Rotary International

Rotary International is a global network of service clubs with a mission to provide service to others, promote integrity, and advance world understanding, goodwill, and peace through the fellowship of business, professional, and community leaders. It is one of the largest service organizations in the world, with roots dating back to its founding on February 23, 1905, by Paul P. Harris.

Mission and Activities

Rotary International concentrates on seven key areas: promoting peace, improving health through disease prevention and treatment, improving the health of mothers and children, water and sanitation, education, economic development, and supporting the environment. The organization is non-political and non-religious, with membership based on various social factors.

Structure

Rotary International is structured at club, district, and international levels. The basic unit of Rotary activity is the Rotary Club, with over 46,000 clubs worldwide. These clubs are chartered by Rotary International and are grouped into 529 districts, which are further organized into 34 zones. Each club determines its own membership and conducts various service projects locally and internationally.

The Rotary Foundation

The Rotary Foundation, established in 1917, supports Rotary International's mission by funding humanitarian, educational, and cultural exchanges. It is a non-profit corporation that relies entirely on voluntary donations. The Foundation has a range of programs, including disaster recovery grants, health and hunger projects, scholarships, and peace fellowships.

Community Impact

Rotary International and its members have been involved in numerous impactful projects worldwide. For example, Rotary's polio eradication efforts have made significant strides globally, and its water and sanitation projects have improved health outcomes in many communities. Through The Rotary Foundation, millions of dollars are awarded annually to support sustainable community development initiatives.

Membership and Volunteers

Rotary International has a diverse membership of approximately 1.4 million individuals known as Rotarians. Including all members of associated clubs like Interact and Rotaract, the total volunteer base exceeds 1.9 million people. The organization emphasizes volunteer service, with tens of millions of volunteer hours contributed each year.