By Past RI Vice President Serge Gouteyron, member of the Rotary Club of Valenciennes-Denain aerodrome (France) and Chair of the 2015-16 RI Rotary Fellowships Committee
The second Object of Rotary encourages Rotarians to hold high ethical standards in business and profession; to recognize the worthiness of all useful occupations; and to dignify each Rotarian’s occupation as an opportunity to serve society. Through Rotary, members from different professional and cultural backgrounds are able to combine their expertise and experiences to create a greater impact. By connecting with fellow Rotarians who share a common profession or hobby, Rotary Fellowships contribute to the promotion and advancement of Rotary worldwide. Fellowships enable Rotarians to bond with those outside of their club, district, or country. Vocationally oriented fellowships allow Rotarians to use their unique skill sets to serve their community and further their professional development while building lasting friendships.
There are currently more than 60 Rotary Fellowships covering unique topics of interests including various vocations such as lawyers, doctors, police law enforcement and more.
How can we increase our impact through Fellowships?
Dear friends, let’s extend our spirit of friendship and service spirit beyond our clubs and let’s further mutual understanding through Rotary Fellowships. We invite Rotarians whose profession is not represented among the current fellowships to create one. Vocationally-based fellowships based are quite significant as they embody the historical identity of Rotary and of its values.
The following stories will inspire you to join an existing group or start a new one:
- Passion for the friendly skies fosters international service partnerships
- Medical myths inspire fellowship and service
- Rotary Fellowships: service inspired by passion
- Rotary Fellowships’ annual activities support polio eradication efforts
Starting a fellowship requires a roster of potential members representing at least three countries and approval from the RI Board of Directors. Find more information online: www.rotary.org/fellowships
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Related:
Service in Action 
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