Rotary Club of Clifton
What is Rotary?
In its local sense, it’s a group of like-minded individuals running their own club. But they are also part of RIBI - Rotary International in Great Britain & Ireland - an association of more than 55,000 men and women in over 1,850 Rotary clubs, volunteering their time, talents, professional skills and energy to improve the lives of people at home and abroad; to support education and job training, further international understanding, provide clean water, combat hunger, improve health and sanitation and even eradicate polio. Worldwide there are over 34,000 clubs, with 1.2 million members all with a commitment to Service Above Self. Thus as a member of a Rotary club you have the opportunity to give something back, to give hope to those less fortunate and to make lives worthwhile and fulfilled.
If you want to see some of the things you could help achieve through your membership of Rotary, watch these short videos.
How did it start?
Our club was started in 1968 by the Rotary Club of Bristol, but the origins go much further back. In 1905, Chicago lawyer Paul Harris called three friends to a meeting, his vision being to form a club that would encourage fellowship amongst members of the business community, an idea originating from his desire to find the kind of friendly spirit he had known in the villages where he had grown up. Little did the four businessmen know that they had created the first ever Rotary club.
Can anyone join?
You must be an adult, of good character and good business, professional and/or community reputation and agree to uphold high moral and ethical standards in your personal, business and community life as well as being able to interact well with people generally.
How would I join the Rotary Club of Clifton?
We welcome guests and prospective members to our weekly Wednesday 1-2pm lunch meetings to get to know us and to hear interesting guest speakers. Once a month we have a business meeting to discuss our social and projects programme. After a few meetings we’d talk to you about the next step. You need to be aware that Rotary is a rewarding commitment, so to get the most out of it you need to attend reasonably regularly. If you are interested in joining us, please contact us.
What does it cost?
Currently £235 a year, which covers running costs as well as going towards your weekly lunch. After that the costs depend on the various activities you take part in. Of course, most of our social events – ‘light’ sports, theatre, suppers, parties, fund-raisers, etc are designed to include our partners. It’s fun, it’s fulfilling. Careful though - it’s addictive!