President Elect Conference, Rochester, MN

Greetings fellow Rotarians:

   A quick report on the President Elect Training Seminar (PETS) held March 10, 11 and 12 in Rochester, MN.  The event was highly organized with great speakers from our Districts and Rotary International.  It is always great to meet new folks and discuss what is working and not working for each club.  There are many exciting things happening among our fellow rotary clubs.

    There were several main themes highlighted during the conference.  The first is the fact that many clubs are facing the age factor.  That is, older membership.  It was mentioned many times that our older members are more interested in the social aspect of weekly meetings and less with the actual service and doing of the club. 

     I can certainly appreciate the social interaction as an older club member.  I did like the suggestions from our breakout sessions that we engage our older members as mentors to our newer and younger members.  Many clubs have actual one to one mentors assignments that not only help in rotary projects but also mentor and friendships in outside activities.  There has been a tremendous increase in younger membership and female membership. 

     Another theme is how clubs can create meaningful community and international service projects.  The main points were to create enthusiasm by asking for individual commitments, involving as many folks as possible and reaching out to the community for additional support.  Ideas were also expressed by working with other clubs.  I believe our club has done some great local and international projects over the years.  Let's do more.

    All in all a great weekend.  Almost too many ideas to digest!  Of course, it gets down to our main rotary theme and mission of "service above self".  The rest comes from ideas and efforts all the great club members.

Regards,

 

Randy Schumacher