Service above self: Rotary’s mission to support immigrants and newcomers

A Q&A with Fergal McCarthy, Peace Programs Manager of Rotary International

All over the world, Rotary clubs reflect the heart of their communities. Rotary International is a global network of leaders who give back through volunteerism. From supporting causes like Uniting for Ukraine to volunteering as Citizen Guides, Rotary members nationwide provide mentorship and service to support newcomers, aspiring Americans, and the communities they call home. We sat down with Fergal McCarthy, Peace Programs Manager at Rotary International, to discuss the latest collaboration between Rotary International and Welcome.US through the Citizen Guide program.

Rotary International is a household name throughout most of the world. But if you had to describe the organization and the work that you do in a couple of sentences, what would you say?

Rotary is a global network of more than 1.4 million people who are committed to making their communities and the world a better place through service. What makes Rotary special for me is that it brings together people from all walks of life who share a genuine desire to help others, build connections, and create lasting positive change.

Rotary International’s core motto is “service above self.” How does supporting immigrants and newcomers align with Rotary’s broader commitment to international service and community action?

Supporting newcomers is a natural expression of Rotary's commitment to service. Rotary members work to build stronger, more welcoming communities, fostering understanding across cultures and creating opportunities for people to thrive. Helping newcomers build connections and access resources reflects Rotary's core values of compassion, inclusion, and community engagement.

Rotary chapters across the country have rallied around programs like Uniting for Ukraine, and Welcome.US has long collaborated with Rotary International to support newcomers in their local communities. What opportunities has this collaboration created for Rotary members and newcomers in our communities, and what outcomes have you seen as a result?

The collaboration with Welcome.US has created meaningful opportunities for Rotary members to directly support newcomers through mentorship, sponsorship, and community engagement. By combining Welcome.US’s expertise with Rotary’s network of volunteers, we’ve helped create stronger connections, build creator confidence, and a deeper sense of belonging for newcomers.

Both Doug Lee and Heather Stoa are Rotary Members who were sponsors and are now part of Welcome.US’s Citizen Guide program. A common thing you hear from Rotary members is that their Rotary club reflects the community itself.

You’ve got key individuals who are often members of their local Rotary Club. That could be the local school principal or bank manager—or folks with their own businesses who are looking for staff. These clubs are just a perfect environment to provide the support that newcomers need to get involved in their community.

Rotary International is a coalition partner for the Welcome.US Citizen Guide program. What inspired Rotary to step up as a founding partner in this initiative, and what does this coalition aim to achieve together?

The Citizen Guide program aligns closely with Rotary’s commitment to service and mentorship. We saw an opportunity to mobilize our members in a practical, accessible way to help permanent residents prepare for citizenship. Together, I think this collaboration is expanding access to support and strengthening communities. It’s helping more people achieve an important milestone in their journey.

We offer several leadership programs our members can engage in. The Citizen Guide program provides one-on-one encouragement and practical support, and it’s a great example of how Rotary continues to adapt service opportunities to meet today’s community needs.

Fergal, you personally are doing tremendous work spreading the word about the Citizen Guide program on behalf of Welcome.US. Recently, you've traveled and shared more about the program in places like New Orleans, Phoenix, and Cancun. We are so grateful for your dedication! Why is sharing the program in this way important to you?

I’m actually a green card holder myself, and I’ve just reached the five-year mark, and I am preparing to apply for citizenship. That’s pure coincidence, and it’s funny how kismet the timing is with this program.

I’m really inspired by how eager Rotary members are to help when they learn about the opportunity. The Citizen Guide program gives people a simple, meaningful way to make a direct difference in someone’s life. Every conversation or presentation helps connect more volunteers with newcomers who can benefit.

When I’m talking to people at these conferences, the one underlying comment from them is always, “It’s such important work.” So many Rotary members have either worked in the immigrant and refugee space or have engaged with it in some way. So not only are they passionate about it, they’re already involved.

How can Welcomers who are not Rotary members support Rotary International’s mission and work?

Anyone or any organization that shares a commitment to service can and should connect with their local Rotary club, volunteer on community projects, or partner with Rotary members to support newcomers and other humanitarian initiatives.

Rotary has always thrived on collaboration, and we’ve always welcomed opportunities to work alongside people who also want to strengthen their communities and make them more peaceful and resilient.

Rotary International is a coalition partner of the Welcome.US Citizen Guide program.