So you want to sponsor a new member? Follow these simple steps…

First and foremost, ask yourself these questions.

• Does this person possess the qualities of a Rotarian?
• Do you believe that this person can meet the standards of the four way test?
• Can this person commit the time that’s required to be a Rotarian?
• Would this person be willing to put service above self?
• Can you say that this person is a servant willing to contribute time and talent to the club’s efforts?

If you can answer yes to these questions, proceed to the next step…

Ask the prospective member to attend a meeting as your guest. This gives you the opportunity to judge their interest in Rotary. Without the prospective member’s knowledge, fill out the Membership Proposal Application available here (below). Be sure to include as much personal detail as you can. Submit the application to the Membership Committee.

The Membership Committee will submit two readings to the club via email asking for confidential comment on the proposed member and report the results to the Board of Directors who will either approve or disapprove the application. The Membership Committee Chair will notify the sponsor of the Board’s decision. If approved, the sponsor can now invite the prospective member to join our club. It is strongly recommended that the sponsor invite the prospective member to another meeting as a guest so that they can see first hand what Rotary is about.

If the prospective member does want to join the club, the Membership Committee will schedule the required fireside chat. This will give the prospective member a clear understanding of what Rotary is and what is expected of a Rotarian.

A formal induction ceremony is conducted and the new member is presented to the club.

Here’s the no frills version:

• Would this person make a good Rotarian? Invite them to a meeting.
• Fill out the application.
• Two readings are sent to the club.
• Board decides whether to approve.
• Sponsor notified of Board decision.
• Invite prospective member to join.
• Prospective member attends fireside chat.
• Member is inducted.