Rotary International is a global volunteer organization of business, professional, and community leaders united in a purpose to make a positive impact in their communities and to promote peace and understanding in the world. Founded in 1905 in Chicago, Illinois, Rotary has grown to an international network of more than 1.4 million members in over 46,000 Rotary clubs in nearly every country around the world.
The Mission of Rotary International
Rotary is dedicated to providing humanitarian service, promoting ethics in all occupations, and building goodwill and peace in the world. Rotarians focus on addressing some of humanity's most pressing challenges, including:
- Promotion of peace.
- Prevention and treatment of diseases.
- Clean water and sanitation.
- Maternal and child health.
- Support for education.
- Economic development.
- Environmental protection.
Global Impact Projects
One of Rotary's most notable projects is the initiative End Polio Now, which since 1988 has worked together with the World Health Organization (WHO), UNICEF and other organizations to eradicate polio worldwide. Thanks to these efforts, polio has been reduced by 99.9%, saving millions of lives.
How does Rotary work?
Rotary operates through local Rotary clubs that meet regularly to plan and implement projects in their communities. These clubs are supported by Rotary's international structure, which provides resources, training, and a global network of collaboration. Rotary members, known as Rotarians, share a vision of "a world where people come together and take action to create lasting change."