Members of the Rotary Global History Fellowship meet up during the 2014 Rotary Convention.

By Marilyn Axler

You’ve heard that Rotary is a global organization. You’ve probably even had a visiting Rotarian or spouse attend your club. Isn’t it exciting to know that we can share experiences and ideas with others outside our own club?

If you travel for vacation or business to another country, you probably also know you can visit any Rotary club, exchange club flags, and be treated with hospitality. That’s been our experience, whether we are within our own country or any other country with a Rotary club. This is our “Family of Rotary.” But did you know there’s another way to experience the global reach of Rotary?

Rotary Fellowships are independent groups that share common interests. Being part of a fellowship is a fun way to make friends all over the world, and:

• Share a common interest in recreational activities, sports, hobbies, or professions
• Further vocational development with others in the same profession or field
• Enhance your Rotary experience by exploring new opportunities and making connections around the world

Each fellowship functions independently of Rotary International – establishing its own rules, dues requirements, and administrative structure. Membership is open to Rotarians, their family members, as well as participants and alumni of all other Rotary and Foundation programs. This now means that Interactors, Rotaractors, as well as Youth Exchange students, are eligible along with anyone who has participated in a Rotary-sponsored program.

Being part of a fellowship is a fun way to make friends all over the world.

Fellowships must have an international scope, with active members in at least three countries. You can find a list of fellowships on Rotary.org.

You will be amazed at the diversity. Rotary Global History Fellowship (for example) connects us with Rotary Leaders around the world. Rotarians on the Internet Fellowship started with the Internet, and the “Beginning of the New Age of Communications.” Currently we are connecting with thousands of members in “real time” via What’sApp and Telegram.

There are so many Fellowships. Learn more and find out how to start your own.

About the author: Marilyn Axler is a member of the Rotary E-Club of South Jersey, New Jersey, USA, and public relations chair for District 7640 which covers New Jersey. She serves on the boards of both the Rotary Global History Fellowship and Rotarians on the Internet Fellowship, and is a committee member for the Rotarian Action Group for Peace.