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Frequently Asked Questions

What is Rotary?

Rotary is an organisation of business and community leaders who volunteer their time, skills and knowledge to help others in their community and throughout the world. Rotary is non-religious, non-governmental and open to both genders and all cultures and creeds. Currently there are more than 1.25 million men and women Rotarians in 32 000 Rotary clubs in virtually every nation of the free world.

How and where did Rotary start?

Rotary was the first service club in the world formed in Chicago USA in February 1905 by a lawyer, Paul Harris and three friends, a merchant, a coal dealer and a mining engineer. Harris wanted to recapture the feelings of fellowship he had experienced in the small town where he grew up. The name “Rotary” came from the early practice of rotating meetings amongst members’ offices. Rotary Pretoria West was formed in 1959.

Does Rotary have a Code of Ethics?

Yes, Rotarians’ actions are guided by a Four-Way Test of the things they think, say and do:

• Is it the TRUTH?
• Is it FAIR to all concerned?
• Will it build GOODWILL and better FRIENDSHIPS?
• Will it be BENEFICIAL to all concerned?

How do I become a Rotarian?

Membership is by invitation from an existing member who recognises your worth and status in the community and puts your name forward. Rotary is urgently seeking qualified people who have a desire to experience “extraordinary opportunities to do more”

Where does this leave my partner and children and how can they become involved?

Participation in Rotary projects and fellowship activities by the partners and family of Rotarians is encouraged. And Pretoria West has a partners’ club (The Anns) which actively assists with Rotary club projects and also initiates their own projects. In addition there is Interact Clubs for children aged 13-18 and Rotaract Clubs for young adults 18-30.

When do Rotarians meet?

Pretoria West Rotary meets on a Tuesday evening between 18h30 and 20h00. The meetings themselves last for an hour at which Rotary business and projects are discussed or a guest speaker is invited. The main thrust of the meetings is, however, fellowship and networking.

How will I serve in Rotary?

There are 4 main avenues of service in Rotary, Community Service, Vocational, Service, Club Service and International. Service. As a Rotarian you will serve in the avenue which bests suits your skills, experience and preference.

What opportunities does Rotary offer me?

• You will meet fascinating people from all over the world.
• You are welcome as a member of the Rotary ‘family’ in all of the 32 000 clubs throughout the world
• You will be paying your ‘community rent’ in the company of and assisted by like-minded peers within your club
• You will discover and develop skills that will prove useful in the family and in the workplace
• You will enjoy the congenial company of fellow Rotarians united in a spirit of fellowship and service
• YOU WILL MAKE A DIFFERENCE