Rotary International

Rotary International is a renowned global network of service clubs with a significant presence in the United States and worldwide. It is one of the largest service organizations globally, 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.

Overview

Founded on February 23, 1905, by Paul P. Harris, Rotary International has grown to include over 1.4 million members in more than 46,000 clubs across the globe. The organization is non-political and non-religious, open to people of all backgrounds.

Key Areas of Focus

Rotary concentrates on seven core areas:

• Promoting Peace: Encouraging global peace through education and community building.
• Improving Health: Focusing on disease prevention and treatment.
• Maternal and Child Health: Improving healthcare for mothers and children.
• Water and Sanitation: Providing access to clean water and sanitation facilities.
• Education: Supporting literacy and quality education.
• Economic Development: Enhancing local economies to reduce poverty.
• Environment: Protecting the environment to ensure sustainable communities.

The Rotary Foundation

The Rotary Foundation, established in 1917, serves as Rotary’s charitable arm. It channels donations into service projects that address critical humanitarian needs, including eradicating polio, promoting peace, and supporting developing communities. The Foundation has invested over $4 billion in life-changing initiatives since its inception.

Volunteer Work

Rotary members annually contribute approximately 47 million volunteer hours worldwide. This dedication showcases Rotary’s commitment to creating lasting change through collective action.

Governance and Structure

Rotary International operates with a global network of clubs, supported by The Rotary Foundation. The organization is led by a president and a general secretary, and its governance ensures non-political and non-religious impartiality.

Impact

Rotary International continues to play a pivotal role in addressing some of the world's most complex challenges, acting as a catalyst for positive change globally.