Rotary International

"What is Rotary? Thousands have made an answer, each in his own way. It is easier to note what Rotary does than what it is. If Rotary has encouraged us to take a more kindly outlook on life and men; if Rotary has taught us greater tolerance and the desire to see the best in others; if Rotary has brought us pleasant and helpful contacts with others who also are trying to capture and radiate the joy and beauty of life, then Rotary has brought us all that we can expect."

-- Paul Harris, Founder of Rotary

 

Rotary International is an association of local clubs whose purpose is to bring together business and professional leaders to provide humanitarian services, encourage high ethical standards in all vocations, and promote peace and goodwill around the world. Founded in 1905, Rotary is the world’s first international service organization with 1.2 million members in more than 36,000 clubs in over 200 countries today. It is a non-sectarian organization open to all persons regardless of race, color, creed, religion, gender, or political affiliation.

 

Rotary International and its associated clubs encourage the development of friendships as an opportunity to foster the ideal of service as the basis for an organization whose members exemplify the Rotary motto of “service above self”. Rotarians are committed to high ethical standards in business and professions, the recognition of the worthiness of all occupations, and dignifying each member’s dedication as an opportunity to serve society. Rotary offers its members an opportunity to be part of a world fellowship of business, professional and community leaders united in the ideal of service, who are dedicated to the advancement of international understanding, peace, and goodwill.