21 September 2023
Rotary is a global network of 1.2 million neighbors, friends, leaders, and problem-solvers who see a world where people unite and take action to create lasting change – across the globe, in their communities, and in theirselves.
Solving real problems takes real commitment and vision. For more than 110 years, Rotary's people of action have used their passion, energy, and intelligence to take action on sustainable projects. From literacy and peace to water and health, they are always working to better the world, and they stay committed to the end.
What they do
Rotary members believe that they have a shared responsibility to take action on the world’s most persistent issues. Their 35,000+ clubs work together to:
They work differently
They see differently: Their multidisciplinary perspective helps them see challenges in unique ways.
They think differently: They apply leadership and expertise to social issues — and find unique solutions.
They act responsibly: Their passion and perseverance create lasting change.
They make a difference at home and around the world: Their members can be found in your community and across the globe.
Their Causes
Rotary is dedicated to six areas of focus to build international relationships, improve lives, and create a better world to support their peace efforts and end polio forever.
Promoting peace
Rotary encourages conversations to foster understanding within and across cultures. They train adults and young leaders to prevent and mediate conflict and help refugees who have fled dangerous areas.
Fighting disease
They educate and equip communities to stop the spread of life-threatening diseases like polio, HIV/AIDS, and malaria. They improve and expand access to low-cost and free health care in developing areas.
Providing clean water, sanitation, and hygiene
They support local solutions to bring clean water, sanitation, and hygiene to more people every day. They don’t just build wells and walk away. They share their expertise with community leaders and educators to make sure their projects succeed long-term.
Saving mothers and children
Nearly 6 million children under the age of five die each year because of malnutrition, poor health care, and inadequate sanitation. They expand access to quality care, so mothers and their children can live and grow stronger.
Supporting education
More than 775 million people over the age of 15 are illiterate. Their goal is to strengthen the capacity of communities to support basic education and literacy, reduce gender disparity in education, and increase adult literacy.
Growing local economies
They carry out service projects that enhance economic and community development and create opportunities for decent and productive work for young and old. They also strengthen local entrepreneurs and community leaders, particularly women, in impoverished communities.
Ending polio forever
Rotary has been working to eradicate polio for over 30 years, and their goal of ridding the earth of this disease is in sight. They started in 1979 with vaccinations for 6 million children in the Philippines. Today, Afghanistan, Nigeria, and Pakistan are the only countries where polio remains endemic.