About Rotary Rotary History Structure of Rotary Rotary International Web Site
What is Rotary?
Rotary is a worldwide organization of more than 1.2 million business, professional, and community leaders. Members, known as Rotarians, provide humanitarian service, encourage high ethical standards in all vocations, and help build goodwill and peace in the world.
There are over 33,000 Rotary clubs in more than 200 countries. Clubs are nonpolitical, nonreligious, and open to all cultures, races, and creeds. As signified by the motto Service Above Self, Rotary’s main objective is service — in the community, in the workplace, and throughout the world.
Rotary club membership represents a cross-section of the community's men and women. Rotary clubs meet weekly and are nonpolitical, nonreligious, and open to all cultures, races, and creeds.
The main objective of Rotary is service — in the community, in the workplace, and throughout the world. Rotarians develop community service projects that address many of today's most critical issues, such as children at risk, poverty and hunger, the environment, illiteracy, and violence. They also support programs for youth, educational opportunities and international exchanges for students, teachers, and other professionals, and vocational and career development.
Although Rotary clubs develop autonomous service programs, all Rotarians worldwide are united in a campaign for the global eradication of polio. PolioPlus, the most ambitious program in Rotary’s history, is the volunteer arm of the global partnership dedicated to eradicating polio. Rotary has led the private sector in the global effort to rid the world of this crippling disease. Today, PolioPlus is recognized worldwide as a model of public-private cooperation in pursuit of a humanitarian goal.
Why Join Rotary?
Maybe you’ve seen a need in your own community and wondered how you could help. Maybe you want to use your professional skills to help others — or even learn new skills. Maybe you’re seeking connections with other service-minded professionals in your community or abroad.
Becoming a Rotarian connects you with a diverse group of professionals who share your drive to give back.
- Discuss your community's needs and discover creative ways to meet them
- Expand your leadership and professional skills
- Catch up with good friends and meet new ones
Clubs accept new members by invitation, so we recommend you first reach out to a club in your area to learn more. It's not only a good way to get to know us—it's also a great way to get involved in your community.