Vocational Service - The Second Avenue
Vocational Service is the "Second Avenue of Service." It is an obligation that derives from having a classification in Rotary. No aspect of Rotary is more closely related to each member than a personal commitment to represent one's vocation or occupation to fellow Rotarians and to exemplify the characteristics of high ethical standards and the dignity of work.
Programs of vocational service are those, which seek to improve business relations while improving the quality of trades, industry, commerce and the professions. Rotarians understand that each person makes a valuable contribution to a better society through daily activities in a business or profession.
According to Rotary’s classification principle, members join Rotary as the representative of their particular business or profession. This gives Rotarians the dual responsibility of representing their vocation within the club and of exemplifying the ideals of Rotary within the workplace. A commitment to Vocational Service obliges Rotarians to view their respective occupations as an opportunity to serve society.
Rotary clubs also have an obligation to carry out Vocational Service projects designed to increase employment opportunities in the community, promote a fair workplace environment, and raise an awareness and appreciation of all useful occupations. In addition, the importance of upholding high ethical standards in business has always been an integral element of the Rotary creed, as spelled out in the Object of Rotary and the Declaration of Rotarians in Businesses and Professions.
Vocational Service is frequently demonstrated by offering young people career guidance, occupational information and assistance in making vocational choices. Some clubs sponsor high school career conferences. Many recognize the dignity of employment by honoring exemplary service of individuals working in their communities.
Some of our Vocational projects are: