The power of positive thinking in a little car - or club
At Tuesday's meeting, we participated in a club activity designed to foster conversations, encourage teamwork and, most importantly, was fun - all while focusing on our club and our goals. Members in attendance were divided into three groups. Each group was given an outline of a car on a large sheet of paper with instructions to add necessary components to the car that will successfully move it forward. The catch? Each component that was added needed to also be tied into a necessary component for club success. For example, a car needs an antennae to facilitate communication. A club also needs good communication. 
After ten minutes of "building" their cars, the groups shared their ideas with the rest of the members and we designed our master club car.
Here is what we came up with. A successful club car has
an engine - to generate new ideas, along with a transmission to help us switch gears as needed
tires - the tires of participation and membership help us get around in our community and provide community service
a happy driver - leadership to guide the club
a steering wheel - to steer the club in the right direction
brake lights - to remind us when to slow down, prioritize, or say no
a horn - to toot our club
doors with handles - to be open to new ideas and new members; to showcase a welcoming atmosphere
passengers - energetic members and new members
a trunk - to carry good memories, tools needed for service, knowledge and expertise
a hitch - to haul our cans (and raise money)
and antenna and CB radio - for good communication and for marketing our club
fuel - the time, energy and volunteerism to get all our work done
handicap parking sticker - to move us to the front of the line for polio eradication; also represents our diversity, equity and inclusion
a windshield - to help us clearly see the future, plan the future and set goals
wipers - to clean the debris and allow for clearer vision
headlights - to illuminate our goals and the road ahead
a sunroof - to allow new ideas and light shine on our club
cupholders - (let's be honest, we like our food)
seats - camaraderie among our members
personalized plates - RTY MBR
 
At the end of the day, we have all chosen to ride in the Rotary car. Like a well-oiled machine, we know everything we need to do and to have to be effective, efficient and successful. Let's make sure we provide it the proper maintenance as we go to keep this club car rolling!!