Clubs

Rotary clubs are the basic building blocks of Rotary. The club is the most important component of Rotary’s organizational structure. Rotary clubs bring together professionals and other leaders who meet regularly for service, connection, and personal growth. Rotary clubs are for people who are looking for friendship, service, and networking opportunities, across generations and industries. Everything else in Rotary is there to support the work of the clubs. There are more than 45,000 clubs worldwide. The clubs are are grouped into 529 districts, and the districts into 34 zones. The Rotary Club of Bowen Island is part of District 5040. District 5040 is located on Canada’s west coast and has about 50 clubs and 1700 members.

The Rotary Structure

Rotary is made up of two parts: Rotary International and The Rotary Foundation. Rotary and Rotaract clubs belong to the global association Rotary International, or RI. Rotary International supports its clubs by coordinating global programs and initiatives. The Rotary Foundation helps fund our humanitarian work, from local service projects to worldwide initiatives.

New members often find the extent of the whole Rotary organization confusing. It has a long history and is deeply involved in providing service all around the world. If exploring this is of interest to you, please download this 48 page manual: ROTARY BASICS — a reference guide for members.