http://www.rid3170.org

Among Rotary’s “Four Avenues of Service,” probably the one least discussed and promoted is Vocational Service.If so, it is perhaps because vocational is, to a large degree, inter-related with the other three – Club, Community, and International.

Vocational Service is the "Second Avenue of Service." 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. “Of all the hundred and one ways in which men can make themselves useful to society undoubtedly the most available and often most effective are within the spheres of their own occupations,” wrote Paul Harris in The national Rotarian as early as 1912.

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.

 

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 by establishing links between employers and students, and starting a process which can guide youth to seek career options to suit his ability and taste.

The 4-Way Test and other ethical and laudable business philosophies are often promoted among young people entering the world of work. Vocational talks and discussion of business issues are also typical vocational service programs at most clubs.

Regardless of the ways that Vocational Service is expressed, it is the banner by which Rotarians "recognize the worthiness of all useful occupations" and demonstrate a commitment to "high ethical standards in all businesses and professions." That's why the Second Avenue of Service is fundamental to every Rotary club.

By vocation we mean a regular occupation or profession; especially, one for which one is specially suited or qualified. Vocational Service is an obligation that derives from having a classification in Rotary. This Avenue of Service was actually one of the founding principles of Paul Harris in 1905 when he met with his fellow business and professional friends and yet, it is the area in which much work is needed. Clubs and members tend to stress and excel in the Club, Community and International Avenues rather than the one that is indigenous to Rotary membership.

The opportunity for the development of Vocational Service has no limits. Perhaps the most widely used approach is having each club member give a 5minute talk on his/her profession or business about a month after induction. Employer-Employee day is held annually by many clubs - a great way to share Rotary and also foster a potential Additional Active member into the club.

Vocational service is a hallmark of our organization that sets it apart from all other service groups. From the beginning, Rotarians have advocated fair business practices and high ethical standards. Rotarians can use their vocational expertise in medicine, technology, education, agriculture, and other professions to help people locally or abroad.

Basic to Vocational Service is "The Four Way Test" as originated by RI President Herbert J. Taylor. This 24 word test of the things we think, say and do is a convenient and effective instrument of Vocational Service and is more fully described on a later page.

Members are expected to adhere to the "Declaration of Rotarians in Business and Professions" which Rotary has officially adopted to foster high business standards and ethical practices.

Vocational service is a responsibility of each Rotarian. It is the responsibility of club as well. The role of the club is to implement and encourage the objective by frequent demonstration, by example and by developing projects that help members contribute their vocational talents.

We must rededicate ourselves to use our vocational skills to improve our business, provide training and skills to young people, and jobs for the disabled. Rotary’s Second Avenue of service offers unlimited opportunities to contribute to the community. It is the field of vocational service where you and I earn our daily bread, that we as Rotarians are judged. The way in which we conduct our business and profession is what really matters.