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In 1911, Rotarians enthusiastically adopted the motto "Service Above Self" because it so aptly articulated the ideals that the fledgling organization was in the process of developing. Past RI President Carl-Wilhelm Stenhammar, selected this theme for 2005-2006. For 95 years, this motto served as the underlying motif of our efforts to carry out humanitarian service, promote high ethical standards, and work for international understanding and peace. As with anything that has become an innate part of our lives, it is easy to take this motto for granted.
Through the vision of Past District Governor Bob Watson from District 5340, every Rotarian in the world has the opportunity to renew our commitment to this timeless message of compassion and generosity of spirit by participating in Rotarians At Work Day. April 29, 2006, each of the 60 clubs within his District came forward and identified one or more projects that they performed. Indeed, several clubs chose two or more projects because of the diversity of their members. Many clubs partnered with other clubs including those in Mexico, and nearly all of the clubs integrated other groups to assist such as Rotaract Clubs, Interact Clubs and the Family of Rotary.
Rotarians planted trees, performed much needed maintenance to our communities’ highways, senior centers, a variety of public buildings such as schools, parks and even the facility which hosts RYLA each year. In Mexico Rotarians did maintenance at a medical mission, built a new school kitchen and computer lab, undertook a literacy project, implemented various public health programs including building prostheses for the needy. Some clubs hosted those less fortunate and provided clothes, books and meals. All in one day!
The vision of PDG Bob is infectious. Thanks to the leadership of PDG Fernando Favela, Rotarians south of the border in District 4100 performed their own Rotarios Trabajando on April 29th. In addition, District 5340’s Group Study Exchange teams to East and West Africa participated in service projects that day on the other side of the world. One Rotarian was in Iraq that day and donned a Rotarian At Work shirt to clear land mines.
In 2007, more Districts across the Rotary World participated to help this project grow. At this point in time, there are at least 14 Districts spanning 8 countries have agreed to participate in the coming years.
Imagine the result when 32,000+ clubs around the world bring together members on Rotarians At Work Day to perform a variety of hands-on community service projects. One cannot help but be awed by our potential. We cannot begin to speculate how many hundreds, maybe thousands, of people who will benefit, both directly and indirectly, from our one-day efforts. The sense of accomplishment and empowerment to those in need will be astounding.
While you will be selflessly serving others, you will be concurrently raising your Club's standing and prominence within your community. What a great way to reenergize your club, attract new members and retain those who may be searching for something new. With a Rotary project, there is something for everyone to do!
Can you think of a better legacy for your Rotary Club and your District?
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