In August, Rotary focuses on Membership and New Club Development. This is an opportunity for us to focus on our members and strengthen our clubs. It’s helpful for membership committees to think about the 2026-27 presidential message, Create Lasting Impact, which emphasizes the idea that Rotary’s true strength lies not only in what we do day to day but also in the long-term effect we have on people’s lives and in our communities.

Creating impact builds trust in Rotary and attracts and retains dedicated members. When we take the time to let people see the tangible outcomes of our work, from improving health and education to fostering peace and economic opportunity, they’re inspired to join us and stay engaged.

You can find and share stories of inspiring Rotary members who are making an impact. Then explore Rotary’s resources to help you strengthen your membership. Here are ten easy, inexpensive ideas you can use to boost your membership:

1. Print “What is Rotary?” business cards for every member of your club and have a contest to see who can hand out the most in the next six months.
2. Share the “Proud Member” graphics (Available for members of Rotary and Rotaract clubs!), then choose a day in August and encourage all your members to post it on their social media channels. Remember to include information about how people can connect with your club, attend a meeting, or take part in a service project.
3. Review and update your club information on My Rotary and consider using the optional “Notes” field to include relevant information about accessibility, costs, dress code, or club culture so prospective members can find you easily and know what to expect. Do the same in your club’s social media channels.
4. Set aside a meeting in August to host a Thank-a-thon. Write short notes to new members, donors, businesses in your community, alumni, and anyone who has partnered with your club in the last year. It’s a great way to appreciate these supporters and strengthen bonds.
5. Choose one meeting for your club members to make a list of people they’d like to invite to an upcoming service activity, meeting, or special event where prospective members can meet current members to learn about your club and how to get involved. Each meeting, ask your members and the club’s membership team to report back on progress.
6. Remind members about all the ways they can make connections, participate in meaningful service, become a leader, expand their perspective, and design their own Rotary experience beyond the club. Share the “Designing Your Rotary Experience” resource with new and existing members.
7. Recognize Rotary and Rotaract club members for Rotary awards. Learn the different nomination deadlines and requirements for each award, such as the Sylvia Whitlock Leadership Award, which honors one member annually who is actively working to advance women in Rotary. (See other posts on The Hub.)
8. Feature interviews with or short stories about your members on your club’s social media channels throughout August. Select an engaging photo along with a story about why they joined, why they stay, and how they find meaning within the club and beyond. Learn more tips on how to best use your social media channels on the Brand Center.
9. Make meetings memorable! Watch a speech from the Rotary International Convention(scroll to the bottom of the page). Or start a meeting with a short “Personal Perspective” from a current member. 
10. Consider how to reinvigorate your club experience in a way that prioritizes the needs of clubs members, increasing engagement and overall satisfaction.