Oakland Rotary Strengthens Connections and Commitment to Improving Lives Locally and Globally

Rotary members contribute their skills, expertise, and resources to help solve some of the world’s toughest problems. It all begins locally. Most members join seeking deeper connection and ways to give back to their communities. These are the same reasons members stay in Rotary year after year. Simply joining isn’t going to change lives or make connections out of thin air. Members join and get involved. To learn more about getting involved, I interviewed Diane Schaffer, leader of New Member Orientation about ways she actively shapes her own experience and guides new members through steps to make the most of Rotary membership.

JG: Diane, how did you decide to get involved with Oakland Rotary?

Diane: I was introduced to Rotary by a woman that I met at an Oakland Women’s Organization Luncheon. As the Executive director of the Oakland Rotary, she shared information about the Oakland Rotary Club. Being intrigued, attended a meeting, and was hooked immediately by the energy of the individuals in the room and the diversity of the Club. I joined that day and have not regretted it. 

JG: Tell me what you find unique about the Oakland Rotary Club?

Diane: The Oakland Rotarians are truly individuals who display respect for, believe in, participate in, are dedicated to, committed to the Service Mission of Rotary, “a global network of neighbors, friends, elders, and problem-solvers who see a world where people unite and take action to create lasting change across the globe, in the communities and in themselves”.

JG: What’s your favorite part of being a Rotarian?

Diane: Engaging in activities that enhance humanity, meeting individuals that have like-minded attitudes and beliefs in serving the community, country and globally for the good of all are my favorite things about Rotary. I have learned so much from the continuous energy and dedication that members give to the projects and the organization. 

JG: Tell me about the most important leadership lesson you’ve learned and how has it proven invaluable?

 Diane: My listening skill set has been enhanced within this organization due to meeting so many competent individuals that have and do lead not only accomplished lives but interesting and diverse lives. This has assisted me in effectively participating in various committees, leading my own Medical Clinics in Central America, learning from members their success stories, creating my own success stories within my family, in my professional work, in my relationship coaching work and with myself.

JG: You've served on several committees over the years. Tell me about your favorites?

Diane: Some of the committees that I do and have participated in — Paul Harris Awards, Kinder-Prep, Karl F Stucki World Community Service, Saroni/Lena Scholarships (East Bay Scholarship Fund), Business Development Committee, Rotary Foundation, Member of The Board.

 Realistically all were favorites due to the people that I worked with and the mission of the committee or project.

 One of the most effective committees for me personally was being part of the World Community Service committee. When I was an earlier member, I collaborated for a number of years with members such as Karl Stucki, Jon Gresley, Gudrun, John Weaver, Jr. MD, with projects that were accomplished in Central America. We would travel to the various parts of Central America where the projects in conjunction with Rotarians from various parts of Central America were being done. The experiences held deep meaning for us all as there was continuous gratitude from the Central American people, from experiencing the completion of the projects. 

I was fortunate to work with beyond amazing Oakland Rotarians and International Rotarians. Another plus was attending the International Work Fairs where I met many International Rotarians that displayed; all the possible projects that we could work with them—water projects, well projects, medical clinics were just a few of the possibilities.   

When people have access to clean water and sanitation, waterborne diseases decrease, children, stay healthier and attend school more regularly, and mothers can spend less time carrying water and more time helping their families.

JG: What are you working on at Oakland Rotary now?

 Diane: In July I will be leading the New Member Orientations. My intention is to create an initial environment of “Welcome” informative, supportive and helpful information concerning the Oakland Rotary club that gives the New Member a feeling of belonging. 

Questions and conversation will revolve around what brought this member to the Club, what are their expectations, how can I support them in the best way to create that belong feeling, share with them “All about Rotary” —that will be given to them in print form for their review. The committee will continuously check in for their feedback. As the Oakland Rotary Club is one of the largest, one of the most active, has members that are very accomplished, the intention will be for the New Member to feel as they can fit in and participate in so many directions based on their needs, desires and wants. 

JG: Who can join Rotary?

Diane: We’re looking for people who want to give back to their communities.

JG: What are some of the benefits of being a Rotarian?

Diane: Rotary members connect with a diverse group of professionals who share a passion for community and a drive to give back. Through regular meetings and events; members have an opportunity to discuss the community’s needs and develop creative ways to meet them, connect with other leaders who are changing the world, expand your leadership and professional skills, and catch up with good friends and meet new ones.

Through our Oakland club, members can connect with the community by learning about its needs and working on long-term solutions. When members work with local leaders and beneficiaries, they strengthen both the community and their ties to it. Participating in a project that positively touches someone else’s life can be life-changing for everyone involved.

One of the best benefits is the sense of a shared purpose that comes from working together to better our community. When it comes to being an active Rotarian, the opportunities are endless!