Proposing a new member
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embership is every Rotarian’s responsibility. Each new member must be proposed for membership by an active member of the club. If you know someone who has all the qualities of a good Rotarian and you’re an active member of a Rotary club, consider proposing that person for membership.
Download How to Propose New Member (PDF).
If you know someone who doesn’t live in your community but would make a great Rotarian, complete the referral form ( PDF or online ). The person’s contact information will be forwarded to the appropriate district leadership for consideration.
If you’re a current Rotarian who’s moving to a new community, complete the relocation form ( PDF or online ), and your information will be forwarded to the appropriate district leaders. Your current club can sponsor you for membership in a club in your new community.
Identifying qualified candidates
Qualified candidates for Rotary club membership are adults of good character and business, professional, or community reputation who fit one of the following criteria:
- Hold or have held an executive position with discretionary authority in any worthy and recognized business or profession
- Serve as a community leader
- Is a Rotary Foundation alumnus
All candidates should also demonstrate a commitment to service through personal involvement, be able to meet the club’s attendance and community project participation requirements, and live or work in the vicinity of the club or the surrounding area.
For full membership qualifications, refer to the RI Bylaws (PDF).
Types of membership
There are two types of Rotary club membership, active and honorary:
- Active members must meet the above qualifications.
- Honorary members have distinguished themselves by meritorious service in support of Rotary’s ideals. They’re considered friends of Rotary for their permanent support of Rotary’s cause and are elected by the club.
Prospective member information
Educating potential members about the basics of Rotary club membership provides them with realistic expectations regarding benefits and obligations. Clubs should inform potential members about club, district, and RI activities as well as the structure and history of Rotary.
An informational program for potential members should cover the following subjects:
- The history and organization of Rotary International
- The mission of Rotary
- Financial obligations
- Past and present club projects and how members can get involved
- Club and district structure and current officers
- RI programs and how members can get involved
- The Rotary Foundation’s humanitarian and educational programs and how they’re supported
New member orientation
For new members to smoothly assimilate to your club, they should be able to connect to club members and activities. For full information on new member orientation , see Running a Club section and the Rotary E-Learning Center .
Related information
Other resources
Documents are PDF unless noted