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Everybody’s Job: Setting the Stage for Public Image


As we enter the next Rotary year with new teams, boards, and presidents, we are seeing the role of public image become even more significant. An important principle for our own Roswell Rotary PI team is “If you don’t tell people about it, it didn’t happen.” In an era dominated by social media, instant videos, and continuous communication with numerous distractions competing for attention, it is crucial to ensure that the efforts of Rotary Clubs receive adequate exposure throughout the community.

Plan: To effectively communicate service projects and messages, planning before the event is essential. Public image should be integrated into the pre-planning process for every project. For larger projects, thinking of the post-event publicity beforehand ensures that visuals and words are prepared for social media posts, newspaper articles, etc. New committee chairs or project chairs should coordinate with their Public Image Chair to disseminate information about their project effectively.

Set the Stage: For large events, preparation is key to creating opportunities for high-quality pictures and videos. The background and foreground of a picture are vital. At club meetings, consider what elements appear in every meeting photograph. If organizing a ribbon-cutting ceremony, decorating in advance with balloons, streamers, signage, and bubbles can add visual and auditory interest.

Rotarians in Action: Consider how club members' activities will be communicated both within and outside the club during service projects. For example, a picture of a Rotarian helping a smiling child to put on their new mittens and hat conveys a strong message. A photo of District Governor Gordon Owens in flight over the pool in the Polar Plunge belly flop contest captures engagement. Always think about how to convey the actions Rotarians take in service.

Tell a Story: People remember stories and emotions associated with them. Articles with facts and group shots are informative, while memorable stories create lasting impressions. For instance, at a Memorial Day event, two sisters of Rotary Club Past President Elwyn Gaissert II shared a story about Elwyn leaving on a train for the Navy, which connected emotionally with attendees. On a day when we were remembering those who did not return, this family sharing the farewell at the train station was poignant. Capturing stories like these add depth to the event's significance.

Everybody’s Job: Ensuring the message of service is not solely the responsibility of the public image team. Every committee chair should consider how to promote their project or event. Members can contribute by taking pictures and sharing posts on social media or through personal interactions. Effective communication can attract more attendees to meetings and new members to clubs. Plan ahead and make it happen.

Posted by Kathryn Igou
June 6, 2025

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