Rotary International

Rotary International is a global network of service clubs, with a strong presence in the United States. It is one of the largest service organizations in the world.

History and Formation

Rotary International was founded on February 23, 1905, by Paul P. Harris. Initially formed as a small group of business and professional leaders in Chicago, Illinois, it has since grown into a global entity with a widespread influence.

Mission and Vision

The mission of Rotary International is to provide service to others, promote integrity, and advance world understanding, goodwill, and peace through its fellowship of business, professional, and community leaders. The organization envisions a world where people unite and take action to create lasting change across the globe, in communities, and within themselves.

Organization and Membership

Rotary International is a non-political and non-religious organization, open to all people regardless of race, color, religion, gender, or political preference. As of recent data, Rotary has approximately 1.4 million members, known as Rotarians, and around 1.9 million volunteers when including Interactors and Rotaractors. There are over 46,000 member clubs worldwide.

Areas of Focus

Rotary International focuses on seven primary areas of service:

• Promoting Peace: Supporting initiatives that foster peace and conflict resolution.
• Fighting Disease: Engaging in health-related projects, such as disease prevention and treatment.
• Providing Clean Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene: Improving access to essential resources for communities worldwide.
• Saving Mothers and Children: Supporting initiatives to enhance maternal and child health.
• Supporting Education: Promoting literacy and educational opportunities globally.
• Growing Local Economies: Encouraging economic development and sustainability.
• Protecting the Environment: Advocating for environmental protection and conservation.

The Rotary Foundation

The Rotary Foundation, established in 1917, serves as the charitable arm of Rotary International. It supports service projects by providing grants that empower Rotarians to undertake sustainable solutions to global challenges. The Foundation has spent over $4 billion on life-changing projects since its inception.

Impact and Volunteerism

Rotary International is known for its extensive volunteer network, contributing approximately 47 million volunteer hours annually. Members commit to addressing critical humanitarian needs, often partnering with other organizations to amplify their impact.

Leadership and Governance

Rotary International is led by a president and a CEO/General Secretary; it operates under the guidance of a Board of Trustees for The Rotary Foundation. The organization publishes Rotary Magazine, providing updates on its activities and achievements.