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The first Rotary club was started in 1905 by a group of Chicago (USA) businessmen, to serve their
community. Within a few short years clubs had formed across the United States and in many other
countries under the banner of Rotary International, always united by its common objectives. By its
Centenary in 2005, more than 31,000 clubs had been formed in over 165 countries, with a membership
exceeding 1.3 million. |
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Its Foundation, supported solely by voluntary contributions from
Rotarians, funds humanitarian, educational, and cultural exchange programs. Its international projects
aim to improve the quality of life by providing health care, clean water,
food, education, and other essential needs primarily in the developing world.
It also enables 1,200 students to study abroad each year, and supports exchanges of
business and professional people. |
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The original aims, objectives and service ideals of the Founders of Rotary remain substantially
unchanged to this day. For more information, click the Rotary International symbol above. |
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The Objectives of Rotary |
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To encourage and foster the ideal of service as a basis of worthy enterprise and in particular: |
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The development of acquaintance as an opportunity for service. |
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The development of acquaintance as an opportunity for service. |
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High ethical standards in business and professions; the recognition of the worthiness of all
useful occupations and the dignifying of each Rotarian's occupation as an opportunity to serve society. |
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The application of the Ideal of Service by every Rotarian to his or her personal, business and
community life. |
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The advancement of international understanding, goodwill and peace through a world
fellowship of business and professional persons united in the ideal of service. |
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The Ideal of Service |
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Thoughtfulness for others is the basis of service. |
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Helpfulness to others is its expression. |
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Together they constitute the Ideal of Service |
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This is exemplified in the activities of Rotary Clubs and Rotarians, through Club,
Vocational, Community and International Service |
