People of Action Award: Celebrating Local Community Changemakers
Background
For over a century, Rotary International has dedicated itself to addressing the needs of communities worldwide. Although some members of the general public are familiar with our name, our most recent research suggests that the public still lacks a comprehensive understanding of Rotary. They do not know what we stand for and are not familiar with any Rotary programs. They are unaware of the work we do in local communities. Nearly 60 percent of those surveyed reported being unaware that a Rotary Club exists in their community.
What is the Club’s People of Action Award?
Every community has unsung heroes—neighbors, teachers, volunteers, business owners, and organizations whose quiet dedication creates lasting change. Rotary District 7430 invites every Rotary club in our district to shine a spotlight on these extraordinary individuals through the “Rotary Club’s People of Action Award”, presented during the Club’s annual District Governor visit if possible.
Why should your Club consider sponsoring a Club’s People of Action Award?
The People of Action Award aims to bring the Rotary story to life for those who don’t know us by showcasing Rotarians as the people of action we are: leaders who work together in communities to inspire, transform, connect, recognize, and celebrate other leaders in the community.
This campaign motivates, engages, and inspires current and prospective members, as well as donors, partners, and supporters.
This is more than an award. It is an opportunity to:
- Recognize people of action in your community who are not Rotarians (yet!).
- Share the power of Rotary’s work through the stories of local community changemakers.
- Elevate the Rotary International Foundation and inspire giving in a joyful, meaningful way.
- Build public image and awareness of Rotary's presence and purpose.
- Develop and strengthen relationships in your community.
- Increase visibility of Rotary and its vision.
- Reinforce the local Rotary club’s community roots.
- Encourage Foundation giving by tying it to heartfelt stories.
Award Criteria
Nominees must:
- Not be a Rotarian.
- Have a track record of service, leadership, or positive impact within your local community and an impeccable background.
- Reflect the values of Rotary, including integrity, service, and character.
How It Works
- Choose your honoree – A teacher, coach, healthcare worker, nonprofit leader, volunteer—anyone embodying the Rotary spirit.
- Use Club Paul Harris Fellow points to award a PHF.
- Celebrate the honoree during your club's District Governor visit—invite their family, friends, and local media.
- Share their story on social media, newsletters, and local press about your honoree with your Rotary Club branding and your Club’s, D7430 and PeopleofAction hashtags.
- Educate your community through social media and in-person events about the Rotary Foundation and how this recognition ties into global good.
Imagine the Impact
41clubs. 41 community champions.
Countless lives inspired.
Together, we will showcase what Rotary stands for
Together, we will showcase what Rotary stands for
—ordinary people doing extraordinary things,
both within and beyond our membership.
Club Resources
- Club’s People of Action Media Alert Template found on Club Resorces page.
- Club’s People of Action News Release Template found on Club Resorces page.
- Club’s People of Action Certificate (Horizontal and Vertical Templates) Attached. Or
horizontal certificate: https://www.canva.com/design/DAGuj05qiLc/MIChPythUlSwPem7rxEhfg/edit?utm_content=DAGuj05qiLc&utm_campaign=designshare&utm_medium=link2&utm_source=sharebutton
vertical certificate: https://www.canva.com/design/DAGvgu-D0G4/_3MGvXeWHxi5cnThPsqBwg/edit?utm_content=DAGvgu-D0G4&utm_campaign=designshare&utm_medium=link2&utm_source=sharebutton
If you do not have Canva and need assistance in creating you certificate contact Tracy Bozik at TBozik@Fellowshipcommunity.com with all the information to be inserted for your Club’s award.
- Paul Harris Point Redemption Instructions:
Complete the Paul Harris recognition transfer form (attached) and email it to the rotarysupportcenter@rotary.org a few weeks before the award presentation so that it is received in time. For additional information contact Herb Klotz at: herbk.rotary@gmail.com or 484-707-9467.
For an honorary PHF you can leave certain fields requesting Rotarians information blank.
When you send it in to RI, just let Herb Klotz know that it is for a non-Rotarian.