Episode 272: We have endless ways to stay entertained without leaving home. But when it comes to finding friendship, purpose and a sense of belonging, could organizations founded more than a century ago offer something we’re missing?

In this episode of “The Ethical Life,” hosts Richard Kyte and Scott Rada explore whether service clubs such as Rotary, Kiwanis and Lions deserve renewed attention as communities struggle with loneliness and disconnection.

Drawing on research for his recent TEDx talk and more than two decades as a Rotary member, Kyte explains how these organizations grew out of a familiar problem: People were moving to unfamiliar cities and needed friends. Community service became a way to deepen those relationships while accomplishing something worthwhile.

Today, many of those clubs face declining membership, even as the need for connection remains strong. Rada, who has never seriously considered joining one himself, asks why organizations offering friendship and meaningful work can seem like such a tough sell.

Part of the discussion centers on what happens when entertainment becomes effortless. Phones, streaming services and other distractions can fill our evenings without requiring us to interact with anyone. Yet avoiding boredom doesn’t necessarily mean avoiding loneliness. And the longer we withdraw, the harder reaching out can feel.

Kyte shares how joining Rotary helped him become more comfortable with social interaction, despite being introverted. Returning to the same group offers a chance to build familiarity gradually, without having to introduce yourself to a roomful of strangers every time.

The hosts also explore why working alongside someone can create bonds that casual conversation alone might never produce. Collecting donated food on a cold evening might sound less appealing than staying home, but it can leave volunteers with friendships and memories that make life feel richer.

There’s a challenge here for service clubs, too. Attracting new members requires meaningful projects, welcoming relationships and meeting arrangements that fit people’s schedules and budgets. Kyte describes clubs finding success by adapting to their communities rather than relying on tradition alone.

Throughout the conversation, a question emerges: Are we avoiding commitments that could give us exactly what we want? Being asked to contribute takes time and effort, but being useful can also help us feel that we belong.