No secret handshake. No funny hat. Just people who want to make a difference. The Rotary Club of Hamilton brings together local business, professional, and community leaders who are driven to give back—both here at home and around the world. As part of Rotary International, a global network of more than 1.2 million members, we live by a simple idea: Service Above Self.
Founded in 1913, our club is Hamilton’s original Rotary club. Today, we continue that legacy by building strong connections, supporting meaningful causes, and creating real impact in our community. We meet weekly for engaging speakers, networking, and fellowship—and yes, the business lunch is back.
Beyond the meetings, our members roll up their sleeves. From supporting children and youth programs locally to contributing to international humanitarian projects, this is where action meets purpose. Curious what it’s like? Come to a meeting. Meet the people. See the impact for yourself.
Become a Member of the Rotary Club of Hamilton
Welcome! As a potential new member, you’ll get a chance to become more involved in your community and to provide aid to other parts of the world through the opportunities that the Rotary Club of Hamilton and Rotary International offer.
Long-time Rotarians agree that involvement is key to getting the most out of membership. Volunteer to serve on a committee that meets your interests, be a greeter for weekly club meetings, or to join a service project team. These activities will help you get to know your fellow club members and better understand the work of Rotary.
If you’d like to become a member of Rotary or know someone that you feel would be a great representation of our club, please feel free to complete the online application form.
No secret handshake. No funny hat. Just people who want to make a difference.
Founded in 1913, our club is Hamilton’s original Rotary club. Today, we continue that legacy by building strong connections, supporting meaningful causes, and creating real impact in our community. We meet weekly for engaging speakers, networking, and fellowship—and yes, the business lunch is back.
Beyond the meetings, our members roll up their sleeves. From supporting children and youth programs locally to contributing to international humanitarian projects, this is where action meets purpose. Curious what it’s like? Come to a meeting. Meet the people. See the impact for yourself.
Rotary Club of Hamilton Announces NEW Membership Categories!
The Rotary Club of Hamilton has several Membership Categories. Click on the categories below to see which one fits you!
Rotarian (Member)
A Rotarian is a member of Rotary International, a global service organization, and is committed to its values of service, integrity, diversity, and leadership. Rotarians in the Rotary Club of Hamilton attend Rotary @ Noon meetings, social and fundraising events, and participate in local and international service projects.
Participation: Rotarians are expected to maintain approximately 65% engagement. Attendance and engagement can include regular lunch meetings, special events, committee or project work, or serving on the Board of Directors. Make-up meetings can be done at Rotary Clubs worldwide.
Sunshine Fund Members Appeal: It is expected that every member contributes to the Sunshine Fund Members Appeal. Our goal is 100% participation. The level of support is an individual decision.
Rotary Lunch Fees: Each member pays for their lunch ticket; there is no “non-eaters” fee. If you have dietary restrictions, please let the Sgt. at Arms know so we can inform the caterer. We do not make money off lunch tickets—the fee covers the cost of the meal.
Membership Fees: Membership fees are due in full before June 15 each year. The Rotary year starts July 1. Membership dues are $350.00 per member.
Corporate Membership – Multi-Organizational
A Corporate Member of the Rotary Club of Hamilton is a type of membership that allows a company or organization to designate one person as a Rotarian and up to three additional people as Associate Members. Corporate membership is designed to encourage businesses to get involved in their local communities and support Rotary’s mission of service.
Corporate Members may participate in Rotary service projects, attend meetings and events, and contribute to the club’s charitable efforts. They may also benefit from networking opportunities with other business professionals and community leaders.
Corporate Membership is a great way for businesses to demonstrate their commitment to social responsibility and community involvement, while also engaging their employees in meaningful service activities. By partnering with Rotary, Corporate Members can make a positive impact in their local communities and beyond.
The benefits of Rotary Club of Hamilton Corporate Membership include:
Wider community engagement and recognition.
Corporate social responsibility projects
Flexible participation – nominated members may change as business demands
Leadership development
Networking – attendance at Rotary meetings, social events and project team meetings
Opportunity to visit other Rotary clubs worldwide when travelling and develop international networks of business leaders in partner countries.
Advertising & promotional opportunities in our monthly newsletter and activation opportunities at our various community events
A corporate entity or organization can become an eligible corporate member of the Rotary Club of Hamilton through a Membership application established by the club.
Designees. Once a business or organization becomes an eligible corporate member, it may appoint up to three (3) persons to be its designees (Associate Members), one of whom should member of that entity’s senior executive group; the others can be managerial individuals employed full time by the eligible corporation.
The Corporate/Business’ Rotarian Member will be recognized by Rotary International as a full member and will receive all the benefits and privileges of Rotary International. The Rotarian will also be able to hold Office on the Board and serve as Committee Chairperson.
The Corporate Membership team (Rotarian and up to 3 designees (Affiliate Members) should be fully engaged in Rotary Club of Hamilton activities and projects.
Attendance and participation may be shared by the designees including; attendance requirement of 65% for Rotary @ Noon Meetings, personal or corporate support of the annual Sunshine Fund Members Appeal Campaign and involvement on Rotary committees and involvement on service projects
Friend of Rotary
A “Friend of Rotary” allows those who share our ideals and objectives to participate in Rotary activities, without the responsibility (or the benefits) of a full membership
This is a perfect way for individuals whose schedules, or health preclude regular attendance or participation at our weekly lunch meetings. Friends of Rotary can contribute to our community by participating in Rotary fundraisers, service projects, socials and fellowship events.
Benefits to Friends of Rotary
Participation in Rotary service projects help the community where we live and/or do business. There are many opportunities for you to contribute in our local and global communities.
Friends of Rotary is not a full membership, and you do not have all the privileges and rights of Rotary membership. Friends of Rotary cannot serve or hold office on the Board of Directors, attend more than 3 Rotary @ Noon Meetings yearly or benefit from Rotary District or Rotary International Members benefits.
Rotary Imperium Legati
Honourary Civic Ambassador Membership
The Rotary Imperium Legati is a distinguished, invitation-only honorary membership tier of the Rotary Club of Hamilton. It is reserved for exceptional civic, institutional, and public service leaders whose values align with Rotary’s motto of Service Above Self and whose impact strengthens the social fabric of our community.
Definition & Purpose of Terminology
Rotary Hamilton Legati
Derived from the Latin word Legatus (plural: Legati), meaning envoy or delegate, the title Legati reflects a circle of distinguished leaders who serve as ceremonial ambassadors aligned with Rotary’s mission. It evokes heritage, dignity, and a shared sense of civic purpose.
Imperium Legate
Each individual appointed to the Legati holds the ceremonial title of Rotary Hamilton Imperium Legate. The term Imperium signifies honour, leadership, and authority in service—signalling the appointee’s role as a visible and respected civic representative of the Rotary Club of Hamilton.
This modernized form of honorary membership recognizes individuals as Rotary Hamilton Imperium Legates—ceremonial ambassadors and champions of Rotary ideals who visibly support our mission through presence, influence, and partnership.
How to Become an Imperium Legate:
- By Invitation Only: Appointments are made by the Rotary Club of Hamilton Board of Directors.
- Criteria Include:
- Proven leadership in civic or charitable institutions
- Alignment with Rotary’s values and community impact
- Roles such as Mayor, Police/Fire Chief, Executive Directors, or recognized changemakers
What It Means to Be an Imperium Legate:
While not a dues-paying or voting member, an Imperium Legate receives:
- Public Recognition during a formal induction ceremony
- Visibility on our website, newsletters, and social platforms
- Exclusive Invitations to Rotary @ Noon speakers, community celebrations, and major service events
- Opportunities to Collaborate with Rotary on initiatives aligned with their organization’s mission
- Ceremonial Participation in key Rotary moments such as awards presentations, community celebrations, and special projects
Come visit one of our meetings, attend a fundraiser or volunteer to help with one of our service projects. What better way to experience Rotary than being part of it! No secret handshake, no hat, and no secret code.
The Original Rotary Club of Hamilton
In our Local and International Community……
Our Local Community
- Literacy, Nutrition & After School Programs in the Wever Community Hub
- Support “Out of the Cold Project”
- Summer Camp – Rotary Summer Literacy
- Adopt-a-Park program at Jackie Washington Rotary Park & TB McQueston
- Junior Achievement
- A Book for Every Child
Our International Community
- Polio Eradication – Polio Plus Campaign
- Liberian Learning Centre
- Shelterbox – Disaster Relief
- Ukrainian Crisis Support
- Rotary World Peace Fellowships
“The extraordinary dedication of Rotary members has played a critical role in bringing polio to the brink of eradication,” says Bill Gates, co-chair of the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation. “Eradicating polio will be one of the most significant public health accomplishments in history, and we are committed to helping reach that goal.” -Bill Gates Founder Microsoft
The Rotary Club of Hamilton’s first meeting was held in the Private Dining Room at Fong Young’s Cafe 26 King William Street Hamilton on Thursday June 26th, 1913 at 1.10 p.m. in the afternoon. The Hamilton Club became the 3rd Rotary Club in Canada and the 82nd Club chartered by Rotary International. The Rotary Club of Hamilton met for a number of years at the prestigious Art Gallery of Hamilton. In the 2019-20 Rotary year the Rotary Club of Hamilton Mountain merged with the Rotary Club of Hamilton.
As Hamilton’s oldest and largest club our vision is to “Engaging the Hamilton community to enable children and youth, locally and internationally, to reach their full potential”
Take the opportunity to Network, Make Friends, Serve our Community and have Fun!
Becoming a Rotarian connects you with a diverse group of professionals who share your drive to give back. Through our regular meetings and events you’ll:
- help support literacy, children & youth, and poverty reduction causes
- Connect with other leaders who are changing the world
- Expand your leadership and professional skills
- Catch up with good friends and meet new ones
Rotary Club of Hamilton Meetings:
We traditionally meet every Thursday at Noon with the exception of the first Thursday of each month. Our Rotary @ Noon meetings are lunch meetings and offer a hybrid and virtual meeting opportunities. We do have special summer meetings schedule and do meet off-site. Check our calendar for meeting even
We traditionally meet every Thursday at Noon with the exception of the first Thursday of each month. Our Rotary @ Noon meetings are lunch meetings and offer a hybrid and virtual meeting opportunities. We do have special summer meetings schedule and do meet off-site. Check our calendar for meeting events and locations. CLICK HERE to fill in an application
Our new meeting location is
McMaster Innovation Park
175 Longwood Rd S,
Hamilton, ON L8P 0A1
Please join us for lunch, a great speaker and networking!
Make a difference in our community!