When asked what they would change most about Rotary meetings, most members reply, "Fewer presentations from nonprofits!" What to do?
Accept the fact that some nonprofit presentations are valuable - especially if the presentation comes from an organization you support. So if you do indeed ask your beneficiaries to speak at your club, give them some guidance on what to do to make sure their presentation is well-received. 
At the same time, many nonprofits simply want to tap into what they see as a vast reservoir of Rotary energy and funding. They may not be aware that your budgets are set, that you just asked your members to step up and become Paul Harris Society members and that dues statements just went out this week.
So what guidance can you give to nonprofits?
- Gratitude: If your club has supported the organization in the past, make sure that your speaker expresses gratitude for you club's support. What was possible because your club donated $500?
- Know: What should your members know about the organization, its activities or its mission? Tell them to spend very little time on background information and get to the meat of what makes their mission special.
- Feel: What is the impact of their organization? Emphasize stories. Ask them to explore the issues they address from a new angle so that members understand the importance of what this program or organization is about.
- Do: Emphasize that asking for more money during their speech is not appropriate and will in fact backfire. Rotarians are a bit weary of being asked to give all the time. Also, a well-run Rotary club should make its grants based on its mission and vision - as well as its budget. Requests should come through an approved process. Let your speakers know that up-front. So if the purpose of the presentation is to ask for money, suggest they retool their message.
So what can you do if a nonprofit organizaton that you have not supported asks to speak to your club?
- Give them a copy of your speaker guide. You should clearly state what you are lookng for from speakers, how much time they get on the program, etc. If you don't have one, make one!
- Tell them that your weekly program must offer value to the members. Ask them what value they will offer your members as a result of their appearance before the club.
- Advise them that funding requests should not come from the podium, but rather, through a specific process for making grant requests. If you don't have one, get your board together and create one!
- Find out if there are "done in a day" service opportunities for your club members. While your budget may be committed, you may be able to create a service and social event for your members that does not require a financial or onoing commitment. Again, don't make the ask from the podium, but instead engage the club or community service chair to explore possibitilies. Their presentation can then increase member participation in a scheduled event.
- Ask them to submit an outline of their presentation before you commit to a program date. This way, you can decide whether the presentation has real value, or if it is simply another request for support.
While you are at it, consider turning the table. When is the last time someone complained that they are tired of Rotary speakers at their meeting or event? We have great stories to tell. Let's get out there and share them! Find opportunities to talk about what a difference community and international service can have for your community and beyond.
