**Rotary International** is a global service organization with a network of member clubs dedicated to humanitarian service, peacebuilding, and community development. Established on February 23, 1905, by attorney Paul P. Harris in Chicago, it has grown into one of the world’s largest nonprofit membership organizations, uniting professionals and community leaders across continents[4][3].

### History  
Founded as the first Rotary Club, the organization expanded internationally by 1921 and adopted its motto "Service Above Self." Its structure emphasizes grassroots volunteering through local clubs, which collaborate on projects addressing critical global challenges[4][3].

### Organizational Structure  
Rotary International operates through over 46,000 autonomous clubs worldwide, governed by a central board and supported by its charitable arm, The Rotary Foundation. Membership exceeds 1.4 million individuals ("Rotarians"), including youth programs like Interact and Rotaract, contributing to a total volunteer base of approximately 1.9 million[4][2][5].

### Mission and Focus Areas  
Rotary’s mission centers on promoting peace, fighting disease, providing clean water, supporting maternal and child health, advancing education, fostering economic development, and protecting the environment[3][4]. The Rotary Foundation, established in 1917, has allocated over $4 billion to sustainable projects, including polio eradication through its partnership with the Global Polio Eradication Initiative[5][1].

### Local Impact  
Individual Rotary clubs, such as those serving local communities, implement projects ranging from literacy initiatives to infrastructure development. While specific activities vary by location, all align with Rotary’s seven focus areas and emphasize long-term, community-driven solutions[5][3].

### Governance  
Rotary International is nonpolitical and nonsectarian, with membership open to leaders across professions. Its governance includes a president, board of directors, and trustee committee for The Rotary Foundation. The organization publishes *Rotary Magazine* and maintains headquarters in Evanston, Illinois[4][3].