New Rotary International program comes to Ocala

Members of the Rotary Club of Ocala are shown during a recent monthly meeting. IMPACT Ocala is a new Rotary International program that is being introduced to the community. [Photo courtesy Rotary Club of Ocala]

Q: What’s the mission of the IMPACT Club?

A: IMPACT shares Rotary International’s mission of making the world a better place, one community at a time. Unlike traditional meetings, IMPACT focuses solely on practical service projects. Our members work together, in small groups, or individually to make a real impact.

Q: How are service projects chosen?

A: With IMPACT, you will never have to worry about finding a service project to participate in. As a member, you have the power to choose which projects you want to work on. Whether you are already working on a volunteer/service project and need additional help or see the need for a new project in the community, IMPACT members can help make it happen. Join us today and become part of a like-minded community of volunteers to make a difference in the world.

Q: Why should I join IMPACT?

A: Rotary’s vision statement is: Together we see a world where people unite and take action to create lasting change across the globe, in our communities, and ourselves.

Q: What are the dues for IMPACT?

A: Since IMPACT doesn’t have to have a regular meeting place with meals, the dues are much lower. If we want to meet, members can organize a stand-alone meeting, meet before a service project, or even do an individual service project. We can also just get together and socialize. IMPACT dues are $15/month and can be billed monthly.

Q: Are IMPACT members “real” Rotarians?

A: Without a doubt! For Rotary International, IMPACT members are identical to any other engaged Rotary members. If this statement sounds like something you want to be a part of, then IMPACT and Rotary are great organizations for you. With IMPACT, we will focus on service projects that improve our community and ourselves. As an IMPACT member, you have the opportunity to take part in all that Rotary has to offer including:

• Local service projects.
• International service projects.
• Rotary Action Groups are international groups focused on specific areas of interest including water and sanitation, peace, refugees, domestic violence prevention, education, literacy, and more. Rotary Action Groups focus on improving the world through improving a specific problem.
• Rotary Fellowships are international groups that share a common passion. Some of the fellowships include 4×4 vehicles, beer, comedy, music, old and rare books, travel and hospitality, and more.
• Attending club meetings around the world as you travel. Meeting fellow Rotarians when you travel opens up doors you otherwise wouldn’t even know about. They also provide great recommendations for the areas you visit.
• Attending conferences and other events. While IMPACT is a “no meetings” club, when you attend larger conferences and events, like District Conference and International Conventions, you get to see the power of Rotary. You meet Rotarians from other places, learn about the service projects and fundraisers they have done, and get inspired to do even more.

To learn more, find IMPACT Ocala on social media or email impactocalarc@gmail.com