THE ROAD TO ROTARY NORMAL

Recently, the Rotary International Board of Directors conducted a virtual meeting; and the following guidance is provided to encourage all Rotarians to take the safe route with in-person meetings. As you read through the items, keep in mind the health and safety of Rotarians is of paramount importance. Creativity and flexibility are terms that come to mind when we think about how we need to address this crisis.  I have enjoyed spending time with several clubs virtually over the last few days and hope that each of you and your families continue practicing good health habits. I encourage you to meet with your board and club and determine the best course for you. As a district we will be following similar guidelines as described below:

  • Approved holding a virtual Rotary International convention on 20–26 June 2020;

  • Agreed to the following general principles:

    • The health and safety of all participants in Rotary programs, meetings, and events is of paramount importance.

    • No in-person meeting or event shall be mandatory for any Rotary participant who may feel uncomfortable attending because of the pandemic.

    • All conveners and organizers of Rotary meetings are strongly encouraged to consider all health concerns in deciding whether to hold in-person meetings.

    • All conveners and organizers of Rotary meetings shall fully comply with all health and safety rules in effect in that location.

  • With the principles above in mind, adopted the following rules and guidance for specific activities:

    • All RI Board meetings shall be conducted virtually (and not in-person) for the remainder of calendar year 2020.

    • All RI committee meetings shall be conducted virtually for the remainder of 2020. 

    • 2020 Rotary Institute conveners are strongly encouraged to conduct their institutes virtually.

    • Governors are strongly encouraged to use virtual meetings for club visits that occur during calendar year 2020. (at least the first half of the next Rotary year)

    • Regional leaders are strongly encouraged to use virtual meetings for training seminars and other events during calendar year 2020. (at least the first half of the next Rotary year)

    • The general secretary shall prepare a risk assessment of conducting the Rotary Youth Exchange Program during the 2020–21 Rotary year.

Just remember, the safety of our fellow Rotarian is the upmost priority. Stay safe. Stay healthy.
 
Yours in Rotary,
 
Lance Singleton
District Governor, 2019-2020