By Leonie James
Posted: 24 February 2014
“Whatever Rotary may mean to us, to the world it will be known by the results it achieves.” Paul P. Harris
The Rotary organization started with the vision of one man - Paul P. Harris. The Chicago attorney formed one of the world’s first service organizations, the Rotary Club of Chicago, on 23 February 1905 as a place where professionals with diverse backgrounds could exchange ideas and form meaningful, lifelong friendships. Rotary’s name came from the group’s early practice of rotating meetings among the offices of each member.
Today there are more than 1.2 million men and women in 33,000 clubs in more than 200 countries throughout the world united by the Rotary motto, “Service Above Self.”
Rotary’s commitment to humanitarian service is evident in virtually every corner of the world. Whether it’s building homes in Ecuador, donating bikes through Pedals for Progress, helping typhoon victims in the Philippines, providing unprecedented educational opportunities for girls and young women in countries like Afghanistan, or building playgrounds and helping the needy in the local community, Rotary clubs work at the grassroots level both locally and internationally.
We are 1.2 million neighbours, friends, and community leaders who come together to create positive, lasting change in our communities and around the world.
Our differing occupations, cultures, and countries give us a unique perspective. Our shared passion for service helps us accomplish the remarkable.
Happy 109th Anniversary everyone!