How to join Rotary

From its beginning in 1905, membership in Rotary has been "by invitation only".  Business professionals and community leaders, regardless of race, gender or faith, gather weekly to not only enjoy fellowship opportunities but to work together for the good of their communities and the world.

If you are interested in joining, please speak with any Rotarian you know.  There are over 32,000 clubs in the world and 2 in Nelson.  You could also visit our "Membership List".  Here you can view our membership and note the classifications represented.  If you find the name of an acquaintance, please contact that person to ask about Rotary, its obligations and its opportunities.

You might be further encouraged to seek membership by reading the reasons to join Rotary below.

Top Ten Reasons to Join Rotary

1. Friendship. In an increasingly complex world, Rotary provides one of the most basic human needs: the need for friends and fellowship. It is one of the two reasons why Rotary began in 1905.
2. Business development. The second original reason for Rotary's beginning. Everyone needs to network. Rotary consists of a cross-section of every business in the community. Its members come from all walks of life. Rotarians help one another, and collectively help others.
3. Personal Growth and Development. Membership in Rotary continues one's growth and education in human relations and personal development.
4. Leadership Development. Rotary is an organization of leaders and successful people. Serving in Rotary positions is like a college education in Leadership: learning how to motivate, influence and lead other leaders.
5. Citizenship in the Community. Membership in a Rotary club makes one a better community citizen. The average Rotary club consists of many of the most active citizens of any community.
6. Continuing Education. Each week at Rotary there is a program designed to keep members informed about the community, the nation and the world. Different speakers, different topics.
7. Fun. Rotary is fun. A lot of fun. Each meeting is fun. The club projects are fun; social activities are fun; and service to others is fun.
8. Public Speaking. Many individuals who join Rotary are afraid to speak in public. Rotary develops confidence and public communications skills.
9. Citizenship in the World. Every Rotarian wears a pin that says "Rotary International". And every Rotarian is welcome, in fact encouraged, to attend any of the more than 28,000 clubs in over 160 nations in the world. There are few places on the globe which do not have a Rotary club. Rotarians find instant friends in both their own community and anywhere in the world.
10. Assistance when traveling. Because there are Rotary clubs everywhere, many Rotarians who need a doctor, lawyer