Vocational Service Month

During October, Rotary clubs are encouraged to focus on this important avenue of Rotary service. Consider dedicating at least one meeting to discussing Vocational Service and plan a project or other activity to carry out through the year. Following are some suggested activities for clubs to consider:

• Devote the first meeting in October to examining Vocational Service, including The Four-Way Test and the Rotary Code of Conduct. After expanding members’ awareness, solicit their input in planning projects for the remainder of the year.

• Introduce a “classification talk” series in which each member gives a five-minute talk on his or her vocation. These presentations give members the chance to learn the inner workings of jobs other than their own, including the various problems that arise and the solutions used to address them.

• Present a vocational award to someone in the community who has exemplified outstanding professional achievement and high ethical standards. Promote the presentation in the community, and consider making it an annual event each October.

• Help young people prepare for their careers by sponsoring a character building project, career day, job shadowing day, or mentorship program.

• Support professional development in the community by sponsoring a professional networking event or workshop, or start a career counseling program to help unemployed or underemployed adults compete in the job market.

• Have club members volunteer their vocational skills on a community or international service project. Many volunteer opportunities can be found on Rotary Showcase, an online database that allows Rotary clubs to publicize projects in need of assistance.