Becoming A Rotarian

What is Rotary?

Rotary International is an association of Rotary clubs worldwide. It’s made up of more than 39,000 Rotary clubs in more than 200 countries and geographical areas. The members of these autonomous clubs are called Rotarians, and they form a global network of 1.4 million business and professional leaders, all volunteering their time and talents to serve their communities and the world. Individual Rotary clubs, in turn, belong to the global association called Rotary International.

How Do I Become a Member of Rotary?

To get started with Rotary, begin by reaching out to a club in your area, though individuals must be sponsored or proposed for membership into a club.

What are the qualifications for membership?

Prospective members must:

  • Hold (or be retired from) a professional, proprietary, executive, managerial, or community position
  • Have demonstrated a commitment to service through personal involvement
  • Be able to meet the club’s weekly attendance or community project participation requirements
  • Live or work within the vicinity of the club or surrounding area

What Are the Responsibilities of Membership?

Members are expected to attend weekly club meetings. They must pay annual dues to their clubs, and they’re expected to participate in local or international Rotary club activities or projects. Clubs encourage members to aspire to club leadership or committee roles.

What Are the Attendance Requirements?

An attendance record of 50 percent is required to remain an active Rotarian. Any missed meeting should be made up within 14 days before or after the regular meeting. To accommodate busy schedules, there are various opportunities to make up missed meetings.

How Much Does Rotary Cost?

Membership dues vary by club. If you’re interested in joining a particular club, attend a weekly meeting and ask this question.

What is the Minimum Age to be in Rotary?

There is no minimum age to join Rotary. You may be invited to join at any age after you become established in a career and have the time and financial resources to meet all Rotary club membership requirements. If you’re interested in joining a Rotary club, ask members about the time and financial commitments necessary to fulfill membership requirements, and consider whether you can make those commitments.

Are College Students Eligible for Membership?

No. Rotarians have achieved a level of career experience that enables them to bring a specialization to their club, and students haven’t yet reached a level in their professional and personal lives that allows them to fulfill all aspects of Rotary club membership. But undergraduate and graduate students, as well as young adults, may become members of [Rotaract clubs](https://www.rotary6900.org/page/67).

Is There a Way for High School Students to Get Involved?

Yes. Interact is a Rotary-sponsored service club for those ages 12 to 18. Interact clubs give young people an opportunity to participate in fun, meaningful service projects while developing leadership skills and meeting new friends.

How Do I Locate a Club in My Area?

Use this interactive map to locate a club in your area.

If I’m Not a Rotary Club Member, Can I Still Help Out with Service Projects?

Yes! You can offer to assist any Rotary club with its local service projects.

Rotary has more than 39,000 Rotary clubs worldwide. There are more than 1.4 million Rotarians worldwide! Contact us and become a member today!


Updated by Dave Schwickerath
February 1, 2023 2:50 pm