Rotary International

Overview

Rotary International is a global service organization, and its associated entity in the United States operates under the EIN 311008897. The organization is known for its efforts in advancing world understanding, goodwill, and peace through the improvement of health, support of education, and alleviation of poverty. Rotary International is not a nonprofit organization itself in the strictest sense, but its associated charity, The Rotary Foundation, is a major nonprofit body.

Mission and Structure

The mission of Rotary International is 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 a non-political and non-religious organization with over 46,000 clubs worldwide, consisting of Rotary, Interact, and Rotaract clubs.

Rotary clubs are the basic units of Rotary activity, each determining its own membership. These clubs are chartered by Rotary International and are organized into districts and zones for administrative purposes. Each club conducts service projects in its local community and participates in broader international projects.

Activities and Programs

Rotary clubs engage in various community service activities. Notably, Rotary International is renowned for its PolioPlus Program, launched in 1985, which has significantly reduced polio globally through extensive vaccination campaigns. Additionally, Rotary supports Rotary Peace Fellowships, which provide opportunities for individuals to study peace and conflict resolution at leading universities worldwide.

The Rotary Foundation, the charity arm of Rotary International, is known for its efficient financial management. It funds projects focused on improving health, providing quality education, and alleviating poverty.

Governance

Rotary International is governed by a board of directors composed of the international president, the president-elect, and several directors. The organization is structured to ensure effective service delivery through its global network of members, known as Rotarians.

History

Rotary International was founded by Paul P. Harris on February 23, 1905. The Rotary Foundation was established in 1917 by Arch C. Klumph to support humanitarian projects globally. Over the years, Rotary has grown to become one of the largest service organizations in the world, with members from diverse backgrounds working together to address pressing global issues.