Rotary International

Rotary was founded as a philanthropic organisation over 100 years ago, on 23rd February 1905, by four businessmen in Chicago, USA.  It has since grown to a worldwide organization of approximately 1.2 million people, belonging to more than 32,000 clubs, in more than 200 countries and geographical areas.  Rotary provides humanitarian service, encourages high ethical standards in all vocations, and helps foster goodwill and peace in the world. 
Apart from the service provided by individual clubs addressed to the needs of their local communities, Rotary International has achieved notable success in three specific areas across the globe:

• The eradication of polio worldwide
• Supporting education in the third world
• Encouraging communities to interact and learn from each others’ competencies

Find out more about Rotary International.

Rotary membership provides the opportunity to:

• Become connected to your community.
• Work with others in addressing community needs.
• Interact with other professionals in your community; assist with RI's international humanitarian service efforts.
• Establish contacts with an international network of professionals.
• Develop leadership skills.
• Involve family in promoting service efforts.

As a large and diverse organisation, Rotary provides individuals with the power to help those in need. There are countless opportunities to make a difference to those less fortunate than ourselves.

Friendship
In an increasingly complex world, Rotary maintains a simple philosophy - make friends in your own community and throughout the world.

Giving back to the community
Through Rotary, service to local and overseas communities is well organised and rewarding. If you like helping others, here is your chance to do something worthwhile and make a real difference.

Fun and entertainment
Rotary is fun... a lot of fun. Every Rotary club and district arranges parties and activities that provide a welcome distraction to a hectic business life.

Business development
Networking opportunities are endless. Rotary consists of a cross-section from every business community and its members come from all walks of life. Rotarians help each other and collectively help others.

Personal growth and development
Membership of Rotary develops leadership, public speaking, social, business, personal and vocational skills as well as improving cultural awareness.

Continued learning
Clubs organise programmes and weekly meetings to keep members informed about what is going on in the community, the country, and the world. Each meeting provides an opportunity to listen to different speakers on a variety of current topics.

Travel opportunities
Every Rotarian is welcome - even encouraged - to attend any of the 33,000 clubs in more than 200 countries and geographical regions. This bond creates an instant friendship wherever you are in the world. Many a Rotarian in need of a local doctor, lawyer, hotel, dentist, or other expertise while travelling has found assistance through Rotary.