Why you should care about new clubs!

By PDG Michael Buckeridge
Regional Council Membership Team Captain, New Club Start Up

Statistics show that, worldwide, districts that create new clubs tend to have better membership results. To grow Rotary, we need a diverse range of clubs that address the diverse needs of our prospective members.

That’s why my New Club Start Up Team wants to work with you to achieve our goal of starting 15 new Rotary clubs and 20 new satellite clubs in our region this Rotary year.

Have you considered starting a satellite club?

Satellite clubs, also known as companion clubs, are supported by a sponsor club: an established Rotary club that provides them with the guidance they need to thrive.

This means satellite clubs can focus on doing good without worrying about the overheads and administration associated with running a standard club. It also means they are protected by their sponsor club with insurance, incorporation and good governance.

A common concern I hear from clubs is that if they sponsor a satellite club, it will draw members away from their own club.

However, if planned correctly, a satellite club will act as a companion to your club – not a source of competition.

A satellite club should have its own clear value proposition that is distinct from what its sponsor club offers.

For instance, it may appeal to a specific demographic or focus on delivering specific types of service projects that its sponsor club does not.

But a sponsor club gets something in return too. Satellite club members are members of their sponsor club, so sponsoring a satellite is a great way to boost your club’s membership numbers and community impact.

Don’t wait until your club no longer has the membership numbers or resources to be able to sponsor a satellite club – start thinking about it now!

We’re here to help

Starting a new club takes commitment. It requires some money and will not always be smooth sailing.

Fortunately, my New Club Start-Up Team is here to help. We know from experience what it takes to launch a new club and nurture it to success, and we’d love to work with you to build clubs that are simply irresistible!