January is Rotary Awareness Month. What is Rotary Awareness? one might ask. In the December issue of the GML PP Chris in his Editor’s Notes elucidated on what has been a common misconception by most Rotarians of what Rotary Awareness is. Here is PP Chris’ thoughts on Rotary Awareness:

Self Awareness

January is celebrated by Rotary Clubs around the world as “Rotary Awareness Month.”

For most of us, what comes to mind immediately is public image, public relations, or promoting Rotary externally.

Rotary International, on its website,however, explains further and encourages us to:

“Celebrate Rotary Awareness Month by training members on Rotary history, programs, or how to raise awareness of your club’s projects among your community. Or, ask members to share a personal story or experience that they have had because of Rotary.Every Rotarian has a Rotary story that can be educational and inspiring.The beginning of a new year is a good opportunity to renew inspiration for the rest of the Rotary year.”

It emphasizes the equally-important aspect of promoting awareness internally, among Rotarians. Rotary Awareness, therefore, does not only involve Public Relations, but Rotary Information, History, and Membership Development, as well–if we talk about committee roles and responsibilities.

Many clubs have already realized the importance of public relations and have put that idea into good practice.But there are many clubs out there who experience low attendance, low participation in club projects, and low morale.

Celebrating this month’s theme gives club leaders the perfect opportunity to reach within their respective clubs and give members a deeper awareness of being Rotarians, strengthen their interest in the club, and give them the renewed inspiration to be of service to humanity.

— PP Chris