By Rtn Godfrey Okello-Omoding
The Rotary Foundation (TRF) has demonstrated its usefulness. This has evolved through different forms of tests over time. It is found to be working, responsive, good and suitable for responding to key challenges of the world. If it were not the case, it wouldn’t have lasted this long, over 100 years, as an organisation. Over the changing times, it has evolved, moving ahead with mutually beneficial strategies for its members and friends. Making use of the money it has and receives.
TRF membership too has faced challenges, and the composition is facing changes. The numbers are diminishing, especially in the northern hemisphere. In the southern hemisphere, prospects of membership growth are ripe and promising. Yet, again, economic challenges are disproportionately hitting the southern hemisphere. This has financial implications for contributions to TRF. Though external donations are filling some gaps, for reliability and flexibility, it remains necessary to look at membership.
Even in hard and changing times, sustenance of the work of TRF lies with its members. Friends come in as secondary, however much their support may be. Logic demands that an organisation be hooked to its owners for its very survival. Depending on others, be aware of the saying: you scratch my back, I scratch yours. Be cautious of such conditions that may breed compromises on cherished Rotary values and mission.
Whatever changes in time, members ought to come out bold to keep their organisation relevant. First, for the sake of its mission, and second, for communities benefiting from it and those yet to benefit. A measure of giving hope to someone is enough incentive for its members to push on.
Interest in giving to TRF is a necessary action. A balancing act between saving lives and inaction. It brings out the emphasis that the amount to give is a secondary matter. But an action to give is a primary matter even in hard times. Delivery of tangible and lasting impact is a result of an action to give.
Rotarians, giving to TRF is sometimes turned into a market world and its application. The big challenge is how to actualise giving among members without connotations. Some members worry about the amount because of comparison syndrome. While other members worry about the acquisition of lapels. In some cases, lapels are symbols of significance. Well, this may sound fine to others; it may also repel those who would give the little they can afford and go on without lapels.
In changing times like this, the concern ought to be participation of every member. If we looked inward with an encouraging tone, the Rotary numbers we already have can raise substantial funds. Certainly, the destiny of TRF is in its members’ hands. Whatever progress it makes, and at whatever time, it begins with them. Progress in mobilising resources is with them, and progress to expand and strengthen clubs is with them. Clubs are important mobilisation platforms for TRF. This responsibility should not waver with the seasons, good or bad.
On the flip side, there is a need to address lags that affect giving right at clubs. Pursuing good governance and ethics in clubs needs to be put at the top of the priority list. Members should be encouraged to make contributions, not to tag along with leadership, regardless of the amount, and not necessarily for open recognition. A common position ought to be: give what you can and give often.
Reflecting on several discussions on TRF in various media and presentations, one notes mixed voices concerning messages passed on. Though all may be said in good faith and meant to enhance the work of TRF and for fundraising, concern is how the messages are perceived and their implications. Credible messages ought to tap into raising willingness in members to rally behind their organisation and its objectives.
Club-level leadership ought to devise strategies that build inner motivation to give. Encourage creativity in channels of mobilising funding. Also ensure that accountability remains key. Without it, it curtails willingness. Accountability matters more than the ambitions of leadership or several fundraising activities and events.
Rotarians, the theme of the month is giving us an opportunity to choose whether to stay giving or engage through uncertainties, making slow progress. Remember that today's turbulence requires a rapid response. The happenings in the world have become very dynamic, uncertain, and unpredictable. Unfortunately, they come crashing down on vulnerable communities and people. These communities and people need hope.
People ought to move forward and lift them. Walk alongside them. Build their resilience. This calls on our vision, mission and tests our core values. It reminds us of our grace; … be mindful of the needs of others… Therefore, let us contribute to TRF as our common vehicle for reaching out.