Does your club have Paul Harris Fellow credits banking up? Why not use those credits to recognise an outstanding community leader and enhance Rotary’s public image.

Article by RI Director Jessie Harman

In recent years, the Rotary Club of Wendouree Breakfast in Ballarat has awarded Paul Harris Fellow recognition to outstanding community leaders. Once a year the club calls for suitable nominations from club members and a selection committee, comprising members of the club’s Rotary Foundation Committee, choose a winner.

In 2021, two recognitions were presented to outstanding individuals who had gone ‘above and beyond’ to keep business and community members connected during the pandemic. In 2022, the recognition was presented to Brett Shillito – a local community college principal – for his outstanding educational leadership, particularly supporting students who experience considerable disadvantage. The presentations are covered in the local media.

The community leader recognitions achieve a number of important objectives. Internally, they put a spotlight on Rotary’s Foundation and the value of member support for its mission and programs. Externally, they serve to raise awareness about Rotary, in particular its important role in celebrating and strengthening communities. The recognitions represent a simple ‘win-win’ strategy benefitting members, Wendouree Breakfast Rotary and the City.