Rotary’s feats and challenges

Rotarians marked their 100th anniversary in Cedar Rapids last weekend. We snagged some time with keynote speaker John Hewco, secretary-general of Rotary International. His review of what Rotary achieves beyond the walls of its local meeting rooms was impressive.

Global polio eradication is a hallmark. In 1985, Rotary International launched PolioPlus, the first and largest internationally coordinated private-sector support of a public health initiative, with an initial pledge of $120 million toward the vaccination program.

Since then, Rotary has continued the fight, raising $1.2 billion in 'blending commerce with cause” and partnering with such organizations as UNICEF, the World Health Organization, UNICEF, and the Gates Foundation. The results to date: Polio has been officially eradicated in all but three countries: Afghanistan, Nigeria and Pakistan.

Security is the biggest hurdle in those nations, but Hewco is nonetheless optimistic. He told us that 'when we finish the job,” it will set the stage for the next initiative and help rally the world behind the cause.

While Rotary's achievements in this and other global arenas such as international student exchange programs are notable, it is not immune from a trend that many other U.S. service organizations face these days: More difficulty maintaining membership and attracting new members. Worldwide, Rotary membership has been stable for years at about 1.2 million, but U.S. ranks are declining.

Hewco rightly noted that Americans' lives are 'more scheduled” than ever before. People still want to help but they aren't as inclined to be joiners.

And so Rotary and other service organizations must adapt - e.g., find ways to tap the millennial generation that wants to give back but on different terms. Draw in more baby boomers who can bring much expertise and treasure as droves of them move into retirement.

If you are interested in Rotary and its mission, contact any of the several clubs in Eastern Iowa.

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