NEW MEMBER MENTOR PROGRAM

The first few months after the induction of a new member are critical for their orientationto the club. Mentors are assigned to new members when they are inducted. The mentor will be someone other than the sponsor. Mentors will be

  • experienced - having a high level of knowledge and interest about the club and Rotary
  • willing and able to devote the time and energy necessary to help the new member fully participate in the club.

The New Member Mentor Program links an experienced Rotarian with a new member for a period of six months. The mentor is charged with providing general orientation and information regarding club activities, committee assignments etc., introducing the new member to others in the club, and providing overall support and follow-through. The specific goals of the program are to assist the new Rotarian in understanding what Rotary is, their role in the club, the role of the club within the community, and the role of the club internationally.The mentor plays an important part in the orientation and eventual success of this new member to our club.

Responsibilities:

  • monitor the new members comfort level with and involvement in the club through periodic telephone calls and personal contact and take action to address any concerns
  • sit with the new member at club meetings and introduce them to other club members
  • explain the various club committees/activities and help the new member get involved in a committee/activity that is ofinterest to them
  • inform the new member about special meetings and Rotary social events throughout the year. The mentor should attend as many of these events as possible and act as an informal host to the new member and spouse.
  • make sure that the new member understands all club rules, including the attendance requirement
  • monitor the attendance of the new member. If they miss a regular meeting offer to go along on a make up. Take the new member to another Rotary club within three months even if they do not need a make up.
  • assist the new member in understanding the purpose of and preparing for their classification talk
  • be available to answer questions and provide requested counsel or guidance.
  • seek suggestions and feedback on the Rotary club from the new member. Let them know they are a vital part of the club.
  • assist the new member in completion of the New Member Checklist of orientation tasks. Check with the new member to determine their progress and if there are any problems or questions.
  • remind the new member that Rotary is a privilege and encourage them to share that privilege by proposing new members

Thank you for agreeing to serve as a mentor for ______

August 2016