What is Rotary?

Rotarians are men and women who volunteer to help people locally, nationally and internationally by using their time and talents. They have formed themselves into local Clubs so that they can more easily help their communities and support those in need. Rotary Clubs support local hospices, charities, schools and students, the elderly, disadvantaged and disabled and they encourage young people by providing opportunities and rewarding them for their achievements. Rotary is an International Service Organisation which gives help and support to thousands of projects across the world. Donations are not given to governments but to local Rotary Clubs who oversees the projects.

On a much larger scale, 30 years ago Rotary pledged the world’s children that they would get rid of Polio from the planet so that no child would die or be disabled by the disease ever again. By persuading and working with governments, Unicef, The World Health Organisation and other charities and by raising hundreds of millions of US Dollars, the promise has almost been completed and now the world is 99.9% free of Polio. The Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation has promised to match every dollar Rotary raises with 2 more dollars such is their trust in Rotary’s determination and professionalism.

That’s not all. Rotarians are currently focussing on promoting peace, fighting disease, providing clean water, saving mothers and children, supporting education and growing local economies. Rotary does not simply give hand-outs of food or equipment; it always oversees projects and in disaster areas Rotary is among the first to render aid through the ShelterBox and Aquabox scheme which provides basic shelter, water and tools for survival to both International and Community. 

Rotary is not in any way a religious, or exclusive organisation. Its members are men and women of all ages and from all walks of life who want to help and do some good wherever they can. To do their good work Rotary clubs raise funds by organising large and small fund-raising events like Dragon Boat Races, Charity Golf Days, Sportsmen’s Dinners, Car Shows, Bucket Collections, Christmas Collections etc. Rotarians meet regularly to enjoy each other’s company, have some fun and to plan future projects –

If this is the kind of thing you think you would like to be involved with, get in touch with one of your local clubs and go and see for yourself. Look for your local Rotary Clubs on www.rotary1060