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AWorldwideNetwork of Inspired Individuals Rotary International Forms a Global Network of Business, Professional and Community Leaders WhatisRotary? Rotaryisaworldwidenetworkofinspiredindi- viduals who translate their passions into relevant social causes to change lives in communities. Made up of more than 34,000 Rotary clubs around the world, Rotary International forms a global network of business, professional, and community leaders who volunteer their time and talents to serve communities locally and around the world — and form strong, lasting friendships in the process. Their motto, Service Above Self, exemplifies the humanitarian spirit of the 1.2 million Rotarians worldwide. Service efforts are directed toward areas of focus: n Peace and conflict prevention/resolution n Disease prevention and treatment n Water and sanitation n Maternal and child health n Basic education and literacy n Economic and community development n Professional networking. A founding principle of Rotary was to meet periodically to enjoy camaraderie and enlarge one's circle of business and professional acquaintances. As the oldest service club in the world, Rotary club members represent a cross- section of the community's owners, executives, managers, political leaders, and professionals — people who make decisions and influence policy. Service opportunities Club members have many opportunities for humanitarian service, both locally and internationally. Service programs address such concerns as health care, hunger, poverty, illiteracy, and the environment. Rotarians experience the fulfillment that comes from giving back to the community. International awareness With more than 32,000 clubs in over 200 countries and geographical areas, Rotarians gain an understanding of humanitarian issues through international service projects and exchange programs. One of Rotary's highest objectives is to build goodwill and peace throughout the world. Friendship Rotary was founded on fellowship, an ideal that remains a major attraction of membership today. Club members enjoy the camaraderie with like-minded professionals, and club projects offer additional opportunities to develop enduring friendships. Rotary club members who travel have friendly contacts in almost every city in the world. Good citizenship Weekly Rotary club programs keep members informed about what is taking place in the com- munity, nation, and world and motivated to make a difference. Family foundations Rotary sponsors some of the world's largest youth exchange, educational exchange, and schol- arship programs. Rotary clubs provide innovative training opportunities and mentoring for young leaders and involve family members in a wide range of social and service activities. Entertainment Social activities give Rotarians a chance to let loose and have fun. Every Rotary club and district hosts parties and activities that offer diversions from today's demanding professional and personal schedules. Conferences, conventions, assemblies, and social events provide entertainment as well as Rotary information, education, and service. Ethical Environment Encouraging high ethical standards in one's profession and respect for all worthy vocations has been a hallmark of Rotary from its earliest days. In their business and professional lives, Rotarians abide by The Four -W ay T est: Of the things Rotarians think, say or do: 1) Is it the TRUTH? 2) Is it FAIR to all concerned? 3) Will it BUILD GOODWILL and BETTER FRIENDSHIPS? 4) Will it be BENEFICIAL to all concerned? Leadership development Rotary is an organization of successful professionals. Team building, fundraising, public speaking, planning, organization, and communication are just a sampling of the leadership skills that club members can exercise and enhance. Being a Rotary leader provides further experience in learning how to motivate, inspire, and guide others. Diversity in membership Rotary's classification system ensures that a club's membership represents a variety of the community's professional men and women, including leaders in business, industry, the arts, government, sports, the military, and religion. Rotary clubs are nonpolitical, nonreligious, and open to all cultures, races and creeds. To learn more information or inquire about joining a club near your home or work, visit rotary5150.org. n CourtesyofRotaryDistrict5150,whichservesMarin, San Francisco and San Mateo counties. Bill Gates, co-chair of the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, and Rotary International President John Germ announce up to $450 million in new pledges toward the worldwide polio eradication effort at the Rotary Convention in Atlanta in June. –PhotocourtesyofRotaryInternational 2 July30,2017 RotaryClubsofMarin AMarketingSupplementoftheMarinIndependentJournal | marinij.com