Reading PA Rotary - Four Avenues of Service

Rotary is an organization of business and professional leaders united worldwide, who provide humanitarian service; encourage high ethical standards in all vocations, and help build goodwill and peace in the world.

There are approximately 1.2 million Rotarians, members of more than 29,000 Rotary clubs in 161 countries.

Rotary's first emblem was a simple wagon wheel (in motion with dust) representing civilization and movement. It was designed in 1905 by Montague Bear, a member of the Chicago club, who was an engraver, and many Rotary clubs of the time adopted the wheel in one form or another.

In 1922, authority was given to create and preserve an official emblem, and the following year the present gear wheel with 24 cogs and six spokes was adopted. A keyway was added to signify that the wheel was a "worker and not an idler." At the RI Convention in 1929, royal blue and gold were chosen as the official colors.

Rotary International is one of the world's largest service organizations, with some 29,500 clubs in more than 160 countries. Annually, Rotary clubs worldwide invite a limited number of men and women to become members.

These prospective members represent various businesses and professional activities in their communities. As a progressive-minded business or professional person, you will see that belonging to a Rotary club, where outstanding representatives of the different vocations in your community come together, has its benefits.

To be invited, you must be:

A leading representative of your business or professional activity
Willing to help and participate in projects that enhance your community
Willing to work on projects that help people in developing countries and promote international understanding and goodwill:

Rotary clubs provide:

Friendships with other managerial and professional leaders in your community
Prestige of membership in a worldwide organization
Ongoing practical education
A networking of people who can help you become more successful
Promotion of higher ethical standards in your business or profession
Projects to enhance your community
Help for communities in countries around the world