The Rotary Foundation
All the good that Rotary does around the world is possible thanks to Rotarians’ contribution to The Rotary Foundation and its Global Fund
As an endowment fund with a mission to “do good in the world.”, The Rotary Foundation delivers educational, humanitarian and cultural exchange opportunities as a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization.
Funded solely through the contribution of Rotarians and their Rotary Clubs, the fund was originally started by Arch C. Klumph, Rotary International’s 6th President in 1917. Using an original amount of $26.50, over a century later the fund has now grown to over $1 billion—allowing Rotary to fund exceptional programs and global service projects around the globe.
The Rotary Foundation holds the highest rating (4-stars) on Charity Navigator :
- Over 92% of the funds are awarded for the benefit of its programs
- The Rotary Foundation is made up primarily of the following funds or initiatives:
- Annual Fund: Supports Rotary’s Areas of Focus through Service Projects
- Endowment Fund: Supports Peace Fellow Scholarships
- Polio Plus Fund: Supports the immunization of children against polio worldwide
- Global Grants: Supports large-scale initiatives for humanitarian projects, vocation training, and scholarships
- Directed Gifts: Supports a Global Grant or Peace Fellowship Scholarship
- Donor Advised Fund: Supports a specific application of the donation, as specified by the donor
Rotarians contribute because they see the good that happens when we unite for good.
When a Rotarian contributes a donation of $1,000 to The Rotary Foundation, either as a one-time contribution or over a period of time, they become Paul Harris Fellows. Cumulative donations above $10,000 are recognized at the Major Donor level. This allows Rotarians to contribute as much as they can over time, ensuring their donations are recognized as they reach a new level.
Paul Harris Fellowship recipients receive a unique pin and certificate they can proudly display, worthy of their recognition among Fellow Rotarians. In addition, Rotarians who contribute $1,000 per year to The Rotary Foundation join the Paul Harris Society, which further recognizes their contribution to the fund.
Last, individuals who have contributed $250,000+ to The Rotary Foundation during their membership in Rotary join a select group known as the Arch Klumph Society, which recognizes their dedication to helping further the mission of Rotary International.
Contact your club’s Foundation Chair if you are interested in becoming a Paul Harris Fellow, a Bequest Society member, or a Major Donor.
Interested in joining a Rotary Club in Central Florida?
Rotary needs People of Action just like YOU to continue achieving its mission—and it all can start by requesting an invite to a Rotary meeting near your home or workplace. We continue building the next generation of Rotarian leaders to keep our wheel turning and fueling progress for our communities and the world as a whole.