Undoubtedly the most important step to promote voluntary giving to The Rotary Foundation occurred in 1957, when the idea of Paul Harris Fellow recognition was first proposed. Although the concept of making $1,000 gifts to the Foundation was slow in developing, by the early 1970s it began to gain popularity. The distinctive Paul Harris Fellow lapel pin and attractive certificate have become highly respected symbols of a substantial financial commitment to The Rotary Foundation by Rotarians and friends around the world.
The companion to the Paul Harris Fellow is the Paul Harris Sustaining Member, which is the recognition presented to an individual who has given, or in whose honor a gift is made, a contribution of $100, with the stated intention of making additional contributions until $1,000 is reached. At that time the Paul Harris Sustaining Member becomes a Paul Harris Fellow.
By 1994, more than 450,000 Paul Harris Fellows and 160,000 Sustaining Members have been added to the rolls of The Rotary Foundation.
A special recognition pin is given to Paul Harris Fellows who make additional gifts of $1,000 to the Foundation. The distinctive gold pin includes a blue stone to represent each $1,000 contribution up to a total of $5,000 in additional gifts.
Paul Harris recognition provides a very important incentive for the continuing support needed to underwrite the many programs of The Rotary Foundation which build goodwill and understanding in the world.

Business Meeting

Reports:

Fundraising.

Jim reported that we are still seeking a suitable location for a garage sale preferably on October 23 and 24.  However there is flexibility on this date.  Our first Beer and burger will take place on Tuesday November 24 at the Legion in the larger room.  Please start considering silent auction items, gift cards for the raffle and attendees as there is lots of room for up to 100.

A fundraising meeting is happening on Friday at 1:30 at Ed’s place to discuss these and other options.

Jim also reported on the Chamber of Commerce Business after Business held at the Air Cadet hall Sept 17.  There were about 60 in attendance and all 4 clubs gave short presentations regarding their involvements in the community.  There appeared to be considerable interest from those attending.

Projects.

Ed reported on where we stand with our Loudon Park legacy project.  The paddling and rowing groups are currently investigation facilities that would enable handicap individuals to take part by building a dock that has loading and unloading capacity for handicap individuals.  Our club has $80,000.00 and the paddling and rowing group has $80,000.00 for such a project.

We are also looking into doing a breakfast program at the New Hope Center.  More information to come on this project.

Membership.

Discussion was held on how to increase our membership.  We need to find, or develop, a card or brochure describing our community involvement or with a QR code that leads to our web site.  Members should take one to any new business they are aware of to introduce Rotary to the business.  It may also be an idea to take one to any business you deal with.