Introduction

Abstract

Millions of people are members of service clubs around the world. This book is for them as well as for those—including students, academics, and nonprofit managers—who are interested in how service clubs work, the challenges they face, and the service they provide. The book focuses on Rotary, the oldest of the service club organizations, but it should be relevant for other service clubs as well. The book considers seven questions: What is the membership challenge faced by service clubs? Who are their members, why did they join, and how satisfied are they with their experience? How can districts identify geographic areas for growth? How can clubs innovate to attract and retain members? To what extent are clubs and districts involved in service? What types of projects are clubs involved in, and what makes them successful? And finally how can districts organize successful conferences?