 The
International Fellowship of Rotarian
Musicians began in 1972 to "promote and
encourage the use and appreciation of music
in Rotary clubs by Rotarians in our society
and, thereby, to encourage
world-understanding." It was first
registered in New Mexico as a not-for-profit
corporation in 1985.Over the last 30
years, officers and members of the
fellowship have taken a leading role in
inspiring the cultural and educational use
of music in Rotary, including group singing,
musical entertainment, and the fostering of
music projects.
IFRM has published and arranged the
annual RI Presidents themes song; furnished
musical leadership and performances at
events ranging from local to international
levels, and manned a booth at12 of the last
International Conventions. For instance,
entertainment is provided at the booth,
songbooks and tapes distributed and new
members recruited.
Foundation Trust Fund
The Fund was founded in
1977 with seed money provided by founder Jim
Whited and supplemented through the sale of
sing-along tapes and individual donations.
It was originally conceived as a charitable
trust for the purpose of perpetuating IFRM
by paying music publishing and distribution
expenses, the newsletter and other
administrative costs.
The By-laws state that the interest from
the trust can only be used for publishing
and mailing the newsletter. (At this time,
the Operating Fund covers other office
expenses, such as phone, supplies, equipment
and equipment upkeep.)
The budget has grown solely through
voluntary contributions of its members. The
current budget (2004) of more than $30,000
is maintained by the IFRM Treasurer. |
