About Rotary

Rotary is a global network of more than 1.4 million people of action in more than 46,000 clubs who share a passion for and commitment to enhancing communities and improving lives around the world. Rotary and Rotaract clubs exist in almost every country. Our members change lives locally and connect with other clubs to work on international projects that address today’s most pressing challenges. They take action and make a difference, and it brings them personal rewards and lifelong friendships in the process.

The objectives of Rotary International

 The mission of Rotary International is to provide service to others, promote integrity, and advance world understanding, goodwill, and peace through its fellowship of business, professional, and community leaders.

Rotary Club guiding principles include the Four-way Test (Truth, Fairness, Goodwill, and Friendship). Other principles involve Rotary’s commitment to Service above Self, Rotary’s motto, which is channeled through the Five Avenues of Service: Club, Vocational, Community, International, and New Generations.

Five Avenues of Service

Rotary's ideal of service is based on the Five Avenues of Service – Club, Vocational, Community, International and New Generations – that comprise Rotary International's philosophical cornerstone. Rotary clubs carry out efforts along each avenue in support of the Object of Rotary.

Areas of Focus

The causes we target to maximize our impact are called our areas of focus. Our most successful and sustainable projects and activities fall within these areas.

Through global grants and other resources, we help clubs focus their service efforts on: 

• Peacebuilding and conflict prevention 

• Disease prevention and treatment 

• Water, sanitation, and hygiene 

• Maternal and child health 

• Basic education and literacy 

• Community economic development 

• Environment

Projects that focus on these causes are eligible for global grant funding from The Rotary Foundation.