What is the RI Convention?

Once a year Rotarians from all over the world gather in one location for a time to reflect on recent past accomplishments, plan for future projects, renew their dedication and commitment, and enjoy fellowship from other Rotarians around the world. There are always keynote addresses from both the outgoing RI president .

2009-2010 President John Kenny

and the incoming RI president for the next Rotary year.

President-elect Ray Klinginsmith

There are also messages from others that are dedicated to causes of interest to Rotary - world peace and understanding, ethical behaviour in one's vocation, improved health conditions for all citizens of all countries. Recent past speakers have included

Bill Gates, speaking about the efforts to eradicate polio worldwide,and how the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation was partnering with Rotarians worldwide to achieve this goal,

and Mia Farrow, who as a child was stricken with polio and who put a human face on the need for polio eradication.

Resources

RI conventions also offer a variety of workshops and seminars to help in all four areas of service:

• Club Service - to provide attendees with resources and ideas to improve their local clubs organization and effectiveness, and ideas for club fellowship.
  
• Vocational Service - to help promote ethical standards in business and provide information on Interact and Rotaract.
• Community Service - to help club's attendees with ideas on projects for improving their local community.
• International Service - to provide information on many international service projects and how local clubs can become involved with other clubs around the world.

Montreal

The next Rotary International Convention will be held in Montreal, Canada in June of 2010. Watch the video below as John Kenny, RI President 2009-2010 takes you on a tour of this wonderful city.