INTERACT

HANDBOOK
A Guide for Interactors
 I N T E R A C T H A N D B O O K
A G U I D E F O R I N T E R A C T O R S

This handbook is for youth interested in forming or

participating in an Interact club. You will learn how to:

Start an Interact club

 uild a dynamic club that offers all members

B
meaningful service and leadership opportunities

 romote your club’s work to your community and the

P
Rotary world

Throughout the handbook you will find question

prompts and spaces with the pencil icon to take
notes to organize your thoughts and focus your
goals for your Interact club.

Your club adviser and sponsors can help if you have any
questions or need support. You can also send questions or
comments about Interact to interact@rotary.org.

Policy references are based on the Rotary Code of

Policies. Decisions made by the Rotary International
Board of Directors take precedence over information in
this publication.
 C O N T E N T S

What Is Interact? Starting an Interact Club Safety and Inclusion

4 6 10

Building a Foundation Make Membership Promoting Your Club

16 Meaningful
29
24

Support From Rotary Beyond Interact Rotary Resources

32 36 38

APPENDIX 1. APPENDIX 2. APPENDIX 3.

Sample Club Charter Guiding Questions for Rotary Citation for
Ceremony Setting Goals Interact Clubs
40 41 42

APPENDIX 4. APPENDIX 5.
Specific Goals for Your Sample Meeting Agenda
Club
46
45
 4

WHAT IS INTERACT?

Interact is a service club for young people ages 12-18 who are
passionate about making a difference while learning about the world
and themselves. And having fun! Your Interact club will be expected to
organize at least two projects every year: one that helps your school or
community and one that promotes international understanding.

WHY PARTICIPATE IN INTERACT?

You’ll find that Interact makes an impact in so many ways: on you
personally, on your community, and beyond. Here are just a few reasons
to join or start an Interact club:
Taking the lead. You and your fellow club members get to shape
your own club. You’ll plan and do everything from service projects
to leadership development and social activities, all tailored to your
members’ interests and your community’s needs. In doing so, you’ll gain
lifelong leadership skills.
Learning the value of service. Your club’s projects will create real
and lasting change. You’ll get to observe the results of your service and
understand the enormous impact that Rotary’s members and other
volunteers make around the world
Becoming a global citizen. When you join an Interact club, you
become part of a global community. You connect with other young
leaders from around the world, gain a deeper understanding of
international events, and forge new friendships.

BE PART OF SOMETHING BIGGER

When you join Interact, you become part of something bigger: Rotary!
More than 1.4 million Rotary and Rotaract club members worldwide
GOOD TO KNOW are working to create lasting change. Interact has a global reach, too,
You can participate with more than 300,000 Interactors around the world. And just like you,
in other Rotary youth they are all dedicated to making a difference in their communities and
programs to enhance beyond.
your leadership skills and Through this network of Interact, Rotaract, and Rotary clubs, you
become even more of can share ideas with an international group of leaders. To foster this
a global citizen. Learn connection to Rotary, your club must be sponsored by a Rotary club.
about Rotary Youth Your sponsor club will tell you about the other programs Rotary offers
Leadership Awards and for young leaders, connect you to other clubs in your district, and help
Rotary Youth Exchange. you get involved in districtwide training and service opportunities.
Finally, sponsor club members will serve as mentors for your club.
 INTERACT HANDBOOK: A GUIDE FOR INTERACTORS 5

What interests you about an Interact club: leadership, service,

learning about people and other countries, or making
friends? What does an Interact club look like to you?

Your club will also receive guidance from an Interact adviser, whose
name must be reported to Rotary International every year through
My Rotary, the online portal for members. Your adviser provides
support, answers questions, and ensures that all of Rotary’s youth
protection policies are followed. You will learn more about the role of
the Interact adviser throughout this handbook.

HOW IT ALL BEGAN

Rotary International started with the vision of one man, Paul Harris.
An attorney in Chicago, Illinois, USA, Harris founded the Rotary Club
of Chicago in 1905. Harris realized that in joining together with other
professionals from different backgrounds, that he and others could
exchange ideas and develop lifelong friendships. Over time, Rotary’s reach
gradually extended to humanitarian service. Members have a long record
of addressing challenges in their communities and around the world.
Empowering young people has always been an essential part of
GOOD TO KNOW Rotary’s work. In the late 1950s, Rotary members began seeking ways
Are you interested to strengthen these efforts, through a Rotary-wide program designed
in history? Rotary’s to encourage service among young people and offer them opportunities
archives include tens of to develop their leadership skills. After a few years of study under the
thousands of photos, direction of 1959-60 President Harold Thomas, Rotary approved plans
recordings, publications, for the Interact program.
and artifacts. Explore
Rotary history and learn In November 1962, Rotary members helped students at Melbourne High
about our collections at School in Melbourne, Florida, USA, form the first Interact club. The
rotary.org/history. name “Interact” came from combining the words “international” and
“action.”
 6

Starting an Interact Club

What if you’re passionate about service but there’s no Interact club in

your area? Follow just seven steps to start an Interact club.

FIND A CLUB SPONSOR AND ADVISER

First, you’ll need to find a Rotary club to sponsor your Interact club. A
sponsor Rotary club maintains a connection to Rotary’s vast network
and resources, mentors your Interact club, and connects you to
additional service and leadership opportunities through Rotary. To find
a sponsor, contact a local Rotary club. Explain why you want to start an
Interact club and what you hope to accomplish. When you have found a
sponsor club, its members will guide you through the process of starting
an Interact club.
GOOD TO KNOW If you need help connecting with a Rotary club, use the Club Finder on
Want support and My Rotary, Rotary’s online member portal.
guidance from more
than one sponsor club? You will also need to find an adviser for your Interact club. Your club
Up to three Rotary adviser can be a member of a sponsor Rotary or Rotaract club, a teacher,
or Rotaract clubs can a parent, or a community volunteer. This person will oversee the day-
co-sponsor your club. to-day activities of your club, communicate with your club sponsors
(At least one of your and Rotary International, and ensure that Rotary’s youth protection
sponsors must be a policies are followed. If your club is school-based, a teacher or school
Rotary club.) Co-sponsors administrator may need to serve as your adviser, depending on your
share the responsibilities school’s policies.
of supporting and Learn more about advisers and club sponsors in chapter 7.
mentoring your club and
having more than one
increases your Rotary
connections. CUSTOMIZE YOUR CLUB
Next, you will need to choose the kind of club that will work best for your
club’s members. Consider these factors.
Although you can report
CLUB BASE
only one adviser to
You can decide whether your Interact club is school-based or
Rotary International,
community-based. In a school-based club, all the members attend one
your club may benefit
school. You’ll need approval from your school, and depending on its
from the support of
policies, you may need a teacher or administrator to serve as your club
multiple advisers. They
adviser.
can offer different
perspectives and bring If you organize a community-based club, you’ll be able to recruit
additional skills and members from several schools and from local youth programs.
expertise to your club.
 INTERACT HANDBOOK: A GUIDE FOR INTERACTORS 7

AGE RANGE
Interact is open to people ages 12-18, but you can choose a narrower age
range for your club. Doing so may help your club meet members’ needs
and interests, especially if it’s a community-based club, which will have a
larger pool of potential members.
GOOD TO KNOW
For a school-based club, be sure to check your school’s policies on
If your club chooses to
eligibility for activities like Interact. If they require that students of all
meet online, it is very
ages be allowed to join, your club may admit members who are younger
important to work with
than 12 or older than 18. Note also that Interactors can remain active in
your club adviser to
school-based clubs until they graduate, no matter their age.
choose a safe platform.
For school-based Interact
MEETING FORMAT
clubs, sponsors are
Your club can choose to meet in person, online, or a combination of both.
encouraged to adopt
Ask members which format works best for them. If your club chooses
the school’s internet and
to meet in person, try to select a location that’s convenient for everyone,
communication policies.
such as a place where members already gather to study, play sports, or
socialize.

Where will you club be based?

What age range will you include in your club?
How will you meet?

RECRUIT MEMBERS
Create promotional materials that tell potential members about your
new club and explain how they can learn more. For a school-based
club, hang flyers around the school and work with faculty to encourage
students to join. For a community-based club, display your promotional
materials at youth centers or other local gathering spots. You can also
develop content for social media and other online platforms to reach
more of your peers. And don’t forget to invite your friends! Learn more
about attracting new members in chapter 6.
 INTERACT HANDBOOK: A GUIDE FOR INTERACTORS 8

Where will you find club members and how will you spread
the word?

GOOD TO KNOW
The Rotary Code of  DETERMINE HOW YOUR CLUB WILL BE
Policies lists all of GOVERNED
Rotary’s general and Review the Standard Interact Club Constitution and fill in your
permanent policies. Find club information. It includes important policies on membership,
the information related sponsorship, meeting structure, and more. Anyone who joins your
to Interact in section Interact club will need to comply with the principles outlined in the
41.010. Standard Interact Club Constitution.
When you’ve recruited a group of members, your club can also adopt the
Recommended Interact Club Bylaws. Your club bylaws supplement
What are a club the Standard Interact Club Constitution and help develop common club
constitution and bylaws? practices. Members can work together to customize the bylaws to meet
Many groups benefit your club’s needs, as long as they don’t conflict with the policies in the
from having a set of constitution and the Rotary Code of Policies.
rules that outline how
they will function. That
is true for Interact clubs.
The club constitution is
a basic set of guidelines Once you have read these documents, check them off your list.
that apply to all Interact Standard Interact Club Constitution
clubs worldwide. The
club bylaws allow your Recommended Interact Club Bylaws
club to create additional Rotary Code of Policies
rules for day-to-day What bylaws would you like to add for your club?
operations, based on
your unique needs
and local practices.
Remember that bylaws
may provide additional
guidance, but they
cannot contradict the
standard constitution.
 INTERACT HANDBOOK: A GUIDE FOR INTERACTORS 9

ELECT A BOARD OF DIRECTORS

Your club can now hold elections for its board of directors using the
guidelines you developed in your bylaws. Each Interact club should
have a president, vice president, secretary, and treasurer, and its bylaws
should outline their roles and responsibilities. Learn more about the
responsibilities of club officers in chapter 4.
Your club can establish other officer roles as needed. Just be sure that
your sponsor club approves of any added roles.

MAKE IT OFFICIAL
You can now officially charter your new Interact club! Working with
your club adviser, complete the Interact Club Certification Form.
Save or scan and email your completed form to interact@rotary.org.
You can also email, fax, or mail a copy of the form to your region’s
international office.
There is no fee to charter an Interact club. After Rotary receives your
form, it will take four to six weeks to prepare your official Certificate of
Organization. Rotary will email your certificate to the sponsor Rotary
clubs’ presidents to sign and present to your club.

GOOD TO KNOW
You don’t have to CELEBRATE!
wait for your official
When your certificate arrives, plan an event to commemorate the official
certificate to start club
start of your new club. There’s no standard ceremony when you start an
activities. Your club can
Interact club, induct members, or recognize club officers, so be creative!
meet, organize, and
Organize a celebration that combines your district’s Rotary traditions
begin taking action.
and local customs into something new. To get ideas, see the sample
ceremony in appendix 1.
 10

Safety and Inclusion

As an Interactor, you can have fun, meet new people, and learn lifelong
skills. We all make that possible by creating clubs that are safe,
welcoming, and inclusive.
This chapter covers what you can expect from your club’s adult advisers,
sponsors, and mentors. It also outlines steps you can take to create a safe
club.

WHAT YOU CAN EXPECT FROM YOUR ADVISERS,

SPONSORS, AND MENTORS
Your Interact club advisers and sponsors are responsible for creating
and maintaining a safe environment for all Interact club members. They
must safeguard Interactors from physical, sexual, and psychological
abuse and harassment.
Rotary provides your advisers, sponsors, and district leaders with
resources and information on our youth protection policies so they can
confidently implement them. These include:
 Rotary Youth Protection Guide
 Protecting Youth Program Participants (online course)
 Electronic and Online Safety Considerations
 Developing a Crisis Management Plan
 Rotary Code of Policies, section 2.120.
Statement of Conduct
for Working With Youth
Rotary International
strives to create
YOUR ROLE IN SAFETY
and maintain a safe Your adviser is responsible for ensuring that your club follows Rotary’s
environment for all youth protection policies, but you can also do your part to create a safe
youth who participate environment for your peers.
in Rotary activities. A safe environment begins with a culture of accountability, where
To the best of their everyone takes responsibility for their words and actions and holds
ability, Rotary members, others to the same standard. In the Rotary community, one of our
their partners, and guiding principles is The Four-Way Test. This refers to four things we
other volunteers must consider about our words, thoughts, and behavior:
safeguard the children
and young people with 1. Is it the TRUTH?
whom they come into 2. Is it FAIR to all concerned?
contact and protect 3. Will it build GOODWILL and BETTER FRIENDSHIPS?
them from physical,
sexual, and psychological
4. Will it be BENEFICIAL to all concerned?
abuse. You can use The Four-Way Test to help create a club environment that
promotes safety, courtesy, dignity, and respect for all.
 INTERACT HANDBOOK: A GUIDE FOR INTERACTORS 11

Here are some more things you can do to promote a safe and welcoming
environment:
 Consider developing a code of conduct for your club that reflects
the principles of The Four-Way Test. Include clear expectations
for acceptable and unacceptable behavior, including physical,
verbal, and electronic interactions. Learn more in chapter 4 of the
Rotary Youth Protection Guide.
 Emphasize to all members that your club will not tolerate
disrespectful behavior and that it is everyone’s responsibility to
create a respectful environment.
 Empower members to stand up to disrespectful behavior when it
occurs and report it to your advisers, sponsors, or district leaders.

Sample code of conduct

As an Interactor, I will:
Follow Rotary’s youth protection policies
 Treat others with respect, regardless of their race,
ethnicity, sexual orientation, or background
 Create an environment in which members feel safe from
physical, verbal, and sexual harassment or abuse

GOOD TO KNOW
Leaders of Rotary As an Interactor, I will:
districts also work to
create safe environments
for Interactors. Your
district governor and
district youth protection
officer help clubs
develop additional
youth protection
policies, training, and
resources to reflect local
and regional laws and
practices.
 INTERACT HANDBOOK: A GUIDE FOR INTERACTORS 12

REPORT YOUTH PROTECTION CONCERNS

Even with clear rules, abuse or other misconduct can occur in any
organization or program. If something happens that affects your safety
or the safety of another Interactor, or if you have a safety concern, here’s
how to respond:
 Tell a trusted adult. Tell your parent or guardian, adviser,
sponsor, mentor, or district leader. Share the details of what
happened, when, and who was involved.
 Report it online. If you’re not comfortable telling an adult, or
if you want to report what happened anonymously, you can use
Rotary International’s online youth protection report form.
Find a link for reporting a youth protection concern at rotary.org/
youthprotection.
Rotary’s policies require any allegation of sexual abuse or harassment
that involves youth to be reported to local law enforcement.
The safety and well-being of youth program participants and all young
people are Rotary’s highest priority, and we take all youth protection
concerns seriously. If you have any general questions or concerns about
how to protect yourself or your fellow Interactors, visit our Youth
Protection page or write to youthprotection@rotary.org.

ONLINE SAFETY
As we noted in chapter 2, your club has the option to organize itself
online and meet virtually. If you choose to meet online, work with
your club adviser to review the safety features of online tools and
platforms you use. Ask your adviser to provide guidelines for online
communications, not only between club members but also between
members and adults.
Social media can also be a great way to connect with others and share
important information. When you’re using social media, remember:
 Never post photos or personal information about club members
without their permission and the permission of a parent or legal
guardian.
 Never tag a club member or share their username or handle on
your club’s official social media platforms. This could expose your
and their personal information, interests, and favorite locations
and make you vulnerable to unwanted communication.
 INTERACT HANDBOOK: A GUIDE FOR INTERACTORS 13

CREATING AN INCLUSIVE CLUB

In Rotary, we believe that demonstrating and embracing
diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) should be part of everything we
do. These principles are key to fostering a welcoming and vibrant club.

our commitment
to diversity, equity,
and inclusion

At Rotary, we understand that cultivating a diverse, equitable, and

inclusive culture is essential to realizing our vision of a world where
people unite and take action to create lasting change.

We value diversity and celebrate the contributions of people of all

backgrounds, across age, ethnicity, race, color, disability, learning style,
religion, faith, socioeconomic status, culture, marital status, languages
spoken, sex, sexual orientation, and gender identity as well as
differences in ideas, thoughts, values, and beliefs.

Recognizing that individuals from certain groups have historically

experienced barriers to membership, participation, and leadership,
we commit to advancing equity in all aspects of Rotary, including in
our community partnerships, so that each person has the necessary
access to resources, opportunities, networks, and support to thrive.

We believe that all people hold visible and invisible qualities that
inherently make them unique, and we strive to create an inclusive
culture where each person knows they are valued and belong.

In line with our value of integrity, we are committed to being

honest and transparent about where we are in our DEI journey
as an organization, and to continuing to learn and do better.
 INTERACT HANDBOOK: A GUIDE FOR INTERACTORS 14

EQUALITY WHAT DOES DIVERSITY, EQUITY, AND INCLUSION MEAN?

 Diversity = representation from people with different identities/
characteristics within a group
 Equity = people are treated with fairness (not equally)
 Inclusion = everyone has a chance to be seen, heard, and has a seat
at the table for decisions that affect them
Your Interact club is encouraged to develop its own DEI statement.
Work together to write a statement that all club members agree to follow
EQUITY to make the club inclusive for current and future members.
When you develop a DEI statement, consider taking the following steps.
 Welcome and introduction:
} Make sure your club uses inclusive introductions. If
appropriate, consider inviting participants to mention their
pronouns when they introduce themselves if they wish.
} Ask participants what diversity, equity, and inclusion mean to
them, and give them an opportunity to contribute to your club’s
DEI statement.
 Reflection:
} Allow time for discussing DEI during club meetings. Ask
members to review the club’s DEI statement and consider how
the club could better support diversity, equity, and inclusion.
 Feedback:
} Plan to collect feedback from club members every year.
Based on their answers, identify any gaps in your club’s DEI
statement, and consider whether the club should add or change
any policies for the coming year. Before you make any changes,
make sure all club members agree and consult your club
constitution and bylaws.
 Recruitment:
} Develop a recruitment strategy that seeks out participants from
underrepresented groups and encourages them to join.
} Create a fair and unbiased process for admitting new members.
 Service projects:
} Design service projects that are physically accessible to all of
your club’s members.
} Make sure all members are comfortable with the topics or
issues that your service projects are related to.
 Training:
} Make DEI the foundation of any training your club offers,
including orientation for new members.
 INTERACT HANDBOOK: A GUIDE FOR INTERACTORS 15

 Social activities:
} Organize social activities that are inclusive, making sure that
everyone can participate equally regardless of their physical,
cognitive, or cultural needs.
} Remember that some participants might be uncomfortable
with, or unable to participate in, certain social activities. If
that’s a concern, consider making social events optional or
offering alternative activities.
 Venues:
} Be sure to select venues that are accessible to all participants,
whether they’re for service projects, training, social activities,
or club meetings.

What are three things that your club can do to be more

diverse, equitable, and inclusive? What are some ideas for
your DEI statement?
 16

Building a Foundation

You will likely want to start some club service projects and other
activities right away. But taking some time to get organized will prepare
your club for success. In this chapter, you’ll learn more about organizing
your club, writing its bylaws, electing members to leadership roles,
establishing committees, and recruiting and retaining members.

CONSTITUTION AND BYLAWS

Your club’s constitution and bylaws provide guidance on how to run and
structure your club. All Interact clubs automatically adopt the Standard
Interact Club Constitution. This universal constitution helps unite all
the world’s Interact clubs around the same goals. After your club reviews
and adopts the constitution, you can customize your club by writing
bylaws that will guide members. Review the Recommended Interact
Club Bylaws and adapt them to meet your club’s needs. In the bylaws,
you can establish the committees, meeting frequency, fees, and other
practices that work for your club.
Refer to the standard Interact constitution and recommended bylaws
as you review this chapter. The topics covered here will help you decide
what to include in your bylaws.

CLUB LEADERS
In Interact, young people take the lead in designing their club. You
and your fellow members shape your club’s agenda, plan projects, and
work together to implement real change. You can play an even bigger
part in club decisions by taking on a club leadership role. Serving as a
club leader will also help you develop critical skills like management,
negotiation, and relationship building.
Your club’s board of directors will serve as the leaders of your club.
They will hold regular meetings to discuss club business and will be
responsible for writing an annual report to share important information
about club operations with the adviser and sponsoring club and district
interact committee.
The directors are members of your club who are elected to serve one-
year terms unless your bylaws specify otherwise. (Read more about club
elections later in this chapter.) The board should have a president, vice
president, treasurer, and secretary.
 INTERACT HANDBOOK: A GUIDE FOR INTERACTORS 17

Here are their usual responsibilities:

PRESIDENT
 Oversees and leads most club meetings
 Plans creative club programming
 Arranges speakers, panel discussions, trips, and other activities
 Appoints all standing and special committees with the approval of
the board
 Communicates regularly with sponsor clubs, the club adviser, and
the district Interact committee
 Promotes the club’s DEI statement
GOOD TO KNOW
Your club president is VICE PRESIDENT
encouraged to delegate  Presides over club and board meetings when the president is
responsibilities as absent
needed, depending on
 Handles special assignments as directed by the president
club members’ interests
and backgrounds.  Coordinates with your club committees and stays informed of
For example, if a club their work
member is passionate
about the environment, TREASURER
they can organize a  Oversees all funds
panel discussion with Chairs the club finance committee
local experts. This

empowers club members  Manages the distribution of funds, with oversight from the board
and provides additional of directors
leadership opportunities.
SECRETARY
 Maintains all club records
 Takes attendance at club meetings and service projects
While each director has
specific responsibilities,  Records minutes of all meetings of the club and board of directors.
the board is meant to These are notes that record the key points and ideas of the meeting
collaborate. That’s why and who says them. It is a way to keep track of tasks, activities,
it’s important for your responsibilities, and goals.
club’s directors to feel
comfortable working
together. Icebreakers
and social activities
can help directors get As a club, what can members do to get to know each other?
to know one another.
Activities could include
game nights or talent
shows, themed dinners,
and more.
 INTERACT HANDBOOK: A GUIDE FOR INTERACTORS 18

CLUB COMMITTEES
Committees play an important role in planning projects and ensuring
that your club meets its goals. Interact clubs usually appoint the
following committees.
International understanding: Plans at least one major activity each
year to promote international understanding within the club, school,
or community. Most, if not all, club members should be involved in the
activity.
Service: Organizes at least one service project that benefits the school
or community. Most, if not all, club members should be involved in the
activity.
Finance: Develops a plan to finance all club activities.
Club: Tracks attendance, develops membership strategies,
communicates club updates, and promotes club activities.
Your club can choose to elect committee chairs, as outlined in your
GOOD TO KNOW bylaws to lead committee activities. They will report back to the board
Check whether your of directors on their committees’ progress and share updates at club
Rotary district organizes meetings. Additional committees may be appointed as needed. Just
a training event for remember that your club bylaws will need to define the responsibilities
Interact club leaders. of all committees and that each one should meet regularly to discuss
If not, ask about plans and activities.
participating in district
training events like the
presidents-elect training
seminar (PETS). At PETS,
incoming Rotary club What leadership roles are you interested in?
presidents prepare for What skills do you want to contribute or develop through a
their year in office while leadership role?
district governors-elect
and incoming assistant
governors build their
motivation and working
relationships. Your club
adviser can connect
you to district training
opportunities. (Learn
more in chapter 7.) You
can also complete some
of the courses under
Club Leadership in
Rotary’s Learning Center.
 INTERACT HANDBOOK: A GUIDE FOR INTERACTORS 19

ELECTIONS
Your club will elect directors and, if applicable, committee chairs every
year. You have the flexibility to determine your own election process so it
will be compatible with local customs.
When organizing club elections, remember:
 Candidates must accept their nomination in order to be elected.
 To win an election, candidates should receive a simple majority of
votes.
 Candidates should be current club members in good standing.
 All voting should be anonymous.
 Election procedures should be recorded in your club bylaws.
Here are a few ways you could organize elections:
 Candidates apply for a position using an online form that asks
them about their goals. All active club members vote based on their
answers.
 Candidates give speeches about what they plan to achieve in the
role. Members who attend vote by secret ballot.
 Candidates record videos of themselves talking about their vision
for the club and how they plan to achieve their goals. Members
watch each video and vote online.

List your ideas for how to hold elections:

 INTERACT HANDBOOK: A GUIDE FOR INTERACTORS 20

SETTING GOALS
With your club leaders and committees in place, you are ready to begin
setting goals. Setting goals annually will give your club direction and
help it succeed.
Need help with setting goals? Find questions to guide you in appendix 2,
information about the Rotary Citation for Interact Clubs in appendix 3,
and space to list your club’s goals in appendix 4.

How will you set goals as a club?

The Rotary Citation for
Interact Clubs
Each year, Rotary
International recognizes
Interact clubs for
achieving goals that
strengthen both the
clubs and Rotary.
Working toward the
Rotary Citation can help
your club set annual
goals and track its
progress. Learn more in
these resources:
•  itation Goals and
C
Instructions for
Interact Clubs (PDF):
Review the citation
goals, indicate which FUNDING CLUB ACTIVITIES
ones you plan to Your club may need money to carry out its activities and achieve its
achieve, and set a goals. Costs could include supplies for service projects and meetings
target. or promotional materials like club T-shirts, for example. Your club
• 
Nomination form: treasurer can lead the development of a funding strategy. Here are a few
Work with your options:
sponsor Rotary  Annual membership fees. Your club can choose to ask members
club officers or to pay a minimal fee, only to cover administrative costs as defined
Interact club adviser in your bylaws. Consider whether a fee is necessary, and whether it
to complete the could prevent some potential members from joining.
nomination form by
 Support from your sponsors. Your club may occasionally
15 August.
request minimal financial support from your sponsor Rotary or
Rotaract clubs.
 INTERACT HANDBOOK: A GUIDE FOR INTERACTORS 21

 Fundraisers. Your club can raise funds from other sources.

Consider these suggestions when you plan a fundraiser:
} Be creative. Use your club members’ skills, talents, and
contacts.
} Be specific. When you raise funds from individuals, businesses,
or organizations, clearly explain what the money will be used
for and the impact their donations will make.
} Be open to new ideas. Ask your sponsor club, local nonprofit
organizations, and other Interactors in your district for
fundraising suggestions.

Which strategies will you use to fund your club activities?

GOOD TO KNOW
Learn more about the
types of fundraisers
your club can organize
in the online course
Youth Guide to
Service‑Learning.
RUNNING AN EFFECTIVE MEETING
Club meetings are an opportunity for members to come together, share
news and announcements, plan service projects and events, and have
Ask your adviser and fun! They are also a chance to invite experts and local leaders to speak.
sponsor clubs for
financial guidance, Your club will first need to determine how often to meet and where. Be
including on how to set sure to include the meeting frequency in your club bylaws. Your club
up bank accounts and will also need to decide how important member attendance is. You can
designate funds based specify how many meetings or projects members can miss and how they
on club activities. can make up for their absences.
See appendix 5 for a worksheet to help you plan club meetings.
 INTERACT HANDBOOK: A GUIDE FOR INTERACTORS 22

ADMITTING NEW MEMBERS

New members will help your club thrive and enable it to make a larger
impact. As your club develops its process for admitting new members,
consider these suggestions:
 Allow any member to propose a candidate for membership.
 Develop a way for prospective members to ask to join the club.
 Allow other Interact clubs to nominate a transferring or former
member to join your club.
 Tell prospective members within a reasonable time frame whether
they have been approved to join your club. In your club bylaws,
specify how many days club members have to review a candidate.
 Develop fair, unbiased, and inclusive criteria for admitting new
members. Your club’s DEI statement can inform this policy.

GOOD TO KNOW What strategies will you use to appeal to and invite new
At least one member members?
of your sponsor clubs
should attend your club
and board meetings.
Work with your Interact
adviser to coordinate
with your sponsor
clubs, making sure they
know when and where
your club meets and
how often they should
attend.

Remember that your

meetings can be virtual.
If you choose to meet
online, you will still MEMBER ENGAGEMENT
need a meeting agenda
and, ideally, at least one ENERGIZING NEW MEMBERS
sponsor club member It’s important to engage new members in club activities as soon as they
present. See chapter 3 join. It tends to work well when clubs:
for safety considerations  Offer an orientation. Describe your club’s key activities and the
for virtual meetings. various ways new members can get involved, including by serving
on club committees.
 INTERACT HANDBOOK: A GUIDE FOR INTERACTORS 23

 Get new members’ ideas. Ask them about the types of service
projects and social activities that interest them and try to use their
suggestions.
 Mentor new members. Pair experienced club members with new
ones. The experienced members can help make sure new members
feel included.

KEEPING MEMBERS ENGAGED

The best way to retain members is by keeping them engaged. Here are
some ideas:
 Gather feedback from members regularly and make adjustments to
your club as needed.
 Allow all members to contribute ideas for service projects and
social activities.
 Make sure all members are informed of upcoming activities.
 Plan social events and icebreakers so members can get to know one
another.
 Encourage members to get involved in club leadership roles.

ROTARY’S LEADERSHIP OPPORTUNITIES

Rotary offers young people many ways to get involved other than through
Interact. By highlighting these opportunities, you’ll help members stay
excited about your club and Rotary. Encourage members to participate
in district training events, and connect them to Rotary Youth
Leadership Awards, Rotary Youth Exchange, and other Rotary
opportunities in your area.

How will you engage and communicate with members?

GOOD TO KNOW
Learn more about
promoting your club in
chapter 6.
 24

Make Membership
Meaningful

Through your Interact club, you can lead service projects, promote
international understanding, and help your fellow members develop
leadership skills. Interact clubs organize at least two activities every
year: one that helps their school or community and one that promotes
international understanding. But your club has the potential to
accomplish much more. Members can have fun and find purpose in
working on causes they care about. This chapter covers the basic steps
for conducting club activities and offers ideas for deepening your
experience and expanding your impact.

SERVICE PROJECTS
Effective service projects require preparation and planning. To guide
your club through a successful project, you are encouraged to use a
service-learning approach.
Service-learning has five steps:
 Investigation. Through research and inquiry, your club identifies
a genuine community need and the factors that cause it.
 Planning and preparation. Based on your research, your club
plans a realistic and meaningful service project with clear goals,
timelines, roles, and follow-up plans.
 Action. Your club implements the plan through direct, indirect, or
advocacy-based service. Throughout this step, collect data about
your project and its impact.
 Reflection. Think more deeply about what went well, what went
wrong, and what you learned. Reflection is important at every
phase of service-learning, not just after the action step.
 Demonstration. Show what you learned and the impact you
made in your community to others who supported your action.
Share recommendations based on findings from your reflection
activities. Learn more about showcasing your club’s success in
chapter 6.
 INTERACT HANDBOOK: A GUIDE FOR INTERACTORS 25

S TA R T Y O U R
S E R V I C E - L E A R N I N G J O U R N E Y

In partnership with the National Youth Leadership Council,

Rotary International developed a set of resources to support you and
your club advisers through each step of service-learning. Complete
the online course Youth Guide to Service‑Learning, available
in Rotary’s Learning Center, and use the interactive handbook
Service-Learning Workbook for Youth as you carry out service
projects. The course will teach you how to conduct a community
assessment, find partners, and develop a detailed timeline and
budget, and it includes tools such as a checklist for a day of service.

Rotary also has resources just for advisers. Encourage your adviser
to explore the Service‑Learning for Advisers learning plan in for
more information.
 INTERACT HANDBOOK: A GUIDE FOR INTERACTORS 26

In the early steps of service-learning, decide which types of service will

be most effective for addressing the need you’ve identified. The types of
service are:
 Direct service — Working directly with the people who benefit
from your service. Examples include documenting oral histories
from older people, tutoring younger students, and delivering meals
to people who have limited mobility.
 Indirect service — Working to support other efforts that help
people, such as cleaning up a playground, raising funds for a cause,
or collecting books for a school or library that needs them.
 Advocacy — Raising awareness about an issue. Examples include
speaking to a city council to support a policy or launching a public
information campaign about an issue like eradicating polio.
Looking for inspiration and service project ideas?
 Support one of Rotary’s causes:
} Promoting peace
} Fighting disease
} Providing clean water and sanitation
} Saving mothers and children
} Supporting education
} Growing local economies
} Protecting the environment
 Review nominees for the Interact Awards which recognize
innovative projects that are featured in videos, photos, and essays
by Interact clubs around the world.
 Learn about service projects that Interactors have successfully
completed on Rotary Showcase. Search for the keyword
“Interact” to read stories and share your ideas.

GOOD TO KNOW
To use the Learning
Center, you will need What service projects are you passionate about?
to create a My Rotary
account. If you are age
16 or 17, you can create
a My Rotary account
with the permission of a
parent or legal guardian.
If you are younger
than 16, a club adviser
can share the printed
resources with you.
 INTERACT HANDBOOK: A GUIDE FOR INTERACTORS 27

 PROMOTE INTERNATIONAL
UNDERSTANDING
Rotary is a global network that strives to advance international
understanding, goodwill, and peace. As an Interactor, you are part of this
network, and you can use it to connect with other young people around
the world. Here are some ways you can use Rotary’s global network to
promote international understanding and learn about other cultures:
 Find a twin club. Build a long-term partnership with an
Interact club in another country. You can work together on an
international understanding or service project and organize
virtual opportunities for members to learn about the other country
and club. It is helpful to partner with a club whose members speak
a language you know. Ask your adviser or sponsor club to connect
you with an Interact club in another country.
 Promote peace. One of Rotary’s causes, promoting peace, can be a
way to build international understanding. Work with your sponsor
club to find opportunities for conversations and collaborations
that will foster understanding within and across cultures. You
can also review the Top 10+ Ways You Can Be an Everyday
Peacebuilder on My Rotary for more ideas.
 Use Rotary’s global network. Learn about Rotary Action
Groups and Rotary Fellowships and find ways to collaborate
with one.
 Introduce members to Rotary’s exchanges. Through Rotary,
club members can participate in informal virtual or in-person
exchanges, experience Rotary Youth Exchange as either a host
or an exchange student, and look forward to opportunities after
Interact through New Generations Service Exchange and
Rotary Friendship Exchange.

LEADERSHIP DEVELOPMENT
As an Interactor, you have lots of opportunities to develop lifelong
leadership skills. Organizing service projects and taking on club
leadership roles are great ways to learn how to build relationships, solve
problems, and make decisions as a group.
You can also support other members’ leadership development, which
will not only enhance your own membership but also further your own
skills. Consider covering leadership topics during club meetings. Here
are some ideas:
 INTERACT HANDBOOK: A GUIDE FOR INTERACTORS 28

SKILLS
Leadership theories Learn the main concepts of various
leadership theories.
Use a worksheet, survey, or group activity
to identify club members’ leadership
styles.

Communication skills Let club members take turns leading

group activities.
Organize a speech competition in which
club members speak about a topic of their
choice and get constructive comments
from other members.

Collaboration Emphasize the importance of

acknowledging and respecting different
perspectives and ideas.
Design challenges that club members can
complete successfully only if they work
together.

Ethical leadership Learn about the components of ethical

leadership, including respect, service,
community, justice, and honesty.
Consider what ethical leadership means
to you, and have club members create
their own code of ethics.

What skills do you already have as a leader? What leadership

skills would you like to develop in Interact?

GOOD TO KNOW
As you’re developing
meaningful experiences
for your club, review
the goals of the Rotary
Citation for Interact
Clubs, which can spark
ideas and help keep your
club on track.
 29

Promoting Your Club

You and your fellow club members work hard to make a difference. Make
sure you tell people about your work, so they’ll see your impact and want
to get involved. In this chapter, you’ll learn about Rotary resources and
how to promote your club.

PUBLIC IMAGE AND BRANDING

Rotary’s public image is how people outside of the organization think
about us. The Rotary brand, built over more than a century, can help
bring attention to your Interact club when you use it correctly. Proper
branding is critical because not everyone understands what we do
and why our clubs matter. When you create promotional materials for
your club, make sure they follow our branding guidelines. Find these
resources in the Brand Center:
 Guidelines: Develop communications that are clear, concise, and
effective with our messaging and visual guidelines.
 Logo templates: Create a club signature, which adds your club’s
name to the universal Interact logo and clearly communicates its
connection to Rotary.
 Promotional materials: Customize promotional cards, posters,
banners, and news releases.
 Images and videos: Find high-quality photos and professional
videos that can help you share information about Interact and
Rotary through your website, social media accounts, and events.

USING THE INTERACT LOGO

A key part of branding your club activities is using the Interact logo
correctly with an official Interact club signature. The signature system
makes it easier for the public to recognize your club across all your
communications. Every club can create its own signature in the Brand
Center. Here are some examples:
 INTERACT HANDBOOK: A GUIDE FOR INTERACTORS 30

PUBLICIZING YOUR CLUB’S IMPACT

After you create marketing materials, you’ll be ready to showcase your
club’s impact. By sharing its work, your club will enhance its public
image and possibly attract new members, along with donors to support
your projects. Here are some ideas:

SHOWCASE
Events Use events, like a celebratory dinner,
How will you promote cultural exhibition, art show, or musical
your club and projects? performance, to showcase your club’s
accomplishments. Encourage attendees
to collaborate with and donate to your
future projects and fundraisers.

Portfolios Report on a project from start to finish.

For example, design a webpage that
includes updates on the project and
clearly tells visitors how they can get
involved and contribute.

Presentations Give presentations to reach audiences

with similar interests. Consider speaking
to Rotary, Rotaract, or Interact clubs,
at your district conference, or at other
service-related events.

Local media Send a press release to television, radio,

and newspaper outlets, an essential step
if you want widespread attention for your
project.

Social media Post about your project on social media,

one of the best ways to tell people about
your work. You can also ask your sponsor
Rotary or Rotaract club to post your
project on Rotary Showcase.

Community leaders Write to local leaders about your project,

or hold meetings to discuss the issue, why
you care about it, and what they can do to
help.

Interact Awards Share your projects in a video, photo,

or essay for a chance to earn special
recognition from Rotary International.
 INTERACT HANDBOOK: A GUIDE FOR INTERACTORS 31

RECRUITING NEW MEMBERS

When you promote your club effectively, you’ll be more likely to attract
prospective members from diverse backgrounds. Here are some
recruitment strategies to try:

SCHOOL-BASED CLUB COMMUNITY-BASED CLUB

Connect with school leaders and Contact schools and youth
share information about your organizations and share
club. information about your club.

Post club materials around the Work with district leaders,

school, especially in areas where including the district Interact
students gather. chair, to promote your club across
the district.

Use school events, such as Ask past participants of Rotary

assemblies and activity fairs, to Youth Leadership Awards and
tell people about your club. Rotary Youth Exchange if they are
interested in joining your club.

Share information about your Share information about your

club on social media, working club on social media, working
with your adviser to create club with your adviser to create club
accounts. accounts.

How will your club reach and recruit prospective members?

 32

Support From Rotary

As an Interactor, you are part of the Rotary family. That means you can
expect support from the club, district, and international levels of Rotary.
Read on to learn about Rotary’s organizational structure, the people
and resources that can help you, and opportunities to connect with
Interactors across districts.

INTERACT CLUB ADVISERS

GOOD TO KNOW
Your Interact club adviser supervises, guides, and supports your club.
Through Rotaract clubs,
Your adviser is appointed by your sponsor club (see below) and may be
people ages 18 and
a member of a sponsor Rotary or Rotaract club, an adult nonmember
older develop leadership
vetted by the sponsor club, or in the case of school-based Interact clubs,
and professional skills,
a member of the school’s faculty or administration.
exchange ideas with
community leaders, Ideal advisers have:
and have fun through Strong familiarity with Interact and your club’s activities
service.

 Experience working with young people
 The ability to be a champion for youth
 A passion for service and a desire to make a difference in your
An Interact club may
community
have more than one
adviser, but only one All potential advisers will need to be screened, vetted, and trained in
adviser can be officially how to uphold Rotary’s youth protection policies before they formally
reported to Rotary become your club adviser.
International. Your club
must report an adviser
annually to maintain its
active status. INTERACT CLUB SPONSORS
An effective Interact club depends on the guidance, support, and active
participation of sponsors.
Remember, your club There are over 36,000 Rotary clubs and 10,000 Rotaract clubs in nearly
must have at least one 200 countries and geographic areas, working to unite people and
Rotary club sponsor, but create lasting change in their communities, around the world, and in
you can choose to have themselves.
up to three additional
co-sponsors. Co-sponsors
Sponsor Rotary and Rotaract clubs should help train Interact club
can be either Rotary or
members, officers, and committee chairs. They should also encourage
Rotaract clubs. Also keep
Interactors to participate in district, multidistrict, and international
in mind that these clubs
training opportunities. Your sponsor clubs are also expected to appoint
may be sponsoring more
mentors for your club, have a member attend your club meetings, and
than one Interact club.
invite you to participate in their meetings, service projects, and events.
 INTERACT HANDBOOK: A GUIDE FOR INTERACTORS 33

How do you want to collaborate with your sponsor club(s)?

It takes effort to develop a strong partnership with your sponsor clubs.

But by keeping them involved in your activities and maintaining good
relationships, you create new connections and opportunities for your
club. It’s also easier to ask for help when your sponsor clubs are familiar
with your club members and activities. You can ask your club adviser
GOOD TO KNOW or club president to serve as a liaison to your sponsor clubs, or you can
You can build create a separate role for that. The liaison should share information
a collaborative about your club meetings, social activities, and service projects with
relationship with your your sponsors and encourage them to participate.
sponsor club when Here are some tips for fostering a strong partnership with a sponsor
you succession plan club:
and prepare for the
 Exchange event calendars and encourage your club members to
year ahead. Elect your
participate in your sponsor club’s activities, and vice versa.
club president well in
advance of their term,  Ask some of your club members to attend sponsor club meetings
and encourage them to and give updates on your club’s activities.
meet with the incoming  Consider asking a representative from each of your Interact club’s
president of your committees to connect with the corresponding committee of your
sponsor club to share any sponsor club. For instance, a member of your service committee
important information can attend your sponsor club’s service committee.
and documents.
 Start a mentorship program between your Interact club and your
sponsor club.
 INTERACT HANDBOOK: A GUIDE FOR INTERACTORS 34

DISTRICT SUPPORT
In Rotary, clubs are grouped into more than 500 districts. District
leaders include the governor (see below) and district committees, who
work to strengthen and serve clubs and programs in the district.

DISTRICT INTERACT COMMITTEE

The district Interact committee oversees all Interact activities in
the district. It’s responsible for empowering Interact clubs, growing
and promoting Interact across your district, and providing training and
support to ensure that Rotary’s youth protection policies are followed.
This committee should also connect Interact clubs with one another
and strengthen the link between Interact and Rotary. The Interact
committee can include Rotary, Rotaract, and Interact members.
The district Interact chair oversees the Interact committee.
Appointed by the district governor, the chair can be either a Rotary or a
Rotaract member. This person manages the district’s Interact program
and ensures that all clubs submit their contact information to Rotary
International every year.
The district Interact committee may be co-chaired by an Interactor
who also serves as the district Interact representative. This
representative is elected by all the Interactors in the district and offers
guidance and inspiration to Interact clubs.

ADDITIONAL DISTRICT ROLES

Your club can expect support from other district leaders, including:
District governor. The governor supports all programs and activities
in the district. The governor approves new Interact clubs and all Interact
club sponsors. They appoint the district Interact chair, as well as other
leaders.
District youth protection officer. This person advises on Rotary’s
youth protection policies and procedures.
District alumni chair. The alumni chair helps Interact members
GOOD TO KNOW transition to Rotaract and connects alumni with other Rotary
Learn more about the opportunities.
roles and responsibilities
of the Interact BEYOND THE DISTRICT
committee in the course You can find even more support and more opportunities for Interactors
Get Ready: District at the multidistrict, zone, and international levels of Rotary.
Interact Committee  Multidistrict
in Rotary’s Learning Districts often work together on multidistrict events, training,
Center. and service projects. It’s a way to bring large, diverse groups of
Interactors together to make new friends and learn from one
 INTERACT HANDBOOK: A GUIDE FOR INTERACTORS 35

another. If this sparks your interest, work with your district

Interact chair to find a multidistrict event that you could attend or
to develop one. Multidistrict events always require an agreement
from the governors of the participating districts.
 Zone
Rotary districts are organized into more than 30 zones around the
world. Zones are overseen by a team of regional leaders and elected
directors. Interactors are often invited to participate in zone
conferences, training meetings, and other events.
 Rotary International staff
Rotary members and programs are supported by an international
staff of hundreds of professionals in six international offices and
its world headquarters in Evanston, Illinois, USA. The Programs
for Young Leaders staff is responsible for supporting Interact by
chartering new clubs, sending regular updates to clubs and district
leaders, designing opportunities like the Interact Awards and
World Interact Week, and developing resources for clubs. If you
have any questions, write to interact@rotary.org or your region’s
international office.

How can your district or zone support your Interact club?

 36

Beyond Interact

Supporting Interact is just one of the ways that Rotary invests in young
leaders. Through Rotary, you have access to a variety of programs
developed to empower you at every age. Contact your district leaders to
learn more about these opportunities for young people.
Rotary Youth Leadership Awards (RYLA): RYLA is an intensive
leadership program for young people ages 14-30. Organized by clubs,
districts, and multidistricts, RYLA events allow participants to learn
new skills through civic engagement and personal and professional
development. To learn more about RYLA and its impact, read about
past recipients of the Leaders in RYLA Awards.
Rotary Youth Exchange: Through Rotary Youth Exchange, students
ages 15-19 can learn a new language, discover another culture, and serve
as ambassadors for peace. Exchanges are sponsored by Rotary clubs and
can be either short-term or long-term. To learn more about Rotary Youth
Exchange, read stories from exchange students and alumni on the
Rotary Voices blog.

AFTER INTERACT
Don’t worry about what’s next after Interact. Rotary has something for
you at every stage in life. As your experience with Interact comes to an
end, explore these opportunities to stay involved.
Alumni groups: As a former Interactor, you are part of Rotary’s alumni
network and can connect with fellow leaders engaged in service around
the world.
Rotary Peace Fellowships: Designed for leaders with work experience
in peace and development, these fellowships fund study at our Rotary
Peace Centers. Fellows are committed to community and international
service and the pursuit of peace.
GOOD TO KNOW New Generations Service Exchange: New Generations Service
Through your Interact Exchange is a short-term, customizable international exchange program
club, you can collaborate with a humanitarian or vocational focus for university students and
with your district’s professionals up to age 30.
RYLA and Rotary Youth
Exchange programs.
Rotary Action Groups: Rotary Action Groups are independent,
Invite alumni to share
Rotary-affiliated groups of people from around the world who are
their experiences at
experts in a particular field, such as economic development, peace,
your club meetings, and
addiction prevention, the environment, or water.
work with them to plan Rotary Community Corps (RCC): A Rotary Community Corps is
service activities or social a group of volunteers who aren’t Rotary members but share Rotary’s
events. commitment to changing the world through service projects. Sponsored
by a Rotary club, an RCC leverages Rotary’s network, brand, and
 INTERACT HANDBOOK: A GUIDE FOR INTERACTORS 37

mentorship by partnering with clubs to plan and implement service

projects. More than 11,000 RCCs are active around the world.
Rotary Friendship Exchange: Rotary Friendship Exchange is an
international exchange program for Rotary members and friends that
allows participants to take turns hosting one another in their homes and
clubs. Participants may travel as individuals, couples, families, or groups,
and may or may not be Rotary members.
Rotary or Rotaract clubs: When the time comes, you might want to
join a Rotaract or Rotary club to make new friends, continue serving
your community, and hone your leadership skills. Ask your district
leaders to help you find a club that meets your needs.

Which other Rotary programs interest you?

 38

Rotary Resources

ONLINE TOOLS
 Brand Center — Create your own Interact club logo to use on
promotional materials, club shirts, and more.
 Rotary Showcase — Get inspired! Read about completed service
projects, and have your sponsor post yours for everyone to see.
 Interact Facebook page — Connect with fellow Interactors and
the Rotary members who support Interact.
 Rotary’s Learning Center
} Service-learning resources — Find interactive courses and a
workbook on designing youth-led service projects.
} Protecting Youth Program Participants — Refer your
adviser, sponsor, and other leaders to understand, recognize,
address, and prevent abuse and harassment.

Notes
 INTERACT HANDBOOK: A GUIDE FOR INTERACTORS 39

OTHER RESOURCES
 Interact Club Certification Form (PDF)
 Standard Interact Club Constitution (PDF)
 Recommended Interact Club Bylaws (DOC)
 How to Update Interact Club Information (PDF)
 Interact Identification Card (PDF)
 Young Leaders in Action — Subscribe to this monthly
e-newsletter about Rotary’s programs for young leaders, including
Interact.
 Rotary’s causes — Learn more about our causes and the work
we’re doing to advance them.
 Youth Programs page — Discover Rotary’s other programs for
young leaders.
 Rotary Code of Policies — Read policies and procedures
established by the RI Board of Directors for the organization,
including Interact and other programs for young leaders.

Notes
 INTERACT HANDBOOK: A GUIDE FOR INTERACTORS 40

APPENDIX 1: Sample Club Charter Ceremony

Learn more about starting an Interact club and holding a charter ceremony in chapter 2.
When it’s time to celebrate your new club’s charter, be creative! Plan a ceremony that reflects your club and
community. Use this outline and the spaces below to plan and create a charter ceremony for your new club.

INVITATIONS
Consider inviting your sponsor club or district leaders to officiate or attend the ceremony:
 District governor
 District Interact committee chair
 District Interact representative
You can also invite club members’ families, school teachers and staff (if applicable), and community leaders.

CEREMONY IDEAS
Share Rotary’s history. Consider providing a
brief history of Rotary and Interact, including the
founding of Rotary, the start of the first Interact club,
and the missions of Rotary and Interact.

Highlight the international family of Rotary.

Emphasize that when young people join an Interact
club, they become part of a global community.
Mention the current membership numbers for
Rotary and Interact.

Introduce members. Announce the name of each

new club member, and consider presenting everyone
with a small token, such as a pin or membership card.

Announce the club’s board of directors.

Introduce its members and briefly explain their roles.
You might ask the club president and other officers to
say a few words about their goals for the year ahead.

PHOTO OPPORTUNITY
End the ceremony with a group photo!
 INTERACT HANDBOOK: A GUIDE FOR INTERACTORS 41

APPENDIX 2: Guiding Questions for Setting Goals

Learn more about setting goals in chapter 4.
Setting goals every year will help your club plan its activities and events and help it stay active and productive.
Working together as a club, consider the questions below, and refer back to your answers throughout the year.

NEW CLUBS
What characteristics do we want our club to have?

What will we consider success to be?

What do we want to do to further DEI?

ESTABLISHED CLUBS
How are we reaching our current goals? What are
some examples? What has worked well?

What goals are we not reaching? Why? What isn’t

working well?

What are our club’s strengths? How can we use these

strengths?

How can we continue to gather members’ feedback

and make the club experience better for all?
 INTERACT HANDBOOK: A GUIDE FOR INTERACTORS 42

APPENDIX 3: Rotary Citation for Interact Clubs

Learn more about setting goals in chapter 4.
As you set goals for your club, get inspired by the Rotary Citation for Interact Clubs.
The citation recognizes clubs that increase our impact, expand our reach, enhance participant engagement, and
increase our ability to adapt.
Instructions:
Select at least 11 of the 20 goals listed below. This flexibility allows you to choose the goals that are the most
relevant and attainable. You have the entire Rotary year (1 July to 30 June) to achieve your goals, and if you do,
your club will receive the citation. Your sponsor club officers and club adviser can refer to this worksheet when
they complete your nomination form.
To achieve the citation:
 Review the details of the goals.
 With guidance from your club adviser, select at least 11 goals to achieve.
 Indicate the goals you plan to achieve and set a target, if appropriate, in the SET YOUR GOAL column.
 When your club meets a goal, indicate that in the GOAL ACHIEVED column.
 Your sponsor club officers and club adviser should refer to this worksheet throughout the year to make
sure that your club is on track to meet its goals.
 Work with your sponsor Rotary club officers or Interact club adviser to submit your nomination form
by 15 August. Have them refer to this worksheet to complete the form.

CITATION GOAL
CATEGORY GOAL DETAILS SET YOUR GOAL ACHIEVED
Club How many total members does your
membership club want by the end of the Rotary
year?

Service How many members will participate

participation in club service activities during the
Rotary year?

Rotary During the Rotary year, will club

Action Group members have the opportunity to
engagement learn more about Rotary Action
Groups and get inspiration for
service projects?

Leadership How many leadership development

development programs will your club organize to
participation enhance members’ skills?
 INTERACT HANDBOOK: A GUIDE FOR INTERACTORS 43

CITATION GOAL
CATEGORY GOAL DETAILS SET YOUR GOAL ACHIEVED
District How many members will attend
conference your district conference?
attendance

Rotary During the Rotary year, will club

Fellowship members learn more about the
engagement opportunities available through
Rotary Fellowships?

District Will your club members attend

training district training?
participation

Learning Will your club adviser or a member

Center of your club complete the service-
engagement learning training in Rotary’s
Learning Center?

Annual Fund During the Rotary year, how will

contributions your club raise funds for or increase
awareness of Rotary’s Annual Fund?

PolioPlus During the Rotary year, how many

Fund events will your club hold to raise
contributions funds for or increase awareness of
Rotary’s work to eradicate polio?

Service Will your club partner with your

projects sponsor club or adviser on a
significant local or international
service project in one of Rotary’s
areas of focus?

RYLA How many of your club members

participation will participate in Rotary Youth
Leadership Awards?
 INTERACT HANDBOOK: A GUIDE FOR INTERACTORS 44

CITATION GOAL
CATEGORY GOAL DETAILS SET YOUR GOAL ACHIEVED
Programs for Will your club host a meeting
young leaders that introduces members to other
Rotary programs for young leaders,
including RYLA and Rotary Youth
Exchange?

Alumni Will your club engage with your

engagement sponsor club to connect graduating
Interactors with university- or
community-based Rotaract clubs?

Strategic plan Will your club follow its strategic

plan or update it if it doesn’t reflect
your current priorities?

Update During the Rotary year, how many

website times per month will your club’s
and social website or social media accounts be
media updated?

Media stories Will your club promote an activity

about it holds during World Interact Week
club projects on social media?

Use the Brand Will you use logos and materials

Center that were created using Brand
Center templates and that correctly
reflect Rotary’s brand?

Use of official Will your club use Rotary

Rotary International’s messaging and
promotional public service materials, such as
materials broadcast videos, print ads, and
other materials from the Brand
Center, to promote Interact in your
community?

Promote your Will your club participate in the

club annual Interact Awards?
 INTERACT HANDBOOK: A GUIDE FOR INTERACTORS 45

APPENDIX 4: Specific Goals for Your Club

After you review the goals of the Rotary Citation, you might decide to set additional goals for your club.
1. List your goals in the column labeled GOAL. Make them specific.
2. Under NOTES, write how your club plans to achieve each goal. Include details such as the committee
responsible for overseeing progress, any funding or additional resources needed, and due dates.
3. When your club has met a goal, indicate that in the GOAL ACHIEVED column.

GOAL
GOAL NOTES ACHIEVED
 INTERACT HANDBOOK: A GUIDE FOR INTERACTORS 46

APPENDIX 5: Sample Meeting Agenda

Productive club meetings are well organized, with a clear agenda. Here’s an outline you can use for your
meetings.

AGENDA ITEMS
1. Call to order and agenda. Write a list of things
the group needs to discuss and accomplish in the
meeting, so you can present it to club members.

2. Guest speakers or new members. Note the

names of any guest speakers or new members,
along with a few details about them so you can
introduce them.

3. Icebreaker. Plan a fun activity to start your

meeting.

4. Announcements. List important announcements

and reminders so you won’t forget to mention them
at your meeting.
 INTERACT HANDBOOK: A GUIDE FOR INTERACTORS 47

AGENDA ITEMS
5. Board and committee updates. Note any reports
or news that will be presented by the board of
directors or committee members.

6. Open forum. Give club members time to ask

questions or discuss club business. Note any
questions or items that your board of directors will
need to follow up on.

7. A
 djournment. Write any closing words you’d like
to say to your club.
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