What is Rotary?

Friendship. Service. Making a Difference.

You may have heard of Rotary, but perhaps you're wondering what it actually is and what being a Rotarian means today.

Rotary is a worldwide network of people who come together through friendship, fellowship and service to make a positive difference in their communities and beyond.

It brings together people from different backgrounds, professions and generations who share a simple belief:

By working together, we can make a difference.

And you don't have to be an expert, a community leader or have lots of spare time to be part of it.

Rotary Around the World

Rotary began in Chicago in 1905 and has grown into a global network of Rotary clubs.

Today, Rotary connects people across communities and countries, working together on projects that support communities, young people, education, health, peace, the environment and humanitarian causes.

But Rotary isn't just about what happens around the world, Rotary starts with people in local communities taking action to help others, that's where clubs like Plymouth International Rotary come in.

Rotary in Plymouth

Plymouth International Rotary are members of Rotary Great Britain & Ireland (RGB&I) and we believe Rotary should be relevant, welcoming and enjoyable.

We bring together local professionals, community-minded people and those who simply want to contribute something positive.

Our members get involved in a wide range of projects and activities, from fundraising and community events to practical initiatives that support people and good causes.

Some projects are organised by our club. Others involve working with charities, businesses, other Rotary clubs and organisations across Plymouth and beyond.

The common thread is simple:

We see an opportunity to help and we do something about it. It's Not Just About Fundraising. Fundraising is an important part of Rotary, but it is only one part of what we do. Rotary is also about giving your time, sharing your skills, making connections and getting involved.

That might mean helping organise an event, supporting a community project, volunteering your expertise, meeting people from other organisations or simply turning up and lending a hand. Everyone has something different to offer and that's one of the things that makes Rotary work.

Friendship and Fellowship

Rotary is about people as much as projects. Our members enjoy meeting new people, sharing experiences, socialising and building friendships, while also doing something worthwhile.

At Plymouth International Rotary, we aim to provide a welcoming and relaxed environment where people can get involved in ways that work for them. You don't have to commit to everything, just get involved as much as you choose.

For some members, Rotary is a major part of their community involvement. For others, it's a way of meeting good people, contributing when they can and enjoying being part of something positive.

Local Connections. International Reach.

The word International in our name reflects an important part of Rotary. Being part of Rotary gives us connections that extend well beyond Plymouth. We can learn from what other clubs are doing, support international initiatives and build friendships with Rotarians and communities around the world. At the same time, our focus remains firmly connected to our own community. Local action can have a wider impact.

What Does "Service Above Self" Mean?

Rotary's guiding principle is:

Service Above Self

It doesn't mean putting yourself last or giving up everything you enjoy.

It means recognising that we all have the opportunity to use our time, skills and connections to help others.

For us, it's about turning that principle into action — through projects, partnerships, fundraising, volunteering and simply being willing to help.

The Four-Way Test

Rotary is also guided by a simple set of questions known as The Four-Way Test. Before we say or do something, we ask:

1. Is it the TRUTH?
2. Is it FAIR to all concerned?
3. Will it build GOODWILL and BETTER FRIENDSHIPS?
4. Will it be BENEFICIAL to all concerned?

These principles have been part of Rotary for generations and remain relevant to how Rotarians seek to work with others today.

So, Who Joins Rotary?

There isn't a typical Rotarian, our members come from different professions, backgrounds and stages of life. What connects them is a willingness to meet people, contribute and make a difference.

You might join because you want to:

• Meet new people and make friends
• Become more involved in the Plymouth community
• Support worthwhile causes
• Use your professional or practical skills to help others
• Take part in interesting projects
• Develop new skills and connections
• Support international initiatives
• Enjoy social events and fellowship
• Simply do something positive with your time

You don't need to know everything about Rotary before you join. Come along, meet us and see what we're about.

What Makes Plymouth International Rotary Different?

We're proud of Rotary's long history but we're also looking forward. Plymouth International Rotary is developing a modern approach to Rotary that reflects the people and community we live in today.

• We want to be visible, approachable and active.
• We want our projects to have a real purpose.
• And we want membership to be enjoyable.

Our members have the flexibility to contribute in ways that suit them, while being part of a group of people who share a commitment to friendship, fellowship and service.

Curious About Rotary?

The best way to understand Rotary isn't to read about it, come and meet us.
We meet fortnightly on Saturday mornings at 10am at different venues around central Plymouth. This gives us the opportunity to meet in different parts of the city, raise our profile and make it easier for people to discover what we do.

Whether you're interested in joining, working with us, supporting one of our projects or simply finding out more, we'd love to hear from you.

 

Come along, meet us and see what Rotary could mean for you.