By G. Harvey Gail, MBA, President of Spire Management
This is the third in a series of articles focused on local non-profit leaders. Last month I interviewed a leader in the business sector of non-profits, the Salem Association of Realtors (SAR). This week I visit with Jill Munger, President of the South Salem Rotary Club. We will have the pleasure of serving together as I will be the upcoming president of West Salem Rotary.
Jill is the director of residential facilities and summer programs at Willamette University. She volunteers her time as president of the South Salem Rotary club. Their meetings are held every Tuesday at Illahe Country Club at noon.
Tell us about your non-profit
The Rotary Club of South Salem is one of 35,000 clubs that make up Rotary International. Rotarians strive to make a difference both locally and globally by donating their funds, time and talents. The South Salem club has supported disaster relief efforts in developing countries and helped provide clean water to impoverished communities. Locally, we help our neighbors who are hungry and in need, children with literacy and projects that beautify neighborhoods.
How did you get into the role? How did you find yourself in leadership in the organization?
I have been an active club member since 2002 and have served in many leadership capacities including chair of club’s major fundraiser, club secretary, service project chair and even as club president in 2007.
What experiences best prepared you for this role?
Both on the district and national level, Rotary International provides extensive leadership training that prepares club presidents for this role and ongoing resources to ensure success. In addition, I’ve served on several local not-for-profit boards and on a community foundation.
What is difficult about your nonprofit leadership role? What is easy?
Serving as club president is actually an easy leadership role within the club, simply because we have such amazing members. Rotarians are devoted, hard working and generous of their time. We truly emulate our motto of “service above self.”
What are you looking for in future leaders in your group?
We are looking for people who want to make a difference both locally and globally and who enjoy working with others with the common interest of wanting to make the world a better place.
Is there anything else you would like to add?
Rotary has a new slogan describing our commitments to our community, our club and the world: Rotarians are “people of action.”
Rotary is an excellent organization with amazing impact locally and globally. Rotary has opportunities for all age levels. High school children can get involved through Rotary’s Interact Clubs. Young adults can be “people of action” with Rotaract, which is celebrating its 50th anniversary this year. If you would like to learn more about Rotary, look for more information by visiting www.isrotaryforyou.org.
Harvey Gail is President of Spire Management, an association management, event planning and consulting firm located in Salem, Oregon. www.SpireManagement.com, @HarvGail
