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If you have a hobby or special interest, there's a good chance there are other Rotarians that do too. Rotary was founded on fellowship, a concept that has been expanded internationally through the Rotary Fellowships. These groups consist of members who share a common interest in recreational activities, sports, hobbies, or professions. These groups help expand skills, foster vocational development and enhance the Rotary experience by exploring interests while developing connections around the world. The nearly one hundred Rotary Fellowships encompass a variety of vocations and avocations, ranging from sports and hobbies to professional interests — all of which serve as a way to extend international fellowship, friendship, and service. In addition to offering members an opportunity to share their passion for a particular interest with like-minded Rotarians, many individual fellowship groups enable members to use their hobbies or skills to serve others. Rotary Fellowships began informally in 1928 when Rotarians with a shared interest in Esperanto joined together. In 1947, a group of Rotarian boating enthusiasts began flying the Rotary flag from their crafts, calling themselves the International Yachting Fellowship of Rotarians; this fellowship now boasts the longest continuous existence. The scope of Rotary Fellowships has changed much over the years, but today their common purpose is still to unite Rotarians in friendship and provide venues for enjoying their favorite recreational or professional activities. Membership is open to Rotarians and, in some fellowships, to spouses and Rotaractors as well. If your recreational or vocational interest isn’t represented by Rotary’s current Fellowships:
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