The world population is growing, and so are its challenges. Therefore, Rotary must grow, too.

That was just one of the messages from RI President Wilf Wilkinson at the Rotary Presidential Membership Conference that took place on July 27-28 in South Bend, Indiana.

Check out my session recaps, my commentary - and very soon, an audio interview with RI President Wilkinson.

This was an excellent conference, folks. Membership growth and retention can seem like a repetitive message at times. The reality is we need more, strong, contributing, active members to increase our impact and to ensure a vibrant Rotary.

It is not someone else's job, however. RI President Wilkinson and other RI leaders at the conference challenged each Rotarian to recruit one new Rotarian each year. Be bold. Ask.

I say that if you do not feel confident in the club you are part of, be a leader and make it strong. Then, bring in more members. If you don't think you know anyone, ask yourself whether you are being comfort-centered or results-centered. We all want to be comfortable most of the time. Now is not one of those times.

For more membership ideas from the conference, go to www.innovaterotary.com