Want to make a difference? Here’s how to join a Rotary Club
Thinking about giving back, but don’t know where to start? Joining a Rotary club could be your first step. Steve Margo of the Fourways Main Reef Rotary Club shares how membership turned his ideas into long-running community projects.
For many, the desire to give back is strong, but knowing how to get involved in a structured and meaningful way can be challenging.
According to Steve Margo of the Fourways Main Reef Rotary Club, joining Rotary starts with a willingness to participate, work alongside others, and commit time to service.
Read more: Fourways Rotary Club grows impact, closing 2025 on a high note
Margo’s experience shows that Rotary membership is hands-on. Members are actively involved in projects, from planning to delivery, working together to serve communities in a practical way.
“The toy drive, I started it about 18 years ago,” Margo said. “At that stage, we collected 200 or 300 toys.”
It began as a small effort but later became a Rotary project because he was already part of a club that could support and grow the initiative. “With it, we collect toys and distribute them to needy kids, especially the kids in hospitals and orphanages,” he said.
He said joining a Rotary club means becoming part of a group that works collectively. Members communicate regularly, step in when help is needed, and physically take part in projects.
Margo explained that Rotary membership also comes with shared responsibility and accountability. Projects are carried out openly, with members supporting one another throughout the process.
“I normally invite a member or two of the club to come with me when we are going to distribute donations,” he said. “I always like to have an extra person there to see what is being handed over.”
Margo said Rotary is not about one-off volunteering, but about building ongoing relationships with communities and charities.
“My pet charities are Smile, Reach for a Dream, CHOC, and the Burns Unit at Baragwanath Hospital,” he said. “I’ve been looking after [them] for 18 years.”
For those wanting to join a Rotary club, his experience shows that membership involves commitment, teamwork, and a readiness to get involved.
So, how do you join a Rotary club?
While each club may differ slightly, joining Rotary generally involves:
- Reaching out to a local Rotary club in your area
- Attending a meeting or activity to see how the club operates
- Expressing interest in membership and willingness to participate
- Being inducted as a member once approved by the club
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