Note: The following column was written by Dr. Honora Norton, Public Image Chair for the Rotary Club of Sun Lake, to promote Rotary in her community (Chandler/Sun Lakes). We are re-printing it here to encourage all our clubs in the district to consider sharing a similar column specific to their club with their local media outlets.
By Dr. Honora Norton
Public Image Chair, Rotary Club of Sun Lakes
My father was Rotarian. In 2002, after moving to Scottsdale from Wisconsin, I joined Rotary Club of Scottsdale. That membership resulted in genuine friendships, grew my personal and non-profit support network, and allowed me to give back through humanitarian service projects – i.e. I distributed polio immunization drops in Hermosillo Mexico barrios. Those benefits increased after moving to Gilbert’s East Valley and joining Rotary Club of Sun Lakes (RCSL). RCSL provided me with a unique mix of impact connections through its educational, veteran services and community service projects, and allows me to share my communication skills as RCSL’s Public Image Director. 
Rotary International is a global humanitarian service organization made up of over 1.2 million community leaders. Founded in Chicago in 1905, its primary mission is to bring people together to provide service to others, promote integrity, and advance world peace and goodwill. Of the over 46,000 Rotary Clubs worldwide, RCSL is one of 135 across Arizona and the third largest in the Phoenix Valley.
Go to RCSL’s website (www.sunlakesrotary.com) to find location and times of upcoming RCSL meetings. You are welcome to join the group at any of its gatherings. If you want to check out other Rotary Clubs in the Valley – Google “Rotary International Club Finder.”
If you do not already know an RCSL Rotarian, someone at the first meeting you attend will partner up with you to sponsor and mentor your rotary membership. Or contact RCSL’s Membership Chair Dee (Donna) Cox to introduce yourself (206-372-1806/ dee@@wscon.com).
Things to consider when joining a Rotary Club:
- Time Commitment – membership requires attendance at regular meetings, committee meetings and club/service events that support your interests.
- Financial Obligations – there are quarterly and annual dues (RCSL has one of the most reasonable priced dues and meal costs in the valley) and expectations to contribute to Rotary Foundation and as able RCSL fundraisers and events.
- Students and younger adults can join parallel groups like Rotary’s Interact or Rotaract clubs – contact Dee for further information.
Check out: www.sunlakesrotary.com and www.rotary.org