D. K. Lee, President, Rotary International 2008-2009

Dear Rotarians,

As you know I am very interested in and focused on membership growth and development. For RI to continue its successful efforts in humanitarian service, I believe that Rotary International, its districts and clubs, must remain focused on membership. Our continued success is dependent on an active and vital membership base. During 2008 – 2009 I am conducting twelve Presidential Membership Conferences throughout the world. These presidential membership conferences are meant to continue the momentum started during the seven conferences successfully held by President Wilkinson in 2007.

I have asked Past RI Director Julio Sorjus to convene the conference being held in Cairo, Egypt on 6 – 7 February 2009.

I am asking Rotarians from this region, particularly club and district leadership involved in membership, to make plans to attend this inspiring and motivational conference. Club participation is essential since success in membership is vitally dependent on club activities. Conference attendees should include:

• Club presidents and officers

• Club membership committee chairs and members

• District membership committee chairs and members

• District extension committee chairs and members

• Other district leadership and past RI officers

• All Rotarians interested in helping Rotary grow!

The purpose of these conferences is to explore and introduce: a vision for the future of Rotary International and its membership; how we can best impact membership at the club level; discuss how demographic and generational changes impacts this vision; review pertinent regional changes and the impact on membership; and celebrate best practices at the club level. Additionally, the goal at each of these conferences is for presenters outside of Rotary to discuss volunteering trends and demographic changes within the specific region.

To support my other emphasis, Reducing Child Mortality, this conference will also include a half day session of activities that Rotarians can engage in, that can impact this important objective. Remember that active and continued involvement in relevant local and global issues supports membership retention!

Once again, I am requesting that all interested Rotarians attend the conference in Cairo, Egypt – or any conference that may be more convenient in terms of schedule or location. Access www.rotary.org to identify other conference locations.

Thank you for your continued hard work and commitment to Rotary International. I look forward to working with you during the next year and making it a very successful year for membership.

Best regards,
D. K. Lee
President, Rotary International 2008-09