We meet at noon on Thursdays; however, we have a club that meets at noon on Wednesday, two evening clubs, and a morning club. In addition to different times, each has its own focus. Other clubs include Plano Metro, Plano West, Plano East, Plano Sunrise and North Texas Pioneers.
While we are all focused on service, Plano Rotary Club is focused on education and family services. Other clubs have multiple focuses and fundraisers that drive their memberships. At a recent festival and again at a non-profit fair, I was asked about the other clubs. Turns out the more we know about one another's clubs, the more we can help potential members find a club that suits their schedule and their goals.
Over a year ago, the presidents of each club began having fairly regular meetings to touch base and see how we could help one another. During the 2021-22 year we began a huge joint project, the city Independence Day and Holiday parades. This effort has continued and we have a task force currently working on the 2023 parades.
By networking with the other clubs, we have been able to help one another out with vendors, a helping hand and RYLA, 4 Way Test applicants. Most of all, we have been able to dispel misunderstandings about other clubs such as relationships, why a club does or does not continue ownership of a fundraiser or project, and even the willingness to support one another. For instance, we have members who look forward to helping with one of the flag projects even though we don't have our own.
Plano Rotary Club recently went as a group down to visit Uptown Rotary Club to network and learn about how we do things. Coincidentally, we found out that Uptown is partnering with other cubs for fundraising as well. I suggest all clubs look at partnerships.
Together we are so much stronger.