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PROBUS is an association of
retired and semi-retired persons who join together in autonomous Clubs
throughout the world to stimulate thought, interest and participation in
activities at a time of life when horizons are narrowing and opportunities to
make new friends is limited.
The word PROBUS is an
abbreviation of the words PROfessional and BUSiness, but membership is not
restricted to these two groups. It embraces also former executives of Government
and other organizations and, in fact, any person who has had a measure
responsibility in any field of endeavour. The basic purpose of a Probus Club is
to provide regular gatherings of persons who, in retirement, appreciate and
value opportunities to meet others in similar circumstances and who enjoy a
similar levels of interest.
The emphases in the
clubs:
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is to be simple in
structure and free from the constraints and obligations of service clubs.
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to involve members in
minimal cost.
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is primarily directed
towards providing fellowship and the opportunity for development of
acquaintance.
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is to seek members who
are compatible with one another.
Probus activities:
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The club meets once or
twice each month, either from 10h00 to 12h00 with refreshments provided,
12h30 for 13h00 for a luncheon meeting usually lasting until about 14h30 or
a late afternoon meeting. A guest speaker is normally invited to address the
meeting.
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Visits, (between
meetings), to places and organizations of particular interest to members,
are organized and social, theatre or sports activities are arranged.
Extended holidays and overseas tours have been organized by some clubs.
Arising out of their
membership and activities there is a self generating goodwill and a sense of
belonging. The fellowship and cordiality evident within the clubs ensures that
Probus will have a highly successful future.
Some important features:
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The Clubs are
non-political and non-racial.
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There are Men’s, Ladies
and Mixed Clubs
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They are non-profit
making and non-fund raising
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All clubs are sponsored
by Rotary, but on formation are autonomous, independent of Rotary and
independent of each other.
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Past membership of
Rotary is not a requirement for potential members of Probus. In fact most
Probians have not been Rotarians.
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There is no restriction
on the number of members from any one vocation.
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Probus members may be
active members of any other club or organization.
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Membership fees usually
don’t exceed R50-00 per year A meeting levy is charged to cover the hire of
the venue, lunch or beverages.
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Spouses and guests are
invited to participate in most outings and in special functions.
The history of Probus
The 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
and 1966 respectively.
Since then Probus has spread
worldwide and clubs continue to be established at a rapidly increasing rate.
In the Southern African
sub-region, the first Probus Club was established in 1977 in Durban and Probus
has since spread to many other regions of South Africa. The Western Cape
Association , (Cape Town, West Coast and Garden Route), has 45 accredited clubs
catering to the fellowship needs of more than 2000 Probians.
The organization.
To preserve the integrity
and reputation of these autonomous clubs, they adhere to a constitution and
suggested bylaws. This has proved to be a very successful basis for serving the
needs of retired people in many countries in which the Probus movement is now
flourishing.
In Southern Africa the
Probus Council and Probus Regional Associations, encourage, advise and maintain
a community spirit between clubs, keep an up-to-date directory of Probus Clubs,
and through the Probus Shop, distribute lapel badges and other regalia, as may
be found necessary.
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