As we begin a new Rotary year, it’s the perfect time for clubs to take a fresh look at how they are seen by the community. Public image doesn’t have to mean high-tech campaigns or professional videos. It’s really about showing who you are, what your club does, and how others can get involved. Even small steps can go a long way. Here are a few easy ways to refresh your club’s image this year—no fancy tools or technical skills required.
Make Sure Basic Club Info is Accurate
You don’t need to overhaul your website or social media efforts. However, the new year is always a good time to check your website, social media pages and any sites with club information to make sure your meeting times, location and general contact info is up-to-date. You can’t connect with community members and prospective members if they can’t reach you.
You don’t need to overhaul your website or social media efforts. However, the new year is always a good time to check your website, social media pages and any sites with club information to make sure your meeting times, location and general contact info is up-to-date. You can’t connect with community members and prospective members if they can’t reach you.
Let Photos Tell the Story
People love to see what Rotary does, not just read about it. The good news is that you don’t need a fancy camera or expansive editing skills. A quick photo taken on a smartphone can be powerful, especially when it captures real moments: a member helping at a food drive, smiles at a scholarship presentation, or friends working side-by-side at a community cleanup.
Don’t worry about getting the perfect photo. Focus instead on sharing glimpses of your club in action. Posting just one or two photos from a recent event can make a big impression. It shows your club is active, involved, and full of people who care.
Share a Personal Story
One of the most powerful ways to connect with your community is by sharing real stories from your members. Ask someone in your club, “Why did you join Rotary?” or “What has been your favorite service project?” These simple questions can lead to heartfelt answers. You don’t need a long interview, just a few sentences (paired with a photo).
One of the most powerful ways to connect with your community is by sharing real stories from your members. Ask someone in your club, “Why did you join Rotary?” or “What has been your favorite service project?” These simple questions can lead to heartfelt answers. You don’t need a long interview, just a few sentences (paired with a photo).
These personal stories are a great fit for a club Facebook post, a local newspaper submission, or even your club newsletter. They show the heart of Rotary, and that’s something anyone can relate to.
Submit Stories to the News Network
In addition to outreach in your community, consider sharing news of meaningful club projects and upcoming events with the CNY Rotary News Network. Not only will your stories inspire peers across the district, but it increases the reach of the outstanding work you do. Submissions can be sent to news@cnyrotary.org.
In addition to outreach in your community, consider sharing news of meaningful club projects and upcoming events with the CNY Rotary News Network. Not only will your stories inspire peers across the district, but it increases the reach of the outstanding work you do. Submissions can be sent to news@cnyrotary.org.
You’re Not Alone
Remember, you don’t have to figure this all out by yourself. Many clubs in our district are working on the same goals. If you need help updating your club’s page, crafting a short post, or submitting a photo to the newspaper, reach out. If Public Image Chair Joe Abraham (who can be reached at news@cnyrotary.org) is unable to help you, he will at least direct you to someone with the necessary skill set to assist with your inquiry.
Remember, you don’t have to figure this all out by yourself. Many clubs in our district are working on the same goals. If you need help updating your club’s page, crafting a short post, or submitting a photo to the newspaper, reach out. If Public Image Chair Joe Abraham (who can be reached at news@cnyrotary.org) is unable to help you, he will at least direct you to someone with the necessary skill set to assist with your inquiry.
The Public Image Committee is also available to meet with your club presidents and public image officers to discuss what your club has been doing, strategize for future growth and answer any general questions you may have.
Improving your club’s public image isn’t about doing more, it’s about showing more of what you’re already doing. Start small, stay consistent, and trust that even the simplest efforts can help your club shine.
Here’s to a great new Rotary year, full of service, friendship, and fresh opportunities to tell your story.