RI Board approves shift to a resource and support model for programs
By Ryan Hyland
The World Community Service and Rotary Volunteers programs will be
phased out by 30 June 2011 to reinforce the priorities and goals of
the RI Strategic Plan and to shift from a program-based model to a
resource and support model.
The goal of this new model, approved by the RI Board at its November
meeting, is to expand the resources available to clubs for
connecting and partnering with each other.
"A significant component of Rotary’s new strategic plan is the
transformation of Rotary’s involvement from monitoring, regulating,
and administering specific projects to functioning in a highly
supportive mode of providing clubs and districts with essential
resources in their international service," says RI Director Kenneth
W. Grabeau.
The World Community Service program has helped Rotarians find
partners for international service projects. RI will continue to
fully support Rotarians in their efforts to serve communities in
other countries.
While recognizing the importance of Rotary Volunteers, the Board
supported an approach to volunteerism that would provide guidance
and resources to a greater number of Rotarians, clubs, and
districts. Rotarians are encouraged to include volunteers on service
projects, both locally and abroad.
"The primary benefits of this evolution are a greater focus on club
and district service, enhanced resources in the development of
sustainable and more significant projects, and the development of
cooperative relationships between and among the participating
parties," Grabeau says.
In the coming months, the Rotary Friendship Exchange program will be
transformed with a new, enhanced set of resources to support Rotary
connections for international service projects, fellowship visits,
and volunteer opportunities. These developments will be shared on
the RI website and with Rotarians appointed to serve in district
leadership positions for 2011-12.
"It is likely that the form and function of Friendship Exchanges
will evolve as we implement the strategic plan to better provide
necessary resources and essential support to clubs and districts,"
Grabeau says.
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