Member Survey Results

Responders were 68% male and 32% female with 33% belonging to our club for five years or less, 26% belonging from six to 20 years, and 41% in Rotary for 21 or more years. Several responders asked for "more of July" with its mix of thought-provoking luncheon speakers, field trips to interesting places and community service opportunities. Members also suggested we "fully take advantage of the pilot program for flexibility," improve networking, increase member engagement, raise visibility of our club, have ice breakers at socials, play Rotary Jeopardy, have an annual club assembly, stop singing at meetings, mentor younger members, have a monthly theme, leave more time for questions at meetings, "shake it up" and innovate. Some responders mentioned enjoying our traditional club meetings and speakers. 

 

As for potential field trips we had lots of suggestions from visiting area arts, cultural and historical attractions to getting behind-the-scenes looks at military installations, the port, businesses and even going on outings to the Eastern Shore and on a boat trip from Tappahannock. Several members mentioned wanting to go to the new Brock Environmental Center in Virginia Beach. 

 

With regards to community service we had requests for more one-and-done projects that help others and give Rotarians a sense of accomplishment. Responders suggested doing environmental work, helping the elderly, volunteering at special events, working in literacy, connecting with Paint Your Heart Out and planning projects that can include their children as volunteers. Our past work at The Foodbank of Southeastern Virginia, Clean the Bay Day and Norfolk Botanical Garden was mentioned as something to continue. Some responders expressed an interest in less physical types of volunteering. One responder's comment was: "Ask not what your Rotary Club can do for you...."

 

Memorable speakers members ranged from economist Dr. James Koch's to Kay Kemper, our own political analyst. Bagpipers, Major Tom the dog, historians, poets, coaches, improv comedians, mayors and brewery owners were among the past speakers ranked among the most memorable. Our members shared lots of great ideas for upcoming speakers and topics that our program committee will draw from during year.