BBRC Embarks on RI Retention Program

John Martinka

Rising to the top of Rotary International is not an easy task when you’re competing with 31,314 clubs in 529 districts. But, the 1,220,543 Rotarians worldwide will just have to be assured that the Bellevue Breakfast Rotary Club can represent them in the just-launched three-year study on Membership Retention. Nominated by our Past District Governor Rosemary Aragon, the Board of Directors accepted the challenge to be part of this globe-girdling group – 102 clubs selected to learn more about retaining our membership.

Chairing this ambitious program is our own, lovable John Martinka, who volunteered to steer our effort. In his position, he will have to attend meetings in Paris and Prague several times a year (Whoops – just kidding!). “An aggressive plan adopted by RI will have us doing something we’re not too fond of – following the plan exactly. The emphasis on public relations is very important to retention. We’ll be creating a club profile for prospects.”

So, the process begins and all members of this club are involved by virtue of your BBRC membership. John reported there are indications that attendance policies might get a little looser as the result of the study and a loosening of classification guidelines.