A few Rotarians, when learning about this new area of Rotary Service have said to themselves: "Wow, we have never done anything like this before. Is it right for Rotary? Is it right for Humanity?"

   For nearly 100 years Rotary's humanitarian service work has addressed the symptoms of population pressures, but not the major underlying cause.

   We have missed that overpopulation is the major underlying cause of environmental degradation, depletion of our resources, and human poverty.

   The direction of our organization is important. What is the organization known for? By adding Population & Development as an additional area of program emphasis, we are not changing the basic focus of Rotary. We are improving it.

   The Four Avenues of Service are the foundation of our many service areas. But Rotarians can endorse and have worked in many areas of special emphasis. PolioPlus is the best example.

   Surveys from numerous Club presentations in developed countries indicate that at least 80-85% of Rotarians support this effort, about 10% are neutral and unsure, and a small percent are opposed for various reasons. With more publicity and backing from Rotary leadership, the importance of this area of service will become apparent.

   Most developing countries have adopted an official governmental policy to stabilize population. Most developed countries do not have such a policy.

   As the largest, international humanitarian service organization in the world, Rotary International is in a unique position to influence public opinion, government and industry leaders worldwide. We will encourage change in public policy worldwide to face this most critical underlying challenge.

   By facing this issue in a manner that is considerate and respectful, we further enhance our public relations image worldwide and will attract even more members because of our longer range vision.

   Our Example will help create greater awareness of over population, unsustainable development and their impact.

   Our Action will implement & help focus attention on effective solutions.

   How many new members will we attract because of our clear vision and our willingness to act?