When some people hear "Rotary," they think of some secret society with odd rituals. Some have described it a a “cult.” The reality is far less mysterious.
Why the odd perception? Maybe it's because Rotarians are committed to doing good in a way that seems almost supernatural. We're individuals from diverse backgrounds, uniting to make positive change. It starts as a friendly neighborhood club, and through connecting with other clubs, our enthusiasm for good deeds spreads positivity throughout our communities and to the rest of the world!
If being a Rotarian means you're part of a global family that builds lifelong relationships, connects diverse perspectives, and honors its commitments, then that's exactly what we are. We like to rally behind a cause, and our leadership and vocational expertise help us tackle social issues effectively. If you see us with tools in hand, we're probably building a school or community garden, not conducting any strange ceremonies.
Our compassion might seem almost cult-like. Our perseverance in finding lasting solutions to systemic problems is about persistence and passion. And if our hope, enthusiasm, and visionary approach to changing lives inspire others, we must be doing something right.
So, a cult? More like a close-knit community of passionate people committed to making the world a better place.