Virtually all membership in Rotary is based on a “classification.” Basically, a classification describes the distinct and recognized business or professional service that the Rotarian renders to society.
The principle of Rotary classification is somewhat more specific and precise, however. The classification of a Rotarian describes the “principal or recognized business or professional activity of the firm, company, or institution” with which an active member is connected or “that which covers the active member’s principal and recognized business or professional activity.” In other words, classifications are determined by activities or services to society rather than the position held by a particular individual. For example, a member who is a president of a bank is classified not as “bank president” but under the classification “banking.”
The classification principle also permits businesses and industries to be separated into distinct functions such as manufacturing, distributing, retailing, and servicing. Classifications may also be specified as distinct and independent divisions of a large corporation or university within the club’s territory, such as a school of business or a school of engineering. The classification principle is a necessary concept in ensuring that each Rotary club represents a cross-section of the business and professional service of the community.
The Rotary Foundation Weekly Messages: WEEK 35
LAST WEEK I TOLD YOU WHAT SHARE WAS; NOW I’LL TELL YOU WHY IT IS CALLED SHARE. The Rotary Foundation’s funding system is called SHARE because the name defines what the system does:
(1) Rotarians SHARE their resources with their fellow Rotarians around the world;
(2) The Rotary Foundation Trustees SHARE some of their decision-making responsibilities with the 540 Rotary Districts; and
(3) Rotarians SHARE Rotary with the world through their Rotary Foundation.
READY TO BECOME INVOLVED? ASK ME, AND I’LL LET YOU KNOW HOW!