By Nerrissa J. Persaud, Rotary Club of Montego Bay, Jamaica —
I recently received my first Paul Harris Fellow recognition pin and certificate in the mail. I held it in my hands, expecting to feel a sense of pride, maybe even excitement. After all, this recognition stands as a symbol of giving – of contributing to a foundation that has changed lives across the globe.
Yet, as I looked at it, a deeper realization settled in.
This recognition, while significant, is not about the individual – it is about the impact. It is a reflection of what we choose to support, the lives we help change, and the future we help build. Too often, we shift our focus to the recognition itself – but it’s important to remember that it is just that – recognition of supporting something bigger.
The Rotary Foundation: Why it matters
Paul Harris founded Rotary in 1905 on a simple but profound principle: bringing people together in service to create lasting change. That vision evolved into one of the most impactful humanitarian organizations in the world, leading efforts in polio eradication, clean water initiatives, education, disaster relief, and healthcare access.
The Rotary Foundation exists not to create prestige but to fund solutions to real-world problems. The Paul Harris Fellow recognition is not a prize; rather, it is a symbol of commitment – a way to honor those who contribute to ensuring the Foundation’s work continues for generations.
Recognition matters. It inspires and demonstrates appreciation. It acknowledges recipients and shows that they are valued and that their contributions and service matters. But let’s remember not to let it overshadow the mission itself.
When recognition becomes the goal
In my Rotary journey, I have seen conversations that revolve around who is more deserving of recognition, rather than how we can strengthen the Foundation to expand our impact. Let’s work together to foster a culture where we give because we believe in the mission. And let’s not let recognition become a status marker, and keep in mind that it’s a reflection of service.
We must ask ourselves:
Are we giving because we believe in the work of The Rotary Foundation, or because we seek acknowledgment?
Are we investing in sustainable impact, or are we focusing too much on the recognition process?
Are we strengthening The Foundation’s ability to serve, or are we measuring our success in terms of pins and certificates?
Recognition celebrates giving but does not define it.
A call to strengthen both the mission and the recognition
The Paul Harris Fellow recognition is a prestigious honor, but it’s true power lies in what it represents – the ability to transform lives through service and generosity. Let us preserve its meaning, and keep the following in mind:
Celebrate recognition, but prioritize impact. Recognizing those who give is important, but it should never take precedence over the act of giving itself.
Encourage a culture of philanthropy over prestige. Let us inspire Rotarians to give because they believe in the cause, not because they seek an award.
Refocus on The Rotary Foundation’s mission. Every conversation about recognition should also be a conversation about growing the Foundation and ensuring its future strength.
The best way to honor the legacy of Paul Harris is to ensure that more people understand the power of giving and feel compelled to be part of something bigger than themselves.
Conclusion: Giving beyond the pin
As I place my Paul Harris Fellow pin among my belongings, I remind myself: this is not an endpoint. It is a symbol of a journey – a commitment to service that continues long after the moment of recognition fades.
The true legacy of Paul Harris is not found in the number of pins awarded, but in the lives changed, the communities transformed, and the future built through the Rotary Foundation’s work.
Give – not because recognition is the goal, but because impact is the purpose. Give – not just to be honored, but to ensure that the work of The Foundation grows stronger for generations to come.
That is the true spirit of Paul Harris. That is the true power of The Rotary Foundation. And that is what we must strive to uphold.
Nerissa J. Persaud is the 2024-25 president of the Rotary Club of Montego Bay, Jamaica, in District 7020
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