Rotary International

Overview

Rotary International is one of the largest service organizations in the world, with a massive global presence and a strong focus on community service, education, and humanitarian work. The organization was founded on February 23, 1905, by Paul P. Harris in Chicago, Illinois.

Mission and Activities

Rotary's mission is to provide service to others, promote integrity, and advance world understanding, goodwill, and peace through fellowship among business, professional, and community leaders. Rotary International is a non-political and non-religious organization.

Rotary International focuses on several key areas, including:

• Promoting Peace: Efforts aimed at fostering peace and reducing conflicts globally.
• Improving Health: Initiatives in disease prevention and treatment, with a significant focus on maternal and child health.
• Water and Sanitation: Projects to provide clean water and enhance sanitation facilities in underserved communities.
• Education: Programs to improve educational services and opportunities.
• Economic Development: Activities aimed at supporting economic growth in disadvantaged areas.
• Environmental Protection: Efforts to preserve and protect the natural environment.

Structure and Membership

Rotary International operates through a network of clubs, districts, and zones. There are over 46,000 clubs worldwide, grouped into 529 districts and further divided into 34 zones. Membership is open to individuals by application or invitation and is based on various social factors. The organization has a diverse membership of approximately 1.4 million members, known as Rotarians.

The Rotary Foundation

The Rotary Foundation, established in 1917, is a critical component of Rotary International. It supports the organization's humanitarian, educational, and cultural exchange programs through voluntary contributions. The Foundation has spent more than $4 billion on sustainable projects worldwide. Key programs include disaster recovery, health initiatives, scholarships, and peace fellowships.

PolioPlus

One of Rotary's most notable global humanitarian projects is PolioPlus, which aims to eradicate polio worldwide. Since its inception in 1985, Rotarians have contributed over $850 million and countless volunteer hours to this effort, partnering with organizations like the World Health Organization and UNICEF.

Notable Achievements

Rotary International has achieved numerous significant milestones in its history, including the execution of over 20,000 international service projects across 166 countries through its Matching Grants program. Additionally, Rotary's PolioPlus campaign has led to the inoculation of more than two billion children against polio.

Financials and Governance

Rotary International is headquartered in Evanston, Illinois, and is led by a Board of Directors. The Rotary Foundation operates as a public charity, governed by a Board of Trustees. The organization's financial activities include funding for service initiatives and managing its investments to support global projects.