DG January 2020 Message

 

Vocational Service Rotary RAGS and Fellowships

The ideal of service is at the Core of Rotary and as Rotarians we should consider ourselves fortunate to be linked with a diverse group of some 1.2 million Rotarians and hundreds of thousands of Rotaractors in 134 countries around the world. This brings with it invaluable diversity through our cultural differences, languages, and very importantly our vocations, as well as great strength and the ability/capability to undertake the many challenges and needs within our community. And very importantly the ability to make major life changing connections. 

 

As we reflect on Vocational Service Month we are reminded that the object of Rotary is to encourage and foster the ideal of service as a basis of worthy enterprise and in particular.

Firstly as the development of acquaintance as an opportunity for service. The networking potential is astounding as Rotarians have the opportunity to create relationships with many business, professional and community leaders and quite honestly this is one of the reasons why persons are drawn to Rotary.

 

Secondly High Ethical Standards in business and profession; the recognition of the worthiness of all useful occupations; and the dignifying of each Rotarian’s occupation as  an opportunity to serve society

 

We know that maintaining high Ethical standards is another core value of Rotary. We cannot compromise on this. We have seen overtime in our own communities, in our district and globally that we are able to mobilize resources for small and large projects all because Rotary is known for integrity.  Integrity is strictly linked to our vocation as without that our successes in business and as Rotarians can be marginalized, We must remain vigilant and guard our personal and professional integrity as well as that of Rotary and encourage others to do likewise.

 

The importance of diversity of vocation in our clubs is also significant. Sometime clubs may deviate from this very instructive guiding principle but I encourage you to review your needs from time to time and as this can add value and strengthen our collective ability to effectively carry out your community service and make a difference in our communities. Also, very importantly please reflect on how we are honoring the various vocations of our Fellow Rotarians and Rotaractors, Also this is a good time to reflect on the mentorship programmes in place to help change the course of a young person’s life.