Rotary in Yorkshire has launched an online ‘networking-e’ group to attract a new generation of busy people to become involved with the organisation whose members total over 1.2 million worldwide in over 200 countries.
In his welcome speech at the Bridge Hotel, Walshford, Rotarian Richard Booth said: The aim is to start an eGroup enabling young business leaders and professionals, in the rural areas of North Yorkshire to come together without leaving the comfort of their home or office, to be part of the Rotary network and to help those in need in the community. Being able to see and speak to people both locally and globally will create wider business and community service opportunities.
IT expert, David Calvert, Creative Director of Image Concepts, explained that through video conferencing it is possible to network with likeminded people up the street, around the region, across the country and overseas.
Pyjamas the new dress code for Rotary meetings?
To have a taste of the new Rotary meeting format those present joined an online video meeting of the Rotary eGroup of East Anglia. One of the on-screen contributors confessed to being sat at home in his pyjamas.
Sir Gary Verity, from Welcome to Yorkshire, was the evening’s main speaker giving a fascinating insight into the Tour de France ‘Grand Depart’ in 2014. The power of social media was critical in both acquiring and promoting the world’s largest sporting event. “Social media”, he said, “is an amazing asset, it allows people to involve and inspire each other” he was supportive of this new way of delivering Rotary.
Rotary’s origins are based on business and professional men and women coming together to benefit communities, both locally and internationally. Knaresborough Photographer, Charlotte Gale, explained how she became involved with a Rotary project in Nepal and what that has meant for her personally and for her own business.
During a ‘café conversation’ session those present were given two questions to discuss. Firstly “How do you feel about the Rotary eGroup idea?”, secondly “What would make the Rotary eGroup experience outstanding for you?”. “It’s the way forward” said one participant. “It’s going to save time and money for those living in rural North Yorkshire” said another, “We like the flexibility, we can now fit Rotary into our busy lifestyles” was the feedback from another table.
Local business woman Nicki Eyre, of Nicki Eyre Transformational Coaching, has agreed to chair the new group.
Past Rotary District Governor, Hazel Haas MBE, closed the meeting by encouraging those present to take this exciting new concept further.
To find out more contact richard.booth.rotary@hotmail.co.uk
