Rotary is a global network of more than 1.2 million neighbors, friends, leaders, and problem-solvers who envision a world where people unite and take action to create lasting change — across the globe, in our communities, and in ourselves.

Solving real problems takes real commitment and vision. More than 120 years ago, Rotary made service a priority. Today, our members are still people of action who use their passion, energy, and intelligence to lead change. From literacy to peace and from water to health, we’re always working to make our world better, and we stay committed to the end.

Our more than 45,000 clubs work together to take action on our world’s most persistent issues.

• Ending polio

• Promoting peace

• Fighting disease

• Providing clean water, sanitation, and hygiene

• Supporting education

• Improving maternal and child health

• Growing local economies

• Protecting the environment

• Disaster response

Rotary International - History

Rotary started with the vision of one man — Paul Harris. The Chicago attorney formed the Rotary Club of Chicago on 23 February 1905, so professionals with diverse backgrounds could exchange ideas and form meaningful, lifelong friendships.

Over time, Rotary’s reach and vision gradually extended to humanitarian service. Members have a long track record of addressing challenges in their communities and around the world.

Rotary International - Ongoing Commitment

That commitment endures today through an organization that remains truly international. Only 16 years after being founded, Rotary had clubs on six continents. Our members now span the globe, working to solve some of our world’s most challenging problems.

We’re not afraid to dream big and set bold goals. We began our fight against polio in 1979 with a project to immunize 6 million children in the Philippines. Today, polio remains endemic in only two countries — down from 125 in 1988.