Rotary is a world wide organization which provides an opportunity for men and women in business and the professions to use their vocational and personal skills to assist the local community, and undertake projects on an International level. Rotary consists of individuals who are willing to contribute some of their precious time and valuable expertise to make a difference - to help those who need it and through this work and the international programs of Rotary, support the progress of world peace and understanding.

Rotary International forms a global network which is based within local communities and which also provides aid and assistance throughout the world. Rotarians know that as an individual they can't achieve much in their spare time to help others - but by working as a member of a team with other business men and women, the effect of their contribution is amplified and significant improvements can be made. For example, Rotary is eradicating the scourge of polio from this earth by immunising the children worldwide. Imagine what can be achieved when people work together, enjoying a wider circle of friends and using their skills to make this world a better place in which to live.

Each Rotarian represents their industry or profession within their club, ensuring a broad diversity of backgrounds and vocational skills are available to form project teams. Rotarians also recognise the need to maintain high ethical standards in their business and professional lives and to promote and build goodwill both locally and internationally, and to encourage peaceful coexistence globally.

Some facts:

• Rotary was founded in 1905 by Paul Harris in Chicago , USA
• There are more than 1.2 million Rotarians world-wide in over 150 countries with new clubs being formed every 12 hours
• Rotary has a seat in the General Assembly of the United Nations in recognition of the efforts of its membership to foster goodwill and peace across national boundaries
• Rotary is the world's largest non-government Foundation providing educational and humanitarian aid
• Rotary is non-political and non-religious, recognising the needs of all humankind to live and work together to achieve peace and prosperity world-wide

 HOW IS ROTARY STRUCTURED?

 Rotary International

Rotary International headquarters is located in Evanston , Illinois , USA and each year is led by a world President who is elected for a 12 month period from one of the many clubs worldwide.

Districts

The world is divided into 525 districts which each year elect a District Governor whose task is to communicate the President's message and direction to the clubs within the district.  Guest speakers are a feature of Rotary meetings as they provide members with access to a wide variety of people addressing interesting and relevant topics.

Clubs

The power of Rotary comes from the membership within each club which is chartered by Rotary International with an approved constitution. Each club is autonomous and may make its own decisions about which projects it will initiate and support.

Rotarians

A Rotarian is a member of a Rotary Club which adheres to Rotary principles of service through friendship. Each member will be asked to contribute their skills and talents towards projects the club has decided to pursue which  will benefit the community. A Rotarian is always welcome as a visitor at any club, anywhere in the world, and this opportunity to sample the hospitality and share companionship with others around the world in many cultures is a major benefit of membership.