Rotary clubs have been popular in the United States for over a hundred years, but many people don’t know what they are or what function they serve.
“Rotary clubs are service based organizations committed to uniting leaders from all walks of life to exchange ideas and take action to create lasting change – locally and globally,” says Carl Vincent, president elect for the Rotary Club of Tulsa. “Rotary’s core functions include promoting peace, fighting disease, providing clear water and sanitation, supporting education, growing local economies and protecting the environment,” he continues.
These clubs also serve as local hubs for those who are committed to service above self.
“Rotary clubs bring together people from all walks of life who are passionate about creating lasting change in their communities and around the world,” says Jack Werner, the district governor for Rotary District 5750 in Oklahoma City. He seconds that the main priorities and mission of a rotary club are to provide service to others, and promote integrity, world understanding, goodwill and peace.
“Our district is deeply engaged in initiatives like ending polio, supporting education, and expanding access to healthcare,” says Jeanean Yanish Jones, public image chair for Rotary District 5750. “We are especially proud of the local impact our members make every single day.”
Vincent agrees, and mentions additional priorities like investing in community welfare and preserving local heritage – essentially “enhancing the quality of life in Tulsa through meaningful service, business integrity, and fellowship,” he says. “The club also embraces global humanitarian efforts, such as water well projects in Nicaragua and Guatemala.”
The good that a rotary club can do is, essentially, boundless.
“Rotary clubs deliver community benefits from hands-on service, philanthropy and long-term initiatives, including dozens of grants to local Tulsa non-profit agencies from the Rotary Club of Tulsa Foundation,” says Vincent.
Founding the Tulsa Boys’ Home and hosting events to honor first responders are just a few of the ways the club does immeasurable good for the city.
“Its programs connect civic-minded individuals to resources, speakers and platforms to create real, lasting change,” says Vincent.
District 5750 is involved with building wheelchair ramps, supporting local food banks and even mentoring youth.
“Every club has its own personality and passions,” says Werner. “What unites us is a shared commitment to making our communities stronger and more resilient.”
To become a member of any club, the only real prerequisite is a desire to serve.
“There’s no special background or requirement,” says Jones. “You just need a heart for service and a willingness to show up.”
Vincent agrees: Rotary is for everyone.
“Rotary is open to individuals of all backgrounds who are committed to service, ethics and leadership,” he says. “There are no religious or political prerequisites – only a shared desire to serve and lead.”
To get involved, a good place to start is with the clubs’ websites: tulsarotary.com and rotary5750.org.
“We welcome new members and volunteers with open arms,” says Werner. “Together, we can accomplish great things.”
