Rotary International

Rotary International is a U.S.-based nonprofit organization that serves as the world's first and largest service club organization. Founded on February 23, 1905, in Chicago by Paul P. Harris, an attorney, its initial purpose was to foster fellowship among business and professional leaders through community service.

History

The first Rotary club was established to rekindle the friendly spirit Harris experienced in small towns during his youth. Initially, meetings rotated among members' offices, hence the name "Rotary"[1][2]. By the end of 1905, the Rotary Club of Chicago had grown to 30 members. The idea quickly gained popularity, with clubs opening in San Francisco in 1908 and New York City soon after[4]. The organization expanded internationally, starting with a club in Winnipeg, Canada, in 1912, followed by establishments in the UK, Ireland, and other countries[2][4].

In 1922, the organization adopted its current name, Rotary International, reflecting its global reach[2]. Rotary continued to expand, establishing clubs across Latin America, Asia, Africa, and Europe throughout the early 20th century[4].

Mission and Activities

Rotary's mission is encapsulated in its motto "Service Above Self" and its secondary motto "He Profits Most Who Serves Best"[3]. Members focus on addressing various humanitarian needs through seven main areas of service:

• Promoting Peace: Engaging in initiatives that build international understanding and peace.
• Fighting Disease: Efforts to combat diseases, notably through the PolioPlus program aiming to eradicate polio worldwide[1][2].
• Providing Clean Water: Projects ensuring access to safe drinking water.
• Saving Mothers and Children: Improving health care for mothers and children.
• Supporting Education: Promoting literacy and education globally.
• Growing Local Economies: Initiatives supporting economic development in communities.
• Protecting the Environment: Projects focused on environmental conservation[2].

The Rotary Foundation

Established in 1917 as an endowment fund, The Rotary Foundation became a not-for-profit corporation in 1928. It supports Rotary's service projects through charitable grants, with a focus on international service and community development[5]. By the early 21st century, the Foundation had distributed more than $4 billion in charitable grants[2].

Membership and Structure

Rotary comprises over 1.2 million members across more than 33,000 clubs in over 200 countries[1]. The organization is led by a president elected for a one-year term. Decision-making involves a board of directors and trustees overseeing The Rotary Foundation[2].

Global Impact

Rotary has had a significant impact on global issues, exemplified by its commitment to polio eradication. Through PolioPlus, Rotary has immunized over one billion children worldwide, contributing over half a billion dollars to the cause[1]. Additionally, Rotary has been instrumental in promoting international understanding, withRotarians participating in United Nations activities and supporting UNESCO since the mid-20th century[1].