Who We Are

Rotaractors make up a special kind of young professionals. Just like their counterparts in Rotary International, their primary focus is “Service Above Self,” whether that service benefits those close to home or around the world.

Likewise, Rotaractors come from all walks of life and various backgrounds. Their diversity is a reflection of the diversity found in the community today. They exploit that diversity to learn more about themselves, while hopefully the world learns more about them and their works.

In Jacksonville, Rotaractors range in age from 22 to 32. Membership prospects are evaluated based on their gifts and contributions to the group, as well as their enthusiasm and zeal for helping others.

Find out more on how to become a member by visiting our Join page.

Our Vision Statement

Jacksonville’s finest young professionals striving to enhance our community through the common bonds of professional development, service and friendship.

History of Rotaract

Rotaract was founded on March 13, 1968 by Rotary International in Charlotte, N.C. to serve as a worldwide organization of young professionals who believed they could make a difference in the lives of people around them. Through community and international service projects, Rotaractors develop leadership and professional skills while establishing a network of friends. Rotaract is friendship in action!

In 2000 there were 7,000 Rotaract Clubs in 146 countries with an estimated membership of 155,000.

The meaning behind the wagon wheel design of the club emblem comes from Rotary’s beginning in 1905, when members “rotated” their meeting among the members’ places of business. Rotary is the largest service organization in the world.

History of Rotaract Club of Florida’s First Coast

The Rotaract Club of Florida’s First Coast was founded in April 1990 by a group of young professionals in Jacksonville. The club was sponsored by the Rotary Club of South Jacksonville, which was founded in January 1955. From 1993 to 1994 the Rotaract Club was voted “Best Club in the United States, Canada and the Caribbean.” However, many of these young professionals advanced in their careers and joined Rotary, leading to the demise of the club.

In July 1998, the local Rotaract Club was re-chartered due to the urging of many South Jax Rotarians who had previously been Rotaractors. Members joining were ages 22 to 32, active in the community, interested in advancing their careers and personal development and interested in current events locally and nationally.

Currently the club has an elected board of directors, a variety of committees, two annual large community service events and a diverse membership.