes me feel important in the scheme of things. What great things we do as Rotarians. Feed the hungry, help people in disasters, heal the sick and work for a more peaceful world. This is why we are Rotarians. This is why we must stand up and be counted. In a world that has gone mad - we are the hope for sanity and goodness. What we do is as Michael Jackson says, "Heal the world and make it a better place". Let me share some of the lyrics of his inspirational song:

There's A Place In Your Heart
And I Know That It Is Love
And This Place Could be Much Brighter Than Tomorrow
And If You Really Try..........

There Are Ways To Get There
If You Care Enough For The Living
Make A Little Space, Make A Better Place...

Heal The World, Make It A Better Place
For You And For Me, And The Entire Human Race.........
And The Dream We Were Conceived In
Will Reveal A Joyful Face
And The World We Once Believed In Will Shine Again In Grace.
THE PARADIGM OF POWERLESSNESS

Many people in the world are consumed by the paradigm of powerlessness. They feel there is nothing they can do in the face of the overwhelming problems that confront the world. So much so that they are numb to human suffering. Everyday the media of the world bring images of suffering into our living rooms - LIVE. We watch these events of human misery unfold before our very eyes. Images like these:

They shock us, but many people take the position there is nothing they can do about it. So, they turn off the TV, have dinner and go to sleep. It's not that they don't care - they just don't know what to do about it. They are trapped by their own problems - not realising that it is nothing compared to what many people suffer. They rationalise and justify their inaction and simply.........

GIVE UP.

I want you to now take a journey with me. Back in time - to when you were a little boy or girl. When you were seven or eight years old.

DO YOU REMEMBER THE TIME?

It was the time when you were really you. It was a time when all things were possible and the indoctrinations of life had not happened. I remember that time well. And whenever I falter in life and think back to the Siva of seven or eight. The Siva who would give the beggar on the street his 10 sens pocket money and not think about what the beggar was going to do with it. The Siva who believed and trusted in the inherent goodness in all people. The Siva who believed in Superheroes.

Don't laugh at me cynically. We all did - you did too. So did everybody. Because deep down everyone wants to see good truimph. Most people forget the real them. Life takes over and as Shakespeare put it - the whips and scorns of outrageous fortune condition people into a hardened state. Impervious to human suffering - numbing themselves to preserve their sanity.

ROTARIANS AND NOT AMONG THEIR NUMBER - BECAUSE WE HAVE RESOLVED TO FIGHT ON - TO END HUMAN MISERY.

The fact of the matter is that we are outnumbered and outgunned and we need to rearm and recruit. The total population of the world surpasses 7 Billion people. About half that number live in poverty and can't even help themselves. So we have about 3 Billion people who live in the developed world. We have 1.2 million Rotarians. Even if you multiply that number by 20 to reflect the altruistic people of the world - we have 240 million people. Against a human population of 7 billion and a viable population of 3 billion. The world is not in good shape. Why? Because most people have been defeated by the paradigm of POWERLESSNESS.

Its time we turned to these people and shared our passion and commitment for humanitarian service. That is what membership development is about. We do not need more members - WE NEED MORE ROTARIANS. Believe this and ACT on your belief - REACH OUT.

These were the four founding members of Rotary. Such distinguished gentlemen, Gus Loehr, Silvester Schiele, Hiram Shorey and Paul Harris. What did they share in common with you? They yearned for fellowship. Saw it as an opportunity for service and shared that message with their friends. They believed a fellowship anchored on the ideal of humanitarian service was lasting and meaningful. But even the very first Rotarian group had their retention problem - 50% of this group left Rotary. But the remaining two perservered - that is why we have Rotary International today.

What else will we have in common with them? Yes, we will all die some day. Just like they did. 106 years on, we are still talking about what they did. A friend of mine, once told me, that every person has 2 deaths. I was confounded by what he said and asked him, how is that possible? He said, Siva a man dies the first time when he is dead physically. But he really dies only when people stop talking about him. When the memory of him is dead. That is the 2nd death! Live your life in such a way, that the 2nd death does not happen to you.

My friends, we as Rotarians live a life of service to others and therefore long after we are dead - the memory of our deeds will live. This is why we must commit ourselves to sharing Rotary and bringing in new and young members, so that, the good work that we do will carry on and long endure. Membership development is about ensuring that we leave a legacy of good. THIS IS THE ROTARY WAY.

Our mission, to provide humanitarian service, to promote high ethical standards and to advance understanding, goodwill and peace, is so fundamental and essential to improving the human condition.

GOD BLESS ROTARY.

SOME IDEAS ABOUT KEEEPING MEMBERS

2011-07-17T03:48:00.000-07:00

Retention is an important part of membership development. How can we develop members into good Rotarians if they keep leaving. This year's Presidential Citation recognises and emphasizes this element. Clubs must retain 85% of their existing members to qualify.

In the many years I have been a Rotarian, I have observed that there are several issues that are pertinent to retaining existing members and it is my hope that by sharing my views I will help you troubleshoot better.

Rotary education for new members and continuing education of Rotarians – It never ceases to surprise me how we take the inculcation of Rotary ideology in new members for granted. Rotary is a dynamic organization and there is constant change within our great organization. It is the responsibility of the club leadership to keep all members informed and abreast of these changes. Contiunuing education lies at the heart of any living organization. Secondly, Rotary education must not be shared in a ‘preachy’ fashion. Rotarians and accomplished individuals and what is required is a dialogue. I would encourage the transmission of Rotary knowledge in an interactive and fun setting – for example, a Rotary quiz. Alternatively this information can be shared through the bulletin. The bulletin editor can be given one or two fining sessions to ascertain who is actually reading the bulletin!!
Dignified induction ceremony for new members – This is most essential. The dignity we profer to those whom we are inducting into Rotary membership is an indication of how highly we value our Rotary membership. If we share the view that Rotarians are important people and have an important contribution to make to society, then this should be reflected in the manner we induct and treat every new Rotarian. Because they are now members of this important fraternity.
Good assimilation of members – Spare no effort in assimilating new members into the club immediately. Get them involved in club projects directly and open our hearts and minds to them. Allow them to experience the great fellowship of Rotary. Just don’t talk about it. Invite them to your homes and share Rotary with them. There some clubs where certain members tend to be in cliques. The Past Presidents’ clique, the lawyers’ clique, the District Officers’ clique, etc. etc. etc. It is natural to be close to those who share common interests with us – but make an effort to open you hearts in the interest of building a strong club.
It also important for younger members to be given leadership positions within the club to show them that their participation is an integral part of the club. Don’t keep them out until they get fed up and leave. RI has challenged clubs around the world this coming Rotary year to induct a Rotarian under the age of 35 into the club.
Have a life outside of Rotary. Try to share fellowship around non-Rotary and hobby activities. Like bowling together or mountain climbing or karaoke.

Rotary needs every hand it can get. As Rotarians we are aware of the enormous problems that afflict human society. You need to look into your hearts and search for the reasons that made you a Rotarian and more importantly, kept you a Rotarian. SHARE this with the new Rotarians and our organization will prosper and grow strong. And our communities will benefit from your inspiration. YOUR WORK IN ROTARY IS THE INSPIRATION THAT MANY ARE LOOKING FOR.

“Rotary summons men to respond to their best impulses. ..their best selves… [to] lift up their heads in every land. The best things in us are not confined by national boundaries. ” - Allen D Albert, The Tree That Is Rotary, THE ROTARIAN, December 1934

THE RIGHT CANDIDATE BY PP ARTHUR YEONG (RC KINTA)

2011-07-15T01:31:00.000-07:00

I wonder if this business of membership development and retention is not unlike that of bumiputera membership development of a few years ago.

Remember we used to have a District Committee for Bumiputera Membership Development ? It was eventually disbanded and the reason I was told by a Malay PDG then was that in 3300 most bumiputras were Malay and it was not in their culture or habit to join clubs. I am not sure if we ever had a Women (or Lady) Membership Development Committee. Yet we have ladies joining Rotary.

My humble opinion is that people will join Rotary and leave Rotary for their own reasons. We may try to increase the reasons for their joining and reduce the reasons for their leaving but each one must find his (for brevity I will use this pronoun) own motivation for joining and staying in Rotary.

Of course conduct that is generally unpleasant or unacceptable must be avoided. Disparaging remarks, rudeness, sexism, racism, nepotism, in short anything that will fail the Four Way Test of all that we think, say and do, must be eliminated. Conversely, every kind of good conduct must be encouraged and emulated.

Other than that, I think it is ultimately a simple question of whether we induct the right candidate or not.

Let us ask ourselves : are we deliriously happy with Rotary in 3300 in general and with our own Rotary Club in particular ? If the answer is not “yes”, why have we not resigned ?

I cannot speak for anyone else but personally I have to admit to certain sporadic unhappiness with Rotary but these episodes do not last very long. I had wanted to resign about 6 months after I was inducted. Why did I not resign ? Will that shed some light on the subject ?

I did not resign then because I found a past president (in Ipoh-Kinta as it then was) I could talk to and who appeared to understand what I was going through. So whenever I had notions of giving up, I would go to him, bellyache to him, sometimes raving and ranting, and he would always put things into perspective for me. And the urge to leave subsides.

Another reason is that I feel I have discovered my niche in Rotary. I have found something which makes being a Rotarian meaningful and valuable. This makes it worthwhile spending my time and effort attending the Regular Dinner Meetings of my Club and all its activities. For its sake I put up with some of the things that may make others leave.

I know that these two reasons may not be good enough for everyone to remain in Rotary, which brings me back to my point : we have to induct the right candidate.

That then begs the question : what constitutes a right candidate ?

I cannot answer that. Everyone will have their own answers.

I can only guess that the right member genuinely believes and practices the tenets and principles of Rotary like Service Above Self, He Benefits Most Who Serves Best, Every Rotarian An Example To Youth, that we may one day achieve World Peace and Understanding and so on.

He may also be someone who believes that together we can make the world a better place, with the rich helping the poor, the healthy helping the sick, the privileged helping the under-privileged and so on.
He may believe in equality among peoples, justice, human rights and so on.

Unfortunately these are traits that may not be easily discernible or visible. They do not appear in neon lights on human foreheads.

Ultimately the right candidate, whatever strengths and weaknesses he has, whatever he believes in or eschews, has to be the one that will not leave or resign.

MDR Chair Comments

Thank you PP Arthur for your illuminating and insightful thoughts. Couldn't agree with you more. We did have a Women's Membership Committee for a few years that proved more successful than the Bumiputra Membership Committee.

Some tips for starting an e-club by Arnold R. Grahl and Ryan Hyland

2011-07-14T18:46:00.000-07:00

As the mother of two small children, Simone Carot Collins found it increasingly difficult to attend meetings of her Rotary club after starting her own business.

Carot Collins, 2010-11 president of the Rotary Club of Freshwater Bay, Western Australia, Australia, talked to two other Rotarians in a similar situation, and approached her district governor-elect about exploring the possibility of an e-club. Carot Collins is now president-elect of the provisional Rotary E-Club of Sunset Coast, in District 9455.

"E-clubs are an invaluable way to enable committed Rotarians to remain engaged with Rotary work rather than losing them from the organization entirely," says Carot Collins, who is also past chair of the Rotarians on Social Networks Fellowship. "A change in life circumstances can make it very difficult to participate in a regular Rotary club, be it having young children, starting up a new business, or taking a job that involves regular traveling."
E-clubs have been around since 2004, when a pilot project allowed about a dozen clubs to experiment with the format.

The 2010 Council on Legislation decided to make e-clubs a permanent part of Rotary International, approving a limit of two per district. There are now more than 30 e-clubs, whose members meet weekly, plan service projects, and build friendships online.

Starting an e-club involves essentially the same process as starting any Rotary club. The responsibility of approving the new club rests with the district governor, who appoints a special representative to gauge interest and find potential members.

Selecting the special representative is crucial, says Philip Schunk, 2010-11 governor of District 7210 (New York, USA).

"The special representative must have -- or have access to someone with -- superior technical skills, and be able to communicate well to charter members," says Schunk, who helped organize an e-club in his district.
He says the representative should work with potential e-club members to ensure that they find a qualified vendor to help set up a website, if necessary, and identify members who can be trained to handle day-to-day operations. The website will need to safeguard personal data and accommodate secure financial transactions.

"Rotary needs to adapt and keep up with technology," says Schunk. "With e-clubs, we can build membership and extend our reach of fellowship."
The Rotary E-Club of District 3170 became one of the newest additions to the fold, celebrating its charter 2 July during a special dinner with members of its sponsor club, the Rotary Club of Vasco da Gama, Goa, India. Members who could not attend celebrated via the club's website.

Like Carot Collins's club, the District 3170 e-club meets both in person and online. Lizette Ödfalk, the club's public relations chair, says it has 25 charter members. Some are former Rotaractors who wanted to become Rotarians but needed flexible meeting arrangements; others are former Rotarians who had moved to places where it was difficult to maintain club membership. The club also looked to contacts on social networking sites like Facebook and LinkedIn. Club members are from Australia, Bulgaria, Canada, China, India, Malaysia, Norway, South Africa, and the United States.

Before starting an e-club, ask these questions:
*Why create an e-club? What need does it meet?
*How will it conduct service projects and activities?
*How will it create and strengthen friendships?
*What support will it need from your district?
*If you've found prospective members, do they have the necessary technical skills?
*What platform will you use?
*Will members meet in person as well as online?

MDR Chair's comment
We need to think more innovatively in D3300 about a more inclusive approach to Rotary membership. E-Clubs need to be started correctly and with the right amount of Rotary input but more importantly they need regular shepherding and support from the District. Let me know what you think.

FOR CLUB LEADERS - GETTING ALONG BETTER

2011-07-14T03:50:00.000-07:00

At my last club meeting, I had an outburst of sorts. Someone complained their name was spelt wrong in the club bulletin and I reacted by saying - "I am really tired of negative comments. Someone put a lot of effort into getting the bulletin out and it looked great - but there was hardly a complementary world about that. But we are really good at being critical and negative".

I realise now that I was overreacting but that notwithstanding I would be great if we could be better at intimating our views and if we were more vocal in complementing others rather than just criticizing them.

I read this some time ago and want to share it with you.

Proven Ways to Get Along Better With EVERYONE

1. Before you say anything to anyone, ask yourself 3 things:

Is it true?
Is it kind?
Is it necessary?

2. Make promises sparingly and keep them faithfully.

3. Never miss the opportunity to compliment or say something encouraging to someone.

4. Refuse to talk negatively about others; don’t gossip and don’t listen to gossip.

5. Have a forgiving view of people. Believe that most people are doing the best they can.

6. Keep an open mind; discuss, but don’t argue. (It is possible to disagree without being disagreeable.)

7. Forget about counting to 10. Count to 1,000 before doing or saying anything that could make matters worse.

8. Let your virtues speak for themselves.

9. If someone criticizes you, see if there is any TRUTH to what he is saying; if so, make changes. If there is no truth to the criticism, ignore it and live so that no one will believe the negative remark.

10. Cultivate your sense of humor; laughter is the shortest distance between two people.

Do not seek so much to be consoled, as to console; do not seek so much to be understood, as to understand; do not seek so much to be loved as to love.

COMMENTS FROM PP FRANKIE YAP - RC SITIAWAN

2011-07-12T02:11:00.000-07:00

Some points to share with our members:

1. Most of my friends are worried about the financial aspect incurred as a Rotarian. They have formed an opinion that to be a member one has to set aside a substantial sum every year.

2. Some Past Presidents are too money minded. They kept stressing on the capital 'M'. This really frightens existing members, what more prospective members who happen to be at the lunch meeting.

3. We should not be thinking of making more money for the club's coffer instead should focus more on service and fellowship. To keep pinching money from fellow members may be a cause for concern for retirees as well as pensioners.

4. Too much unnecessary comments and criticism from Past Presidents who think they are far better than others is bad for a club. Members will be bored and find it stale to listen to the same guy commenting and harping on the same topic all the time.

STALEMATE

2011-07-11T01:08:00.001-07:00

STALEMATE - that's the expression we use when we are at an impasse. I feel that is the case with membership development in our District.

I was District Membership Development Chairman when Low Teong’s was Governor and I remember visiting nearly every club in the District to talk about the importance of growing our great organization. Richard King was RI President and he emphasized the importance of bringing in new members in the face of a global contraction in Rotary membership. We came close to 1,800 Rotarians that year.

More that 10 years later we are still hovering at around the same number. Why?

I want to start a discussion on membership development, which is the lifeblood of any organization. Now more than ever the spirit of volunteerism must be shared and promoted.

Here are some reasons why we should promote membership growth.

Think about why you became a Rotarian. One of the reasons is because you understand that you are not going to live forever – you have to balance your personal ‘account’ with God before its time to kick the bucket. Helping your fellow man is certainly one of the fundamental tenets of any “bucket list”. You have an obligation to spread that message.

We are Rotarians because someone shared Rotary with us. We in turn have an obligation to share Rotary with others. Don’t you think?

More members mean we have a greater capacity to serve the good of our community, our nation and the world.

New members bring fresh ideas to the club and create a dynamic force for good.

We all know that older members tend to ‘burn out’ after many years of Rotary service – new blood is vital to keep the engine of service going.

Please feel free to share your views of why we should promote membership growth in our great organisation.

Let me share a thought expressed by our Founder Paul P Harris.

“We are here on earth and we are here to stay during our respectively allotted periods. How much of happiness and how much of misery shall be our share remains with us almost entirely to determine. If we possess a modicum of reason, it will be apparent to us that it is the part of wisdom to cheerfully make the best of the situation and to harmonize our own lives with nature’s inexorable laws. We are entitled to the maximum of happiness; and may we be sane enough to observe that the route to a life full of happiness does not lie in intemperate indulgence. We need and the world needs an optimistic, rational philosophy of life.”

GOD BLESS ROTARY AND ROTARIANS

D3300 MEMBERSHIP DEVELOPMENT

THE WHEELS OF LIFE

MEMBERSHIP UPDATE JULY - SEP 2011

PERAK MAPS #3

LATEST UPDATES - 51 NEW MEMBERS INDUCTED IN JULY & AUGUST 2011

INDUCTION OF NEW MEMBERS - THE 3 "I"S

INPUT FROM AG BASKARAN

BALI ROTARY INSTITUTE 2011

RC KAJANG GETS GOING WITH INDUCTION OF YOUNGEST MEMBER!

ROTARY STATISTICAL UPDATE

PENANG MAPS - WHAT A GREAT DAY!!!

BENTONG INDUCTS 3 NEW ROTARIANS

Some Thoughts on Club Extension - PP Christie Daniels (RC Danau Desa)

Who Knew How Many Rotarians Were Walking Out? - PDG Jim Henry (D6960)

WE HAVE GROWN BY 34 NEW MEMBERS

Penang MAPS - Opinion of Rtn A Joseph Walter - RC Bandar Sg Petani

Presidential Citation, Changemaker Award can help your club set tangible membership goals - By Joseph Derr

A New Approach to Rotary - Rotary International News - 20 January 2011

Manage expectations

MAPS KL & SELANGOR

MAPS IN PENANG

Comments from Rtn Dr Arasu (RC Bandar Sunway) on the recent KL MAPS

MEMBERSHIP ACTION PLAN SEMINAR (MAPS) FOR KL AND SELANGOR CLUBS

SOME IDEAS ABOUT KEEEPING MEMBERS

THE RIGHT CANDIDATE BY PP ARTHUR YEONG (RC KINTA)

Some tips for starting an e-club by Arnold R. Grahl and Ryan Hyland

FOR CLUB LEADERS - GETTING ALONG BETTER

I realise now that I was overreacting but that notwithstanding I would be great if we could be better at intimating our views and if we were more vocal in complementing others rather than just criticizing them.

I read this some time ago and want to share it with you.

Proven Ways to Get Along Better With EVERYONE

1. Before you say anything to anyone, ask yourself 3 things:

Is it true?

Is it kind?

Is it necessary?

2. Make promises sparingly and keep them faithfully.

3. Never miss the opportunity to compliment or say something encouraging to someone.

4. Refuse to talk negatively about others; don’t gossip and don’t listen to gossip.

5. Have a forgiving view of people. Believe that most people are doing the best they can.

6. Keep an open mind; discuss, but don’t argue. (It is possible to disagree without being disagreeable.)

7. Forget about counting to 10. Count to 1,000 before doing or saying anything that could make matters worse.

8. Let your virtues speak for themselves.

9. If someone criticizes you, see if there is any TRUTH to what he is saying; if so, make changes. If there is no truth to the criticism, ignore it and live so that no one will believe the negative remark.

10. Cultivate your sense of humor; laughter is the shortest distance between two people.

COMMENTS FROM PP FRANKIE YAP - RC SITIAWAN

STALEMATE