The Resolution

Whereas, it is a well-known fact that service clubs nationwide are suffering from declining memberships and stiffer competition for charitable donations, and

Whereas, in keeping with sound and proven advertising principles, the best known names in corporate America have achieved that status by consistent and effective branding of their respective names, and

Whereas, the key to effective branding is the consistent use of specific colors, designs, and logos, to perpetrate instant name recognition worldwide, and

Whereas, Sertoma, as an organization, suffers from extremely poor name recognition, primarily due to poor and inconsistent marketing of the Sertoma name and mission;

Now therefore, be it resolved that the Southeastern/Caribbean Region, does hereby urge Sertoma, Inc., to promote and otherwise encourage all Sertomans and Sertoma clubs, District, and Regions to henceforth begin using the official Sertoma colors of Reflex Blue and Process Yellow for all future shirts, vests, hats, flags, banners,  etc., in order to create a uniform and instantly recognizable image worldwide. Just as the colors and logos of McDonald’s, Coca Cola, the American Red Cross, and many other organizations are known around the world, so too, will be Sertoma, making it easier for us to attract new members and to raise money for our charities.

Be it further resolved, that Sertoma, Inc. shall dictate the official colors schemes of Reflex Blue backgrounds, and Process Yellow lettering, and the official Sertoma logo will also be in the same yellow. Also, since Sertoma, Inc’s. primary business is supporting speech and health, and not in selling merchandise; Sertoma members, clubs, Districts, and Regions shall retain their ability to purchase desired Sertoma- branded merchandise from wherever they choose,  provided, that they use only the designated colors and logo to support a consistent branding effort. The only exception shall be the freedom to add a particular club name and/or slogan, provided it utilize the approved colors.

Be it further resolved, that copies of this resolution be transmitted to Sertoma, Inc. for adoption.

Report of the Resolutions Committee
This resolution was originally presented at the Southeastern Caribbean Region at the 2009 Region meeting.  In summary:

It is intent of this resolution to improve the brand recognition of Sertoma by seeking consistent use of the Sertoma logo and trademarks. 

To quote:  “Be it resolved that the members of the Southeastern/Caribbean Region urge Sertoma, Inc. to promote and otherwise encourage all Sertomans and Sertoma clubs to use the official Sertoma colors of Reflex Blue and Process Yellow for all future shirts, vest, hats, flags, banners, etc., in order to create a uniform and instantly recognizable image. 

And that

“Sertoma, Inc. shall dictate the official color schemes of Reflex Blue backgrounds and process yellow lettering, and the official Sertoma logo will also be in the same yellow.”

The Resolutions Committee agrees that a consistent use of the logos and trademarks is critical to the maintaining of a recognized brand for Sertoma. The resolution is however, advisory in that
• Sertoma already has policy and expectation on consistent use of the logo and trademarks, and color, and
• There is a conflict with current Policy Article VI, A, 2. that provides Sertoma the authority to develop designs to be used in conjunction with, or as individual elements for promotional, merchandise or publicity needs,
The resolution is advisory