THE PROBUS STORY
PROBUS Clubs spring from two main roots: the “Campus Club” founded by the Rotary Club of Welwyn Garden City and the “PROBUS” Club founded by the Rotary Club of Caterham in England in 1965 & 1966 respectively.

The word PROBUS is a composite of the words PROfessional and BUSiness, but membership is not restricted to these two groups. It welcomes also those who have had some measure of responsibility in any field of endeavour.

PROBUS is an association of retired and semi-retired individuals who join together in autonomous Clubs throughout the world.

The basic purpose of a PROBUS Club is to provide regular gatherings of those who in retirement , appreciate and value opportunities to meet others in similar circumstances and of a similar level of interest.

PROBUS Clubs have spread worldwide and continue to be established at a rapidly increasing rate. As former professionals, businessmen and executives are invited to join, they recognize the value of participation and observe the enthusiasm of existing members and the way PROBUS is enriching their lives.

Please refer to the following for the latest information on PROBUS Canada and PROBUS Global.

Key FEATURES OF PROBUS

  • The Clubs are non-political and non-sectarian.
  • They are non-profit making and non-fund-raising.
  • All Clubs are sponsored by Rotary or by other established PROBUS Clubs. On formation they are autonomous, and independent of Rotary or any other organization and independent of each other. There is no central governing body but PROBUS Canada maintains contact and an understandable continuing interest in their progress.
  • Past or present membership in any service club is not a requirement for potential members of PROBUS.
  • There is no compulsion to attend any number of meetings.
  • There is no restriction on the number of members from any vocation.
  • PROBUS members may be active in any other organization or club.
  • Membership is a low annual fee, plus a nominal Initiation fee. Lapel pins and name badges for meetings and functions are supplied by the Club.
  • Members’ partners and guests are invited to participate in most visits and in special functions.
  • Dress is informal.
WHO AM I
When you volunteer to present a “Who Am I” piece at a PROBUS meeting,  it helps to remember:

WHY?
Because your fellow members will be able to better welcome you into the fold. Who knows? Someone else may be a retired thingamajig craftsman who is looking for a fellow with whom to share stories.

WHAT? 
Just a brief outline of how you made it this far.
  • Where you came from
  • Profession
  • Family
  • Retirement activities
  • Interspersed with happy anecdotes

HOW? 
A script is suggested as we plan for 5 – 8 minutes max.

CONSENT TO SHARE
You will be asked to consent to record and share your presentation on the club website. Feel free to say "No" if you're not comfortable with it.