The  August 2025 Video from Christine Etienne, Rotary International Director, Zone 28 & 32 

Greetings Rotary Family,

I hope that you are enjoying your summer and the start of our new Rotary year.

During the month of August, we celebrate our number one internal priority which is membership along with new club development.  As dedicated members of Rotary, it is important to focus on membership throughout the year and that means working on attracting new members, engaging our members and identifying opportunities for new clubs.  There are a variety of new club models to explore in an effort to involve more people in Rotary such as e-clubs, cause-based clubs, companion clubs and passport clubs.  Visit the Rotary website to learn more: https://my.rotary.org/en/club-flexibility.

The third strategic priority of our Rotary Action Plan is Enhance Participant Engagement. This means creating new ways to inspire people who are involved in Rotary and provide meaningful experiences that make them want to stay.  Each encounter with someone is an opportunity to show what Rotary can help them accomplish as individuals and as members of their communities. However a person engages with Rotary — through a club, program, or event — we want to exceed their expectations. Their Rotary experience should be fulfilling and meaningful whether they’re a longtime member or a curious newcomer.

The Better Together Zone Summit is quickly approaching.  Scheduled for September 16-21 in Winnipeg, Manitoba, the Summit will provide an abundance of learning and inspiration for current and past district leaders, young professionals and future leaders.  Registration and details can be found at https://winnipegsummit2025.sched.com/.  In addition, we are seeking volunteers for the following roles during the Summit:

• Participate as a member of the choir that will sing on stage.  (Please respond even if you have already submitted your name for this role)
• Serve as an ambassador (sergeant-at-arms).
• Assist with registration.
• Serve as a timekeeper during plenary sessions.

Your consideration as a volunteer is appreciated.  If you are interested in any of the roles listed above, please contact Better Together Summit Chair Melissa Rathbun at melissawardrotary@gmail.com. 

Please enjoy this month’s message including a conversation with Rotary Membership Coordinators Cindie Kish and Louisa Horne about ideas, resources and membership opportunities for your club.

Thank you for your service and let’s continue to Unite for Good. 

Yours in Rotary,