Rotary knowledge, information and communication techniques are disseminated from RI headquarters through to the Club Rotarian by a ‘cascade’ system known as Assemblies. In practice, the Assemblies are a mixture of plenary sessions and discussion groups or workshop sessions. The participants for each level of ‘cascade’ is clear to enable the process to be as effective as possible.

Each Rotary year there is a change in the Rotarian leadership, and accompanying this will be change of emphasis. This will include a new ‘theme’ which will convey the over-riding principle of the RI President and there will be activities and projects for Rotarians so that the quality of life of others is improved. The degree of change and continuity from one year to another will be different each year.

The presenters for each level of Assembly are selected for their ability to communicate, inspire and motivate. Rotarians are encouraged to attend an Assembly so that they can become better informed and motivated.

The levels of Assembly are:

• RI Assembly: participants are the incoming district governors from the 530 districts of RI. The Assembly usually lasts for 6 days and is held in the USA during January/February.

• District Assembly: each district holds an Assembly and this is for all incoming committee chairmen and specialist officers. The Assemblies range in duration from a few hours to a full day and usually take place at a suitable venue in the district during May.

• Club Assembly: each Club holds an Assembly during May/June to which all members are expected to attend as this is one of the most important meetings of the year. The incoming Club President presides and all the committee chairmen and specialist officers present their programmes of activity for the ensuing year to the Club membership. This is debated and, if accepted, the programmes become the policy for the Club for the year with every member committed to the entire programme. Those presenting their programme will have obtained their information from the district Assembly.

Clubs can hold more than one assembly during the year, this encourages member support and helps to keep members informed.