History Of Rotary

The history of Rotary can be traced back to the early 20th century, starting with the vision of one man, Paul Harris. In 1905, Harris, an attorney from Chicago, gathered together three friends – Sylvester Schiele, Gustavus Loehr, and Hiram Shorey – with the idea of forming a club that would foster fellowship and serve the community.

Their regular meetings, rotating between their offices, gave birth to the name “Rotary.” The idea of rotating meeting locations was fundamental in shaping the identity of the organization.

The early focus of Rotary was on promoting ethical business practices and helping the local community. The group’s commitment to service soon expanded beyond their immediate surroundings, leading to the formation of other Rotary clubs.

In 1910, the second Rotary club was established in San Francisco, marking the beginning of the global expansion of the organization. By 1921, Rotary had clubs on six continents, reflecting its dedication to international service and fellowship.

One of Rotary’s most significant achievements came in 1985 when it took on the monumental task of eradicating polio worldwide. Rotary, in partnership with organizations like the World Health Organization and UNICEF, launched the PolioPlus program. This initiative has played a pivotal role in reducing polio cases by over 99.9% globally.

Throughout its history, Rotary has emphasized its commitment to the ideal of “Service Above Self.” Rotary International, the umbrella organization, has continued to grow, with millions of members from diverse backgrounds, cultures, and professions, united by the common goal of making a positive impact in their communities and the world.

The organization’s areas of focus include promoting peace, fighting disease, providing clean water and sanitation, supporting education, and aiding economic development. Rotary’s influence extends through various humanitarian projects, scholarships, and exchange programs, leaving an indelible mark on countless lives.

The history of Rotary is a testament to the power of individuals coming together to create meaningful change. From its humble beginnings in Chicago to its global presence today, Rotary remains dedicated to serving humanity, fostering goodwill, and advancing peace and understanding worldwide.