WHO WE ARE

WHO WE ARE

 

About Us

Founded on October 1, 1918, the Rotary Club of Baton Rouge stands as a beacon of community service and leadership. As one of the largest clubs among Rotary International’s global network of over 30,000 clubs, we are driven by the motto “Service Above Self.” We are unique not only in our size but also in our operations, with a dedicated office and staff. Our members include hundreds of Baton Rouge’s most influential leaders and professionals from various industries, all committed to making a meaningful impact in our community and beyond.

A Hub for Community and Connection

Along with fostering service throughout the community, the Rotary Club of Baton Rouge is a vibrant hub for professional engagement and fellowship. We meet weekly on Wednesdays at Drusilla Place Catering, where members enjoy fellowship, networking opportunities and engaging presentations from distinguished speakers across various fields. These meetings are not just a time for learning but also a chance to forge lasting friendships and professional connections.
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The Rotary 4-Way Test

Along with Rotarians all over the world, we pattern every aspect of their lives around the simple principles of the Rotary 4-Way Test:

Is it the TRUTH

Is it FAIR to all concerned?

Will it build GOODWILL and BETTER FRIENDSHIPS?

Will it be BENEFICIAL to all concerned?

HISTORY

 

A Legacy of Leadership & Service

Our club’s history is woven into the fabric of Baton Rouge and has played an instrumental role in shaping the city over the past 100 years. Our active participation is organized through 35 dynamic committees and five avenues of service, which drive our numerous initiatives and community projects.

  • 1918

    Rotary Club of Baton Rouge is chartered with Phil Connell as the first President
  • 1970

    Membership exceeds 300 for the first time
  • 1981

    Membership exceeds 400 for the first time
  • 1984

    Rotary Club of Baton Rouge Foundation established
  • 2002

    Rotary Club of Baton Rouge opens its new Office Building on Fenway Dr.
  • 2004

    Rotary Club of Baton Rouge becomes the 7th largest Club in the World with 514 members
  • 2018

    Rotary Club of Baton Rouge Celebrates 100 years of serving Baton Rouge
SERVICE PROJECTS

 

Avenues of Service

Through our five avenues of service and seven areas of focus, we strive to enhance the vitality and resilience of our local community and beyond. From educational programs to international service projects, our efforts are designed to address critical needs and promote a thriving society. The charitable arm of the club, the Rotary Club of Baton Rouge Foundation, has been instrumental in funding and supporting a wide array of projects that enhance our community’s vitality and resilience.

Seven Areas of Focus

By focusing on these critical areas, the Rotary Club of Baton Rouge strives to create a better world where communities thrive and every individual has the opportunity for a healthy, productive life.

What It Means to Be a Member

Our membership reflects a rich tapestry of Baton Rouge’s professional landscape, welcoming individuals from various sectors who are united in their commitment to service. In our club, all members are peers, addressing each other by first names in a spirit of equality and camaraderie. Our ideal members are those eager to make a tangible impact and dedicated to community improvement and personal growth.