Pilot clubs: Learning by experiment
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n an effort to accommodate changes that have occurred in our professional environments, in family structures, and in personal commitments, the RI Board of Directors tests new ideas, methods, and organizational frameworks for clubs by conducting pilot projects. These projects are aimed at securing Rotary’s future as a premier humanitarian service organization. Pilot clubs that participate in these experiments are fully functioning Rotary clubs that are exempt from some requirements in the Standard Rotary Club Constitution.
Currently, the Board is running the Meeting Frequency pilot (started 1 July 2007 and ending 30 June 2013), which allows participating clubs to meet on any schedule other than a weekly meeting. In November 2010, the Board approved four new pilots to run concurrently from 1 July 2011 to 30 June 2014. Note: E-clubs are no longer considered pilot clubs. Read more about e-clubs.
2011-14 pilots
Four pilot programs will begin 1 July 2011 and run through 30 June 2014, as detailed in the implementation plan. Applications are due to RI by 15 April 2011. Read the terms and conditions and download the application.
Associate Member Pilot
This pilot will allow an individual to become associated and acquainted with a Rotary club, its members, its programs and projects, and the expectations of club membership with the intent of becoming an active member within a designated period of time. Download the fact sheet
Corporate Member Pilot
This pilot will allow a corporation or company in the club’s area to become a member of the Rotary club, through an established membership approval process, and to appoint up to four designees as the individuals attending club meetings, serving on projects, voting on club matters, serving as club officers and on club committees, and so on. Download the fact sheet
Innovative and Flexible Rotary Club Pilot
This pilot will focus on letting clubs self-determine their operations to fit better with the needs of their members and community. Clubs would be authorized to make changes to the Standard Rotary Club Constitution and to their Rotary Club Bylaws in any area other than RI membership dues requirements. Download the fact sheet
Satellite Club Pilot
This pilot will assess the impact of allowing a Rotary club to conduct multiple club meetings during a week, each taking place at a different location, on a different day, and/or at a different time. Satellite clubs can be organized to assist in chartering a new club, to accommodate rural and remote areas or communities with small populations, to accommodate large metropolitan areas in allowing one club to provide several meeting times and locations, and in other situations. Download the fact sheet