From the President

 From the President

Meeting 3314 was an opportunity for members to have some fellowship and relax over dinner. Sergeant Barry fulfilled on his promise to mix up the sergeants session and this week did a bit of Vox Pop finding out what members had been up to recently. It showed what a busy lot of people we are. 

Over the week I have been reflecting on our club and the fact that we have our AGM coming up but still lack nominations for places on our board for 2027-28 including a president. It has made me think deeply about volunteers in general and the answer to this question: 

Why Is It Harder to Attract Volunteers Today?

Volunteer organisations are facing a challenge that is being felt across many communities. Whether it is Rotary, sporting clubs, service organisations, schools, community groups, or charities, attracting and retaining volunteers has become increasingly difficult.

While people still want to make a difference, the way they live, work, and spend their time has changed significantly.

One of the biggest factors is time pressure. Many households now rely on two incomes, people are working longer hours, and family commitments often fill evenings and weekends. As a result, fewer people feel they have spare time to commit to regular volunteering.

Society has also become more mobile. People are less likely to spend their entire lives in one community and therefore may feel less connected to local organisations. This can make it harder to build the long-term relationships that traditionally encouraged volunteer involvement.

Technology has changed expectations as well. Many people prefer flexible, short-term opportunities rather than ongoing commitments. Organisations that require regular attendance at meetings or events can struggle to compete with today's demand for flexibility.

There is also increasing competition for people's time. Sport, recreation, entertainment, travel, and family activities all compete for attention. Many people feel they are already stretched thin and are hesitant to take on additional responsibilities.

This presents a challenge for organisations such as Rotary that have traditionally been built on long-term commitment, fellowship, and service. The values remain as relevant as ever, but the way people engage with community service is evolving.

However, the desire to help others has not disappeared. The challenge for us is not finding people who care; it is creating opportunities that fit modern lifestyles because the question is not whether people still want to volunteer. The question is how we can adapt volunteering to meet the realities of today's society while preserving the values that make organisations like Rotary such a valuable part of our communities. 

This thinking did not give me answers but it highlighted to me that as a collective we really need to find solutions before we have no-one left. We can no longer rely on someone else to sort it out. 

Reminder

When we meet at NIxon's, members and guests are required to pay Nixon's directly for their meal. This must be done by card prior to 6:30. Bob and Geoff will still look forward to seeing you at the attendance table to purchase your washers by cash and also to select your table number. 

Remember 

You can help raise funds by downloading the Drakes App and selecting Rotary Club of Gawler as your preferred charity. If you still have one of the old key rings they are still accepted. You are spending money anyway so its a great way to help without costing you any extra. 

Yours in Rotary Angela Moore 

President RCG 2026-27